Rebirth of a Farming Wife

Chapter 596: Chapter 602: A Gentleman’s Promise

“General Han gracing our City Lord’s Mansion is a splendid honor. Please, come in quickly!” Liu Wenyong had a good impression of Han Yu, and with Liu Xiu’s connection, he was even keener on forging a relationship.

Liu Wenyong could see the situation clearly. Even though he currently ruled his own domain, without rebellion or dealings with the Imperial Court—appearing quite formidable and comfortable—it was not a sustainable strategy. In this world, either the east wind prevails over the west or the west wind over the east. A victor will eventually emerge.

The reason he agreed to Liu Xiu’s alliance was that he saw Liu Xiu’s exceptional demeanor. Despite his fallen state, so many talented individuals still chose to follow and serve Liu Xiu. Achieving such loyalty wasn’t something one could attain with mere flattery or the ability to woo people, especially someone as capable as Han Yu, who willingly followed despite being no less skilled than Liu Xiu, signifying Liu Xiu’s remarkable quality.

With such ability, even though currently in a weaker position, Liu Xiu might well sit in that esteemed seat one day. Liu Xiu trusted Han Yu deeply, and speaking of Han Yu, this young man was not only highly skilled but also had a remarkable talent for winning people’s hearts.

Having lived to his current age, Liu Wenyong was not shallow. Observing Han Yu’s seemingly aloof and standoffish demeanor, one might mistakenly think him unsociable and lacking tact. But if that were true, he couldn’t have gained Liu Xiu’s trust, especially under such circumstances. Some things might even go unnoticed by Liu Xiu himself, but Liu Wenyong, as an outsider, could perceive them. Regardless of the future, Han Yu was destined for great things, and Liu Wenyong’s valuation of Liu Xiu was largely for Han Yu’s support.

Even though Han Yu came to seek justice for his daughter-in-law, he still had to be mindful of his approach. Zhou Yao was right about one thing: they were now seeking shelter in Peicheng, relying on it for their livelihood. It was not yet time to burn bridges with Liu Wenyong. Naturally, even for Zhou Yao’s sake, it wouldn’t escalate to such a degree.

After several interactions with Liu Wenyong, Han Yu knew he was a smart person. The incidents caused by Zhou Yao could not have been Liu Wenyong’s doing; in fact, he might not even be aware of them. Seeing Liu Wenyong’s courtesy towards him, Han Yu also dispelled the dissatisfaction on his face.

“City Lord, you are too kind. I am the one imposing with this visit.”

“Not at all; it’s an honor,” Liu Wenyong replied. He warmly ushered Han Yu into the hall, served fine tea from his personal store, and exchanged a few pleasantries before bringing up the purpose of Han Yu’s visit.

“The housekeeper mentioned that General Wen Shuhan is here on a personal matter?” Actually, Liu Wenyong had already picked up on the slight unease Han Yu had earlier reined in. Since Han Yu came to visit, it most likely involved the City Lord’s Mansion, and this puzzled Liu Wenyong. Given his consideration, he treated Liu Xiu and his entourage with great respect. He also instructed his servants accordingly, so it seemed unlikely they would dare mistreat them. Besides, Han Yu was not one to trouble others over trifles, so Liu Wenyong was eager to clarify the situation.

At the mention of his reason, Han Yu stood up and bowed: “I am here on behalf of my wife to apologize to the City Lord. She expelled Miss Zhou Cousin from our mansion out of anger from being provoked. It was inappropriate and by no means intended as a sign of disrespect towards the City Lord’s Mansion. Please forgive my wife’s inadvertent mistake.”

As he spoke, Han Yu bowed sincerely towards Liu Wenyong, expressing his apology.

Liu Wenyong was momentarily stunned by Han Yu’s action, too surprised to react, and watched Han Yu bow to apologize.

“What, what is this about?” Liu Wenyong, now recovered, inquired urgently, intending to clarify the situation before proceeding.

Han Yu then recounted the day’s events at the Han Family, down to Zhou Yao’s excessive behavior. There was no need for exaggeration or fictionalization; Han Yu simply employed a touch of rhetorical finesse—Liu Wenyong’s reaction was beyond his control.

Liu Wenyong already had little affection for Zhou Yao, the niece living in his Mansion. From their first encounter, he felt she had impure intentions, and although she wasn’t his actual niece, she was tolerated for his wife’s sake. To Liu Wenyong, Zhou Yao’s presence was something he chose to ignore, but he never expected that this overlooked person would misuse his status to commit such an act—a severe blow to his pride!

“City Lord, I admire your character and am grateful for your kindness. However, I already have a faithful wife to share my joys and sorrows with, so I truly cannot accept your niece from the Mansion. I met my wife during humble times; she did not despise me for being a mere farmer and chose to marry me. It is thanks to her that I am where I am today. Not to mention that she has been a tender and virtuous companion, providing me with sons and daughters. There is no reason for me to abandon her. Even if she has committed a fault, I have pledged to her that, in this lifetime, she will be my only wife, and no other woman shall take her place. A gentleman’s promise is inviolable, and I will not break my word. Therefore, I seek the City Lord’s understanding. Should this cause any misunderstanding, I am willing to leave Peicheng with my wife!” Han Yu spoke with conviction, showing no hesitation or pretext.

Not only was Liu Wenyong not angered by Han Yu’s declaration, but he also felt a newfound respect. To remember one’s faithful wife amidst wealth and keep promises is easier said than done—how many could truly do so? Furthermore, he had never harbored such intentions. It was Zhou Yao who acted presumptuously, misusing his name to throw her weight around.

“Please don’t say such things, General Han, or I’ll die of embarrassment. It was not Madam Ling’s fault in the first place. It was the lack of discipline in my Mansion that allowed that good-for-nothing to assume the Mansion’s identity and create such a disgraceful mess. It’s my fault, not yours, so please don’t take offense. I will certainly discipline her thoroughly and offer Madam Ling a proper explanation!”

Liu Wenyong had never felt much for Zhou Yao, treating her as non-existent just for the sake of his wife’s face. Once she crossed his interests and boundaries, he would not show any mercy towards her.

“Servant, fetch Miss Cousin immediately! I have to inquire when I ever commissioned her to disgrace the City Lord’s Mansion and create such a scene at General Han’s Mansion! It’s a complete disgrace to us all; she better roll in here right now!” Liu Wenyong ordered his servants, clearly irritated.

But Han Yu had no intention of staying. Having achieved his objective today, staying further would be inappropriate: “City Lord, my purpose today was simply to confirm your stance. Now that I feel assured, I will not impose any longer.”