Chapter 23.1

The heavy sound of official boots echoed, startling Jiang Wanrou, who had been sleeping restlessly. She turned over, rubbed her drowsy eyes, and lifted the bed curtain, calling, “Cui Zhu—”

“Careful.” Lu Feng pressed her shoulder, his large hand resting against her forehead. His hand was cold, like ice, instantly dispelling Jiang Wanrou’s sleepiness.

She looked at him, confused. “Husband, you… you’ve returned?”

It was unusual to see Lu Feng during the day, and Jiang Wanrou was astonished, as if still recovering from the shock. Her jet-black hair cascaded like seaweed behind her, her head tilted slightly, and her wide, beautiful eyes made her appear soft and obedient.

Lu Feng’s heart softened. Gently patting her back, he asked warmly, “Are you tired? Or unwell?”

Blame Jiang Wanrou for usually managing everything so perfectly. Caught in the act of laziness, Lu Feng never even thought of reprimanding her; instead, he worried she might not be feeling well.

He tucked her hand back under the warm quilt, saying, “Summon the imperial physician to have a look.”

It was late winter, and the room was heated sufficiently with burning coals, making Jiang Wanrou’s cheeks flush a rosy red. She grabbed Lu Feng’s sleeve and said in a soft, delicate voice, “No—”

“I’m just tired and wanted to lie down for a while.”

Lu Feng had just returned from outside, his clothes carrying a chilling cold, like blocks of ice on a scorching summer day. Jiang Wanrou couldn’t help but snuggle closer to him. She said, “Besides, with Grandmother’s birthday approaching, if the Jinguang Courtyard summons a doctor, what will people say? That Grandmother is unkind, tormenting her granddaughter-in-law? Or that I’m lazy and disrespectful to my elders? Neither would sound good if it spread.”

“Who dares to gossip?” Lu Feng instinctively tightened his hold on her, preventing her from moving closer.

In a low voice, he said, “If someone finds their tongue too long, I’ll gladly cut it off for them. You needn’t worry.”

Lu Feng couldn’t understand why Jiang Wanrou valued “reputation,” something he considered superficial. His own reputation wasn’t exactly flattering—some called him cruel and tyrannical, others compared him to the King of Hell. But so what? In his presence, didn’t they all bow and address him as “Lord Lu”?

Why fear such hypocrites?

Jiang Wanrou let out a soft “hmph” and leaned against Lu Feng, listening to his steady heartbeat. The warmth of their skin touching made her actions and words unconsciously more intimate.

She teased, “Oh, don’t always talk about fighting and killing. We’re not like you. For us women of the inner household, a good reputation is invaluable when we step outside. Besides, a virtuous wife brings fewer troubles to her husband. If a wife’s reputation for virtue spreads far and wide, it might even help her husband climb the ranks.”

Lu Feng chuckled softly, pinching her delicate chin. “There’s no need to trouble you with that.”

To him, a man who relied on his wife to advance his career was no better than a useless person. Yet, he couldn’t help but admire her simplicity and feel touched by her devotion to him.

If a man relies on his wife to climb the social ladder, in his eyes, such a man is no different from a useless person. Lu Feng sighed at his wife’s simplicity and thought of her wholehearted devotion to him, his heart instantly softening.

Jiang Wanrou noticed his hesitation. She yawned, patted the bedding beside her, and said, “Husband, I’ve warmed the bed for you. Come lie down with me for a while.”

She was truly exhausted, truly sleepy.

Lu Feng, known for his strict self-discipline and adherence to a routine of early rising and resting, declined Jiang Wanrou’s invitation. He stared at her face for a while, observing the healthy red glow on her pale complexion, then gently patted her back.

“Sleep,” he said.

Jiang Wanrou closed her already half-lidded eyes and fell into a deep sleep. Perhaps it was Lu Feng’s calming presence that dispelled those lurking nightmares. This time, she slept soundly and sweetly, a long and peaceful rest.

