IETSTSMLARA | The Charming Substitute | 55
The list of top scholars was posted. It was truly a scene of jubilation and rapid progress.
Lin Su, dressed in a fiery red robe of the top scholar, effortlessly mounted on his horse, contrasting with the second-place scholar who needed assistance to mount.
His heroic and elegant figure inadvertently attracted countless gazes.
Qing Qingyi was also watching that person. He had surpassed him in the imperial examinations and now again in the palace examinations. Although the charm of the second-place scholar sometimes surpassed that of the top scholar, the demeanor and smile of that person didn't seem like someone from a border city like him.
With outstanding literary talent and unparalleled beauty, he drew sighs from everyone.
The streets were strewn with countless flowers, exceptionally lively. People of all ages came to watch, basking in the joy of the top scholar.
"This year's top scholar is indeed very young."
"I wonder if he's already engaged, and to which family he'll be betrothed."
"In previous years, the second-place scholar was the most popular, but this year our top scholar truly stands out."
"The young master from the Qi family is also impressive."
Countless flowers fell, landing on the three of them. Lin Su didn't brush them away, letting them fall and crush under the hooves of his horse, releasing a fragrant aroma.
Among the spectators were this year's successful scholars. Some envied the attention others received, while some were resentful, but now that the decree had been made, they couldn't show too much discontent.
"In the past, I never thought Brother Lin had such talent. He's quite humble too, quietly taking the top scholar position without showing off."
"Yeah, unlike someone who used to boast a lot, as if he were destined to be a top scholar, but only managed to get third place."
The discussions were ongoing. Yang Cheng's face darkened for a moment. Qing Qingyi rode past on his horse, attracting countless admirers, while Lin Su was still ahead, chatting and laughing with that person.
If he were in that position, would Wen Jue also look at him with admiration?
Lin Qingtang and the other book boy were staying in a tea house, holding a basket of flowers.
When they saw Lin Su, they immediately scattered the flowers and exclaimed, "Young Master, Young Master!!"
His voice was cheerful, filled with pure joy, standing out among the crowd. However, the lack of people crowding around him wasn't due to his voice but because of his appearance, which bore a striking resemblance to the second-place scholar. The contrast between the two made them look like twin brothers.
If it weren't widely known that the Minister of Personnel, Qi Qingyi, only had one son, people would have suspected that this child was another son raised by Mr. Qi elsewhere.
This scene attracted everyone's attention, and Lin Su looked up, smiling at the excited Lin Qingtang, and caught the flower he tossed down, smiling back.
Lin Qingtang was delighted, and his actions further ignited the excitement of the surrounding crowd. Qing Qingyi had originally divided his attention between Lin Su and others, but seeing his actions, he followed his gaze and looked up at the young man on the balcony, his pupils dilating significantly.
"Young Master, that person looks exactly like you," the servant next to him exclaimed, "He seems to be a servant from the Lin family."
"It's just a resemblance," Qing Qingyi's gaze shifted back to Lin Su. He wondered what the person's intentions were to choose a servant who looked like him. "After the parade, investigate the background of that servant."
"Yes, Young Master," the servant replied.
After the parade, it was time for the Qionglin Banquet. Lin Su's essays were displayed and praised by everyone, drawing admiration. His cursive calligraphy seemed to soar between heaven and earth, earning the admiration of Emperor Zhao Yang, who bestowed upon him a mansion.
After the Qionglin Banquet, Lin Su entered the Hanlin Academy as a sixth-ranking compiler. Both the second-place scholar and the third-place scholar also entered the academy, but with one rank lower.
Moving to the new mansion, Lin Su found the courtyard quite spacious. He didn't have many personal belongings, except for a large collection of books. Lin Qingtang was busy inside and out, never finding a moment to rest.
Seeing Lin Qingtang working so hard, Lin Su wanted to buy a few servants. But when Lin Qingtang found out, he said, "Young Master, it's just me and Xi Kang. We can manage just fine without any additional servants. It'll save you money."
"But if we buy a few servants, you can be in charge of them," Lin Su chuckled. "If I ask you to weed or chop wood, and I call for you when I'm thirsty, will you be able to respond?"
Xi Kang nudged Lin Qingtang, who hesitated before saying, "Young Master is right."
With the courtyard now larger and filled with various plants, it was indeed more than they could handle compared to the small courtyard they were accustomed to.
