Destined

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi felt a headache coming on.

Not only him, but everyone in the court felt the same.

Fan Xuan had spoken, Zhou Gaolang had echoed—when those in power remained silent, why should a mere seventh-rank official stir up trouble?

Who didn’t know Luo Zishang was unfit to be the Imperial Tutor? But since Fan Xuan had proposed it, there was clearly some private arrangement behind it, something not meant to be openly discussed. Ye Shi’an’s obstruction had left everyone in an awkward position.

Fan Xuan sat on the throne, silent for a long time. To press the issue further was inappropriate, yet to remain silent was equally uncomfortable. Ye Shi’an stood firm in the court, stubborn and unmoving, looking as though he would rather shed blood in the hall than retract his admonition. Gu Jiusi and Shen Ming watched with their hearts in their throats.

After a long while, Gu Jiusi cleared his throat softly and stepped forward. "Your Majesty, both Official Ye and I hail from Yangzhou. We believe we have some understanding of Young Master Luo. While he is undoubtedly talented, appointing him as the Crown Prince’s Imperial Tutor may not be entirely suitable. We hope Your Majesty will reconsider. However, both Official Ye and I are still young and lack the depth of Your Majesty’s foresight. We merely offer a suggestion for Your Majesty’s consideration."

Though his words seemed to align himself with Ye Shi’an, they provided Fan Xuan with a way out, leaving the final decision in his hands. Fan Xuan’s expression softened slightly, and he was about to speak when Ye Shi’an made to interrupt again. This time, Gu Jiusi acted decisively, stepping hard on Ye Shi’an’s foot. Ye Shi’an nearly cried out in pain but instinctively clenched his jaw to maintain decorum. In that brief moment, Fan Xuan declared, "Official Gu speaks wisely. We shall reconsider this matter."

With that, Fan Xuan allowed no further discussion, waving his hand to dismiss the court.

Ye Shi’an, limping from Gu Jiusi’s stomp, was supported by Gu Jiusi and Shen Ming as they hobbled out. Once inside the carriage, Gu Jiusi helped Ye Shi’an sit and tried to reason with him: "Luo Zishang now has the backing of Yangzhou. His Majesty is currently focused entirely on Liu Xingzhi and only wants to stabilize Yangzhou. He won’t take action against Luo Zishang. I know you hold a grudge against him, but now is not the time to make a stand…"

"Then when is?" Ye Shi’an interjected sharply.

Gu Jiusi fell silent for a moment before replying slowly, "Shi’an, we must be patient."

"I’ve been patient enough!" Ye Shi’an’s voice rose abruptly, filled with fury. "I said nothing when my father died." His eyes reddened as he stared at Gu Jiusi. "I didn’t act impulsively when Yun’er was carried into the Wang family through the back door in a small sedan chair. But we’re not in Yangzhou anymore! I’m not under his control here. I’m in the Eastern Capital! My uncle serves as the Censor-in-chief, and I’m an official in the Secretariat-Chancellery. And you still tell me to be patient? Is this patience or cowardice?! If I don’t stop him today, when will I ever stop him?"

"Don’t you see what he’s planning? Don’t I? The Crown Prince’s Imperial Tutor? He’s betting on Fan Yu! His ambition is obvious to all! If he truly becomes the Imperial Tutor and helps Fan Yu ascend the throne, how could we ever overthrow him? Impossible!"

No one spoke in the carriage. After a long silence, Shen Ming said quietly, "Actually… I think Brother Shi’an makes a good point."

"Then what do you plan to do?"Gu Jiusi looked up at them calmly and said, "His Majesty has already made his decision. By publicly humiliating him like this today, you're fortunate to still have your official position. How can you even think of anything else?"

"So I should just stand by and watch him get everything he wants and rise rapidly through the ranks?!"

Ye Shi'an stared at Gu Jiusi: "Gu Jiusi, I thought you were a man of principle, but I never expected you to be so cowardly."

Gu Jiusi was momentarily choked by these words before explaining, "I'm not..."

"Right, you're not," Ye Shi'an blurted out, "because it wasn't your father who died."

As soon as these words were spoken, the carriage fell silent.

Shen Ming sensed the awkward atmosphere, and Ye Shi'an seemed to realize he had gone too far. He fell silent, and after a long pause, he merely said, "I'm sorry."

The carriage came to a stop. Ye Shi'an lifted the curtain and got off early.

Shen Ming and Gu Jiusi sat in the carriage staring at each other. After a while, Shen Ming slowly said, "I think... Brother Ye didn't mean anything bad. He's just really angry..."

Gu Jiusi smiled upon hearing this: "You don't need to tell me that."

He said calmly, "I understand."

