Chapter 174: Heart Matters

Episode One: Jiangning Morning Breeze

We are continuously working to improve user experience and accelerate update speed! If you find our site good, please recommend it to your friends.

As if a ball had ended, the music gradually faded. As night deepened, the wind stirred the clouds gathered above the city, slowly dispersing the lingering gloom. The meeting in the Su family's ancestral discussion hall was drawing to a close. The evening had unfolded with numerous twists and turns, and by this point, most members of the Su family had yet to fully process or accept the new reality. Nevertheless, the truth behind the months-long entanglement caused by the Imperial Merchant incident, the hidden machinations, and the utterly unexpected outcome, had finally been partially unveiled.

While it would take some time for many to fully react and meticulously piece together the true outline of the entire affair, the mere glimpse revealed was enough to shock everyone following the night's events. A complex web of calculations and counter-calculations, silent stratagems, and heavily weighted expectations had ultimately come to nothing. What was particularly surprising were the names behind these orchestrations: Su Yu and Su Tan'er. Most astonishing of all, however, was Ning Liheng, who had consistently appeared to be outside the entire situation; his hidden involvement throughout the process was something no one had anticipated.

The First Branch, Second Branch, Third Branch, and everyone present inside and outside the discussion hall were still abuzz, trying to process this sudden reversal of fortune. At this juncture, one could only marvel at Su Yu's immense control over the family, especially considering he had been relatively silent for the past four months. Once the truth was revealed and the successful outcomes of the Imperial Merchant incident were clearly laid out, he effortlessly convinced the surrounding clan elders to accept this new reality. Subsequently, these facts compelled everyone else in the household to accept Su Tan'er's rise to power.

Indeed, had the family's affairs not been in such a dire state these past few months, these elders would never have approached Su Yu for counsel. Now that his continued command over the entire situation had been proven, despite their initial shock, they naturally accepted the current state of affairs. After all, it was not the first time Su Yu's leadership had guided the family through various difficulties.

"Therefore... regarding Tan'er taking over the responsibilities previously handled by Boyong, if anyone has any opinions, now is the time to voice them."

Amidst the murmurs, when Su Yu reiterated these points, leveraging the powerful momentum of the complete reversal, few dared to voice any objections. Several clan elders subsequently declared, "Given such achievements, there is no one who can object to Tan'er accepting these responsibilities."

The situation gradually stabilized; what had been a crisis transformed into an opportunity. There were no longer further matters to discuss at this clan meeting, which had been convened because of the crisis. The elders at the head of the hall spoke of managing the aftermath, while the others in the discussion hall harbored a range of inexpressibly complex emotions. Su Zhongkan, Su Yunfang, and their cohorts occasionally cast glances at Su Tan'er, who had returned to her seat, or looked up at their father. On the other side, Su Yunsong let out a long sigh. Looking at Su Tan'er, he was reminded of the scholar his daughter had described as idly wandering around for the past few days.

"Zhongkan, Yunfang, after the meeting adjourns, come to my residence."

As the meeting neared its conclusion, Su Yu approached and spoke to the two brothers, who simply nodded. Their endeavors over the past few months had indeed left them utterly defeated. Yet, their father's authority remained undiminished, and any lingering resentment on their part would ultimately resolve nothing.

Meanwhile, despite having finally laid her cards on the table and decisively won this round, Su Tan'er, sensing the astonished gazes and murmuring voices of everyone present, was not in a particularly good mood.

It was not the lingering euphoria of a grand victory, nor was it a contemplation of the immense sacrifices made for her father's paralysis. The moment she stepped forward, holding the box, her heart surged with an excitement and anticipation akin to a queen's coronation; her entire being trembled as the silver notes and contracts were produced. Yet, at this very moment, the woman in the pale blue gown occasionally glanced outside the discussion hall, suddenly feeling a perplexing uncertainty about how she would walk out that door.

She harbored a concern that could have been considered minor, yet it had suddenly consumed her entire being, almost preventing her from savoring the sweetness of her success.

Finally, the elders declared the meeting adjourned. People rose, chatting and discussing, their gazes falling upon each of the key participants. Su Tan'er hesitated for a moment, then stood up and walked out with her grandfather and father.

As she exited the main door, she scanned her surroundings. Not seeing the person she had been thinking of, she felt a momentary sense of relief mixed with a twinge of concern. Su Danhong was approaching from the other side, but Su Tan'er didn't notice her. She parted ways with her father and others under the corridor, accompanying her grandfather and several elders in another direction.

Around a corner, her grandfather finally noticed her and called her over. Two granduncles nearby also spoke with her for a while, to which she replied politely. Only when the granduncles had departed did Tan'er subtly furrow her brow and look at the elder.

