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CHAPTER 3 - RETURNING HOME
"Indeed, the grandson of General Gu, at a glance, exudes the grandeur of the Gu family's military prowess!"
Unfortunately, in the decisive Battle of Jince eight years ago, the entire Gu family bravely perished.
Apart from this grandson, there were no descendants left.
It was truly a lamentable loss.
The Crown Prince cast a sidelong glance at Prime Minister Guo after hearing this tone, then gently remarked,
"If General Gu, in the heavens, could see this, he would surely rejoice at General Shang's current achievements."
"Yes, the Crown Prince is right!"
As the two spoke, the surrounding ministers also joined in praising.
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However, Vice Minister Wei, standing nearby, coldly snorted, dismissing the conversation.
But given the current flourishing moment for Shang Ji, he wasn't foolish enough to spoil the mood by intervening.
The army arrived at the city gate tower.
Shang Ji dismounted, followed by twelve vice generals who also dismounted.
In a disciplined manner, they knelt on one knee and shouted in unison.
"The Prince's subordinates greet the Crown Prince!"
"All the generals and soldiers have worked hard. Please rise quickly!"
"Thank you, Crown Prince!"
The wind and sand in Cezhou added a touch of desolation to everyone, but their eyes seemed even more determined than before.
The Crown Prince, feeling greatly pleased, stepped forward and said,
"General Shang, my father has prepared a celebration feast in the palace, eagerly awaiting to welcome and honor you. Please, lead the way!"
"Thank you for your graciousness, Your Majesty."
Immediately, Shang Ji instructed those behind him,
"The twelve vice generals, disarm and enter the palace with me. The rest of the soldiers, set up camp ten miles away and do not move without authorization."
"Yes!"
Having been on the battlefield since the age of fifteen, though officially a young lord of the Duke's residence, he was also a ruthless and respected marshal among the military.
Therefore, his orders were unquestionably followed.
From the city gate to the palace gate, the people lined the way to welcome them.
The Crown Prince chose not to ride in his ceremonial carriage but to travel on horseback alongside Shang Ji.
Observing the festive celebration and the countless handkerchiefs and sachets flying in the air, he couldn't help but jest along the way.
"Sixth Young Master's charm is indeed extraordinary. These young ladies are so enthusiastic, even though they know you already have a wife. It seems like before long, there might be another joyful event in the Duke's residence."
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Shang Ji casually replied, "The rumors about my wife-discarding abilities might not be widespread enough. Otherwise, how could we have this grand occasion today? I'm afraid it's an embarrassment in front of the Crown Prince."
The Crown Prince fell silent.
"Why deny the rumors about discarding your wife? Are you bothered by these gossips? Stop pretending. You, the descendant of both the Shang and Gu families, fearless in the face of weapons, why fear such trivial matters?"
Shang Ji didn't want to get entangled in private matters and remained silent, pursing his lips.
As they traveled north, the Crown Prince continued talking incessantly, while Shang Ji maintained a calm demeanor. Those unaware might have thought the Crown Prince owed him a gambling debt, judging by his indifferent expression.
After entering the imperial palace with Shang Ji and the twelve vice generals, the lively atmosphere among the people gradually dissipated.
The palace banquet was lively with toasts and exchanges, but unfortunately, the usually vibrant Duke's residence now appeared somewhat desolate.
Especially Xitang Courtyard in the Eastern Garden.
When Du Jingyi returned from Yunjin Courtyard, there was a hint of fatigue on her face.
Regardless, she was the young lady of the Duke's residence, the legally wedded wife of General Shang, confirmed through the proper rituals and ceremonies.
The Duke and Duchess of Shang received an imperial order to enter the palace, leaving her with the words, "Afraid your health is delicate, can't handle the royal banquet."
Indeed, they retreated when needed and advanced when not.
After today, everyone in Suian City would probably know that the Duchess of the Duke's residence was a joke.
In the future, her days in the residence would likely become even more difficult.
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She wasn't afraid of some financial deductions.
After all, her dowry was abundant enough; she could afford to maintain Xitang Courtyard.
But having her face slapped in such a manner, if it reached her parents' ears, who knows how devastated they would be.
As the sky gradually darkened, lights were lit throughout the residence.
Cherry brought a meal, but Du Jingyi didn't take more than a few bites.
She knew her mistress was upset, but she didn't know how to comfort her.
Surprisingly, Du Jingyi sensed her concern and smiled faintly, saying,
"I had pear slices in the afternoon; I'm not hungry."
Then she lowered her eyes, concealing her emotions.
"Prepare the water; I want to bathe."
"Yes."
When Du Jingyi was in a bad mood, she liked the quiet moments of bathing, as if she could wash away all her troubles.
Once in the wooden tub, she felt rejuvenated.
They added some soothing essence to the water, and the steam tinted Du Jingyi's cheeks with a rosy hue.
Cherry and Lízhū carefully attended to her.
After soaking for a while, until Du Jingyi felt refreshed, she rose from the water.
After drying off, she reclined on the nearby couch, letting the two maids apply moisturizing fragrance to her.
Usually, such moments were entirely normal for Du Jingyi.
However, today's preparations took a bit longer.
Therefore, when Shang Ji returned from the palace after the feast, he didn't find anyone in the main room.
Instead, he heard some faint sounds from the adjacent chamber.
Having been seasoned in the military for many years, his hearing was exceptional.
He could discern that someone was bathing and grooming.
Slightly affected by the alcohol, he furrowed his brows and immediately inquired behind him.
"Who is bathing here?"
Following him were He, the housekeeper who had served him for many years, and Duomama, the caretaker.
When they saw him, both wore expressions of excitement and agitation.
Unexpectedly, the first question he asked was this.
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Duomama stepped forward respectfully and said, "Young Master... oh no, General, it seems you've had a bit too much to drink. Besides the young lady, is there anyone else who would be bathing in this room?"
Upon hearing her words, Shang Ji finally realized.
He was a married man.
Indeed, having spent so much time in the military camp, he had forgotten that he also had a family.
"Well, go fetch two bowls of sobering soup; this royal wine has given me a terrible headache."
"Alright, I'll go right away."
The armor on his body felt as heavy as a thousand catties, making him uncomfortable.
His personal attendant, Luo Yuan, who helped him into the main room, immediately offered, "General, shall I help you remove your armor?"
"Yes."
The heavy breath mixed with the scent of alcohol quickly filled the entire room.
After taking off his armor, Shang Ji revealed a figure clad in a moon-white narrow-sleeved satin robe with a round neckline, embroidered with a subtle cloud pattern.
He wore a pair of black satin boots and a belt around his waist with an embroidered gold flower pattern.
Presented with a formidable presence, his entire person exuded a majestic aura.
The normally serious and steady General Shang, at this moment, seemed completely at ease.
Perhaps it was returning to his familiar surroundings that made him feel relaxed and comfortable.
Casually picking up the celadon cup on the table, he forcefully poured himself a cup of tea to sober up.
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