After Lin Su settled the matter of buying servants and left, Xi Kang shook his head. "I tell you, Young Master is already an adult. Whatever he says goes. There's no reason for you and me to oppose him."
"You're right. I overstepped," Lin Qingtang lowered his gaze.
Young Master had always treated them well, even willing to share his knowledge with them. This made Lin Qingtang harbor many fantasies.
The image of the top scholar parading on horseback seemed vivid in his mind. He had also seen the way those young ladies from prestigious families looked at Young Master with admiration. If Young Master could marry one of them, his future success would be assured. How could an ordinary person like him dare to entertain such thoughts?
With the arrival of the new servants, Lin Qingtang became the manager. Although he was kind and gentle, having been entrusted with the management of the courtyard by Lin Su, even the servants dared not slack off, lest they be sold off.
Upon learning of this, Xi Kang couldn't help but envy Lin Qingtang. "I feel like you're not just Young Master's book boy; you're more like the master of the house."
Lin Qingtang's cheeks flushed as he stammered, "You shouldn't say such things casually. Young Master now holds an official position in the court, and he cannot have his reputation tarnished. He only entrusted the servant contracts to me because he knows I have a gentle temperament and might struggle to control them. If I ever need to take action, I must consult Young Master first. I can't just sell them off at will."
Xi Kang still felt that Young Master treated Lin Qingtang differently from others. "Well, it's because you're so good. Young Master naturally favors you a bit more."
Lin Qingtang gave a slight smile but remained silent.
While Young Master seemed partial to him, everything was handled impartially. Young Master was willing to teach him because he showed interest, and he entrusted him with managing the courtyard because of his diligence and organization skills. It appeared like favoritism, but Young Master treated him no differently from others.
Lin Su's position as a compiler in the Hanlin Academy involved restoring national histories, recording the emperor's words and deeds, and drafting various documents. It was actually one of the most leisurely positions.
Qing Qingyi also entered the Hanlin Academy. While they would exchange greetings and pleasantries, Lin Su felt a hint of displeasure from him.
"Brother Wen Jue," Lin Su greeted him warmly.
However, Qing Qingyi merely flicked his sleeve and left, accompanied by a cold snort.
Seeing Qing Qingyi's cold demeanor, Lin Su could only speculate that he might have misunderstood something after seeing Lin Qingtang.
If others chose to be distant, Lin Su had no qualms reciprocating. He would remain warm in public but maintain a distance in private.
In the Hanlin Academy, where books were abundant, there was no better place to pass the time.
Lin Su didn't expect this leisurely life to last long. Being chosen as the top scholar by the emperor, despite having no background, was a clear indication that his days of leisure were numbered.
“Follow me,” Qi Qingyi approached Lin Su's desk and spoke coldly.
Others observed silently, even those who were usually friendly with Lin Su refrained from saying much. In the court, it was not about personal feelings but about power.
Although Qi Qingyi's official position might not match Lin Su's, his father was not someone to be trifled with.
Lin Su rose and followed Qi Qingyi out, waiting until they were in a secluded place before asking, "May I ask what advice Brother Wen Jue has?"
"Did you redeem that boy named Qing Xi?" Qi Qingyi suppressed his anger, but there was a subtle and complex feeling in his heart.
This person claimed to admire his talent, but Qi Qingyu didn't see why anyone would need to admire his talent when he was already so accomplished in literary and artistic pursuits. If it wasn't admiration for his talent, then what was it?
"Yes, but he's now called Lin Qingtang," Lin Su replied, knowing that Qi Qingyi was already aware of what had happened in Qinghe Prefecture.
However, Qi Qingyi's attitude didn't seem entirely confrontational.
Qi Qingyi hesitated. "I don't care what his name is. Why did you redeem him?"
"I pitied his background and needed a literate servant boy, so I decided to redeem him. Besides, he bears a resemblance to Brother Wen Jue. Allowing him to be mistreated there would tarnish Brother Wen Jue's reputation," Lin Su smiled. "I admire Brother Wen Jue's talent, hence my actions."
These were all just excuses, the best excuses for now. Lin Su's true purpose was simply to complete the task.
"...Is it for my sake?" Qi Qingyi pursed his lips. "Have you done anything inappropriate to him?"
