Ch 74: Is There Really Such a Good Thing? [QT]

Many of the initiatives Fang Yunxuan set in motion were now on track. Even the flat roads she envisioned were becoming a reality, as the research institute developed a method to bind gravel into a solid surface. Though it was far from modern cement roads, it marked significant progress.

She understood the importance of pacing innovation. New ideas needed time for people to accept and develop; otherwise, relying solely on her to introduce advancements would eventually lead to trouble.

Slowing down, Fang Yunxuan became pregnant again. While resting during her pregnancy, she began teaching her three-year-old twins. She guided them in arithmetic and literacy while imparting moral lessons. In her previous life, she had also taught children with great effort, though they weren’t her own. It had been a tough few years, but she had managed to instill proper values and filial piety in them.

Now, she could finally raise her own children with care and joy.

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The gravel roads greatly improved people’s lives, and with the funds Fang Jun had earned through his pirate operations, the emperor immediately ordered road construction to begin.

Fang Yunxuan casually remarked, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if road-building could be funded through donations like those for grain and provisions? Local gentry could sponsor sections of the road, have their names inscribed, and gain lasting recognition for their contribution.”

She quickly shifted the conversation to amusing stories about her children, but the emperor took her words seriously. After pondering for a few days, he concluded it was an excellent idea and implemented it. Within months, wealthy individuals across various regions began sponsoring road construction—some extended long sections, others shorter stretches, and some even funded bridges. In return, the court publicly recognized their contributions by engraving their names on the roads.

The gentry soon realized that better roads made transporting goods easier, creating new business opportunities. Their investments turned out to be highly profitable.

Meanwhile, Shen Yunrong grew increasingly alarmed by the series of public advancements attributed to Fang Yunxuan. Why was Fang Yunxuan doing even better in this life? In their past lives, she hadn’t created so many innovations that benefited the nation and its people.

Was it because Fang Yunxuan, overwhelmed by her duties in the Shao family, hadn’t had the energy to explore such ideas? Or was it because, as a general’s wife, she refrained from drawing too much attention to avoid the emperor’s suspicion? Now, as the emperor’s favored consort, she finally had the opportunity to shine.

Had Shen Yunrong inadvertently paved the way for Fang Yunxuan’s rise to prominence? The thought nearly made her choke with rage.

By contrast, Shen Yunrong’s own situation had worsened. After Madam Shao’s death not long after Shao Kun returned to the capital, Shen Yunrong was relieved that Madam Shao had never revealed her role in drugging Shao Kun on their wedding night. She felt triumphant, assuming she would now reign as the household’s mistress.

However, Shao Kun handed the household’s management to his nanny and steward, leaving Shen Yunrong with no power. Without Madam Shao’s oversight, Shao Kun even dropped the pretense of civility, spending his mourning period entirely in Bai Shi’s courtyard, treating Shen Yunrong as a stranger. The servants, seeing her lack of favor and authority, became increasingly indifferent toward her, leaving her worse off than the nanny.

Unbeknownst to her, Bai Shi orchestrated this treatment. Loved and trusted by Shao Kun, Bai Shi subtly controlled the household’s accounts and staff, ensuring Shen Yunrong’s days grew more miserable. She also discovered Shen Yunrong’s deep envy of Imperial Consort Xian and often had servants discuss the consort’s achievements within her earshot. If Bai Shi could claim the title of mistress, she would have eliminated Shen Yunrong long ago. For now, letting her retain the empty title served Bai Shi’s purposes.

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Meanwhile, Fang Jun’s success in suppressing pirates continued. At times, pirates disappeared from the seas for days. His men even targeted Fusang’s official ships, recovering much of what Fusang had plundered from Great Zhou. Monthly, Fusang sent envoys to Great Zhou to complain, plead for aid, or claim poverty, but Lin Li, adept at deflecting them, offered no concessions.

Having observed Lin Li’s competence, Fang Jun established a rapport with him, which further facilitated his operations. Fang Jun even began infiltrating Fusang to gather intelligence. Proficient in their language and disguised as a commoner, he mingled with the local population, uncovering valuable information and sending back unique items from Fusang to Great Zhou.

One day, Fang Jun accidentally discovered a troubling secret: Fusang regularly smuggled people into Great Zhou by sea under cover of night. These individuals, including men, women, and children—mostly the latter—were scattered upon arrival. Some posed as refugees to be taken in by villagers; others sold themselves to human traffickers, claiming to need funds for funerals or to escape starvation. Traffickers accepted them all, reselling them to wealthy households in various towns or even placing them in the palace as servants.

Fang Jun quickly realized the immense conspiracy hidden behind this discovery. It was impossible to determine how long Fusang had been smuggling people—years, or even decades? Over time, how many Fusang spies had infiltrated Great Zhou’s various social strata and regions? Especially the children, who were raised without suspicion and could grow up as Fusang spies, revealing critical information to their homeland.