"Grandfather, how could you say such a thing..."

"Hm, say what?" the elder asked with a benevolent smile.

"About Liheng."

Observing his granddaughter's expression, Su Yu remained silent for a moment before replying, "Is there anything wrong with what I said about him?"

"Grandfather, he is my husband. I think... it should be simpler than that." With people still visible around them, Su Tan'er frowned. "Besides, my husband can understand. Grandfather, how am I supposed to explain today's events to him?"

The elder sighed, "Liheng married into our Su family. As his wife, he should naturally protect you and act as your shield. This matter was ultimately too intense; your second and third uncles will undoubtedly harbor resentment. Instead of all of it falling on you, it is beneficial if Liheng can shoulder some of the burden. Furthermore, with Boyang currently incapacitated, having Liheng supporting you means you won't be isolated. Even if this is somewhat unfair to Liheng, it is, after all, him doing things for you, his wife, which falls within his duty and the kindness he should extend."

Su Tan'er closed her eyes and stated emphatically, "But Grandfather, by doing this, you are making everyone in the Su family scrutinize him. My husband will understand your intent."

Her strong character had been evident since childhood; even in the face of the greatest challenges, it was rare to see her display excessive weakness, especially before her grandfather. Even during that period of fading yellow cloth, she never showed a helpless expression, enduring until her body could no longer sustain her and she fell ill. Yet now, having just completed a monumental task and secured control for the First Branch, she was almost on the verge of tears because of this particular issue.

Some matters she simply couldn't discuss with her grandfather: she couldn't tell him that her relationship with her husband had only just deepened to that of a true married couple. She couldn't tell him that they had only just decided to consummate their marriage. She couldn't explain how their feelings had developed over the past few days, or what kind of person her husband truly was. Yet, she knew in her heart that her husband would discern the true meaning behind her grandfather's words.

After he had done so much for her, her father had also made similar remarks, and now her grandfather was wary too, beginning to guard against him, reminding the entire Su family to be mindful. Even if there was little malice involved, what would her husband think? How could she possibly explain these things to him? Even if he was broad-minded, how could she even begin to phrase it...

The elder gazed at her for a long time, then finally raised a hand, patted her shoulder, and smiled. This smile was different from his usual one, bearing a hint of understanding and relief. "So... that's how it is..."

"Grandfather..."

"Brother Zi'an has a good grandson indeed. When I originally considered you taking charge of this family, I deliberated for a long time. Beyond your abilities, my only concern was that you were too strong-willed. For a woman to manage a household, she must be tougher than others, but I worried that this might prevent you from truly experiencing the warmth of a home, from having someone who genuinely cares for you. Now, Grandfather is finally at ease. When Liheng first married into our family, I didn't want to treat him merely as a son-in-law because I feared he wouldn't adapt well. What I said this time, while indeed stemming from some concern for him, was primarily because he now possesses that capability."

The elder paused, "With this capability, others cannot harm him; with this capability, he can stand before you. Your concern for him is naturally a good thing, and Grandfather feels gratified. However, from Grandfather's perspective, he is your husband, even if he married into the family. Since he can bear the responsibility, he should shoulder some burdens for you—this is also Grandfather's personal desire. In this world, such responsibilities inevitably fall upon men; there's no reasoning around it. As his wife, showing him more concern is naturally your duty, hehe, and a good thing. That's simply how a husband and wife should be."

The grandfather and granddaughter continued walking. "As for your brothers, they are all mediocre; they couldn't withstand two or three moves against him. If they truly intended to harm him, they lack the capability. Because of today's events, while you might appear isolated in the business world going forward, anyone attempting to scheme against you will always remember the person behind you. In the future, if you truly love him, what if your second child takes the Ning surname? The decision is entirely yours. I will consider it a proper account to Brother Zi'an... Look, he's over there."

As he spoke, Su Yu gestured forward. Ning Yi was also approaching from not far away, momentarily held up by a granduncle who was likely offering words of encouragement. After the granduncle departed, Su Yu led Su Tan'er over, then took her hand and placed it into Ning Yi's. "This granddaughter, I entrust her to you."

Ning Yi chuckled aloud.

After Su Yu departed, Su Tan'er held Ning Yi's hand, remaining silent for a while. Then she said, "Husband, we... succeeded."

"I'm angry."

"Uh..." Su Tan'er's palm instantly went cold. She likely understood what Ning Yi meant but was momentarily speechless. Ning Yi glanced around, pulled her forward, and shook his head. "Tonight, we're sleeping in separate rooms."