"Brother Wen Jue, you're misunderstanding me," Lin Su furrowed his brow, feeling that Qi Qingyi's attitude was off. "I simply needed a servant boy and have no improper intentions towards men."
"Then why haven't you married yet?" Qi Qingyi asked, with a somewhat aggressive tone.
System 06 also felt something was off: 【Host, it seems like he's interested in you.】
System 06 was able to sense it, and Lin Su naturally could as well.
He had no intention of stirring up any misunderstanding with Qi Qingyi, so he decided to speak up: "I am ashamed to admit that it's not that I don't want to marry, but rather due to a hidden illness that I cannot disclose. I hope Brother Wen Jue can keep this confidential."
This statement not only dissuaded Qi Qingyi from entertaining any further thoughts, but it also discouraged any proposals from high-ranking families. It was a win-win situation.
System 06 remarked, 【Host, are you resorting to self-harm just to avoid complications?】
Lin Su chuckled, 【The outcome is simply a life of bachelorhood, nothing too serious.】
Qi Qingyi was visibly stunned, pointing at Lin Su with a face alternating between green and white: "You... you have a hidden illness?! How can you so easily disclose it? If I were to speak of this, all those proposing marriages would withdraw."
"In truth, there's no need to conceal this matter, but it's just difficult to explain. If Brother Wen Jue were to speak of it, it would save me a lot of trouble," Lin Su said politely before turning to leave.
Having a hidden problem meant he couldn't consummate a marriage and have children, making him similar to eunuchs in the imperial court. Qi Qingyi, who had been angry about the Qing Xi incident involving Qinghe Prefecture, now found himself in a truly complex situation.
Despite his arrogance, Qi Qingyi still possessed the demeanor of a gentleman. At least he didn’t discern any signs of revealing secrets from his interactions with colleagues in the Hanlin Academy.
Unfortunately, as one wave subsided, another arose. Due to his literary talent as the top scholar, Emperor Zhaoyang took an interest in arranging a marriage for him.
"Prince Ying is my close uncle, and his youngest daughter is of marriageable age this year. Coincidentally, she happened to catch sight of you when she visited the Empress Dowager, admiring your talents. That's why I'm here to discuss this marriage proposal," Emperor Zhao Yang said enthusiastically.
Prince Ying was not only a close relative of the emperor but also a crucial supporter who helped Emperor Zhao Yang ascend the throne. His youngest daughter, Princess Jingling, was rumored to be as beautiful as a celestial nymph, with exceptional talent, and was favored by the Empress Dowager.
This kind of woman marrying anywhere would be considered a low marriage, but once married, it would greatly benefit one's future prospects. In an era where women's marriages were alliances to enhance family prestige and secure future favor, being able to marry a princess to someone you like was a sign of favor.
If Lin Su had any interest in women, marrying her wouldn't have been a waste of her life. But he truly had no interest in women; he only had an interest in men. He couldn't proceed with this.
He lifted his robe and knelt down, saying, "I am guilty and have disappointed Your Majesty's intentions."
Emperor Zhaoyang frowned. "Do you have a woman you like?"
"It's not that, Your Majesty. It's that I have a hidden illness," Lin Su replied with heartfelt regret. "I cannot let the princess's lifelong happiness be affected."
Emperor Zhaoyang paused for a moment. "Really? You must answer truthfully. Otherwise, if it's exposed later, it would be deceiving the emperor."
"I dare not speak falsely. Indeed, I have a hidden illness," Lin Su solemnly declared.
He said he had a hidden illness but didn't specify what it was. Tuberculosis or dysentery could both be considered incurable hidden ailments.
Emperor Zhao Yang sighed. "How did this happen?"
"I do not know," Lin Su lied without changing his expression.
Emperor Zhao Yang had initially intended to marry off his sister to Lin Su as a way to consolidate their relationship. It would have been beneficial for his sister to marry a good man, and for Lin Su to be his loyal subject, and for Lin Su to have a loving wife, but Lin Su's hidden illness ruined everything.
"If it's a hidden illness , it's possible that the doctors in Qinghe Prefecture are incompetent. I'll have the imperial physicians take a look at you. Perhaps it can be cured," Emperor Zhaoyang ordered immediately, without giving Lin Su a chance to refuse.
Lin Su, who didn't have any hidden illness: "..."
Even the emperor, with his happy marriage, had time to play matchmaker? Those who could become emperor were all astute individuals.
