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Jiang Zhanwei let out a cold laugh and said, “I can’t control General Lu’s decision to recognize someone else as his son. However, as your superior, I cannot allow my subordinate to harass a decent woman. As Manman’s husband, I cannot stand by while her mother is mistreated by a wicked man, especially in my own home!”
Lu Fangrong’s eyes filled with bloodshot anger as he pointed at Jiang Zhanwei and shouted, “Jiang Zhanwei, do not overstep your bounds. This is the capital, under the heavens, and you cannot act like you rule the world. Although I am your subordinate, I am also your father-in-law. If you provoke me, I will lodge a complaint at the court. Let the Emperor and the world know of your heartlessness and lack of filial piety!”
Jiang Zhanwei smirked, “General Lu, you certainly are imposing. Fine, go file your complaint, and I will go to the Ministry of Justice. Old Lady Lu allowed her evil daughter-in-law to repeatedly scheme against her stepdaughter, seizing her assets. General Lu resorted to using private punishment on his wife, leading to her death. Mr. Lu knew but remained silent, aiding and abetting the wrongdoing. Oh, every one of these is a violation of the laws of Dachun.”
Lu Fangrong clenched his teeth, lowering his voice, “Jiang Zhanwei, dealing with Xiao Chen and providing an explanation to Manman, it was done at your behest. I did what you asked, and you now intend to hold me accountable?”
Jiang Zhanwei sneered, “I instructed you to deal with Xiao Chen and explain to Manman, but I didn’t tell you to kill her. By doing so, you would have broken the law.”
Lu Fangrong was seething. How could he have agreed if Xiao Chen wasn’t dealt with severely? Lu Fangrong deeply regretted acting too hastily, allowing someone to catch him in a vulnerable moment.
Seeing Jiang Zhanwei’s darkening expression, Lu Fangrong knew that in the military camp, anyone, including himself, would run as far as they could upon seeing Jiang Zhanwei in such a mood. Anyone who caught his disapproving gaze was bound to have misfortune.
However, when he looked at the resolute face of He Cheng standing firm, he hesitated. This son clearly harbored resentment towards him and the Lu family, and he wondered what Mingzhu had told him. Mingzhu was always gentle and kind, how could she have painted such a negative picture of his father and grandmother?
For the sake of his son and the chance to see Mingzhu, he decided to suppress his anger for now. He calmed down and said, “Indeed, there was an agreement between Mingzhu, the He family, and me. I am not an unreasonable person, but Mingzhu should explain this matter to me clearly, stating that she wants the son of the Lu family to continue the He family line.”
He Cheng interjected, “My mother will not see you.”
Lu Fangrong gritted his teeth and continued, “Even if you bear the He surname and continue the He family line, it doesn’t change the fact that you are my son, right? This is the home of my son-in-law and daughter, it’s only proper for me, the old father-in-law, to have a drink. It would be best for you, my son, to have a meal with me, and it would be even better for your mother and sister to come out and see me. I, a father who has risked his life in battle and returned as a hero, think they should come out to greet me. Especially Manman, I once saved her husband’s life.”
Jiang Zhanwei coldly responded, “General Lu, you may have saved my life, but I have also saved yours. That’s not a reason to interfere with me and Manman. I reiterate, there is no relationship between my mother-in-law and you. Do not call her by her maiden name or speak ill of her honor in my presence. Otherwise, do not blame me for being impolite. We have guests today, so I won’t allow you to drink here. If you wish to have a drink or see Manman, come another day, and we will invite you separately.”
Lu Fangrong, eyes wide with shock, shouted, “Jiang Zhanwei, I also contributed to those great achievements you mentioned.”
Jiang Zhanwei added, “I am aware of that. I keep my personal and official matters separate. I appreciate your contributions, which I have noted and explained to Grand Marshal Xie. However, if you anger me, I have the power to send you to the Black Furry Camp, promote you, or even exile you. Your leg is not fully healed, you should rest. Tomorrow, the Emperor will commend the deserving soldiers, and you need to be present for the ceremony.”
Tomorrow, soldiers with a certain rank or who have achieved great feats would go to the palace, awaiting the Emperor’s audience and rewards.
Upon hearing Jiang Zhanwei’s threats, Lu Fangrong wilted. Knowing his future was in Jiang Zhanwei’s hands, risking a confrontation at this crucial moment was not worth it.
Reluctantly, Lu Fangrong stood up, deciding to approach Mingzhu privately another day. Mingzhu had a kind heart and hadn’t remarried yet, perhaps she still held onto their past affection. If Mingzhu’s feelings leaned towards him, these individuals wouldn’t have a say.
Picking up the box from the table, Lu Fangrong turned to He Cheng and said, “These are some of my spoils, including a dagger seized from Wanyan Tu. It’s for you and your…” Seeing Jiang Zhanwei’s cold expression, he stopped himself from saying “mother”. He continued, “On the battlefield, like your brother-in-law, I am a formidable general who strikes fear into the enemy, praised by Grand Marshal Xie many times.”
He Cheng remained silent, noticing Tao at the doorway.
Earlier, upon hearing Lu Fangrong’s arrival from Jiang Zhanwei, he had instructed someone to retrieve the letter and box that Lu Fangrong had given to his mother last time.
He Cheng handed the letter and box to Lu Fangrong, saying, “General Lu, my mother refuses to accept this letter and box. Please take them back. Furthermore, do not send anything to my mother in the future, nor try to contact her. It’s against propriety.”
Lu Fangrong’s face flushed red to the roots of his ears as he reluctantly accepted the letter but refused the box, saying, “This is a gift from your father, as your elder, I insist.”
He Cheng persistently placed the box on top of the one in Lu Fangrong’s hand and replied, “My mother instructed me to return this.”
“Did Mingzhu ask you to return it to me? Is she… is she still holding a grudge against me?” Unable to contain his emotions any longer, Lu Fangrong broke down in tears, his sorrow swelling within him. He was truly heartbroken.
Clutching the two boxes and leaning on his crutch, he walked away, unable to wipe away his tears.
Jiang Zhanwei and He Cheng escorted him to the carriage.
As the sky began to sprinkle light snowflakes, they watched the carriage travel further and further away along the cobblestone path.
Upon returning to the inner courtyard, before even entering the house, they heard laughter and the sounds of cat and dogs playing inside. Jiang Yue and Sweet Pea’s voices were the loudest. Not only did He Cheng’s mood lighten, but even Jiang Zhanwei’s expression softened.
Seeing He Mingzhu and the children happily playing, Lu Man exchanged a glance with Jiang Zhanwei and He Cheng, and the three of them headed to the study in the west wing.
He Cheng briefed Lu Man on what had transpired. Lu Man was also furious, realizing that Lu Fangrong was even more despicable and troublesome than she had imagined. After discussing, they agreed it was essential to clarify the situation with He Mingzhu about Lu Fangrong’s visit today, ensuring she stayed away from that man…