Fu Yu had never hated himself so much, hated his arrogance, contempt, and self-righteousness back then.
I hate my arrogance, irritability, and indifference at the time, and my unwillingness to spend the patience to find out the truth.
This overwhelming hatred transformed into heartache, guilt, and regret; a mix of emotions that crumpled and softened my hardened heart.
He grasped You Tong's hand, his voice hoarse and strained.
"So you insist on divorce and want to leave the mansion to open a hot pot restaurant because you don't believe I will protect you and support you."
You Tong smiled, then lowered her eyes and remained silent.
At that time, although she was attracted to Fu Yu, her trust in him wasn't deep enough—when mutual affection is just beginning to blossom, what man would neglect the woman he loves? Even someone as irresponsible and unfaithful as Xu Chaozong had once been deeply in love, enjoying romantic moments and doing many touching things. We can learn from the experiences of others; the lessons of others can serve as a warning.
Fu Yu is not Xu Chaozong, so of course he wouldn't be that heartless.
But at that time, the couple's affection was still shallow, and the hidden conflicts between the East and West courtyards stood in the way. Under the various storms, could that little bit of affection withstand the turmoil? The Fu family was plotting big things and scheming to conquer the world. Although things were peaceful at the time, when faced with important matters of interest—such as the marriage of Jiang Daijun—how would Fu Yu choose? Who could guarantee it?
Xu Chaozong was able to marry Xu Shu to give up Xu Taishi's influence. Fu Yu had the world in his heart. Even if he didn't necessarily divorce his wife and marry another, if he were to add another concubine as if he had married her as a decoration, with the Wei family's meager resources and the disparity in the couple's strength, could she possibly stop him?
At that time, it's likely that even the initial feelings will be difficult to preserve.
That was a rare opportunity, a chance to either advance or retreat, and it was fleeting.
Fortunately, now everyone is revealing their true selves.
You Tong scooped up a piece of fried cake with a silver spoon, looked up at him, and asked seriously, "Are you really not going to regret what happened with Jiang Daijun?" There was no one else in the courtyard, so she leaned close to Fu Yu's ear and whispered, "This is a godsend opportunity. If we marry her, the north and south will join forces to form a pincer movement, and Wei Jian will be caught in the middle. But if we reject her, Jiang Daijun will turn to Wei Jian, and the two forces in the west might be able to rival Yongning. It's extremely beneficial to gain her, but extremely harmful to lose her."
Their eyes met, and although her tone was calm, there was a hint of unease hidden in her eyes.
Fu Yu reached out and placed his hand on her shoulder, his expression solemn.
"The affairs of the nation and the world are all matters for men. Success is the only measure of worth, and it is all about real skill. In the past, I would readily agree to marriage because I didn't have anyone I liked and didn't care. But now that I have you, my wife, I only want to marry the one I love."
"What about the future..."
She didn't explicitly say what the future held, but given her intelligence, she could probably guess from all the upheavals from the capital to Qizhou.
Fu Yu stood up and then squatted down next to her. His tall and imposing figure remained as before, but he no longer looked down at her from a superior position.
"My father was devoted to my mother his whole life, and even after her passing, he had no intention of remarrying. Although I, Fu Yu, have acted recklessly in the past and have been extremely unfit as a husband, You Tong, now that I have decided to marry you, I will be devoted to you wholeheartedly. Life is short, and whether in Qizhou or the capital, husband and wife will be of one mind and stay together until our hair turns white. I will spend the rest of my life making up for all the debts I owe you in the past—as long as you are willing to forgive and forget and marry me again."
He spoke with great seriousness, gripping her shoulders tightly with both hands, forceful yet restrained.
Just inches apart, she sat in a round-backed chair covered with a thin blanket, and he squatted beside her. He was not the arrogant, cold-blooded, and ruthless military commander, but Fu Yu, the man who had shared a bed and laughed with her, the man who had risked everything to rush into the fire to save her.
You Tong stared into his eyes, deep and resolute, without the slightest hint of hiding or dodging.
A lump formed in her throat, and she suppressed the stinging tears in her eyes, whispering, "Is that really true?"
"It's true." Fu Yu took her hand and placed it against his chest. "I've made up my mind about you for the rest of my life."
His heart pounded firmly and powerfully, and the long-suppressed anticipation in his eyes revealed a rare warmth in his usually aloof gaze.
You Tong looked at him, and gradually, the corners of her lips turned up, and a hot tear rolled down her cheek.
She closed her eyes, her lips touching his forehead. "Fu Yu, I'll remember these words. I'll believe whatever you say. From now on, whether the road is bumpy or smooth, we'll walk together. I won't be as doubtful or hesitant as before, and I won't leave myself any way out."