The most alarming part was Fusang’s blatant ambition to undermine Great Zhou—a treacherous act that could not be tolerated!

Fang Jun immediately sent a confidential memorial to the emperor. His anger at this revelation was matched by excitement: Fusang had finally been caught red-handed! In the past, their brazen actions left Great Zhou with no justification to retaliate. But now, their schemes were exposed, giving Great Zhou a rightful cause to strike back.

The emperor was shocked to learn of Fusang’s treachery. Outwardly submissive, they had secretly engaged in such deceitful practices. He began to wonder if Fusang spies had already infiltrated the court. After much deliberation, he issued a secret decree, granting Fang Jun authority to mobilize the musket army and coastal troops to launch a surprise attack on Fusang.

The emperor also ordered Fang Yunxuan to purge the palace of potential spies. Fang Yunxuan, equally astonished, reflected on Fusang’s location—it matched the later-day country she knew as “Little Japan.” The idea that Fusang had infiltrated the palace alarmed her.

She immediately launched an investigation. Thanks to the welfare system she had introduced earlier, every palace servant’s details had been meticulously recorded, allowing her to cross-check their origins. Most were quickly ruled out. For the remaining few, she employed various tactics to test their loyalty. Within a short time, eight Fusang spies were identified and handed over for interrogation.

Fang Jun’s efforts led to the capture of newly smuggled spies and the unmasking of several long-hidden ones. Combined with the eight spies uncovered in the palace, Fang Jun donned his general’s armor and led a military campaign against Fusang. Declaring their attempt to infiltrate Great Zhou as an act of treason, he launched an overwhelming attack, marking the beginning of a grand offensive.

Simultaneously, the emperor revealed the situation in court, asking his ministers for their opinions on Fusang. Most were unaware of the coastal developments and were shocked to learn of Fusang’s use of pirates, infiltration of spies, and their hidden ambitions.

Prime Minister Yuan furrowed his brow and firmly declared, “This cannot be tolerated. If other small nations follow Fusang’s example, it will pose a grave threat to Great Zhou. We must strike Fusang decisively to deter them. With Great Zhou’s growing strength, defeating such a minor nation should be no problem.”

Some ministers hesitated, arguing that Fusang’s actions had caused no significant harm and that an attack might tarnish Great Zhou’s reputation as a magnanimous power.

Others speculated that Fusang’s actions could be a misunderstanding, suggesting that they sent people over simply to settle due to a lack of resources, not as spies.

As debates grew heated, the emperor observed calmly. He then ordered surveillance on several suspicious ministers, eventually uncovering one who attempted to relay information. Under intense interrogation, the minister confessed and was publicly executed as a warning. The emperor also ordered a nationwide investigation for other potential Fusang spies.

One day, while walking with the heavily pregnant Fang Yunxuan, the emperor expressed his concern, carefully supporting her as they strolled. “It’s twins again this time, and they’ve grown so large. It’s too taxing for you. After this, we won’t have any more children.”

Fang Yunxuan looked at him in surprise. She knew the emperor had favored her exclusively for years, and she had only given him one son. Ministers had long expressed dissatisfaction with this, though they kept quiet out of respect for the emperor’s authority and Fang Yunxuan’s reputation. She had assumed the emperor would want her to have more children, given her privileged position.

She hadn’t expected him to prioritize her well-being over the number of heirs. What if she gave birth to two daughters this time, leaving him with only one son?

Fang Yunxuan smiled. At that moment, despite the difficulties of pregnancy, she felt it was all worth it. Besides, she genuinely loved children and had methods to maintain her health. Her pregnancies were something she willingly embraced.

She teased, “I may find it tiring to carry them, but once they’re born, it’ll be Your Majesty’s turn to work hard to teach them and help share the responsibility with me.”

“Of course,” the emperor replied warmly. “We’ll raise them together, and I’ll make sure they’re taught to be filial to you. If anyone dares upset you, they’ll answer to me!”

As they laughed and talked, Li Defu hurried over with a wide smile, kneeling before them. “Congratulations, Your Majesty! Congratulations, Your Highness! General Fang has achieved a great victory—he has conquered Fusang!”

The emperor was overjoyed. “Excellent! My brother-in-law is truly a rare talent! Capturing Fusang in one swift move—another grand achievement! Issue my decree: grant Fang Jun the title of Duke of Stabilization, with hereditary rights for three generations!”

Fang Yunxuan’s face lit up with joy. In that moment, the guilt she had harbored toward her brother began to fade. But just then, she felt a sharp pain in her abdomen, and her smile froze. “Your Majesty, I… I think the babies are coming!”