This excuse might have fooled Qi Qingyi, but it might not fool this young emperor who engaged in intellectual battles with his ministers daily.
Lin Su bowed deeply and said, "I am guilty of deceiving Your Majesty."
Since the emperor wanted to have leverage over him, Lin Su might as well give him something to hold onto.
Emperor Zhao Yang responded with an "oh" and asked, "Why did you deceive me, beloved subject?"
Taking a deep breath, Lin Su confessed, "I have a preference for men and have no interest in women. I truly didn't want to ruin the lives of innocent women, so I fabricated this excuse to politely decline. Although I prefer men, I am chaste and have never engaged in any inappropriate relationships with men. I hope Your Majesty can understand."
Emperor Zhao Yang continued calmly, "Your servant noticed that the servant in your household resembles the son of Minister Qi. Are you infatuated with Wen Jue?"
The emperor's tone didn't show anger, but his words clearly indicated that he had thoroughly investigated Lin Su.
Lin Su replied frankly, "I have sworn by my ancestors and my entire family that I have no improper intentions toward Minister Qi."
"Are you truly infatuated with that servant?" Emperor Zhao Yang inquired.
"He is still young. I only wish for his future success and happiness, nothing more," Lin Su confessed.
Emperor Zhaoyang clicked his tongue in disapproval. "In that case, why don't I grant you a male companion? In the future, if you have any experiences, come and tell me the differences between men and women."
Lin Su: "..."
Your Majesty, curiosity killed the cat.
But if even the emperor had such curiosity, then those who preferred the company of men would face less pressure. As for the emperor's reputation for generations to come?
History is written by the victors. With money and an army in his hands, Emperor Zhao Yang couldn't allow someone who merely wielded a pen to manipulate him at will.
Lin Su cleared his throat and said, "Men and women are inherently different. Women are generally delicate, while men are typically strong. Preferences are innate; some are naturally inclined towards women, some towards men, and some towards both. One must experience it to understand."
"Then shall I take you as a trial, beloved subject?" Emperor Zhao Yang asked.
Lin Su remained calm and respectful, saying, "I humbly report to Your Majesty that even among two men, there is still a distinction akin to that between men and women. I would be the 'top' in such a scenario."
"You're young, yet your thoughts are bold," Emperor Zhao Yang remarked, observing him. "A dignified literati like yourself, delving into such impure matters?"
Lin Su couldn't admit that the emperor had prompted him to speak, so he redirected, "With all due respect, Your Majesty, I disagree. Continuing one's lineage, propagating descendants, is crucial for ensuring Your Majesty's eternal legacy. This is a sacred duty, not to be tarnished by impurity."
"You're quite eloquent," Emperor Zhao Yang chuckled. "I too was born from my mother's womb. However, even if what you say makes sense, men cannot produce offspring with other men. Wouldn't that go against the sacred duty?"
"Not necessarily. If the primary wife is female and the secondary wife is male, the latter would have no offspring of their own. This would prevent favoritism between wives and reduce domestic conflicts. Men are generally more magnanimous and less likely to engage in palace intrigue, resulting in a more stable inner court," Lin Su explained.
Of course, there were downsides as well. In good times, they could support each other, but in bad times, men wielding power could be even more legitimate than women.
"That does make sense," Emperor Zhaoyang conceded, stepping down from his throne and standing before Lin Su. "But what if I insist that you be the 'bottom'?"
System 06: 【Oh boy.】
"In that case, I would rather die than comply, even if it means crashing into a pillar and perishing," Lin Su bowed respectfully.
He wasn't afraid to kneel, for if one's conscience was clear, what fear was there in physical submission?
The only downside of this era was that if the emperor truly wanted to act recklessly, no one could stop him.
"I'm just teasing you," Emperor Zhao Yang said with a smile. Although he was curious about men, he had no intention of taking action against his ministers, especially not the top scholar, which would draw public criticism.
A person with outstanding literary talent like Lin Su shouldn't be reduced to serving others in the inner court, engaging in political power.
“Since you have affection for men, I understand. I will decline the marriage proposal with the princess on your behalf," Emperor Zhao Yang said. "However..."
"Your Majesty's grace is immense, and I will never forget it. I will do my utmost to serve you," Lin Su expressed his loyalty. "I will not disappoint Your Majesty's trust."