Fu Yu looked up, his voice low and slightly amused, "When things are tough, I'll carry you on my back."
You Tong couldn't help but smile and nodded, "Alright, then I won't embarrass you at tomorrow's banquet."
...
Fu Zhao personally arranged this thank-you banquet, with Han Shi helping to organize it. With his elder sister's guidance, Fu Zhao understood the true purpose of the banquet and took extra care of it, setting it up in a warm pavilion near Shou'an Hall.
Unexpectedly, He Qinglan also appeared that morning.
After Fu Yu made his stance clear that day, Jiang Boyan and his sister understood and stopped bothering the Fu family. The day after the fire at Donglin Temple, they set off westward, intending to use the pretext of visiting relatives to sneak off to Wei Jian's place. He Qinglan was originally supposed to protect Jiang Daijun as they traveled together, but since her trip was out of courtesy rather than duty, she didn't need to be bound by the Jiang siblings. She said she still had important matters to attend to and asked the Jiang siblings to go ahead, promising to arrive later.
Overall, Yongning is peaceful, and given the conduct of the Fu family, they would likely not allow their distinguished guest to get into trouble and cause further problems.
Jiang Boyan and his sister had no choice but to let her go, as they couldn't force her to accompany them.
Fu Zhao was surprised and pleased to see her return, and specially ordered someone to add more bowls, cups, chopsticks and utensils.
At the beginning of the hour of Si (9-11 AM), an unremarkable blue-curtained carriage slowly drove up and stopped in front of the side gate of the Fu family.
The carriage curtain was lifted, revealing a beautiful woman seated inside. Her hair was as black as raven, cascading down her back with a delicate pearl hairpin. Her hairstyle was neat yet languid. Her face was exquisite, with arched eyebrows and almond-shaped eyes. When she peeked at the gate of the long-unseen mansion, her expression was slightly dazed.
You Tong, dressed in a cinched-waist skirt and exquisite brocade robes, stepped out of the carriage with the help of Chun Cao.
Since the divorce, this was You Tong's first time standing before the Fu family's gate. The familiar bluestone street, the winding red walls, and a dozen steps away at the main entrance—soldiers in full armor stood guard, a black plaque with gold lettering hung high, and two ancient, imposing bronze lions stood guard at the entrance. That was the main gate, opened only for distinguished guests; for the Fu family, it was used very rarely. Before the divorce, on the few times she went out, she would always peek through the curtain, a feeling of reverence welling up inside her—
Regardless of the actions of the women in the inner quarters, the men of the Fu family are admirable for their loyalty and dedication in guarding the territory.
Fu Yu, who commanded a large and powerful cavalry force that struck fear into the hearts of the enemy, was naturally among them.
At this moment, Fu Yu was standing in front of the side gate, dressed in a dark gold robe, his hair tied up with a black gold crown. Even without a sword or a horse, he was still heroic and dignified.
The warm early winter sun shone outside the mansion, making people feel hot. He stepped forward to greet You Tong and personally led her inside.
The servants on the way saw this and were all speechless. They then secretly inquired and learned that Fu Zhao had specially hosted a banquet to express his gratitude, and that the young mistress Han, who was now in charge of the household affairs, was personally hosting them. Although they dared not discuss their master's affairs too much, they couldn't help but feel surprised and secretly weighed the situation. When news of this lavish affair reached Shou'an Hall, Old Madam Fu remained silent for a long time.
Her former prejudices had vanished. Her resentment towards You Tong now stemmed solely from the divorce. She felt that this woman was stubborn and willful, unlike Shen and Han, who were sensible, obedient, and restrained, thus damaging the Fu family's reputation. Therefore, when Fu Yu resolutely declared his intention to marry You Tong that day, leaving no room for doubt, even though she was powerless to object, a knot remained in her heart.
This lump is useless now.
In the east courtyard, starting with Fu Deqing, Fu Yu and his two siblings, along with Madam Han, all had a good relationship with You Tong, maintaining contact even after she left the manor. This time, You Tong risked her life to deliver the letter, helping to save Fu Zhao and He Qinglan, making her a minor contributor. Even if she were narrow-minded, how could she disregard her contributions and dwell on past grievances?
So, under the pretext of expressing his gratitude, he gave You Tong two things after she passed by.
The misunderstandings, arguments, and conflicts of the past were put to rest. In the following two months, Fu Yu and his son kept an eye on Zhao Yanzhi while sending people to spread rumors in Chu. Han Shi stayed at home, preparing for Fu Yu's remarriage to You Tong as instructed by Fu Deqing. You Tong did not delay either. She wrote to her parents in the capital and took out the money she had earned that year to add to her dowry, which, together with the previous dowry, filled the small courtyard room.
