“Respectful greetings to Huang Guiqing!”
When the carriage arrived at the entrance of the Yan Mansion, Yan Ge alighted and was taken aback by the organized and enthusiastic greetings from the servants.
All the servants had bright smiles, and their spirits were high, which made him chuckle.
“No need for formalities. Du Juan, reward them.”
“Yes.”
“Thank you, Huang Guiqing!” The voices of the servants became even louder.
Yan Xiaojing, Madam Yan, and Lady Wen personally came out to welcome him.
“Respectful greetings to Huang Guiqing!”
Yan Ge promptly intercepted them, “Father, Mother, Sister-in-law, next time you do this, I won’t recognize you.”
Yan Xiaojing and Madam Yan both glared at him. Naturally, they wouldn’t be so formal with their own son. Bowing was just for appearances in front of outsiders. Yan Ge was now Huang Guiqing, which was a much higher rank and certain protocols were unavoidable. However, since Yan Ge said so, they would let it go next time.
“It’s been almost three years since Big Brother enlisted. Has he written back recently?”
They chatted as they walked.
Madam Yan’s eyes reddened.
“What’s wrong?” Yan Ge was surprised. Could it be that something happened to Yan Su? It was impossible; if Yan Su had any problems, the people arranged by Huangfu Yuchen would definitely inform him.
Yan Xiaojing said calmly, “Your elder brother’s letter arrived two days ago. He intends to serve for three more years.”
“Hmph, he doesn’t even think about his son or his wife!” Madam Yan said angrily.
Yan Ge waved away the servants, “Father, Mother, don’t worry too much. Men all want to achieve something. If it weren’t for—ahem, I would have already established a business empire!”
“Don’t talk nonsense.” Yan Xiaojing glared at him again. Was it so easy to talk about establishing an empire?
“I’m just worried.” Madam Yan sighed, “Your nephew and your sister-in-law also… Why doesn’t your elder brother think about them?”
Yan Ge said calmly, “It’s alright. After I return, I’ll talk to Yuchen and let Sister-in-law and Tiantian follow the army.”
Yan Xiaojing and Madam Yan both brightened up.
Lady Wen’s eyes also shimmered with tears as she cautiously looked at Yan Ge, afraid that he was just speaking casually.
“This is possible?” Madam Yan hesitated, “Ge’er, if you do this, will people think…”
Yan Xiaojing’s rationality suppressed his emotions, “I think letting our daughter in law and Tiantian stay for a few months should be enough.”
Yan Ge waved his hand and embraced Madam Yan’s shoulder, “It’s okay, Father, Mother. Can’t your son use his connections a bit now that he’s become Huang Guiqing?”
Both Yan Xiaojing and Madam Yan were amused by him.
Yan Xiaojing said to Madam Yan and Lady Wen Shi, “You both go see Tiantian; I’ll talk to Ge’er.”
“Alright, you two go inside quickly. It’s cold outside.” Madam Yan reminded them before leaving with Lady Wen.
Father and son sat in the hall, and Yan Xiaojing asked, “Ge’er, do you think I should take a step back?”
“Father, absolutely not. If you really did that, you would become a laughingstock.” Yan Ge understood what he meant and thought to himself that their family was too honest. If it were someone else’s child who became a Huang Guiqing or an imperial consort, the whole family or even the entire clan would have taken advantage of the position to expand their influence and amass wealth. But his family was different; they were all afraid of making mistakes and causing trouble for others.
“Yan Bao—”
*Yan Bao is the official name for the messages the Emperor sends Yan Ge.
Yan Xiaojing quickly stood up.
Yan Ge was puzzled, “I’ve only been out for a while. What could be the matter?”
“This servant pays respects to Huang Guiqing!” A eunuch stepped into the hall and knelt down swiftly.
“No need for formalities.” Yan Ge raised his hand gracefully.
“Thank you, Huang Guiqing. This is from the Emperor for you.”
Yan Ge received the letter, “Du Juan, escort the eunuch out.”
“Yes.” Du Juan responded. Naturally, she would have to give some reward to the eunuch.
Yan Ge opened the letter, and after reading it, he smiled and a sweet smile appeared on his face.
Yan Xiaojing seemed not to be looking but was actually observing from the corner of his eyes. He shook his head secretly, but felt happy for his younger son.