After speaking, he leaned against the carriage wall, thought for a moment, and sighed, "His legs aren't well. Go help him back to his room first. I need to think some more."

Shen Ming acknowledged and jumped out of the carriage. Gu Jiusi leaned against the wall, pondering for a while before finally telling Munan, who was driving outside, "To Zhou residence."

Munan responded with "Yes" from outside, and the carriage started moving again. Soon after, Munan announced, "Young master, we've arrived."

Gu Jiusi had Munan deliver his name card, and soon the Zhou residence responded. Following the steward, Gu Jiusi familiarly made his way to Zhou Gaolang's study.

Zhou Gaolang was drinking tea when Gu Jiusi arrived. He smiled and said, "I knew you would come today."

Gu Jiusi was momentarily stunned before quickly bowing: "I apologize for my abrupt visit."

"No matter," Zhou Gaolang waved his hand, "Take a seat. Is this about Luo Zishang?"

Hearing Zhou Gaolang's words, Gu Jiusi sat down. He pressed his lips together and nodded: "You must have heard about Luo Zishang's character."

Zhou Gaolang nodded: "Both His Majesty and I are well aware of his nature."

"Then what was His Majesty's consideration in placing Luo Zishang in the position of Imperial Tutor?" Gu Jiusi carefully worded his question.

"That was Luo Zishang's condition."

Zhou Gaolang poured tea for Gu Jiusi: "His demand was to become Imperial Tutor and not touch Yangzhou for three years."

"Entrusting the Crown Prince to such a person - isn't His Majesty concerned?" Gu Jiusi frowned, "After all, the Crown Prince is the foundation of the state."

"His Majesty..." Zhou Gaolang hesitated for a long moment before finally saying, "His Majesty trusts the Crown Prince."

Gu Jiusi remained silent. Every father thinks his son is precious. If anyone had told Gu Langhua back then that his son was useless, Gu Langhua would probably have made sure that person ended up useless too.

Zhou Gaolang lowered his gaze and said lightly, "Moreover, we simply don't have time to consider the future right now. Just ten days ago, Liu Xingzhi declared himself king, established the state of 'Han,' and announced it to the world."

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi suddenly looked up. He suddenly understood Fan Xuan's intention to stabilize Yangzhou at all costs.Zhou Gaolang said calmly, "Liu Xingzhi, who claims to be a descendant of the Han imperial lineage, has been conscripting troops everywhere under the pretext of quelling rebels. His lands have hardly suffered from war—Yizhou has fertile grain-producing soil, and Jingzhou boasts strong soldiers and sturdy horses. Compared to Liu Xingzhi, we now face Northern Liang to the north and Liu Xingzhi to the south. Cangzhou has just endured a severe drought, and the previous battles were all fought within Great Xia's territory. It can be said we are beset by internal and external troubles and simply lack the capacity to fight both Yangzhou and Liu Xingzhi simultaneously."

"So, His Majesty plans to stabilize Yangzhou for three years, deal with Liu Xingzhi first, and then turn back to handle Luo Zishang?" Gu Jiusi pondered aloud.

Zhou Gaolang nodded. "And Luo Zishang likely intends to use these three years to gain control over the Crown Prince, paving a bright path for himself."

"Then His Majesty is betting on the Crown Prince against Luo Zishang?" Gu Jiusi smiled bitterly.

Zhou Gaolang also seemed somewhat helpless. "Exactly so."

"This humble official understands," Gu Jiusi sighed. "I comprehend His Majesty's intentions, but I have a question that may be somewhat treasonous yet must be asked."

"Speak."

Zhou Gaolang seemed to know what Gu Jiusi would ask. Gu Jiusi stared at Zhou Gaolang. "Can His Majesty's health outlast Liu Xingzhi?"

Zhou Gaolang remained silent for a long time before slowly saying, "There is the Crown Prince."

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi fell silent for a moment. After a long pause, he said, "Might I ask Lord Zhou for a favor?"

"Speak."

"The Crown Prince is the foundation of the state. As the saying goes, different professions call for different expertise. Having only one teacher seems inappropriate. I implore Lord Zhou to advise His Majesty to appoint several Imperial Tutors."

Zhou Gaolang was taken aback. Gu Jiusi said seriously, "I presume to suggest that Lord Zhou recommend Official Ye."

Upon hearing this, Zhou Gaolang immediately understood Gu Jiusi's intention. If they couldn't prevent Luo Zishang from becoming an Imperial Tutor, they might as well all become tutors together. Other ministers might not guard against Luo Zishang so strictly, but Gu Jiusi's faction would remain vigilant, ensuring Fan Yu developed no fondness for Luo Zishang.