The people outside obeyed Lu Feng’s orders and did not dare disturb Madam’s peaceful rest. By the time Jiang Wanrou had slept soundly and woke up, it was already twilight. Just as she regained consciousness, Jin Tao came to report that the imperial physician had been waiting for some time.

Jiang Wanrou: “…”

She rubbed her temples with a headache, while Jin Tao offered her tea and whispered, “Master specifically instructed this before he left, and I wouldn’t dare to disobey. Moreover, you aren’t feeling well—it’s necessary to consult a physician.”

Cui Zhu echoed with a nod, “Yes, yes, Master cares deeply for you. Even if you don’t think for yourself, you should think for Master and the young master.”

“Alright, I say one thing, and you all have a thousand responses waiting. Quickly invite the person inside, but treat them politely.”

Jiang Wanrou said helplessly, almost forgetting Lu Feng’s domineering nature. Lu Feng didn’t speak much, but his words were as steadfast as mountains. His orders were to be followed by others without question. She must have been dazed earlier, combined with his gentle demeanor, which deceived her into thinking she could negotiate.

Forget it—just a few doses of bitter medicine; she’s been through this for years now; a few more won’t make a difference.

The elderly imperial physician with graying hair extended his trembling hand and placed three fingers on Jiang Wanrou’s fair wrist. After a moment, he said, “Madam, please switch to the other hand; I am unsure at the moment.”

Following his instruction, Jiang Wanrou presented her other arm. The physician stroked his beard silently, lost in thought for a long time. Not only did this make Jiang Wanrou anxious, but even the two maids beside her showed worry on their faces.

Cui Zhu couldn’t help but ask, “Sir, what is wrong with our Madam? At least say something!”

The physician withdrew his hand and said to Jiang Wanrou, “Madam, your pulse… it’s rather peculiar. May I ask if there is a young gentleman surnamed Luo in your household?”

Jiang Wanrou nodded, “Indeed, there is such a person.”

“Could you invite Mr. Luo here? After discussing with him, I can make further decisions.”

“This…”

Jiang Wanrou looked troubled. Unlike the elderly physician, Mr. Luo was a young man. Whenever she met him before, Lu Feng was always present. Now that night had fallen, she couldn’t help but worry about propriety.

The imperial physician, who had worked in the palace for many years, quickly understood Jiang Wanrou’s concerns. His cloudy eyes studied the lady in front of him. She was stunningly beautiful, with an elegant hairdo and refined brows that complemented her radiant and graceful appearance, as dazzling as the rising sun or a lotus emerging from clear waters. Alas, the saying “beauty often brings misfortune” seemed to hold true; for women, an overly stunning appearance was not always a blessing.

Madam Lu was indeed a cautious person.

The elderly imperial physician packed his medicine chest and bowed farewell, saying, “It is already late today. Tomorrow, I shall bring two colleagues with me to examine Madam’s pulse.”

“Madam, rest assured, your body is healthy and there’s no serious concern.”

Speaking cryptically, the physician left Jiang Wanrou puzzled and worried. Nevertheless, she could only politely see him off. Lu Feng, however, was not so patient. He happened to be in the palace at the time. Upon learning that the imperial physician had spent so much time without any findings, he immediately turned grim and remarked to the emperor, “It seems the imperial medical department under His Majesty is full of incompetents.”

The poor elderly physician, despite his age, was summoned by the emperor and his commander for questioning through the night. Under pressure, he trembled and said, “Madam Lu’s pulse is still faint. I dared not speak hastily and risk making an error. However, upon observing her pulse, which is smooth like rolling beads, if there’s no doubt—”

“It should be a pregnancy pulse.”

---

The next morning, five imperial physicians arrived at the Lu residence, along with Mr. Luo, the resident doctor of Lu Mansion, gathering at Jinguang Courtyard. After each examined Madam Jiang’s pulse, they all stroked their beards and remained silent. Their demeanor left Jiang Wanrou feeling uneasy, almost believing her days were numbered.