Word of the princess's affection for Lin Su had spread somewhat, but after the emperor intervened and arranged a marriage for her elsewhere, the matter was left unresolved.
Some speculated that the emperor had grown weary of the top scholar, but he continued to favor him by assigning him various tasks, clearly valuing him.
Within the Lin residence, the sound of the qin flowed softly. Though still somewhat lacking, it had already achieved a level of elegance reminiscent of a bamboo forest's whispers.
After finishing a piece, Lin Qingtang let out a deep sigh as he held down the strings. Beside him, Xi Kang applauded. "Wow, that was really good!"
"I’m still far behind compared to Young Master," Lin Qingtang said, rubbing his fingers. "Let me play it again, and you listen closely, alright?"
Xi Kang rested his chin in his hand. "Well, honestly, I don't really understand you. We're just servants, doing our duties well should be enough. Why bother learning these things? Even if we learn, we can't show off like those aristocratic children."
"Think about it. If one day the Young Master attains a high position, but his attendants can't even read or write properly, wouldn't that invite ridicule?" Lin Qingtang reasoned.
"That's true, but when the time comes, the Young Master can just find better ones. I don't know how to read, but there will always be someone who does," Xikang replied.
"That would only benefit others," Lin Qingtang disagreed. He understood that Xi Kang only wished to leave someday and marry into a respectable family.
Their aspirations differed, so their pursuits naturally diverged.
Though Lin Qingtang could have pursued a similar path, he always hesitated to leave. Even if it meant being a servant to the Young Master for a lifetime and never marrying, it seemed to be his heartfelt choice.
If he wants to stand by the young master's side, he cannot allow others to look down upon him.
Lin Su still had work to do after the morning court. Since the emperor valued him, he naturally received more tasks. Working late into the night was common, and Lin Su did not dislike it.
However, occasionally when Lin Qingtang brought tea, Lin Su would see the calluses on his fingertips.
They were caused by playing the qin. Such marks wouldn't appear without daily practice.
"The affairs of the court are heavy recently. I see you are good at playing the qin. Can you perform a piece?" Lin Su said as he closed the book.
Lin Qingtang was originally preparing tea and ink nearby. He chuckled, "Of course, young master, please instruct me."
He brought the qin over and, with his fingertips, produced clear and melodious sounds. The sound of flowing water was the most agile, sometimes roaring and grand, sometimes delicate and jumping like whispers in a lover's ear. The piece completely dispelled weariness.
The guqin is difficult to learn, yet in just a few months, Lin Qingtang's qin playing had already shed its softness.
His clear eyes looked over in the dim candlelight, shining even brighter than the candle flame. He stood up and bowed, requesting guidance. His demeanor didn't resemble that of a mere servant, but rather that of a young master who had just stepped out into the world.
Jade is jade after all. Whether it can be acclaimed by the world depends on how it is carved. Whether the jade can withstand the carving is another matter.
The current Lin Qingtang had already shown signs of brilliance.
"Not bad," Lin Su said these two words, and Lin Qingtang's eyes instantly curved like crescent moons.
"Really?" Lin Qingtang couldn't contain his joy.
Lin Su patted his head and said, "Of course, I wouldn't lie to you about this."
Lin Qingtang smiled, "It's all thanks to the young master's good teaching."
To receive a compliment from the young master truly made him unable to sleep tonight.
"Your qin skills have indeed improved, but you must not slack off in the future. As for other matters, do you wish for me to evaluate them one by one?" Lin Su asked.
Lin Qingtang hesitated, but facing Lin Su's smiling face, he gritted his teeth and said, "Please instruct me, young master."
Memorizing texts was manageable for him, but deciphering their meanings was still a challenge.
In the game of Go, Lin Su gave him a seven-stone handicap, yet he still found himself at a loss, bewildered and unsure of what to do.
Writing was not like playing the qin; it couldn't be rushed. It required daily practice. Though it lacked soul, it already showed some character, indicating considerable effort had been put in.
As for painting, Lin Qingtang blushed and looked down at the ground, wishing he could bury himself under a brick and never show his face again.
Lin Su looked at the paper with apple-like shapes resembling buttocks and finally believed that some people truly lacked talent in painting.
Lin Su remained silent for a long time. Lin Qingtang timidly lifted his head to meet Lin Su's meaningful smile, feeling ashamed. "Lin Qingtang knows he's wrong..."