Amidst the turmoil in the capital, Wei Sidao was unable to extricate himself, but Madam Wei traveled a thousand miles to prepare her daughter's wedding attire.
Compared to the anxiety, worry, and reluctance I felt last time, this time I am truly happy and gratified.
On the 26th day of the twelfth lunar month, the national mourning period ended, and a new atmosphere gradually emerged.
Amid the festive atmosphere of the approaching year-end, the Fu family held a lively and grand wedding.
Chapter 111 The Grand Wedding
The distance from Pear Blossom Street to the Fu family mansion is not too far.
Madam Zhen had arrived in Qizhou a few days earlier and was staying with You Tong, helping her daughter with all the preparations. From the wedding dress and phoenix coronet to the ceremony on the day of her marriage, and even the dowry prepared by You Tong, she reviewed everything to ensure nothing was overlooked. After checking everything, she was relieved to see that You Tong had done an even more thorough and meticulous job than she had imagined.
On the eve of her wedding, the mother and daughter had a bedtime talk and she gave her daughter some more instructions.
The previous marriage was arranged by her parents and a matchmaker, and there were many unavoidable circumstances. Since You Tong was determined to divorce, neither she nor Wei Sidao could interfere. Now that You Tong can choose her husband as she pleases, and since she is marrying Fu Yu again, she must curb her willfulness, take care of her husband, serve her elders, and maintain harmony with her sisters-in-law. She should act like a proper young lady from a high-class family and should no longer act as recklessly as before.
You Tong responded to each of them. Seeing that Madam Zhen was even more nervous than she, a proper bride, she joked and acted coquettishly for a few more minutes.
It was quite late when I went to bed.
The next morning, she got up and busied herself with dressing up. With Granny Xu and Madam Zhen in charge, Chuncao, Yanbo, and Du Shuangxi didn't go to the hot pot restaurant but stayed in the courtyard to keep her company. Along with the matchmaker and others, the room was almost full. The cold winter was coming to an end and spring was just beginning. The neat and clean courtyard was decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations. Red silk was wrapped around the beams and pillars, and a wintersweet tree in the courtyard had sprouted yellow buds, adding to the spring atmosphere.
The wedding dress and phoenix crown are ready. You Tong will be seventeen next year, and her figure will have matured, making her even more graceful and charming than before.
The matchmaker was a woman of good fortune who had served many brides from high-ranking families in Qizhou and was very perceptive. Seeing that Zhen Shi seemed reluctant to part, You Tong remained calm and gentle, occasionally bringing up happy things to guess her thoughts. She also tried to comfort Zhen Shi, saying that You Tong had a noble and blessed destiny, and that her husband was the most outstanding man in Yongning, and that she would surely enjoy endless blessings in the future.
While combing her hair, he praised her for her smooth, black silk; while applying makeup, he complimented her beautiful features and natural charm; and while helping her dress, he praised her outstanding figure and graceful bearing, showering her with compliments from head to toe. Finally, he smiled and praised Zhen Shi, saying that her mother was virtuous and beautiful, which was why she had raised such a beautiful and elegant woman.
It is said that beauties are paired with famous generals since ancient times. You Tong's marriage to Fu Yu is a match made in heaven, a perfect couple.
From now on, the couple will live a harmonious and happy life together.
Even though Madam Zhen knew it was a compliment, she couldn't bring herself to shed tears upon hearing her cheerful words.
She forced herself to cheer up and, when Fu Yu came to fetch her, happily saw You Tong off. Only after the bridal sedan chair had gone far away amidst the clamor of drums and music, and Fu Yu's tall, red-clad figure on horseback had turned the corner, did she lean against the doorframe, tears of relief streaming down her face.
...
Qizhou City hasn't been this lively in a long time.
When Fu Lanyin married Qin Taoyu last time, both families were prominent in Qizhou, and the wedding was quite grand. The delivery of betrothal gifts and the carrying of the dowry attracted crowds of onlookers. Now, with the Lunar New Year's Eve approaching, everyone is busy buying firecrackers, making lanterns, and adding New Year's goods. The streets are already bustling, so how could people not be curious when they hear that Fu Yu is getting married?
The betrothal gifts and dowry are secondary; the wedding procession itself is something that is rarely seen even once every ten years or so.