“Don’t panic.” Lu Feng reassuringly held her hand, his cold eyes slightly raised as he said in a deep voice, “Gentlemen, have you diagnosed clearly?”

The imperial physicians glanced at each other nervously until the youngest among them, Mr. Luo, finally spoke, “Reporting to you, Master, Madam’s pulse undoubtedly shows signs of pregnancy.”

Typically, a pregnancy pulse can only be detected after three months, but Jiang Wanrou’s case was too early to confirm, especially given that she had not conceived for many years. The imperial physicians feared making a mistake and embarrassing themselves, which is why they hesitated to speak up.

Lu Feng was mentally prepared, so he wasn’t too surprised. His expression remained calm as he dismissed the others, then turned to look at the dazed Jiang Wanrou.

“Wife, we are having a child.” He placed his hand gently on her abdomen, softly caressing it. He could hardly believe that this slender, delicate waist was now nurturing his child—his bloodline.

Jiang Wanrou seemed to finally come to her senses. She covered his hand with her own, realizing that her recent irritability, mood swings, and loss of appetite might actually be due to pregnancy.

It had been many years since she had given birth to Huai Yi. She had never considered this possibility, and now, upon receiving this news so suddenly, after the initial shock, joy overwhelmingly filled her heart.

In this world, everything can change, except the unbreakable bond of blood ties. For her, the only family she had were Concubine Li and Huaiyi. With Huaiyi still in poor health, whether this child was a boy or a girl, it would undoubtedly become her concern and, in the future, could be a companion to Huaiyi. Having taken those bitter tonics for years without any results, she had stopped expecting anything. To receive this joyful news now was completely unexpected.

“It turns out I misjudged that medicine. As Cui Zhu said, good medicine is bitter.”

Jiang Wanrou smiled gently. “It’s been years since I last bore a child. I’ll need to consult my sisters-in-law for advice to avoid making mistakes.”

Back then, she was still very young, her body hadn’t fully developed, her worries were heavy, and she was under the pressure of her mother-in-law, compounded by the distress of assassins. Giving birth to Huaiyi had been so difficult that it nearly cost her half her life. But now, everything was better. This time, she was determined to give birth to a healthy and strong child.

She also resolved to never let herself fall into the same predicament as before. She was committed to ensuring the safety of both herself and her child.

Lu Feng’s gaze flickered. Just as Jiang Wanrou hadn’t guessed the origin of that medicinal decoction, he hadn’t expected that she would comply outwardly but act against orders in secret. According to the elderly physician who prepared it, the medicine was originally a supplement, nourishing and replenishing blood, particularly beneficial for women. However, it typically made it difficult for women to conceive, with chances of success being extraordinarily rare.

Lu Feng sighed internally. It turned out that they, as a couple, were the “one” among the “ten thousand.” Was this a fated arrangement? The timing of this child’s arrival was indeed impeccable, coinciding perfectly with his takedown of Prince Gong.

Lu Feng was, at his core, a rigid and traditional man. He believed in the principle of “the more children, the more blessings.” To him, the more heirs, the better, and raising them was not an issue he worried about. Years ago, he suffered a fall from his horse and a leg injury, followed by an assassination attempt on his family. Jiang Wanrou’s childbirth had been so arduous. He thought to wait a bit longer. He wanted to strengthen his position, and by that time, she would have matured and could give birth to a healthy child.

She was beautiful, and he believed that the children she bore would undoubtedly be attractive and charming. There was no need to rush.

Lu Feng was also an extraordinarily patient man. This waiting period stretched to five years, and even he was sometimes amazed at himself. During those years, he remained devoted to only one woman, feeling no attraction toward others, let alone entertaining the idea of having them bear his heirs.

It seemed his wife’s brilliance overshadowed all others, and everyone else appeared to him as ordinary and dull.