The emperor froze for a moment before shouting, “Prepare the birthing room immediately!”

This time, Fang Yunxuan’s delivery went smoothly, and two hours later, she gave birth to twin boys. Joy filled Anhe Palace, as their mistress now had three princes, shielding her from any further criticism about her exclusive favor. The emperor’s burden also eased considerably, as everyone had witnessed the growing affection between the imperial couple, and the greatest source of tension had been resolved. Naturally, this brought happiness to everyone around them.

The emperor was overjoyed. After ensuring Fang Yunxuan was well, he declared with a smile, “Double blessings! Announce to the empire: three years of tax exemption to celebrate with the people!”

“Yes! Long live His Majesty!”

The two pieces of joyous news quickly spread. Even those who disliked the Fang siblings couldn’t help but marvel at their remarkable fortune. Double blessings—both monumental achievements. The emperor’s decision to suspend taxes was clearly a tribute to the siblings, ensuring that the grateful populace would remember their contributions and speak well of them.

Fang Yunxuan, in particular, became the focus of widespread admiration. With her prestige firmly established, who among the people would not think highly of her? It became evident to all that the future emperor would undoubtedly be one of her three sons. Those harboring schemes against her quickly abandoned their ambitions, knowing they could no longer challenge her position.

At the same time, many recalled the Fang siblings’ origins, praising the family’s illustrious legacy of military service and exemplary values. However, mention of the Shen family was met with disdain.

People mocked Shen Xiuyuan, who had once served as Minister of Rites, for his lack of family discipline and the near-destruction of his eldest children. Even after so many years, he hadn’t attempted to repair the relationship. His incompetence was seen as pathetic and foolish.

In their opinion, Shen Xiuyuan should have decisively divorced Liu Shi, the toxic wife who harmed Fang Jun and Fang Yunxuan, and taken responsibility for his mistakes. A display of guilt and remorse might have softened their hearts over time, ensuring they would at least care for him in his old age. After all, filial piety was a virtue, and maintaining appearances was important.

Instead, he turned to drinking after losing his position, often seen drunkenly reminiscing about his past glory—a pitiful sight. But perhaps it was better this way, sparing the newly titled Duke of Stabilization and the consort any association with such a disgrace.

Hearing about his children’s success, Shen Xiuyuan turned to Shen Ming, the son left at home to study. Disappointed by his lack of progress, he vented his frustration by beating him, then sank deeper into his drinking habit.

Liu Shi, upon hearing the news, desperately swallowed more pills to ease her persistent headaches. Although the doctor insisted her condition wasn’t serious, her reliance on the medication worsened her suffering, leaving her incapacitated. Hearing about her enemies’ achievements only deepened her anguish. Clinging to Shen Ming, she tearfully pleaded, “You’re my only hope now. The Shen family depends on you. You must succeed…”

Shen Ming, under immense pressure, resolved to pass the imperial examination and secure an official position. However, the stress overwhelmed him. During the exam, his mind went blank, cold sweat poured from his forehead, and he eventually fainted and had to be carried out. Needless to say, he failed to achieve even the lowest rank.

He claimed illness, but deep down, he knew he had reached his limit. His mother had plotted against Fang Jun, driving him to the countryside, yet Fang Jun became the top scholar and a celebrated general. Meanwhile, he couldn’t even place on the roster—an embarrassment.

Those he once looked down on now towered above him. Fang Jun was a national hero, the Duke of Stabilization. Fang Yunxuan was the renowned and beloved consort.

And him? Three years their junior, he had achieved nothing. The weight of his failure was unbearable. Seeing former classmates in public, he couldn’t withstand their mocking glances and fled in shame. Unable to endure this life, he decided to move to his ancestral home.

At least there, the family still had some money and influence. The village, well cared for by the Shen family, would offer a comfortable retreat. Far from the capital, where no one knew him, he could live a leisurely life as a country squire.

Shen Xiuyuan and Liu Shi opposed the move, clinging to the hope of reclaiming some semblance of their past glory in the capital. But their failing health left them powerless. Shen Ming, now the head of the household, made the decision, and the family sold their properties to fund the move.

On the day the Shen family left the capital, the emperor asked Fang Yunxuan, “Do you truly feel nothing for Shen Xiuyuan? Once he leaves, you may never see him again.”

Fang Yunxuan smiled and replied, “I don’t mind. Life is hard enough for everyone. Cherish those who are worth cherishing. Blood ties alone do not bind people—only genuine care does.”

The emperor pulled her gently into his arms, his heart aching. Only those who had been deeply hurt could develop such clarity. It pained him that he hadn’t met her sooner, sparing her from so much suffering. He whispered, “Very well, then. Let us not mind them. From now on, you’ll have me, your brother, and our children by your side.”

