Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Chapter 2358: Return to the Capital to Return the Edict

Editor: Henyee Translations

First Old Master Qiao’s words struck a nerve with Shao Liulang, who was so enraged he nearly leaped up. Their heated exchange only escalated their tempers, and if it hadn’t been for the servants who intervened and managed to calm them down, the two refined gentlemen might have come to blows.

They parted on extremely bad terms, their faces livid as their attendants ushered them away.

Shao Yunduan soon learned about the altercation at the inn. He sneered in satisfaction, even wishing that the two had fought. He was fed up with Shao Liulang, and seeing him face difficulties, no matter the cause, was gratifying.

Shao Yunduan suspected that Shao Liulang would not remain in Hangzhou for long. As an imperial envoy, he would need to return to the capital to submit the decree.

Taking advantage of the situation, Shao Yunduan subtly hinted to Shao Liulang about the unstable conditions at the inn and the potential lack of support if he stayed outside for too long. This news made Shao Liulang anxious, prompting him to request that Shao Yunduan report back to him.

When Shao Liulang decided to return to the capital, he did not hold back. He stormed into Shao Yunduan’s study and demanded aggressively, "Fifth Cousin, why don’t you tell me what’s going on? Have you really decided to rebel and fight for the world with the Emperor?"

With no one else present, Shao Yunduan felt no need for pretense. He responded seriously, "I never imagined I’d end up where I am today. But now that I’m on this path, there’s no turning back. It’s not just about me anymore; my family and countless lives depend on it."

Shao Liulang was unconvinced and sneered. "Fifth Cousin, we come from humble beginnings. Our greatest aspiration is to become officials and bring honor to our ancestors. If we achieve this, it’s because our ancestors have accumulated good karma! Do you really think you can own the world and become its ruler? Ha! Do you believe you’re worthy?"

In other words, do you think you’re fit to be an emperor? You’re just a country bumpkin.

Shao Yunduan understood the underlying insult but remained unperturbed. He met Shao Liulang’s gaze with calm resolve and replied, "I’m not concerned with whether it’s possible or not. What matters is that for my family and those who support me, I will do whatever it takes."

Shao Liulang sneered and mocked, "Don’t lose everything in the process. People’s lives might be at risk because of you. How can you expect to stand firm in this world?"

Shao Yunduan merely smiled. "You needn’t worry about that."

Shao Liulang’s anger was evident, not because he was concerned, but because he loathed seeing Shao Yunduan so confident.

"As for you," Shao Yunduan said with a sharp glance, "The Fourth Prince is not as virtuous as he pretends to be. He may seem generous and kind, but he’s actually despicable and vengeful. You’re only his envoy because of your surname, Shao. Do you realize that?"

"Preposterous!" Shao Liulang erupted with indignation. "The Emperor values me for my loyalty and talent! Shao Yunduan, don’t get ahead of yourself. I see through your attempts to sow discord between me and the Emperor. I won’t fall for it!"