Lin Su chuckled, "What did you do wrong?"
"I... I stained the young master's eyes," Lin Qingtang stammered, feeling helpless. "I'll go back and practice diligently."
"No need to rush. It's already remarkable that you've reached this level in such a short time," Lin Su said gently.
"Yes," Lin Qingtang responded.
Lin Su pondered for a moment. "If you want to excel in painting, I have many scrolls here that you can copy from. Just make sure not to soil them."
"Thank you, young master. You are truly kind!" Lin Qingtang's words were straightforward, unlike the flowery language of scholars. Being praised directly was a heartwarming feeling, and Lin Su was no exception.
…
The position of Hanlin Compiler was not difficult, and Lin Su handled it with ease.
He served in the imperial court, when Emperor Zhao Yang sought his opinion on certain matters, Lin Su spoke freely and comprehensively.
While other civil officials might have some reservations, Lin Su's suggestions were often incisive and highly effective. Emperor Zhao Yang, pleased with his contributions, chose to overlook any criticisms from those who opposed Lin Su's ideas.
As time passed, while there were no major disturbances in the court, rumors began circulating within the palace that Emperor Zhao Yang had become infatuated with a male member of the court, who happened to be a palace guard.
This revelation shocked both the court and the public.
Even the Chief Imperial Censor wanted to bang his head against the pillar to persuade the emperor that what he was doing was wrong, but the all-powerful emperor merely responded casually, "Let Imperial Censor be. If he insists on intervening, let him. If he does, I wonder how his elderly mother and family will fare?"
"Your Majesty is correct. Filial piety is paramount. Minister Li's actions are indeed unfilial," an adversary chimed in.
"Your Majesty!!!" The Chief Imperial Censor found himself in a difficult position, unable to intervene yet also unable to remain silent.
Though historically, there had been traditions of not executing officials who dared to remonstrate, it was unheard of for an emperor to actively prevent a censor from speaking out.
Amidst the chaos of conflicting opinions in the court, Emperor Zhaoyang looked towards Lin Su, who stood with bowed head, and pulled him into the turmoil, "Lord Lin, as the chief historian, do you have anything to say?"
Lin Su spoke calmly and deliberately, "Your Majesty, allow me to speak. There is a poem that goes: Long Yang was devoted to Wei Wang, Dong Shi's lament for the Emperor's deep affection, Emperor Wen's son Gao Cheng's had excellent tales, and the tradition of breaking sleeves are the thing of the past, unworthy of baseless accusations today. Your Majesty is above all, the father of the people. We, as your children, should not criticize our father's actions, for it would be unfilial."
With the emperor setting this precedent, those who harbored affection akin to Long Yang's do not need to hide anymore. However, whether such affections led to the indulgence of promiscuous behavior among men was a matter of law and order, which needed to be addressed to prevent the illicit trafficking of children.
With these words, a momentary silence fell over the court. Emperor Zhao Yang expressed his admiration, yet Lin Su knew that he had offended many with his words.
Nevertheless, the emperor's intention was clear - to stir up turmoil in the court in order to root out those who sought to take advantage of the chaos.
The emperor's goals were achieved, and Lin Su's goals were also fulfilled.
System 06 sighed, 【Hosts, you two really make quite the pair.】
【You mean, partners in crime?】Lin Su chuckled.
He had initially wanted to be a loyal minister, but since that path was blocked, he had no choice but to become the treacherous minister that people talked about. As for how to protect himself after becoming treacherous, it depended on his own abilities.
At home, Lin Su found it to be the most relaxing place in this era. Lin Qingtang didn't beat around the bush; he always said what he meant, sparing Lin Su the need to read between the lines.
"Lately, there have been fewer people coming to propose marriage," Lin Qingtang said, patting Lin Su's shoulder. "Is it because the young master doesn't like any of those girls?"
"Hmm, it's because of a hidden illness," Lin Su said with a mischievous grin.
Lin Qingtang's hand halted in midair, his voice anxious, "An illness? What kind of illness? Why hasn't the young master consulted a physician?"
"It's nothing serious, just an illness that prevents me from being intimate with women," Lin Su said casually.
"Nothing serious?!" Lin Qingtang's eyes were full of concern. "Is it confirmed? Surely there must be a treatment. If the local doctors can't help, the imperial physicians in the palace should have a solution."