The bridal sedan chair was exquisite and festive, with tassels hanging high at the four corners. The curtains were embroidered with phoenixes facing the sun, and the body was carved with a hundred children and auspicious flowers. It was lacquered in vermilion and gilded, beautiful and magnificent. Behind it came drums and flutes, and the procession's attire was dazzlingly new. At the front and rear of the wedding procession were the guards of the Fu family, their armor impeccable and their spirits high, selected from among the toughest soldiers. The bride walked proudly down the street, standing out like a crane among chickens, even more eye-catching than the royal guards.
Fu Yu rode a black shadow, dressed in festive attire, with sword-like eyebrows and bright eyes, exuding a majestic and imposing air.
He was a fierce war god who struck fear into the hearts of enemy troops, and also a guardian god respected and feared by the people of Qizhou.
Along the way, people came to see the bridal sedan chair after hearing the news. While they were impressed by Fu Yu's demeanor, they couldn't help but look at the sedan chair.
The woman sitting inside must be incredibly beautiful and have an outstanding presence to win this man's favor.
The whole city knew that General Fu was marrying his beautiful wife, and the Fu family was bustling with guests.
When Fu Yu got married two years ago, he didn't take it seriously. The preparations were mainly made in the inner quarters. Apart from his regular male and female guests, the only guests were some important officials under Yongning's command. As for others, Fu Yu didn't inform them. This time, although it's a remarriage, Fu Yu doesn't intend to be careless. Because he is happy to be marrying a wife, in addition to the female relatives taking care of the preparations, he also made a special trip to inform the soldiers who had fought alongside him in the past.
These people have followed Fu Yu through thick and thin, and they are overjoyed to hear that they will be drinking General Fu's wedding wine.
Although the Fu family army was strictly disciplined, they were still comrades-in-arms who shared life and death, regardless of their superior-subordinate relationship.
Apart from Du He, who still had to diligently maintain order and security in the surrounding area, all the other familiar soldiers who weren't busy came to offer their congratulations on this day. It was rare for the men to gather together on such a joyous occasion, and they were all rough and straightforward men who usually strictly adhered to military regulations and dared not touch alcohol. But now, they could open their bellies, and under Fu Deqing's smiling invitation, they had already opened the wine jars and were drinking and making merry early on.
When the bride arrived, the entire Fu family home was filled with the aroma of wine, red lanterns and silks, and the men's boisterous laughter echoed out, a stark contrast to the past.
Hearing this from inside the sedan chair, You Tong couldn't help but smile.
The bridal sedan chair came to a stop in front of the mansion. Without the matchmaker's help, Fu Yu personally helped her down, and the two entered the mansion hand in hand to perform the wedding ceremony.
Fu Deqing sat upright with a smile on his face. The guests around him dared not provoke Fu Yu, but the soldiers cheered and shouted. You Tong's heart trembled as she listened, fearing that these people would get too excited and cause a ruckus in the bridal chamber.
It was only a clear cough from Fu Yu, followed by a glare, that calmed the group of tough men down.
Afterwards, they entered the bridal chamber. Since Madam Tian had passed away early, it was Madam Han, the eldest sister-in-law, who led the close female relatives to perform the ritual of scattering the bridal bed.
The new house was still in the south building, and the original tables, chairs, and desks had not been moved an inch. In fact, many more had been added according to You Tong's preferences. Aunt Zhou, along with a whole courtyard of servants and maids, waited at the door. When the bride arrived, she personally presented her with colorful fruits and decorations.
Inside the bridal chamber, dragon and phoenix candles burned brightly, and the bed was brand new, adorned with auspicious red brocade curtains and a brocade quilt depicting the union of fish and water.
The newlyweds sat facing each other on the bed, the bride's face hidden behind a veil, her wedding dress clinging to her figure, outlining her graceful shoulders and slender waist, exuding elegance and nobility. Beside her, Fu Yu, tall and imposing, with a rare smile in his usually cold and dignified eyes beneath his jade crown, secretly reached out and, concealed by the wide sleeve of his robe, firmly grasped his wife's hand.
The women laughed and praised, scattering colorful fruits.
Aunt Zhou had stayed in the South Building for several years. She had witnessed the desolation of the last wedding and the couple's journey from estrangement to intimacy and then divorce. She had waited for a year and a half in loneliness and sadness, and finally welcomed back the young mistress. How could she not be happy? The new room was similar, but the atmosphere was completely different. Thinking back on everything, it felt like a lifetime had passed.
As she smiled, her eyes welled up with tears, and she secretly wiped them away from those around her.
After Fu Yu unveiled his veil in public, the women praised him repeatedly and then left. Fu Yu also went out to entertain the guests, and only then did the South Tower have a moment of peace and quiet.