…

Both Lu Feng and Jiang Wanrou harbored their own secrets, but they shared equal anticipation for the new life about to arrive. Jiang Wanrou was carefully shielded from harm, and her responsibilities were passed on to Madam Zhou and Madam Yao. All she had to do was offer her opinions and give instructions. Cui Zhu was so cautious that she worried even about Jiang Wanrou exerting herself to pour a glass of water. Most of the time, Jiang Wanrou lay down to listen to opera, and no one dared criticize her.

The emperor was overjoyed, temporarily forgetting his previous dissatisfaction with Jiang Wanrou. He clapped his hands and laughed heartily, saying, “Junchi, your wife is excellent! Reward her! Reward her generously!” Later, due to the child being at an early stage of pregnancy and fearing any disturbance, he did not proceed further but sent a servant to Lu Mansion with verbal praise.

The matriarch of the family was delighted as well. It had been a long time since there was joyous news in the household. With both the third and main branches having pregnancies, the old lady couldn’t stop smiling. During her birthday celebration, everything seemed perfect, except for Madam Zhou Ruotong of the second branch looking slightly displeased.

After the Lunar New Year and the matriarch’s birthday celebrations, the mansion grew quieter. During this time, Jiang Wanrou had not yet developed any symptoms of morning sickness. Taking advantage of her energy, she carefully selected midwives, wet nurses, doctors specializing in gynecology, and more. She not only chose them meticulously but also brought their entire families to the mansion. With no shortage of space in the Lu Mansion, she ensured to secure leverage over them so that even if someone was bribed, they would think twice before attempting anything.

Similarly, the Lu Mansion was not lacking in money. Jiang Wanrou offered remuneration several times the usual amount, skillfully combining rewards and authority, leaving the midwives and wet nurses completely submissive to her. No one dared to underestimate her due to her youthful appearance.

Her careful preparations did not escape the emperor’s notice. If he had previously paid attention to her because of the child, he now began to regard Jiang Wanrou herself with renewed respect. After all, in his harem of 3,000 beauties, many were able to conceive, but few could successfully give birth and raise their children—a true testament to ability.

The emperor, who secured his empire through warfare, lived with his head tied to his belt during battles. He indulged in fine wine and beautiful women, enjoying life whenever possible. Once the world was unified, many emissaries from vassal states brought princesses to the court for arranged marriages. This founding emperor, whose achievements were remarkable, was morally indifferent in his private affairs. The palace concubines had long recognized his coldness and did everything they could to vie for royal children. However, some were sabotaged and unable to conceive, others miscarried early in their pregnancies, some died during childbirth, and tragically, some babies succumbed to illness shortly after birth.

There were too many incidents like these. The emperor focused his energy on the country and its people—his court was merely a pastime. He could not possibly spend every day mediating the complaints and tears of several women in the harem. After all, someone would always successfully bear children. If these women, living in comfort and privilege, could not even protect their own children, they were deemed unfit to be mothers of royal heirs.

The emperor begrudgingly acknowledged Jiang Wanrou. Although she was known for her jealousy, her methods were undeniably impressive. Despite the eldest son’s fragile health, she had managed to raise him safely to the age of five. It seemed likely that Junchi’s child under her care would grow up healthy as well.

Throughout his life, the emperor had no regrets before heaven and earth, except for his failure to truly care for Junchi. If he could witness Junchi surrounded by descendants, he felt he could pass away peacefully.

With the emperor quietly offering his protection and Jiang Wanrou being cautious herself, her pregnancy progressed smoothly past the three-month mark. As her belly began to show slightly, she started experiencing severe morning sickness, vomiting so intensely that it felt like the world was spinning.

After enduring this for another month, Jiang Wanrou finally found relief by taking the imperial physician’s medicine to stabilize the pregnancy and get some restful sleep. It was then that she felt something was amiss.

She set aside the account book and asked, “How is Huaiyi? I haven’t seen him much recently—has he been eating well?”