Originally, Gu Jiusi would have been the most suitable candidate, but his scholarship was truly inadequate. Although Luo Zishang's character was flawed, he was Zhang Huai Li's final disciple, renowned for his literary talent and great fame. The only one who could rival Luo Zishang was Ye Shi'an, also a disciple of a famous master and the top scholar in the previous dynasty's imperial examinations.

Zhou Gaolang thought for a moment and smiled. "You're right. I will speak to His Majesty."

By the time Gu Jiusi left Zhou Gaolang's residence, it was already noon. Returning home, he found Liu Yu Ru inspecting the house with some workers.

Liu Yu Ru planned to renovate the house. Her aesthetic sense was ordinary, so she had asked Ye Yun to accompany her. Ye Yun, having been raised with refined upbringing, was particular about everything. She pointed out various details as they walked through the house and proposed a complete renovation plan.

After discussing with Ye Yun, Liu Yu Ru had Ye Yun draw up blueprints. The two then went to the market, found specialized craftsmen, and brought them home to assess how to make the modifications.

Seeing Gu Jiusi return, Liu Yu Ru said something to Ye Yun, letting her continue supervising the courtyard inspection while she followed Gu Jiusi.

Gu Jiusi entered the bedroom. Liu Yu Ru approached, took his outer garment, and asked gently, "I saw Brother Ye and Shen Ming return early this morning. Where have you been?"

Gu Jiusi looked weary. "I went to see Lord Zhou."

"Has something happened?"Liu Yuru looked somewhat puzzled. Gu Jiusi nodded and recounted the matter. As he reached the later part, he sighed, "I suddenly understand why people used to urge my father to have another child. Honestly, I really wish I could advise His Majesty to have another one now. With another heir, I wouldn't have to worry so much."

Liu Yuru was amused by his words. "Don't say that. People can always be taught. If you truly become the Imperial Tutor, you might find the Crown Prince to be promising material."

Gu Jiusi let out a light scoff at her words but didn't comment further. Though he hadn't interacted much with Fan Yu, he remembered clearly the heartless young master from Yangzhou.

Seeing his dislike for Fan Yu, Liu Yuru changed the subject. "Lord Zhou mentioned internal troubles now—is it about the food supply?"

At this, Gu Jiusi grew serious. He nodded and said, "Although your earlier grain purchases in Cangzhou, Qingzhou, and Yangzhou resolved Youzhou's issues, now that these are all territories of Great Xia, they've become problems for the entire state."

Liu Yuru remained silent. Gu Jiusi sighed, "There will inevitably be another conflict with Liu Xingzhi in the future. Food supplies will likely remain a long-term concern."

After some thought, Liu Yuru hesitantly suggested, "Should I go to Jingzhou and Yizhou to purchase grain again?"

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi couldn't help but laugh. "With your reputation as Boss Liu now spread far and wide, that might be difficult."

Liu Yuru knew he was right. Now that the country had stabilized, people were gradually realizing her earlier low-price grain purchases. Though the specifics remained unclear, everyone knew that the grain price fluctuations in Qing, Cang, and Yang prefectures had originated from a young female merchant surnamed Liu.

While she had gained fame, attempting to repeat her previous actions in Jingzhou and Yizhou would likely trigger government intervention as soon as grain prices shifted.

After a moment of silence, Liu Yuru slowly said, "We can't always rely on such speculative methods. I need to find a lasting solution. With people going to the front lines, someone must stay behind to farm and supply food."

"Take your time thinking about it," Gu Jiusi said with a smile. "It's fine if you can't figure it out immediately—taller people will bear the weight if the sky falls."

Liu Yuru smiled. After a while, she suddenly remembered, "How are the harvests in Wangdu?"

Last year, Gu Jiusi had settled refugees in Wangdu to farm. The winter wheat sown then would be ready for harvest in about a month, and its growth should already be apparent. Mentioning this lifted Gu Jiusi's spirits. "Magistrate Yang wrote to me saying the yield is better than previous years. Although I reduced taxes in Wangdu, the granaries will likely be fuller this year."

Liu Yuru pondered silently before smiling gently. "Then I should go to Wangdu to buy grain."

After chatting a while longer, they went to eat together.

After the meal, Liu Yuru returned to her study and began writing to Yun Yun.

She was currently arranging to relocate Floral Visage's headquarters to the Eastern Capital while also contacting other prefectures to establish partnerships and appoint local agents for Floral Visage.

After Yun Yun thoroughly discussed matters with all Floral Visage employees, everyone became united and worked more efficiently, leaving few concerns.

After addressing Floral Visage matters, Liu Yuru thought for a moment and instructed Yun Yun to investigate grain and land prices in Wangdu while preparing several special Floral Visage gift sets.After finishing her tasks, she went to find Ye Yun and busied herself with renovating the house.