"I've tried everything, but to no avail," Lin Su sighed. "But it's not life-threatening, so don't worry."
"But doesn't that mean the young master will never marry or have children?" Lin Qingtang looked distressed.
Lin Su had been prepared for a life of solitude, but seeing Lin Qingtang clench his right fist, Lin Qingtang said, "I once heard that if a man has a hidden illness and medicine doesn't work, there are dietary supplements that might help. I wonder if tiger whip is available? Or perhaps ox whip could work. I should have asked Madame Bao where she gets hers."
If Lin Su continued with such supplements, he'd turn into a supercharged Teddy: "No need, I've tried that method too, but it didn't work. It seems that I am destined to be childless and lonely for life."
"As for the matter of having no children, Lin Qingtang cannot solve it, but as long as the young master needs, Lin Qingtang will always be by your side," Lin Qingtang said, pursing his lips, feeling guilty for the spark of joy in his heart. If the young master couldn't marry, he should be deeply worried, yet he found himself somewhat relieved.
Even if he couldn't be physically intimate, just being with him and seeing him was enough.
"Aren't you going to marry?" Lin Su asked.
Lin Qingtang shook his head. "I don't want to marry."
He didn't want to be intimate with anyone other than the young master. Despite knowing that marriage and children would benefit him in the long run, he couldn't control his heart. Even after leaving that place, he still longed for men.
"If I didn't have this hidden illness and had a wife and concubines, would you still not marry?" Lin Su asked.
Lin Qingtang's fingers tightened, and he nodded firmly. "The young master is my benefactor, and I should spend my life repaying you. If you have children, it would be good if I could help take care of them."
"Good, remember what you said just now," Lin Su patted his head and smiled.
"Yes!" Lin Qingtang's answer was accompanied by a smile, without a trace of regret.
He was also grateful for his current firmness in his remaining years, making him realize that the fantasy he thought would never come true might actually become a reality.
While the court was embroiled in struggles over the emperor's affairs, and while the attention of all the courtiers was focused on the emperor's private matters, the issue of buying official positions suddenly came to light, with the Minister of Personnel at the forefront.
Although there was a system of purchasing official positions in the court, these positions held no real power.
However, it was revealed that many of these officials held crucial positions. Because there was no fixed quota, as long as officials paid enough silver, they could bypass the imperial examinations and directly obtain their positions, with many of them coming from merchant backgrounds.
Once exposed, the list of involved officials was made public, and those implicated were either imprisoned or executed, causing a stir throughout the realm. People were too preoccupied with discussing this scandal to pay attention to the emperor's private affairs.
In a fit of anger, the emperor ordered severe punishment for those involved. Former cabinet ministers and the Minister of Personnel were stripped of their official positions. Even Qi Qingyi had his hat removed.
"Your Majesty, I was wrongly accused!" Qi Qingyi knelt on the ground, his once confident demeanor replaced by disarray and desperation. "My father is innocent. He must have been framed by villains. Please, Your Majesty, investigate this matter thoroughly."
Unfortunately, despite his pleading, no one dared to intercede on his behalf.
The Minister of Personnel had to be executed as a deterrent.
As for Qi Qingyi, although Emperor Zhao Yang admired his talent, he was demoted to a servant for a period of three years before being released as a commoner, permanently barred from participating in the imperial examinations.
The court was in turmoil, and Lin Su played his part. He had thoroughly investigated the list of implicated officials.
His intention was not to target Qi Qingyi specifically, but the emperor sought to consolidate power. While the Minister of Personnel seemed clean, he had indeed engaged in corrupt activities.
The previous emperor had turned a blind eye to this, but Emperor Zhao Yang would not tolerate such behavior.
The once prestigious household of the Minister of Personnel now lay in ruins, and the former promising scholar had become a convicted servant. No longer did he hold his former lofty status.
Lin Qingtang was stunned upon hearing the news and remained silent for a while before murmuring, "Someone as proud as him might not be able to bear such a blow."
Without needing to ask, Lin Su knew who he was referring to. Qi Qingyi's current position was even lower than Lin Qingtang's, and it was a cruel twist of fate for someone so similar to experience such a downfall.
"If you pity him, would you like me to redeem him and let him work alongside you?" Lin Su asked with a smile.
Lin Qingtang hesitated for a moment before expressing his unease, "It's not something I desire personally."