When Jiang Wanrou first learned about her pregnancy, Lu Huaiyi seemed visibly happy, but the trace of melancholy in his expression couldn’t escape her motherly intuition. While she was troubled by it, Lu Feng called Huaiyi to the study. Nobody knew what the father and son discussed during their half-day private conversation. When they emerged, Lu Huaiyi’s small face radiated determination. He gently hugged Jiang Wanrou’s waist and said in his tender voice, “Mother, I’m the big brother, and I’ll definitely protect my younger brother and sister.”

Seeing that he seemed completely at ease, Jiang Wanrou’s heart melted even more. Her Huaiyi had always been such a thoughtful and well-behaved child.

While the unborn baby was just a part of her for now, it could never compare to her eldest son, with whom she had spent countless days together. She did not neglect Huaiyi because of the pregnancy. However, during the past month, she had been preoccupied with her own struggles—unable to eat well, sleep well, or think clearly due to the morning sickness—and had delegated her responsibilities entirely to her two younger sisters-in-law. Now that she had regained her strength, she finally had the chance to refocus.

Cui Zhu and Jin Tao each brought a small embroidered stool, one sitting on either side, massaging Jiang Wanrou’s swollen calves.

Cui Zhu responded, “Madam, rest assured. The young master is doing well. The master values him greatly and is personally teaching him.”

“This morning, I saw Chang’an take the young master back to the Jinlong Bureau.”

Lu Feng, being meticulous about separating personal and official matters, had no choice but to keep Lu Huaiyi by his side. At the end of the year, the case against Prince Gong was concluded, resulting in nearly a thousand individuals being exiled or having their properties confiscated. Aside from the case against Hu Liangyu, the former Grand Secretary, this was the second largest case of the dynasty. The emperor, known for his resolute actions, wrapped up the case and closed the records before the new year, catching many off guard.

After the new year, various troubles followed one after another—people banging drums to file grievances, petitioning the emperor, and even writing blood-stained appeals in prison. There were all sorts of individuals involved. Although Prince Gong was under house arrest, he was still alive. With life still ahead, there remained the possibility of his resurgence. His loyalists clamored to overturn their verdicts, proclaiming their grievances loudly. If it were just these pleas, they could simply be ignored. However, the real challenge lay in the involvement of so many people, and indeed, among them were one or two genuine cases of wrongful accusations.

Take, for instance, the prefect of Qingzhou—a man of integrity who had transformed the remote and impoverished Qingzhou into a clean and thriving region. Yet, merely because he attended two of Prince Gong’s banquets and offended a high-ranking official in the Ministry of Justice with his blunt speech, he was branded as a loyalist of Prince Gong. Stripped of his official cap, he was demoted to a commoner, with his family barred from participating in imperial examinations for three generations.

Such occurrences were not isolated. Furious, the emperor ordered thorough investigations to root out those engaging in factional collusion while ensuring that upright officials like the prefect of Qingzhou were not wrongfully punished. As a result, the Ministry of Justice and the Court of Judicial Review were overwhelmed with work, with no time to rest for weeks on end. Lu Feng, serving as the chief examining officer for the case, faced immense pressure. Key testimonies originated from the Jinlong Bureau, where severe torture had been used to expedite the case resolution, leaving Lu Feng even busier than ever.

By the time he returned home late at night, Jiang Wanrou had already fallen asleep. After inquiring with her maids about her daily habits and knowing how difficult her pregnancy had been, he checked on her briefly before heading to the study to sleep. After a long day of work, Lu Feng entered his study only to see a messy stack of poorly written characters by Lu Huaiyi, which made his brows twitch with anger.

Learning is like sailing against the current—if you don’t advance, you’ll fall back. After just a few days without supervision, Lu Huai Yi’s progress had regressed noticeably.

With no other choice, Lu Feng brought him closer for personal guidance. He had a desk placed next to his own and arranged for Chang’an to escort the boy daily. Under his watchful eye for several days, Lu Huaiyi’s handwriting finally started to look acceptable.