Fang Yunxuan felt immense pride when talking about her children. They were all remarkably intelligent, quick learners, and well-behaved, requiring almost no effort to manage.

At times, she marveled at how this second chance at life felt like a reward from the heavens—a recognition of her determination to make the best out of a terrible hand in her previous life. Now, with every opportunity handed to her being favorable, she was resolved to make the most of it.

When Fang Jun returned to the capital, officially assuming the title of Duke of Stabilization, people finally realized he had not been on a simple undercover mission. Instead, he had been investigating Fusang and exposing their schemes before decisively conquering them. Many envied his fortune—especially the emperor’s unparalleled trust in him.

Just as everyone thought Fang Jun would settle into a life of privilege and power, he proposed leaving again. This time, he sought to explore the other side of the vast ocean in search of new countries.

The court was astounded, unable to comprehend his reasoning. What did countries across the ocean have to do with them? Even if they existed, they were so distant—why bother? The unknown risks, including potential shipwrecks, made it seem foolish to venture so far. Fang Jun had already achieved so much; why continue risking his life?

But Fang Jun’s ambition was unyielding. If there were indeed nations overseas, possibly with resources or goods that Great Zhou lacked, it was his duty to investigate. Many ideas Fang Yunxuan had mentioned from obscure books had already proven true, lending credibility to the existence of distant lands. Trade with these countries could also enrich Great Zhou’s treasury—an opportunity too good to ignore.

With the court now stable under Prime Minister Yuan, and the crises at the borders and in Fusang resolved, Fang Jun believed his absence would have little impact. Life was short, and he was determined to use his years to contribute as much as possible to Great Zhou’s prosperity.

What the court didn’t know was that Fang Jun’s unwavering devotion to the people was precisely why the emperor valued him so highly, elevating him to duke in a few short years. The mutual respect between monarch and subject was rare and irreplaceable. Despite objections or attempts to claim Fang Jun’s mission, the emperor dismissed dissenters and directly funded Fang Jun’s expedition, promising additional resources if needed.

Though reluctant to see her brother leave, Fang Yunxuan was thrilled for him to pursue his aspirations. She sent him a large supply of medicinal herbs, knowing their value in maintaining health during long journeys. The formula she had shared with him before entering the palace had already helped him recover from injuries quickly. This time, unsure how long he would be gone, she sent all the herbs she could.

Fang Jun’s wife, Yuan Shi, also accompanied him on this journey. With the grand Duke of Stabilization’s estate left nearly empty save for a few attendants, no one dared look down on it. Everyone understood that Fang Jun’s status and influence were unshakable, even in his absence.

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In the following years, trade between Great Zhou and the border regions flourished, improving lives and eliminating rebellious ambitions. The small kingdom of Goryeo occasionally presented trivial tributes to Great Zhou in exchange for generous rewards, mocking Great Zhou behind its back.

When the emperor learned of this, he immediately cut off trade with Goryeo, plunging the kingdom into hardship. The country soon descended into chaos, with internal factions vying for power. When a Goryeo prince sought aid from Great Zhou, the emperor seized the opportunity to intervene militarily, annexing Goryeo into Great Zhou’s territory—just like Fusang.

Meanwhile, Shen Yunrong eagerly awaited the end of Shao Kun’s mourning period, urging him to win military accolades. Her constant nagging finally provoked him to anger. “The empire is at peace! Where are these wars you want me to fight? If word of your schemes spreads, people will question your motives. If you’re foolish, that’s one thing—but don’t drag the entire Shao family down!”

Shao Kun’s parting shot stung: “I was building my career at the borders, but because of you, I was demoted and idle. Do you think I wanted this?”

For the first time, Shen Yunrong didn’t argue back. Instead, she stood in stunned silence, her mind reeling. Was it truly her fault? Yes, it was. Without her interference, Shao Kun could have risen to prominence, possibly earning titles and rewards. Because of her, he was demoted, left with no prospects. Now, in the capital, any random official outranked Shao Kun, leaving her, an unloved Shao family mistress, utterly powerless.

Frustrated and furious, Shen Yunrong overheard servants gossiping about her. Enraged, she had them beaten, only for them to confess that Bai Shi had instructed them to provoke her. This revelation sent her into an even greater fury. She stormed into Bai Shi’s quarters, unleashing her temper and demanding Shao Kun revoke Bai Shi’s authority over the household. If she couldn’t manage the estate, then Bai Shi certainly couldn’t either.

Determined to reclaim her status, Shen Yunrong activated a long-held scheme involving the Yangzhou beauties she had purchased years ago. She ordered them to use any means necessary to bear a child for her. Once they succeeded, she planned to eliminate both Shao Kun and Bai Shi, solidifying her control over the Shao household.

🌸˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧🩷˚⋆

Sandy: Next chapter is password locked. Pw is heart.