Translated by Pure

Character Index

Extra 5 Everyday Trifles

In the thirty-second year of the Ruixing Decade, the young Fu Zixian was promoted to the position of Minister of the Ministry of War. Fu Sheng submitted his resignation letter as a matter of course, gracefully stepping down from his position to make way for his deserving son. The Emperor, acknowledging Fu Sheng's contributions, provided him with a leisurely job and tasked him with becoming a teacher at Songhai Academy. He had taken Li Boyuan’s advancing age into consideration, and decided it was time for him to retire and enjoy his life.

As Mu Yang grew older, he became increasingly idle, no longer showing interest in military affairs and spending most of his time at home. This attitude disheartened Mu Yuan, who sought to motivate his son by arranging a neither high nor low position within the Ministry of War, hoping to compel him to engage more actively.

Meanwhile, the Emperor entrusted Fu Zixian with a crucial assignment: to lead a delegation to Chang'an and conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations against the Su Residence. These accusations included claims of nepotism, embezzlement, and bribery.

The Su Residence wielded considerable influence and was located far away in Chang'an City. Given the Emperor's resolve to address the situation, the assignment of investigating fell upon Fu Zixian, indicating the gravity of the matter at hand. Fully aware of the significance of this task, Fu Zixian prepared himself accordingly.

However, before departing, Mu Yang caught wind of the mission to Chang'an and made a ruckus, insisting on joining the endeavor, despite all efforts to dissuade him.

With a tight grip on the carriage, the twenty-four-year-old persistently exclaimed, "I want to go to Chang'an too!" 

Unable to sway him, Fu Zixian reluctantly conceded and allowed Mu Yang to accompany him.

He understood that Mu Yang missed Chi Jingxi and Wen Yantong.

After their marriage, Wen Yantong became pregnant that same year. In late summer of the following year, they welcomed a pair of dragon phoenix twins into the world.

The elder girl was named Chi Junzhi, while the younger brother was named Chi Junyu. Mu Yang adored these two children dearly. Whenever he visited the Marquis Mansion, he would joyfully hold them in his arms.

Initially, his arm strength was insufficient, leading to fatigue after a short while. Determined to hold them longer, Mu Yang embarked on a dedicated training regimen to strengthen his arms.

Six years flew by in a blink. Earlier this year, Chi Jingxi, along with Wen Yantong and their two children, returned to Chang'an to assume the Marquis title. Calculating the time, it had been over half a year since they last saw each other.

Mu Yang had been contemplating a trip to Chang'an. Now, with an opportunity unexpectedly presenting itself, he was determined not to let it slip away. Even if he had to cling to Fu Zixian's carriage and roll his body through the streets, he would make his way to Chang'an.

In the end, Mu Yuan reluctantly gave his consent, and Mu Yang happily went back to pack his things.

As Mu Yang was packing various-sized bags, it seemed like he intended to move his entire room to Chang'an. Seeing this, Mu Yuan couldn't help but walk up and smack his son on the back of the head. "Do you plan to live in Chang'an forever? Just pack the essentials. Once Xiao Liu finishes investigating the Su Residence's affairs, you'll return with him!"

Mu Yang rubbed the back of his head and grunted in response, but he still brought a whole carriage's worth of belongings with him before departing. 

And so, they set out on their journey to Chang'an City.

…

As autumn approached, signaling the change of seasons, Wen Yantong's mother neglected to keep warm and caught a cold. Perhaps due to her advanced age, the illness lingered for half a month, rendering her too weak to move from her bed.

Upon receiving the news, Wen Yantong instructed the servants, left a brief note, and promptly returned to the Wen Residence.

When Chi Jingxi returned home that evening and didn't find his beloved wife there, he inquired with the servants. Upon discovering a letter left on the table by his wife, he opened it to find only a few brief sentences: "My mother is sick. I will return to care for her for about 7 8, 9 10 days. Don't worry about me."

Frowning, he felt immediate displeasure.

What exactly is ‘7 8, 9 10 days’?

Why must she be gone for so long?

Chi Jingxi paced the room holding the letter, his expression clouded with concern and slight annoyance. He then summoned the servants and instructed, "Arrange for doctors and tonics to be sent to Wen Residence."

Observing Chi Jingxi's mood, the servant cautiously inquired, "Lord Marquis, how much should we provide?"

After a brief pause, Chi Jingxi replied, "More than usual."

The servant swiftly acknowledged the order and rushed to fulfill it.

In that moment, a voice called out from the doorway, "Dad, are you home?"

Chi Jingxi's expression immediately softened, and even before seeing the person, a smile graced his face. 

He turned to find a young girl, nearly waist-high, standing at the entrance. While her facial structure bore some resemblance to Chi Jingxi, her eyes mirrored those of Wen Yantong, featuring prominent double eyelids. Whenever she smiled, her eyes curved into a perfect crescent moon.

Chi Jingxi approached and knelt down slowly. Chi Junzhi wrapped her arms around his neck, easily lifted into his embrace. "Dad, mom said she's going to grandpa's house and won't be back for a few days."

Chi Jingxi's voice was gentle and affectionate as he responded, "Yes, Dad knows. Mom left a letter for me." 

Chi Junzhi pursed her lips. "Does that mean I won't see mom for several days?"

Chi Jingxi pondered for a moment before replying, "If you miss Mom, we can go find her."

"I miss her," Chi Junzhi replied instinctively, but then her expression shifted as if recalling something. "But Junyu doesn't. He said I always cry and annoy everyone."

Chi Jingxi's eyebrows twitched. "Where's that little runt now?"

"He's gone to bed," Chi Junzhi replied. "He said Mom told us to go to bed before hài-shí (9-11pm) every day and not to stay up past that time."

Chi Jingxi nodded. "Let's leave that little runt for now. I'll take Zhizhi to have some cake."

Chi Junzhi's eyes lit up at the mention of sweet pastries, her excitement evident as she hugged Chi Jingxi tightly and planted a kiss on his cheek. "Dad, you're the best! Mom never lets me have any!"

Chi Jingxi's smile widened. "Your mom's not here these days, so whatever you want to eat, just let dad know and I will fulfill your wishes."

Chi Junzhi was overjoyed and kept urging Chi Jingxi to take her to eat pastries.

However, just as they were about to leave, Chi Junyu suddenly appeared.

Before Chi Jingxi could react, Chi Junyu approached from the side and spoke seriously, "Father, mother said we shouldn't eat sweets after hài-shí (9pm). It's not good for the teeth."

Chi Junyu bore a striking resemblance to Chi Jingxi, his serious demeanor leaving no doubt that he was his father's son. He shared his father's temperament, exhibiting a focused and earnest approach to everything he pursued. Often lost in thought, he was not one to engage in idle chatter. In contrast, despite being the elder sister, Chi Junzhi's personality mirrored that of Wen Yantong. Fond of playfulness, she enjoyed indulgence in leisurely activities.

As a result, Wen Yantong tended to dote on Chi Junyu, while Chi Jingxi favored Chi Junzhi.

Chi Jingxi regarded the young boy before him with gravity, stating firmly, "With your mother gone, I'll be the one making decisions in the family."

Chi Junyu disagreed, asserting, "No, if mother were here, she'd be upset. It takes less than an hour to travel from grandma's house to the Marquis Mansion. That's not enough time for mother to cool down."

Chi Jingxi pondered this, finding merit in the argument.

At that moment, Chi Junzhi interjected, "Now that Dad's in charge at home. If you and I keep quiet, who'd dare spill the beans to Mom?"

Chi Jingxi regarded his daughter, finding her logic compelling.

Chi Junyu added, "Even if we keep it from Mom now, if your teeth suffer later, Mom will find out. And when she does, she'll be even more upset. The kind of upset that even Dad can't smooth over."

When Chi Jingxi heard this, he realized the potential consequences. If he couldn't calm Wen Yantong's anger, it would mean she was truly furious!

The little runt had a point.

Just as he was about to reconsider, Chi Junzhi impatiently added, "Can't I just not eat until my teeth rot? Why do you have to worry so much?"

Chi Jingxi paused, considering her words. This was also reasonable; if she abstained from consuming excessive sweets, having it once in a while shouldn't harm her teeth.

Chi Jingxi made a decision, still embracing Chi Junzhi, he turned to head out, declaring, "If Yuyu doesn't want to eat, then go back to bed. I'll take your older sister for some pastries."

After just a few strides, Chi Junyu's serious voice echoed behind him, "I'll tell mother."

Chi Jingxi halted in astonishment, witnessing Chi Junyu's solemn declaration, "If Father takes older sister for pastries, I will tell mother."

"Are you threatening your father?" Chi Jingxi arched an eyebrow.

"My mother instructed me before she left," Chi Junyu stated calmly. "She said that father would likely take sister for a treat in secret. She had told me to keep an eye out and if anything were to happen, that she would return home in under an hour."

"Mother didn't say any of that!" Chi Junzhi protested indignantly.

"It's true," Chi Junyu insisted. "If you don’t believe me, you can ask Mother."

What Chi Junyu said was undoubtedly true, as this child was known for his honesty.

Chi Jingxi suddenly felt a headache coming on. He realized there was little he could do about the determined six-year-old, so he turned to Chi Junzhi and said, "Zhizhi, let's postpone our treat until tomorrow. Dad promised to save plenty for you."

Chi Junzhi, aware of her mother's strict standards, refrained from arguing and instead hugged Chi Jingxi's neck with a pout.

"It's bedtime, sister," Chi Junyu stated earnestly.

