Transmigration: The Evil Mother-In-Law Is Actually Innocent!
Chapter 1020 - 102

Chapter 1020: 102

Ministry of Revenue, Zhou Shuren was somewhat distracted, he had faith in Chang Yi, but still, he worried. Zhou Shuren thought back to eight or nine years ago and realized that he never anticipated he would be such a dutiful father.

Today, the Ministry of Rites was hosting the ambassadors, and it was only today that Chang Yi could demonstrate his worth to secure his entrance to the Palace tomorrow. Zhou Shuren pressed his brow, and again, his thoughts turned to Chang Lian, prompting a light chuckle—his concerns had indeed grown.

In Xuzhou Province, Chang Lian was meeting Zhao Ji. Although they hadn’t interacted much as Scholars together in the Hanlin Academy, now in the unfamiliar Xuzhou, Zhao Ji had come looking for support and solidarity.

Chang Lian inquired, "Have you found a place to stay?"

Zhao Ji nodded, "I have found a small courtyard, not far from your residence."

Hearing this, Zhao Ji felt a twinge of envy. He didn’t have an official as a father. His family was reasonably well-off, but after purchasing a house in the capital, his funds were depleted. In Xuzhou, he couldn’t afford a decent residence and had to stay in an inn for several days before picking a house.

Upon hearing this, Chang Lian responded, "That’s good. We can look out for each other in the future."

Zhao Ji came seeking dependence. In the Hanlin Academy, he had wanted to get close to Zhou Chang Lian but gave up due to Chang Lian’s ample support, they seldom required more, and the actions of Lv Liang. He had then focused all his attention on his duties, needing to establish good relations now more than ever, to stay informed of any developments and avoid becoming a scapegoat.

In the back courtyard, Lady Dong envied Zhao Ji’s wife for her fertility—three sons.

At noon in the capital, Chang Yi had returned to the Ministry of Rites with Minister Wong, still dizzy from walking. He made no mistakes today, not a single one, and more importantly, the officials that Prince Qi brought today didn’t translate as well as he did and even made several errors.

Wong Ju was in high spirits, especially since Chang Yi had made him proud. He had only brought Chang Yi, but he was able to translate three foreign languages. Overjoyed, he patted Chang Yi’s shoulder robustly, "Good lad, you’ve truly honored your father."

The pat nearly caused Chang Yi to stumble, nearly falling; mainly because he was preoccupied and didn’t notice, "Sir, do you think I’ll be able to enter the Palace tomorrow?"

Wong Ju couldn’t help but chuckle, "Don’t lack confidence. You performed well today. Rest assured, you’ll definitely enter the Palace tomorrow. If you hold steady then, the matter will basically be settled."

Chang Yi clenched his fists, grinning, "Sir, I’d like to treat you to a meal."

Wong Ju had nothing else pressing on his schedule, "Good, you are much more generous than your father."

Chang Yi paused, "My father has to provide for the family. We all depend on him; he works hard and it’s not easy for him."

Wong Ju, hearing these words, laughed softly—who doesn’t have a family to support? Zhou Shuren is just stingy, exceedingly so.

Inside the Palace, the Emperor, hearing the report, smiled. He thought if Zhou Changyi had missed the opportunity he provided and had embarrassed himself, it would also reflect poorly on the Emperor, "Indeed, he’s talented."

The Crown Prince added, "It’s also because the Emperor gave him the chance that he was able to show his skills."

The Emperor felt like a true talent scout, considering Zhou Shuren’s case, whom he had recognized as promising at first glance, "The weather is warming up; the construction of Rong Garden can continue. Send word to my second son’s and others’ residences, nobody is to delay the progress on my behalf."

The Crown Prince was acutely aware that the Emperor was keeping his younger brothers busy, indeed it was best for them to be occupied instead of scheming against him.

The Crown Prince felt weary, ever since his younger brothers were married, their schemes against him hadn’t ceased. Despite their intense internal rivalries, they never forgot about him. Were it not for the Emperor occasionally keeping his brothers in check, he wouldn’t be managing as freely as he was now.

The following day, within the Palace, Chang Yi was not following Minister Wong but standing beside the Emperor. Chang Yi kept pinching himself, striving to stay calm and keeping his face taut, focusing all his attention on the conversation.

The ambassadors brought their interpreters too. Chinese is arduous; hence, sometimes their translation wasn’t adequate. The richness and nuance of Chinese easily led to significant misunderstandings. This ambassador didn’t come from a neighboring country but from one with formidable maritime power. They arrived with arrogance which was soon subdued and became respectful.

Chang Yi had previously suffered due to linguistic issues and thus listened especially carefully. The ambassador wanted to establish a long-term presence in the capital, aiming for smoother exchange and hoping to secure some privileges for themselves.

The Emperor narrowed his eyes, aware that the ambassador’s wish for mutual development was essentially a ruse to spy, and the privileges were proof. If allowed free reign, they would soon learn all of the capital’s secrets.

None of these issues were urgent today being only the first day, and after the banquet concluded, the ambassador left the Palace.

Chang Yi, along with the officials from the Ministry of Rites, exited the Palace, walking with a heart full of excitement—he had stood by the Emperor’s side, he had spoken with the Emperor.

In the evening, after dinner, Chang Yi stayed close to his father, asking with anticipation, "Father, my performance wasn’t bad today, do you think there will be news tomorrow?"

Zhou Shuren replied, "No."

Chang Yi’s spirits deflated, "I also don’t think so. It’s the ambassadorial residency that’s the big issue."

Zhou Shuren returned home and hadn’t eaten before Chang Yi briefed him on the day’s events. Looking at Chang Yi, he felt conflicted. Should he intervene for his son? "What you need to do now is to complete all the tasks assigned to you."

Chang Yi’s spirits lifted again, having been told by Wong that there would be a protracted negotiation with the ambassadors, "Understood, Father. I’ll remember that."

Once Chang Yi had left, Zhou Shuren sent the maid and servant girl out before whispering: "Do you think I should advise the Emperor?"

Zhulan disagreed, "You have already done enough. Chang Yi’s matters will resolve once the ambassador’s issue is dealt with. The decree will come sooner or later."

Zhou Shuren thought it made sense and laughed at himself, "I’ve become quite invested in these sons of mine. I was never like this before."

Zhulan chuckled lightly, "Henceforth, don’t accuse me of meddling in everything. It seems you’re not much different."

Zhou Shuren’s lips curled into a smile, "Actually, I find this feeling quite pleasant."

Zhulan wore a smile too. The Zhou Shuren of the past was so cold, but now the Zhou Shuren full of life showed a father’s genuine affection for his sons.

The next morning, after the morning court, the Emperor kept several ministers behind to discuss the ambassador’s matter.

Zhou Shuren stood honestly behind Minister Xiao, listening to the scholars argue—talks of grand nations paying homage, similar to the excitement of the past.

Many officials expressed their opinions, joyful ones and concerned ones alike. The familiar sentiment "do not trust those of another kind" sparked support and opposition.

Zhou Shuren listened, everyone contributing valuable insight without slacking.

Li Zhao, with the loudest voice, declared, "Since they have come to our country, they must abide by our laws. Granting privileges is absolutely not allowed."

He finished his statement with a stern gaze at everyone present as if ready to quarrel with anyone challenging the idea of gracious hospitality.

Li Zhao’s words gained a fair amount of agreement. Precedents had already shown the benefits of restricting foreigners, and naturally, they did not wish for the existence of privileges.

The Emperor looked at the silent few, especially Zhou Shuren, who seemed effectively invisible, and owing to habit, the Emperor held expectations for Zhou Shuren.