“Father, take a look at this.” Yan Ge handed the top paper to Yan Xiaojing and laughed.
After reading the letter, Yan Xiaojing sighed emotionally, “The Emperor truly values you. Ge’er, you must cherish this.”
“I understand.” Yan Ge smiled, “Yuchen also mentioned you. I just didn’t think of things as thoroughly as he did.”
“What did he say?” Yan Xiaojing was puzzled.
Yan Ge said, “He guessed that you might have thoughts of stepping back and advised you not to. You should consider Tiantian. Tiantian was born into a noble family and will probably take an official path in the future. Having a deep foundation in the court will only be beneficial for him.” Huangfu Yuchen considered the Yan family’s situation after they ascended and crossed the tribulation. Without Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge protecting them in the court in the future, Yan Xiangtian would have to rely on Yan Xiaojing and Yan Su. However, it was too early to talk about ascension, and it was not the time to tell Yan Xiaojing about it, so Yan Ge omitted that part.
Yan Xiaojing pondered for a moment and then smiled in relief, “I see.”
He realized that he was having some hesitation and fear. Could it be because he was getting older? As long as he was true to himself, what did he have to fear no matter how high his position became?
Huangfu Yuchen actually considered so much for his family. Yan Ge felt both happy and moved, and he couldn’t sit still.
Yan Xiaojing noticed and made an excuse for his younger son, “Your mother and your sister-in-law will be so happy after hearing about this matter. I don’t have time to accompany you today. Just go about your business as Huang Guiqing.”
“Father, it seems that you still care more about your elder son.” Yan Ge pouted. But he still stood up, and said, “I’m leaving.”
“You brat!” Yan Xiaojing was annoyed by him again.
Yan Ge was afraid that his father would take off his shoe and hit him, so he quickly ran away.
At the entrance of the Yan Mansion, Gao Feng and Gao Yun came forward, kneeling on one knee, looking spirited as they said, “Respectful greetings to Huang Guiqing!”
“Oh? Gao Feng, Gao Yun, you’re out of seclusion.” Yan Ge glanced at their cultivation levels and smiled, “Your aptitude is good; you’ve already reached the Late Foundation Establishment stage in just a few months. If you have any questions about cultivation, feel free to ask me. Perhaps you’ll become senior brothers to others in the future, so be diligent in your practice.”
“Yes!”
“Let’s return to the palace.”
“Yes!” Gao Feng and Gao Yun followed behind the carriage. They exchanged glances, and felt somewhat anxious.
After cultivating, they could truly comprehend how profound Huang Guiqing’s cultivation was. Not only that, Huang Guiqing was good-looking, with a great aura. Together with his incomprehensible high-level cultivation, that casual smile was extremely charming. If they liked men, it would have been difficult to resist that charm. This was probably the reason why the Emperor could rest assured leaving them by Huang Guiqing’s side. Thinking about the Emperor’s possessiveness and jealousy, the two quickly suppressed their wandering thoughts, sat properly on their horses, and looked ahead.
Back in the palace, Yan Ge couldn’t wait to see Huangfu Yuchen. Instead of going back to Tenglong Palace, he went directly to the small garden outside the Imperial study.
The palace maids quickly brought hot tea and a warm stove.
After sitting for about half an hour, the meeting in the study finally ended.
Yan Ge looked from a distance through the flower bushes at the entrance of the study. Huangfu Yuchen slowly walked out, his figure looking inexplicably lonely.
With Huangfu Yuhu around in the past, Huangfu Yuchen must have felt more secure since both of them were members of the royal family. But now that Huangfu Yuhu was not here, Huangfu Yuchen could be considered a true solitary man in the court.
“Gao Feng.”
“The subordinate is here.”
“I remember that the Emperor has a good relationship with a sixth uncle, right?” Yan Ge asked.
Gao Feng thought for a moment, “Are you referring to King Zhong? As far as I know, King Zhong is the brother who was closest to the late emperor. When the current Emperor ascended to the throne, King Zhong put in a lot of effort in the court. However, because King Zhong has health issues, he rarely appears in public. He should still be recuperating in his palace.”
“Do you know what illness he has?” Yan Ge had an idea in his mind.
Gao Yun said, “It seems to be some sort of heart condition, and he can only rest quietly.”
