1775 Duke North 3
“Have some tea. It’s a fine blend. During these peaceful times, I find solace in seeking out the best tea. I believe you will enjoy it. And there are pastries in the hall as well. We seldom have guests, so it tends to be rather cold. You are among the few who have graced us with your presence. I dare not treat you poorly, for fear that you may no longer wish to be here,” Zheng Chenyi spoke calmly, keeping his hand concealed.
Gu Chaoyan cast a glance towards the hall, where a variety of pastries lay.
Indeed, there was an array of choices.
She then s.h.i.+fted her gaze to Zheng Chenyi, noting the subtle changes in him.
Finding an empty spot, Gu Chaoyan took a seat. She began sipping the tea and picked up a pastry to nibble on, albeit without the same relaxed demeanor she exhibited at Xinlin Mansion and Fengxian Palace. After finis.h.i.+ng the pastry, she remarked, “You don’t appear to be well.”
“I am aware of that. Don’t worry,” Zheng Chenyi responded calmly. “Why have you come here?”
Gu Chaoyan hesitated momentarily before nodding in acknowledgment.
She was about to speak…
However, Zheng Chenyi interrupted her, rising from his seat. “Let’s take a stroll and talk.”
Gu Chaoyan also stood, agreeing to his suggestion.
Though she was familiar with Duke North Mansion, she had never truly explored its premises.
The garden of Duke North Mansion mirrored the tranquil atmosphere of the main entrance, devoid of liveliness. Nonetheless, the landscaping was exquisitely arranged.
Duke North Mansion lacked the presence of flowers, with only an abundance of green plants scattered throughout. There was a distinct absence of vibrant blooms.
Jiang Mansion had been similar in the past, devoid of flowers. However, it compensated with numerous green bamboo plants and a staff that exuded warmth, creating a tranquil and pleasant atmosphere.
“After my mother’s pa.s.sing, we have sold off many of the servants, resulting in a quieter and more serene environment. You appreciate tranquility, don’t you? But do you find Duke North Mansion to your liking?” Zheng Chenyi inquired as they walked side by side.
Gu Chaoyan felt the situation becoming increasingly complex.
Why was he asking such questions?
“As long as both you and your wife are content with it, that would suffice,” Gu Chaoyan responded calmly. She continued, “The Saint Divine Land has been stabilized now. Duke North, you possess an authority token for the military. However, considering your infrequent attendance at the morning sessions, the token holds little practical power. It remains uncertain how we should handle the authority token.”
“…”
“The King is pondering whether you wish to return to the court. If you do, you can retain the token, as it rightfully belongs to Duke North. However, if you prefer to distance yourself from political affairs, the token could be pa.s.sed on to someone else,” she explained.
“….”
“What are your thoughts on this matter?” Gu Chaoyan inquired earnestly.
Zheng Chenyi suddenly felt a pang in his heart. It appeared that she was solely interested in discussing anything related to Zhou Huaijin. She seemed indifferent to his question.
“What do you expect me to do then?” Zheng Chenyi asked, his gaze fixed on her.
Gu Chaoyan unconsciously furrowed her brows. “You don’t need to provide me with an immediate answer. Take the time to discuss it with your wife or your strategist. You can give us your response by tomorrow morning.”
“You no longer wish to a.s.sist me?” Zheng Chenyi questioned, his displeasure evident.
She had previously given him countless instructions and guidance, both to his mother and during his trip to the border.