In the past, Fu Yi had always held a deep respect—bordering on fear—for Fu Yanghong. Whenever doubts surfaced, he would voice them with honest reverence. But the Fu Yi of today no longer saw things the same way, especially after learning that even what one sees with their own eyes may not be the truth.

So he tested the waters. “Perhaps the Duke of England had his own difficult reasons. Besides, His Majesty hasn’t passed judgment on him, likely out of respect for his past service.”

Fu Yanghong gave Fu Yi a look of approval. “You’re thinking clearly. The emperor is the Son of Heaven, and mercy lies at the heart of Heaven’s rule. But the laws of the Xuan Dynasty cannot be bent for one man alone. His Majesty’s leniency may well stir discontent.”

Fu Xiao frowned slightly. “Father, you’ve long been on good terms with the Duke’s household. If you spoke on his behalf, His Majesty might not punish him so harshly.”

Fu Yi replied at once, “Friendship is one thing, but the safety of the Xuan Dynasty matters more. How could Father be swayed into favoritism?”

As he spoke, Fu Yi watched his father’s expression from the corner of his eye. The more pleased Fu Yanghong looked with his words, the deeper Fu Yi’s misgivings grew.

Why is it different from the last life?

Back then, the Bai family had been utterly ruined, with not even the faintest hope of redemption, and yet his father had fought relentlessly in their defense. But now, with only the Duke temporarily stripped of office and the rest of the family untouched, helping them should’ve been easy—yet his father was suddenly siding with those demanding harsh punishment?

Fu Yi’s mind churned with unanswered questions. He felt certain there was something important he’d missed in his previous life.

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“Oh, and there’s one more thing—about your mother…”

Just as Fu Yanghong opened his mouth, Fu Xiao, sensing it was a family matter, tactfully excused himself from the study. Once he had left, Fu Yanghong continued, “Your mother has been calmer lately. Her family even sent a letter recently. I believe she may have come to realize her own mistakes. Still… the household has finally known a bit of peace these days…”

Fu Yi immediately understood and replied with sincerity, “Speaking of this, Father, I have a favor to ask. Mother’s health has been steadily declining these past years—frequent headaches and fevers. I suspect the endless household affairs may have exhausted her. I’ve noticed that Concubine Zhou has been measured and capable lately, handling matters with order and precision. Why not let her continue assisting Mother to share the burden?”

For the first time in a long while, Fu Yanghong felt a rare sense of ease. It had been as though a streak of misfortune had descended upon the Prince of Ping’s manor, with everything going awry—but now, finally, things seemed to be turning around.

Especially Fu Yi—he was becoming more and more in tune with his expectations. A smile crept into the corners of Fu Yanghong’s eyes. “You truly are a filial son. Since you’ve said so, let it be done. It’ll do your mother good to focus on her health.”

That had been his intention all along, though he’d hesitated, worried Fu Yi might object—after all, the princess was his birth mother. But to his surprise, Fu Yi had taken the initiative to propose it, which deeply reassured him.

“It’s good that you’re thinking this way. I have two more matters I’d like to entrust to you,” Fu Yanghong said, and with rare gentleness, placed a hand on Fu Yi’s shoulder. “You’re my legitimate son. One day, the entire manor will be in your hands. I’m counting on you to let me enjoy my later years in peace.”

Fu Yi lowered his gaze and remained silent—composed, restrained, dependable.

…

The Princess of Ping was finally allowed to leave her courtyard. She was nearly driven mad with frustration. Since that day, Fu Yi truly hadn’t come to see her, no matter how many times Nanny Chang tried to intercept him on her behalf—he refused to meet her.

The confinement had all but worn away the noble grace that once surrounded her. Now, holding her fury in check, she burned with urgency to reclaim everything she’d lost. But then she discovered that the household affairs were still being managed by Zhou Sichun.

“How dare she?”