C153 – Announce to the Public
Zhan Yuanfeng breathed a sigh of relief inwardly. As he looked at the two men kneeling together, he didn’t sense anything unusual. Surprisingly, they seemed to complement each other well. He asked in a somewhat rhetorical manner, “What are your thoughts, everyone?”
The military officials already held Lu Zheng in high regard, so they were quick to express their support without any reservations.
Among the civil servants, there were those who remained silent, some who harbored reservations, and a few who were not entirely supportive. Nevertheless, even those who had reservations did not voice their opposition, merely showing it on their faces.
Zhan Yuanfeng wasn’t seeking their endorsement; he simply wished to avoid objections. With a light-hearted tone, he remarked, “Haha... Since no one opposes, and the two parties are in love, we shouldn’t obstruct their union. Someone, issue the decree...”
“Your Majesty...” Numerous officials exclaimed. Was the imperial edict truly going to sanction their marriage? This was an unprecedented development.
“Why?” Zhan Yuanfeng innocently looked at everyone, gestured towards Shang Xianyang, and inquired, “Mr. Shang, do you have any objections?”
Shang Xianyang, who headed the civil service, stood resolutely. Despite the expectant gazes on his back, he stepped forward and articulated his stance, “Your Majesty, this subject believes that Duke Zhen’s remarkable contributions warrant such a request. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that this is an unprecedented occurrence in our history. This subject is concerned that it might set a precedent and lead to disorder.”
Zhan Yuanfeng casually waved his hand, dismissing the civil officials’ concerns, “No need to worry; I will issue a decree. Marriages between men will only be permitted with an imperial decree.”
Shang Xianyang had weighed the pros and cons in his mind. Knowing the emperor’s resolve in arranging this marriage, he nodded and complimented, “Your Majesty’s wisdom shines brightly!”
Zhan Yuanfeng spared himself from listening to further arguments and directly addressed the civil officials, “As Mr. Shang Xianyang has just said, given Duke Zhen’s exceptional service, it’s fitting to arrange such an imperial wedding for him. I believe I’ve done him an injustice. How about we entrust the entire Ministry of Rites with Duke Zhen’s wedding preparations?”
The Minister of Rites reluctantly accepted the decree with a grim expression.
“Very well, after the Ministry of Rites announces the remaining rankings for the Hall Competition, our students must be tired. Return to rest, but do not forget that the Julin Feast is scheduled for tomorrow at noon.” Zhan Yuanfeng deliberately disregarded Zuo Shaoqing’s previous choices, leaving the students bewildered as they returned to the palace.
“Let’s go,” Lu Zheng calmly guided Zuo Shaoqing through the crowd, paying no attention to the multitude of curious glances.
The Minister of Rites hastily intercepted Master Lu, “Master Lu, may I inquire when the Emperor would like to select an auspicious date for the wedding?”
“There’s no need for all that formality. I’ve already decided on the date. It will be on the fifth day of the fifth month, and I’ll send someone to coordinate with the Ministry of Rites. What are your thoughts on this?”
With this royal decree, marrying Lu Zheng as a man would no longer carry the stigma of shame. No one would dare to label a marriage approved by the Emperor as incestuous.
And all of this had been accomplished by Lu Zheng for him. He could effortlessly erase his remarkable military accomplishments for that mere piece of paper. How could Zuo Shaoqing not feel deeply moved by it?
Zuo Shaoqing rested wearily against Lu Zheng’s chest. He reflected on the past six months of their acquaintance, from his unexpected rescue to his deliberate manipulation and the mutual goodwill that had developed between them. The entire journey felt like a dream.
If he hadn’t saved Lu Zheng and allowed him to sacrifice himself, would he have missed the opportunity to have this man in his life forever?
Perhaps he would have continued as he had in his previous life, casually marrying a woman and living a detached existence until someone broke into his heart and became the shackles of his life. However, that person might not necessarily have been himself.
Picturing that he and Lu Zheng were once strangers, and imagining that Lu Zheng might have been thinking of someone else, Zuo Shaoqing’s heart ached. His Lu Zheng, his Master Lu, was so wonderful; how could he bear the thought of losing him to someone else?
Zuo Shaoqing lifted his head and gently placed his lips against Lu Zheng’s chin. He closed his tired eyes and savored the moment.
Lu Zheng lowered his head and kissed the corner of Zuo Shaoqing’s mouth. Then, he moved his lips to the corner of his eye and tasted a tear filled with bitterness.
He didn’t understand why Zuo Shaoqing was shedding tears, but he could sense his happiness. It struck a chord within his heart, and he experienced a feeling he had never felt before.
It was dinner time, and there were fewer people on the road, though not completely empty. However, all onlookers seemed to be transfixed, gazing at the two men embracing on their horses without moving.
There were not many residents in the capital who were unfamiliar with Master Lu, and not everyone recognized the renowned Zuo Shaoqing. Nevertheless, the intimate posture of the two left little to the imagination regarding their identities.
Yet, what truly stunned the spectators was the expressions on their faces. It exuded an indescribable warmth, one that was captivating and evoked yearning.
The guards trailing behind remained vigilant, not letting their guard down despite the affectionate atmosphere between the two masters. Inwardly, they couldn’t help but think, “We never imagined that Master Lu could be so tender.”
Reflecting on this, they held an even greater admiration for their future mistress. To be treated with such affection by Master Lu was something beyond the reach of ordinary individuals.
Gradually, Zuo Shaoqing opened his eyes. As he met Lu Zheng’s tender gaze, a radiant smile gradually spread across his lips.
Lu Zheng gazed at his face for a prolonged moment. Whether it was those clear, expressive eyes or that flushed countenance, they both made him wish to preserve them forever.