Chapter 562: Chapter 561: The Road Ahead Is Arduous

Lu Qing and Lu Chao listened to Zhu Yu’s words and also raised their wine glasses.

“This joyous gathering, I wonder when we will have the opportunity again…” Lu Chao gazed at the gem-like, bright and translucent wine in the cup and slowly exhaled, “I toast to my brother and sister-in-law, wishing as my sister-in-law said, surviving disaster brings future blessings.”

Lu Qing and Lu Chao were not much different in age, and in the past did not address each other as brothers. Lu Chao also directly called Zhu Yu by name, and this was the first time he spoke to them in this manner.

Zhu Yu inexplicably felt a bit nervous and subconsciously glanced at Lu Qing, who smiled at her and nodded to Lu Chao: “Alright. Next time we meet, we won’t drink this sweet fruity wine, but the strongest liquor.”

That night, the three did not part until late. Zhu Yu listened to Lu Qing and Lu Chao talk about their amusing experiences at Shanqing Temple, stories they had rarely shared before. This was Zhu Yu’s first time hearing them.

Because Lu Qing and Lu Chao’s upbringing was fraught with difficulties, making them mature beyond their years despite their different temperaments, it was easy to overlook that they were once innocent youths. They had once briefly escaped the Capital, finding a small corner where they could let go and indulge in the mischief typical of children their age.

Zhu Yu often found it hard to imagine what Lu Qing was like as a child, as if he had been a cunning fox since birth.

This time, listening to their past, hearing of Lu Qing’s youthful side, even having his moments of emotional outbursts with his mentor, Zhu Yu found it especially amusing and felt a tinge of pity in her heart.

Things that were so commonplace in others’ growth seemed like treasures hidden deep within Lu Qing and Lu Chao, cherished too dearly to be often reminisced.

In the past, Lu Chao and Lu Qing had to pretend to be distant in public. Both were solitary figures, even occasionally meeting in Yunyin Pavilion had to be done cautiously.

This time, Lu Qing was no longer Prince Xiaoyao, demoted to commoner, in this private courtyard where they were the only visitors, they seemed far less constrained and more at ease.

Zhu Yu listened to them speak, slowly swirling her cup, feeling Lu Qing and Lu Chao should be joyous, yet behind this joy lay uncertainty, a hesitation towards the future.

Just like the pomegranate juice in her cup, sweet yet tinged with a subtle spiciness.

Whether the pomegranate juice’s effect was too strong or she was further coaxed by Lu Qing to drink coconut wine, Zhu Yu gradually became slightly intoxicated, her vision blurring, resting her chin on her arm, she lay on the table listening to Lu Qing’s stories, until she eventually fell asleep.

Lu Qing noticed, silently removed his outer robe, and gently covered Zhu Yu’s back.

Lu Chao watching his careful action, suddenly laughed: “Seeing you like this, I have more confidence in the future.

That day in the South Study Room, when Father allowed her the option to divorce you, she showed no hesitation at all and immediately chose to advance and retreat with you.

I’ve always heard that Mother and Father were deeply in love when Father was rising in power. No one believed in him, people around him tried to stop him, only Mother supported him unwaveringly.

Sadly, I wasn’t there yet, their bond was strong as gold, and I could only hear bits and pieces from others, never witnessed it myself.

So that day, seeing Zhu Yu’s reaction, I couldn’t help but think, perhaps Mother’s and Father’s love was like this back then.”

“In truth, he treats you well, maybe not in the usual way, but with careful consideration. You call Empress ’Mother’, yet call him ’Father’, the difference in closeness is too evident.” Lu Qing reminded Lu Chao.

Lu Chao smiled: “Even after being demoted to commoner, you still speak for him, your magnanimity is truly surprising.

Putting other things aside, though what you said in the South Study Room wasn’t wrong, over the years, he hasn’t treated you with fatherly affection, perhaps deeper than a ruler’s bond with his minister, but certainly not fatherly affection.

Do you not resent him for this?”

Lu Qing slowly sighed: “Tell me, is it easier to conquer the world or to rule it?”

Lu Chao was perplexed why Lu Qing suddenly asked this, slightly stunned, he blurted out: “Of course, conquering the world is easier.

To conquer the world, requires favorable timing, geographic advantage, and human support; ruling the world demands discernment in choosing subordinates, deploying them appropriately, commanding respect, embracing diversity, winning trust.

Additionally, balancing the court, long-term planning, considering the bigger picture…”

“Indeed, precisely so.” Lu Qing sighed, “To conquer the world was a path of mountains of corpses and seas of blood, cutting through thorns and obstacles. Having fought so hard for this world, wanting to stabilize the position of Sovereign of the World, how can it be easy?

Facing wolves ahead and tigers behind, even those who once fought shoulder to shoulder may never feel burdened to wield the wealth that fell into their hands.

There are too many considerations, too many things to prevent.

Even if I were placed in that position, I might not demonstrate more benevolence than he does.

I never expected him to treat me as his own, creating a scene of fatherly love and filial piety. This state actually makes me feel there’s some sincerity and trust.

Moreover, in the long run, his purpose and mine do not conflict. Different paths lead to the same goal, so there’s no resentment.”

Lu Chao listened, remained silent for a long while, then nodded: “The road ahead is difficult, take good care of yourselves.

I used to worry, your entire conviction lies in uncovering the truth of the past, avenging the clan. Once the great revenge is sought, would you lose your dreams and become lost?

Now I have no such concern.”

Lu Qing turned to look at Zhu Yu’s sleeping profile, the pomegranate juice previously consumed seemed to paint her cheeks, making her fair face appear exceptionally rosy.

“On your side, is everything ready?” He did not respond to Lu Chao’s words and asked another question as he turned back to him.

Lu Chao knew what he meant and nodded: “Everything is prepared, no need to worry.”

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep