Plotting with You: The Forensic Scientist in Ancient Times!-Chapter 196 - 195: Favoring One Over Another

Although Zhu Cheng had already guessed from Lu Qing’s previous attitude that he wouldn’t be very respectful, he still didn’t expect him to speak with such audacity the moment he opened his mouth.

The key was, when he was speaking, he seemed full of confidence, without the slightest hint of guilt even when invoking the name of the Emperor Jin.

No matter how you look at it, Zhu Cheng had lived for quite some time and was not so naive as to be completely clueless.

He suddenly thought, considering Shanqing Temple’s reputation and Yan Daoxin being the renowned Divine Doctor, his companion was unlikely to be an ordinary person.

Thinking again about those two large protectors by the door, aside from being towering and robust, their imposing presence was such that even the government soldiers of Prince Shuo Mansion—let alone the troops of Shuo Country—could hardly compare.

With that in mind, taking another glance at Zhu Yu standing there neither humble nor arrogant, unfazed by his anger, he had a rough guess in his heart. His flame of irritation suddenly subsided by more than half. He took a few deep breaths, adjusted his attitude, cautiously looked at Lu Qing, and asked, "May I know who this is...?"

Lu Qing reached to his waist and took out the waist card. With just a glance, Zhu Cheng immediately recognized it as one belonging only to a few Princes ennobled by Emperor Jin, and naturally, those so ennobled were his sons.

Although Zhu Cheng had lived in Shuo Land for a long time and couldn’t ascertain what the patterns on the waist card represented, the person’s stance behind Zhu Yu made it obvious he was protecting her. If he wasn’t Lu Qing, the Prince Xiaoyao himself, who else could he be?

Though he didn’t feel there was anything extraordinary about this Prince Xiaoyao, who lacked real power and was not Emperor Jin’s biological son, the saying "hit a dog and see the master" held true. Regardless of anything, this man was ennobled by the Emperor Jin and betrothed to his daughter; making enemies with him was not a good choice.

Zhu Cheng restrained his expression, forcibly suppressed the anger that had surfaced on his face earlier, and appeared calm, as if the person who just exploded at Zhu Yu was not him.

"So, it is my virtuous son-in-law." He gestured to the steward outside, "Have someone prepare some good wine and dishes to be delivered here. I will dine in this side courtyard today!"

The steward, having sensed the tension in the small room earlier, quickly approached, fearing Zhu Cheng might make a scene. Now discovering Zhu Yu and knowing Lu Qing’s identity, he was startled but responded promptly to Zhu Cheng’s orders, turning to manage it. 𝙛𝒓𝒆𝙚𝒘𝒆𝓫𝙣𝓸𝙫𝓮𝒍.𝒄𝒐𝓶

"Wait." Just two steps out, the steward was called back by Zhu Cheng, "This matter must not be known to outsiders, understood?"

"Understood, I will have the food sent to the entrance of Li Garden!" The steward nodded hurriedly and left quickly.

Seeing Zhu Cheng conducting himself sensibly, Lu Qing returned to his usual calm demeanor, as if the previous unpleasantness had not occurred, and respectfully saluted his father-in-law, "If not for certain causes, this son-in-law would not have come unannounced with my wife, and I hope father-in-law won’t take offense."

Zhu Cheng returned the salute quickly.

Although both Lu Qing, as Prince Xiaoyao, and he, as Prince Shuo, are of Secondary First Rank, putting them on an equal footing, as a father-in-law, he naturally stood above a son-in-law. However, compared to an adopted son beside the Emperor Jin, the proximity and favor were self-evident.

No matter what could be said behind closed doors, in front of Lu Qing, Zhu Cheng didn’t dare act superior. Besides, since Lu Qing mentioned certain causes, combined with Zhu Yu’s previous tone, it seemed some trouble had arisen on his Shuo Country’s side. Zhu Cheng, unsure, opted for silence.

After they all resumed their seats, Zhu Cheng amicably inquired of Lu Qing, "May I ask what brings my virtuous son-in-law here?"

His attitude suggested they could have a proper conversation, but he intentionally or unintentionally addressed only Lu Qing, completely ignoring Zhu Yu nearby.

However, Lu Qing did not answer his question and instead turned to ask Zhu Yu softly, "My lady, are you hungry?"

"Since noon, I’ve only had a few bites of pastry, so yes, I’m quite hungry." Zhu Yu nodded to him.

"In that case, let’s discuss the main issues after we’ve eaten." Lu Qing then turned back and said politely but distantly to Zhu Cheng.

Zhu Cheng nodded, not showing it on his face, but inwardly was taken aback.

He had always heard that in Da Jin society, men ruled externally and women internally. Whether a woman was at her father’s house or married into her husband’s, she was supposed to stay secluded in the inner quarters, as stepping out was considered unseemly—something only done by the poor out of necessity.

Therefore, Da Jin women were absolutely forbidden from interfering or speaking on matters outside of household affairs.

Additionally, Lu Qing was rumored to have a bad reputation, thus he had agreed with Princess Shuo’s decision not to marry off his legitimate daughter.

But why did Lu Qing today seem to emit such natural nobility, compelling respect, and not only willingly bring Zhu Yu to Shuo Country but also treat her as if she were a treasured gem?

Though Zhu Cheng didn’t have much time these past few months to daydream about what life would be like for a concubine’s daughter sent to Jin Country, he certainly didn’t imagine it would look like this.

As a father, seeing his daughter cherished by her husband was naturally a joyful thing. Zhu Cheng discreetly observed the interaction between Lu Qing and Zhu Yu and marveled quietly.

Since nobody was willing to discuss serious matters before the meal, Zhu Cheng shifted his focus to Yan Daoxin nearby.

"Daoist Yan, my wife has been plagued by excessive worries, swallowing the barest bits, unable to sleep, and grows more haggard by the day. We have sought many doctors and medical officers to no avail.

May I trouble the Daoist to check her pulse and identify the root of the ailment?" He addressed Yan Daoxin.

Yan Daoxin glanced at Zhu Yu nearby. Although Zhu Yu’s composure from beginning to end suggested she anticipated Zhu Cheng’s reaction, it nevertheless left him feeling unpleasant.

Why was it? A daughter turns up mysteriously after returning and instead of asking her or addressing her mother, it’s all accusations and disclaimers. Yet, there’s concern aplenty for his wife’s health?

This blatant favoritism infuriated Yan Daoxin.

He rolled his eyes thoughtfully and nodded, "Of course, of course. Later, have the Prince bring both the Princess and Zhu Yu’s mother here to the side courtyard. I’ll examine them one by one, treating any ailments and ensuring well-being otherwise."