"That old man was truly out of line.""No negotiation. When I say I'm angry, I'm angry.""If he displeases me, I'll take it out on his granddaughter.""Your tears are useless; you'll be sleeping alone tonight."

"Hahaha... Hey, don't actually cry! There's no need for that."

The two had already walked some distance, reaching a deserted corridor. Su Tan'er pulled Ning Yi's sleeve and touched it to her cheek several times; she had indeed shed tears just a moment ago. Now, in the lamplight, a faint smile mingled with her tears before she regained her calm composure. "I had intended to apologize to you on Grandfather's behalf..."

"I reserve the right to pursue this matter and remain angry," Ning Yi said with a smile, patting her shoulder. "But first, you should take care of the aftermath. Do you have a lot to do tonight?"

Su Tan'er finally relaxed and nodded. "Mm, yes, there are still some matters to attend to..."

"Then go quickly."

Under the lamplight, Ning Yi smiled and waved. Su Tan'er stood there, looking at him for a long moment, seemingly still hesitant, but finally, she nodded and turned to leave.

Ning Yi watched Su Tan'er's figure recede into the distance. He wasn't entirely clear about her immediate plans, assuming they were merely some concluding tasks. There was no real need for him to participate, as Su Tan'er hadn't mentioned much during their casual conversations.

After changing into a nondescript set of men's clothing in a courtyard at the front of the Su residence, Su Tan'er departed the street in a carriage. She was accompanied by several of the Su family's most capable guards. They caught up with two carriages ahead and continued their journey out of the city.

It was nearing midnight. In a room near Shibupo, the tiny flame of an oil lamp flickered faintly. Xi Junyu sat at the table, his hands resting flat on the wooden surface. There were two other individuals in the room: Guard Geng, who sat directly opposite Xi Junyu, and another person, somewhat gaunt but with sharp eyes, leaning in the shadows by the doorway, holding a sharp knife. It was clear at a glance that this person was not to be trifled with.

The Su family's business was extensive, and they frequently transported goods to other regions, naturally becoming involved in some underground dealings at times. Xi Junyu also knew it was best not to act rashly at this moment.

The passage of time was tedious and uninteresting. Xi Junyu listened to the distant chiming of bells, trying to guess at the possible developments at the Su residence, but he had few clues.

"The Su family must have reached a conclusion by now, right?"

He posed the question, but Guard Geng merely shook his head. "I don't know."

"How else could they have turned the tables?"

"That's the Second Miss's concern."

"But I genuinely can't comprehend it."

Xi Junyu sighed; he truly disliked this feeling. "I wish someone would just give me an answer already."

After he finished speaking, the room fell silent once more, a quiet they could only endure. Occasionally, sounds drifted in from outside. Xi Junyu said, "Brother Geng, do you know? All these years I've been in the Su family, I've watched Tan'er slowly become exposed to these matters. Although many taught her, and she was willing to learn anything she encountered, truthfully, she was almost entirely a student I personally guided. But now, day by day, I find myself unable to comprehend her. This feeling is truly unsettling..."

"There will always be such a time."

"But it's a bit too early for this, for..." He glanced around. "I truly can't comprehend these matters..."

Silence. A voice then sounded from outside: "I also find some things hard to comprehend."

The voice was somewhat cold. A moment later, a figure pushed the door open and entered. Su Tan'er was dressed in utilitarian black clothing, with a headscarf, appearing neat and ready for action. She stood in the doorway, looking towards them. However, this male attire ultimately made her seem somewhat short and slender. Xi Junyu felt that her gaze was reminiscent of how her much younger self had looked at him for the very first time—observing him with a mix of unfamiliarity and doubt.

"Brother Junyu... I remember the first time I met you when I was very young; Father told me to call you that. You taught me many things. Perhaps this is the last time I'll address you this way." Su Tan'er walked to the table and sat down, her eyes betraying a deep sense of unfamiliarity and coldness. This was, ironically, something Xi Junyu himself had taught her: during negotiations, one must establish clear boundaries. Xi Junyu tried to discern heartbreak within that unfamiliarity, but unfortunately, he found only doubt. "What was the exact reason? Why did you have to go to such lengths?"

"What exactly happened?" Xi Junyu frowned, glancing around. "You surely don't believe I was responsible for the situation at today's Su family clan meeting, do you?"

"No, I mean..." Su Tan'er quietly shook her head, her gaze clear as she looked at him. "Why did you have someone assassinate my father?"

Episode One: Jiangning Morning Breeze has been updated and uploaded by netizens to Yijie Novels. All text, images, and comments for this book are published or uploaded and maintained by fans of 'The Son-in-Law' or collected from the internet. These are individual actions and do not reflect the stance of this site. To read more novels, please return to the Yijie Novels homepage!