Yan Ge was puzzled, “Why didn’t Yuchen mention this to me?”
Gao Feng said, “A heart condition is a difficult ailment to cure. Perhaps the Emperor is afraid that it would add pressure on you.”
“That’s possible.” Yan Ge pondered.
As he watched Huangfu Yuchen walk away, Yan Ge quickly stood up and waved at him, “Yuchen!”
Huangfu Yuchen turned around and saw Yan Ge smiling at him from behind the flower bushes. His heart softened, and a smile curved on his lips. He quickly walked over and skillfully embraced Yan Ge.
“Weren’t you going out? Why did you come back so soon?”
“To pick you up from work,” Yan Ge teased.
“Oh, thank you, baby,” Huangfu Yuchen pinched his waist and looked at Gao Feng and Gao Yun.
“Respectful greetings to Your Majesty!”
Huangfu Yuchen gave them a faint glance, then said, “You may leave. Inform Jun Xiang and Lu Fei that they’ll be working under the supervision of Huang Guiqing from now on.”
“Yes, we take our leave,” Gao Feng and Gao Yun felt a shiver down their spines and they quickly retreating.
Yan Ge stared at Huangfu Yuchen, observing his face from all angles.
What?” Huangfu Yuchen playfully draped an arm around Yan Ge, sat down, and even took a sip of Yan Ge’s tea, acting nonchalant.
“I should be asking you what’s wrong,” Yan Ge said.
Huangfu Yuchen hugged him tightly and murmured, “I’m jealous of Gao Feng and Gao Yun. They spend almost as much time with you as I do. Is that not allowed?”
Yan Ge placed a firm kiss on his chin and smiled mischievously, “Well, Deng Mande has spent even more time by your side.”
Deng Mande froze: “…”
Huangfu Yuchen said helplessly, “…I can’t argue with you.”
“That’s right.” Yan Ge raised the corner of his mouth proudly.
Huangfu Yuchen pulled him to stand up, “Let’s go back; it’s cold here. I was just discussing with them…”
The two chatted casually as they walked leisurely towards Tenglong Palace.
The atmosphere was calm, making it unbearable to disturb them.
“Respectful greetings to Huang Guiqing!”
When the carriage arrived at the entrance of the Yan Mansion, Yan Ge alighted and was taken aback by the organized and enthusiastic greetings from the servants.
All the servants had bright smiles, and their spirits were high, which made him chuckle.
“No need for formalities. Du Juan, reward them.”
“Yes.”
“Thank you, Huang Guiqing!” The voices of the servants became even louder.
Yan Xiaojing, Madam Yan, and Lady Wen personally came out to welcome him.
“Respectful greetings to Huang Guiqing!”
Yan Ge promptly intercepted them, “Father, Mother, Sister-in-law, next time you do this, I won’t recognize you.”
Yan Xiaojing and Madam Yan both glared at him. Naturally, they wouldn’t be so formal with their own son. Bowing was just for appearances in front of outsiders. Yan Ge was now Huang Guiqing, which was a much higher rank and certain protocols were unavoidable. However, since Yan Ge said so, they would let it go next time.
“It’s been almost three years since Big Brother enlisted. Has he written back recently?”
They chatted as they walked.
Madam Yan’s eyes reddened.
“What’s wrong?” Yan Ge was surprised. Could it be that something happened to Yan Su? It was impossible; if Yan Su had any problems, the people arranged by Huangfu Yuchen would definitely inform him.
Yan Xiaojing said calmly, “Your elder brother’s letter arrived two days ago. He intends to serve for three more years.”
“Hmph, he doesn’t even think about his son or his wife!” Madam Yan said angrily.
Yan Ge waved away the servants, “Father, Mother, don’t worry too much. Men all want to achieve something. If it weren’t for—ahem, I would have already established a business empire!”
“Don’t talk nonsense.” Yan Xiaojing glared at him again. Was it so easy to talk about establishing an empire?
“I’m just worried.” Madam Yan sighed, “Your nephew and your sister-in-law also… Why doesn’t your elder brother think about them?”
Yan Ge said calmly, “It’s alright. After I return, I’ll talk to Yuchen and let Sister-in-law and Tiantian follow the army.”
Yan Xiaojing and Madam Yan both brightened up.