Chi Jingxi observed his son and was struck by a memory: Wen Yantong frequently remarked that Chi Junyu was a perfect reflection of her own fantasies. Each time she witnessed Chi Junyu's mannerisms and expressions, it was akin to encountering a young Chi Jingxi.

Chi Jingxi led Chi Junyu and Chi Junzhi to their room, pondering to himself.

Was I that annoying as a child?

…

Mu Yang and Fu Zixian journeyed for a month before reaching Chang'an, finding themselves in the city's late autumn ambiance.

Upon arrival at the Marquis Mansion, Mu Yang burst in, announcing, "Zhizhi! Yuyu! Uncle Yang has arrived to see you two!"

As Chi Junyu immersed himself in his calligraphy, Mu Yang's booming voice reached his ears. 

He abruptly glanced at his sister and mother, who were nodding off with a book in hand, remarking, "I believe I heard Uncle Yang's voice."

Meanwhile, Wen Yantong abruptly roused from her doze, wiping the drool from her mouth, and asked groggily, "What did Yuyu say?"

"Mother, is Uncle Yang here?" Chi Junyu inquired, setting down his brush.

Wen Yantong murmured, "Shouldn't he be in Chaoge? Why is he here?"

As she spoke, she noticed Chi Junzhi, dozing off on a book, and exclaimed, "Xiao Junzhi, you're being lazy again! Your brother managed to write and memorize these poems two days ago. You can't even recite them even now…"

Chi Junzhi covered her ears and made no effort to lift her head from the book. She said dully, "Mom, let me sleep a little longer. Dad said we should balance work with rest. We can't always stare at books."

"At least part of balancing work and rest involves doing some work! What else have you done besides being lazy?" Wen Yantong poked the back of her head. "Sit up quickly."

Chi Junzhi slowly raised her head and remarked, "Dad said you were also like this when you were in school."

Wen Yantong thought of her dark past, how she often nodded off as soon as she opened a textbook, but refused to admit it. "Your father is talking nonsense! Mother studied hard back then and was so skilled in literature that even your Uncle Yang couldn't match me."

As she spoke, a servant arrived to announce, "Madam, Master Fu and Master Mu are here to pay a visit at the Marquis Mansion."

Wen Yantong was startled and immediately responded, "Quickly invite them inside."

She hadn't anticipated their arrival all the way from Chaoge, so she hastily donned her thick overcoat and went out to welcome them.

After a brief wait, the servants ushered in Fu Zixian and Mu Yang. Spotting them from afar, Wen Yantong approached with a smile. "What brings you two here? And without any prior notice."

Fu Zixian smiled warmly and explained, "Mu Xingyi and I traveled to Chang'an this time on account of the Emperor's decree. Since it's been a while since we last saw you, we thought to pay a visit."

Mu Yang, catching sight of the two children accompanying Wen Yantong, dashed over and enveloped them in a tight embrace, almost as if he were attempting to whisk them away. Planting fervent kisses on their cheeks, he grinned, "It's been too long! Uncle Yang missed you two dearly!"

Chi Junzhi giggled and wrapped her arms around Mu Yang's neck. "I missed you too, Uncle Yang."

Chi Junyu reached up and gently touched Mu Yang's chin, his expression curious. "Since we last saw you in the twelfth month of last year, why has your beard only grown a little?"

Mu Yang chuckled and ran Chi Junyu's soft fingers against his stubble. "That's because I have to shave every day with a knife."

Chi Junyu touched his own chin, pondering silently

Chi Junzhi, accustomed to her younger brother's habit of deep thinking, took the initiative to ask, "Uncle Yang, how long will you stay in Chang'an this time?"

Uncertain, Mu Yang glanced at Fu Zixian, silently seeking confirmation.

Fu Zixian smiled and responded, "At least until the Chinese scholar tree blossoms."

Though the children didn't grasp the meaning, Mu Yang's face lit up with joy. "It means I'll be here for a long, long time."

Chi Junzhi cheered happily, and even Chi Junyu, who typically appeared serious, finally let loose, his lips forming a smile. 

Wen Yantong gestured, "Alright, let's not linger here any longer. Danli will be back soon. Let's head to the most renowned restaurant in Chang'an and host a reception banquet for you."

Mu Yang nodded eagerly, ready to depart with the children in tow. Fu Zixian chuckled, shaking his head in amusement, and followed behind.

Hearing the sound of greeting behind her, Wen Yantong turned and caught sight of Chi Jingxi entering in the afternoon light. The voluminous cloak draped over his frame shimmered softly, reminiscent of their first encounter at the academy. However, the once flamboyant youth had transformed into a composed and steady man.

His gaze lifted, capturing the miniature figures in the distance before him. When he spotted Wen Yantong waving cheerfully, a soft laugh escaped his lips.

Time had flown, and the years had shifted. 

Yet amidst the changes, some things remained constant, like the enduring beauty of spring and the brightness of the scenery, frozen in their prime.

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