That person was more talented than him, had a better demeanor, and excelled in everything from music, chess, calligraphy, and painting.
He could accept a woman marrying Lin Su, but he couldn't accept a man similar to himself being close to the young master. If it were a woman by the young master's side, he would only feel bitter and pained, but if it were that person, he feared he would have no place at all.
"Don't worry, someone like him will have people who care for him," Lin Su reassured him, observing the shimmering in Lin Qingtang's eyes. He began to doubt whether he was right or wrong to deliberately push him away.
Lin Qingtang was kind-hearted and diligent, qualities that Lin Su naturally admired.
However, unlike before, his feelings towards Qing Tang now were more of pity. He pitied him for the misfortune he suffered in his youth, for being used as a substitute, for his unrequited love that ended in bitterness.
If there was a path to a brighter future, why worry about falling off this precarious bridge?
"Have you ever had feelings for a woman before?" Lin Su asked him.
Lin Qingtang, feeling as if the conversation had veered into personal territory, thought for a moment before answering, "I haven't had any interactions with women."
"You've misunderstood my question," Lin Su chuckled. "What I meant was, do you feel any reaction when looking at erotic paintings?"
Lin Qingtang blushed, almost as if he were about to bleed. "I would never engage in such indecent behavior!"
"Have you never looked or never felt anything?" Lin Su pressed on.
He needed to be certain whether this boy's preferences leaned towards both genders or if he purely favored men.
Lin Qingtang's gaze wandered, and he replied hesitantly, "I've never felt anything."
"Then when you have an erotic dream, do you dream of men or women?" Lin Su asked bluntly.
Lin Qingtang's face instantly drained of color, and he stuttered, "M-Master, what do you mean?"
Lin Su understood now. This boy was not just single-minded; he had a preference for men. In that case, talking to him about marrying and having children was futile.
"Come here," Lin Su said calmly, without directly answering his question.
Lin Qingtang's heart tightened, but obediently, he shuffled closer and stood before Lin Su. "Master."
In his eyes, there was nervousness and fear of his secret being discovered. But somehow, amidst it all, there was only Lin Su.
What was once an unattainable fate now seemed like a desperate wish he couldn't have fulfilled again.
Lin Su grabbed his collar and pulled him closer, staring into his uncertain eyes. "Can you tell me who you dream of when you have an erotic dream?"
Lin Qingtang felt too close for comfort, but when he tried to step back, he found Lin Su's grip surprisingly strong. His heart raced violently, as if it might burst out of his chest if he didn't control it.
"Is it me?" Lin Su deliberately lowered his voice as he asked.
Lin Qingtang struggled to calm his racing heart, but couldn't find peace. He took a deep breath and managed to whisper, "What?"
"When you have an erotic dream, is it about me?" Lin Su patiently repeated.
Yes, it was him. Even though the memory of that day was fuzzy, he couldn't forget his voice, deep and gentle, lingering in his ears, making him reluctant to wake up.
"...Yes," Lin Qingtang subconsciously replied.
When he realized what he had said, he became too nervous to even breathe. Instead of trying to break free, he knelt down, tears welling up in his eyes. "Master, I know I was wrong. I didn't mean to overstep. Please don't drive me away."
Lin Qingtang panicked internally. How could the master possibly keep him around when he harbored such feelings for him?
His mind was filled with panic, but before he could kneel down, Lin Su held him up, preventing him from lowering himself any further.
"If I don't mind you dreaming of me, what then?" Lin Su's voice sounded above Lin Qingtang's head.
Lin Qingtang's mouth hung open in shock, staring at him blankly for a moment before finally speaking. "Master, what do you mean..."
Lin Su hmmed in response. "Still don't understand?"
"But, if someone like me... the master would face accusations," Lin Qingtang mumbled in a soft voice, feeling overwhelmed by the situation, it was like being presented with a desert-sized mound of sugar when all he wanted was a single grain.
"I'll handle that problem. Just tell me, whether you want to or not?" Lin Su smiled. "If you don't..."
"I do!!" Lin Qingtang hastily interrupted, his gaze unwavering as he looked at Lin Su. "Even if Manster can never reciprocate, I still want to!"
Lin Su: "..."
System 06: 【Oh wow.】
He overturned again.
1 Comments
Thanks for the update
ReplyDeletePost a Comment