Lady Wen’s eyes also shimmered with tears as she cautiously looked at Yan Ge, afraid that he was just speaking casually.
“This is possible?” Madam Yan hesitated, “Ge’er, if you do this, will people think…”
Yan Xiaojing’s rationality suppressed his emotions, “I think letting our daughter in law and Tiantian stay for a few months should be enough.”
Yan Ge waved his hand and embraced Madam Yan’s shoulder, “It’s okay, Father, Mother. Can’t your son use his connections a bit now that he’s become Huang Guiqing?”
Both Yan Xiaojing and Madam Yan were amused by him.
Yan Xiaojing said to Madam Yan and Lady Wen Shi, “You both go see Tiantian; I’ll talk to Ge’er.”
“Alright, you two go inside quickly. It’s cold outside.” Madam Yan reminded them before leaving with Lady Wen.
Father and son sat in the hall, and Yan Xiaojing asked, “Ge’er, do you think I should take a step back?”
“Father, absolutely not. If you really did that, you would become a laughingstock.” Yan Ge understood what he meant and thought to himself that their family was too honest. If it were someone else’s child who became a Huang Guiqing or an imperial consort, the whole family or even the entire clan would have taken advantage of the position to expand their influence and amass wealth. But his family was different; they were all afraid of making mistakes and causing trouble for others.
“Yan Bao—”
*Yan Bao is the official name for the messages the Emperor sends Yan Ge.
Yan Xiaojing quickly stood up.
Yan Ge was puzzled, “I’ve only been out for a while. What could be the matter?”
“This servant pays respects to Huang Guiqing!” A eunuch stepped into the hall and knelt down swiftly.
“No need for formalities.” Yan Ge raised his hand gracefully.
“Thank you, Huang Guiqing. This is from the Emperor for you.”
Yan Ge received the letter, “Du Juan, escort the eunuch out.”
“Yes.” Du Juan responded. Naturally, she would have to give some reward to the eunuch.
Yan Ge opened the letter, and after reading it, he smiled and a sweet smile appeared on his face.
Yan Xiaojing seemed not to be looking but was actually observing from the corner of his eyes. He shook his head secretly, but felt happy for his younger son.
“Father, take a look at this.” Yan Ge handed the top paper to Yan Xiaojing and laughed.
After reading the letter, Yan Xiaojing sighed emotionally, “The Emperor truly values you. Ge’er, you must cherish this.”
“I understand.” Yan Ge smiled, “Yuchen also mentioned you. I just didn’t think of things as thoroughly as he did.”
“What did he say?” Yan Xiaojing was puzzled.
Yan Ge said, “He guessed that you might have thoughts of stepping back and advised you not to. You should consider Tiantian. Tiantian was born into a noble family and will probably take an official path in the future. Having a deep foundation in the court will only be beneficial for him.” Huangfu Yuchen considered the Yan family’s situation after they ascended and crossed the tribulation. Without Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge protecting them in the court in the future, Yan Xiangtian would have to rely on Yan Xiaojing and Yan Su. However, it was too early to talk about ascension, and it was not the time to tell Yan Xiaojing about it, so Yan Ge omitted that part.
Yan Xiaojing pondered for a moment and then smiled in relief, “I see.”
He realized that he was having some hesitation and fear. Could it be because he was getting older? As long as he was true to himself, what did he have to fear no matter how high his position became?
Huangfu Yuchen actually considered so much for his family. Yan Ge felt both happy and moved, and he couldn’t sit still.
Yan Xiaojing noticed and made an excuse for his younger son, “Your mother and your sister-in-law will be so happy after hearing about this matter. I don’t have time to accompany you today. Just go about your business as Huang Guiqing.”
“Father, it seems that you still care more about your elder son.” Yan Ge pouted. But he still stood up, and said, “I’m leaving.”
“You brat!” Yan Xiaojing was annoyed by him again.
Yan Ge was afraid that his father would take off his shoe and hit him, so he quickly ran away.
At the entrance of the Yan Mansion, Gao Feng and Gao Yun came forward, kneeling on one knee, looking spirited as they said, “Respectful greetings to Huang Guiqing!”