Gu Jiusi watched her bustling about until late at night and couldn't help feeling somewhat helpless, thinking that his wife was probably busier than he was.

The next day, when Shen Ming dragged Gu Jiusi out of bed to attend court, he found Ye Shi'an already seated in the carriage upon entering.

Ye Shi'an appeared much calmer than the previous day. The atmosphere among the three was somewhat awkward. After the carriage started moving, Ye Shi'an broke the silence first, saying somewhat awkwardly: "Yesterday... I was impulsive. I hope you can forgive me."

"No need to say that," Gu Jiusi smiled. "Actually, what you said wasn't wrong. We can't just do nothing."

Hearing this, Ye Shi'an's eyes lit up, and he quickly responded: "You're right. I thought about it yesterday - I should be more tactful. Luo Zishang becoming Imperial Tutor has his reasons. Since we can't stop it, we might as well not try to prevent it. Let him become the Imperial Tutor, and we can secretly undermine him later."

"That's absolutely right."

Gu Jiusi nodded: "I went to see Lord Zhou yesterday."

"Why did you go to see Lord Zhou?"

Ye Shi'an looked confused. Gu Jiusi raised his hand and patted Ye Shi'an's shoulder solemnly: "From now on, the task of undermining Luo Zishang will be entrusted to you."

"What do you mean?"

Ye Shi'an frowned. Gu Jiusi recounted yesterday's conversation. Ye Shi'an was stunned for a moment before he understood, becoming somewhat excited: "This... this isn't appropriate, is it?"

Gu Jiusi waved his hand: "Don't worry. Considering your father and uncle's standing, His Majesty will grant this favor."

"I have just one question."

Shen Ming cautiously spoke up. Gu Jiusi and Ye Shi'an turned to look at him. Shen Ming slowly asked: "Will his official rank be higher than mine?"

Ye Shi'an, Gu Jiusi: "..."

When the three arrived at the palace and attended the morning court session, just as Gu Jiusi had predicted, an edict was announced appointing Luo Zishang as the Crown Prince's Imperial Tutor and Ye Shi'an as the Crown Prince's Junior Tutor.

This time, Ye Shi'an didn't act impulsively and accepted the imperial decree together with Luo Zishang. Unexpectedly, besides Ye Shi'an, Fan Xuan also appointed Gu Jiusi as one of the Crown Prince's teachers, along with Ye Shi'an, Luo Zishang, and three other renowned scholars to jointly educate the Crown Prince.

This news left Gu Jiusi bewildered. After leaving the main hall, he couldn't help asking Ye Shi'an: "What do you think I can teach the Crown Prince?"

Shen Ming quickly raised his hand: "I know this one."

Gu Jiusi looked at Shen Ming puzzled: "What?"

Shen Ming said with a serious face: "Gambling."

Gu Jiusi choked.

He hadn't gambled for a long time.

"Stop talking nonsense."

Gu Jiusi coughed lightly and quickly said: "I quit gambling long ago. And how could I possibly teach the Crown Prince that?"

"Then there's really nothing to teach." Shen Ming sighed. "How pitiful - our Lord Gu actually has no special skills. It would be better to have Sister Yuru come instead, at least she could teach how to use an abacus."

"That you're right about." Gu Jiusi said calmly. "Our Yuru is good at everything."

"You're really beyond help."

Shen Ming looked at him with pity. Gu Jiusi chuckled: "Someone who can't even get a wife is probably the one truly beyond help."

"Who are you talking about?" Shen Ming became angry upon hearing this. He rolled up his sleeves and said, "Do you want to try bullying people like that again?"

"Oh, want to hit me?" Gu Jiusi raised his eyebrows. "Come on then."Shen Ming couldn't stand being provoked and immediately threw a punch.

Gu Jiusi held his ceremonial tablet and didn't fight back, only dodging while retreating, saying: "Really, even when I'm going easy on you, you can't even touch the hem of my robe."

This made Shen Ming even angrier, and his punches came faster. Gu Jiusi dodged around a corner and suddenly bumped into someone, who cried out in surprise. Seeing Shen Ming's fist coming, Gu Jiusi instinctively dodged, and Shen Ming couldn't retract his punch in time—it landed right on the other person's face!

Then came a scream, followed by a flurry of shouts: "Princess!"

"Your Highness!"

"Someone, help!"

The scene descended into chaos. Gu Jiusi and Shen Ming quickly dropped to their knees in fright. Before them stood a woman in a goose-yellow palace dress, one eye already turning black and blue. Tears welled in her eyes as she clenched her fists, glaring at the kneeling Gu Jiusi and Shen Ming. Through her sobs, she demanded: "You... which one of you is Gu Jiusi?"

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi's heart sank. Instinctively, he blurted out: "Your Highness, it wasn't me who hit you!"