“Oh? Gao Feng, Gao Yun, you’re out of seclusion.” Yan Ge glanced at their cultivation levels and smiled, “Your aptitude is good; you’ve already reached the Late Foundation Establishment stage in just a few months. If you have any questions about cultivation, feel free to ask me. Perhaps you’ll become senior brothers to others in the future, so be diligent in your practice.”
“Yes!”
“Let’s return to the palace.”
“Yes!” Gao Feng and Gao Yun followed behind the carriage. They exchanged glances, and felt somewhat anxious.
After cultivating, they could truly comprehend how profound Huang Guiqing’s cultivation was. Not only that, Huang Guiqing was good-looking, with a great aura. Together with his incomprehensible high-level cultivation, that casual smile was extremely charming. If they liked men, it would have been difficult to resist that charm. This was probably the reason why the Emperor could rest assured leaving them by Huang Guiqing’s side. Thinking about the Emperor’s possessiveness and jealousy, the two quickly suppressed their wandering thoughts, sat properly on their horses, and looked ahead.
Back in the palace, Yan Ge couldn’t wait to see Huangfu Yuchen. Instead of going back to Tenglong Palace, he went directly to the small garden outside the Imperial study.
The palace maids quickly brought hot tea and a warm stove.
After sitting for about half an hour, the meeting in the study finally ended.
Yan Ge looked from a distance through the flower bushes at the entrance of the study. Huangfu Yuchen slowly walked out, his figure looking inexplicably lonely.
With Huangfu Yuhu around in the past, Huangfu Yuchen must have felt more secure since both of them were members of the royal family. But now that Huangfu Yuhu was not here, Huangfu Yuchen could be considered a true solitary man in the court.
“Gao Feng.”
“The subordinate is here.”
“I remember that the Emperor has a good relationship with a sixth uncle, right?” Yan Ge asked.
Gao Feng thought for a moment, “Are you referring to King Zhong? As far as I know, King Zhong is the brother who was closest to the late emperor. When the current Emperor ascended to the throne, King Zhong put in a lot of effort in the court. However, because King Zhong has health issues, he rarely appears in public. He should still be recuperating in his palace.”
“Do you know what illness he has?” Yan Ge had an idea in his mind.
Gao Yun said, “It seems to be some sort of heart condition, and he can only rest quietly.”
Yan Ge was puzzled, “Why didn’t Yuchen mention this to me?”
Gao Feng said, “A heart condition is a difficult ailment to cure. Perhaps the Emperor is afraid that it would add pressure on you.”
“That’s possible.” Yan Ge pondered.
As he watched Huangfu Yuchen walk away, Yan Ge quickly stood up and waved at him, “Yuchen!”
Huangfu Yuchen turned around and saw Yan Ge smiling at him from behind the flower bushes. His heart softened, and a smile curved on his lips. He quickly walked over and skillfully embraced Yan Ge.
“Weren’t you going out? Why did you come back so soon?”
“To pick you up from work,” Yan Ge teased.
“Oh, thank you, baby,” Huangfu Yuchen pinched his waist and looked at Gao Feng and Gao Yun.
“Respectful greetings to Your Majesty!”
Huangfu Yuchen gave them a faint glance, then said, “You may leave. Inform Jun Xiang and Lu Fei that they’ll be working under the supervision of Huang Guiqing from now on.”
“Yes, we take our leave,” Gao Feng and Gao Yun felt a shiver down their spines and they quickly retreating.
Yan Ge stared at Huangfu Yuchen, observing his face from all angles.
What?” Huangfu Yuchen playfully draped an arm around Yan Ge, sat down, and even took a sip of Yan Ge’s tea, acting nonchalant.
“I should be asking you what’s wrong,” Yan Ge said.
Huangfu Yuchen hugged him tightly and murmured, “I’m jealous of Gao Feng and Gao Yun. They spend almost as much time with you as I do. Is that not allowed?”
Yan Ge placed a firm kiss on his chin and smiled mischievously, “Well, Deng Mande has spent even more time by your side.”
Deng Mande froze: “…”
Huangfu Yuchen said helplessly, “…I can’t argue with you.”
“That’s right.” Yan Ge raised the corner of his mouth proudly.
Huangfu Yuchen pulled him to stand up, “Let’s go back; it’s cold here. I was just discussing with them…”
The two chatted casually as they walked leisurely towards Tenglong Palace.
The atmosphere was calm, making it unbearable to disturb them.
