The Rebellious Son Becomes a God

Nighttime.

Back in his residence, Jiang Li was still pondering why it was that woman.

Recalling the words the woman had spoken when she grabbed him that day, she knew him and was aware that he was Jiang Zhen Ting's son.

So why was she brought here today, claiming to be the princess of Lan Yi Country, here to become the emperor's consort? How could she have been in the outskirts that day?

He couldn't figure it out. Could it be that she planned to kidnap him as a hostage to counter Jiang Zhen Ting?

Thinking of this, Jiang Li couldn't help but laugh. Anyone could be taken as a hostage, but not him, because it would be useless.

Never mind, he couldn't understand it anyway. She was going to enter the palace anyway. He looked out the window at the sky.

The night was low, and the stars were sparse. Jiang Li walked through the quiet corridor, hurrying towards the front hall.

Though his mind was filled with doubts about the mysterious woman's identity and intentions, at this moment, he had to put these distractions aside because his father, the Duke of An Guo, was about to return. He put all his belongings into his storage ring and set off for the front hall.

Upon arriving at the front hall, he found that the other members of the mansion had already gathered there. They stood or sat, talking in low voices, but without exception, they were all waiting for the Duke of An Guo, who wielded immense power in the court. Jiang Li found an inconspicuous spot to stand.

At that moment, a steady sound of footsteps broke the silence of the night. All voices ceased abruptly, and all eyes turned to the figure entering the front hall—it was the Duke of An Guo, Jiang Zhen Ting.

His figure was tall and upright, each step resounding and forceful, exuding an unquestionable aura of authority. Upon closer inspection this time, his face was handsome, with sword-like eyebrows and star-like eyes. The passage of time had etched lines on his face, yet it added a sense of composure and depth.

Jiang Zhen Ting was now dressed in a dark court robe, not the one he wore during the day. The golden thread embroidery along the edges shimmered under the light, highlighting his noble status. A black cloak draped over his shoulders swayed gently with his steps, adding a touch of mystery and majesty. A jade belt symbolizing power was fastened around his waist, and the jade pendants jingled with each stride, clear and strong.

The queen greeted him with a smile,"My lord, you must have had a tough time on your mission to the northern border!"

"Madam manages all the big and small affairs in the mansion, which is also tiring," he said, patting the madam's hand to show consideration.

"This is all within my duties, my lord's long journey is the real hardship."

Jiang Li, standing in the farthest corner, curled his lips in disdain,

"What a show, every time the Duke of An Guo returns from a long trip, you two have to put on this scene for everyone, being all lovey-dovey for a while. If you truly loved Madam, how could you keep bringing in concubines and side rooms into the mansion?"

It's really not worth it for his mother, she must be a person with a lot of tricks in her heart. He doesn't understand how she could have fallen for such a person who is only good-looking but has no sincerity.

One day, he would either not fall in love, or if he truly loved a woman, he would be with her for a lifetime.

But for now, he has no heart for love. Not to mention that in ancient times, there was Lingyuan Daozhang who died for love, and now there is Gu Jian who is troubled by love. Thinking about love, it will only affect the progress of his cultivation.

Moreover, the most important thing for him now is to improve his own strength.

The exchange of pleasantries between Jiang Zhen Ting and Madam Wang did not last long. He soon turned to the family members gathered in the front hall. His gaze was sharp, sweeping over everyone present, and it also lingered on Jiang Li for a moment, feeling that pressure, but only for a moment.

Jiang Zhen Ting turned to face everyone and said in a loud voice,"This mission to Lan Yi Country was very fruitful. The prestige of the Da Han Dynasty has spread far and wide, and neighboring countries all submit. As members of the Jiang family, we should take pride in this and use it as a mirror to diligently manage our household and contribute to the prosperity and strength of our Da Han Dynasty!"

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Jiang Zhen Ting's prestige and influence in the family were unmatched, and his words naturally carried significant weight.

"Everyone has worked hard, there is no need to wait here, go back to your rooms and rest," Jiang Zhen Ting dismissed everyone and entered the mansion. It was not until Jiang Zhen Ting's figure disappeared from everyone's sight and entered the main courtyard that the others began to head to their own courtyards.

Jiang Li didn't feel much and was walking back as usual, but he had only taken a few steps when he was stopped by the steward, Wu Dehai.

"Young Master Wu, the master ordered you to go to the study to find him," Wu Dehai said with an official demeanor.

[Me?]

Jiang Li was surprised. His father, who had never called for him in nine years, was now asking for him in the study.

But he still asked with a calm face,"I wonder what my father wants with me?"

"You will know when you get there. I am just here to inform you, come with me," Wu Dehai said without any emotion.

Despite Wu Dehai's poor attitude, Jiang Li did not dare to be negligent.

Steward Wu was the head steward of the Duke of An Guo's mansion and Jiang Zhen Ting's confidant. Many times, his words represented Jiang Zhen Ting's words, and even Madam Wang treated him with respect.

Jiang Li's expression remained unchanged as he followed.

He left, but those behind him had a storm of emotions in their hearts.

Jiang Cheng's eyes turned red with envy:"Why does he get to be summoned by our father? What does our father want with this good-for-nothing as soon as he gets back?"

The other servants couldn't help but speculate, wondering if the master had a change of heart and if Jiang Li might be reporting them to the master.

The one with the most unsightly expression was still Madam Wang, but she was, after all, the old Jiang. She didn't say anything, just gave a deep look at Jiang Li's back and called the servants to leave.

Jiang Li followed Wu Dehai for about the time it takes to burn a stick of incense before arriving at the main courtyard. After turning through the long, covered walkway, he finally saw Jiang Zhen Ting's study.

Upon entering the study, it was spacious and solemn. The floor of the study was paved with polished marble tiles, with six pillars supporting the ceiling. The pillars were carved with exquisite patterns, such as dragons and phoenixes, flowers, birds, fish, and insects, showcasing luxury and nobility. The walls were adorned with famous calligraphy and paintings, interspersed with some antique porcelain, exquisitely shaped and colorful, all demonstrating the owner's refined taste.

In the center stood a massive redwood table, with several carved armchairs placed around it. On the table was an exquisite set of tea utensils, with the teapot and cups made of jade, adorned with landscape patterns, elegant and refreshing.

On both sides were rows of redwood antique shelves, filled with various books, antiques, and treasures. The books covered a wide range of categories, including classics, histories, philosophies, and poetry; the antiques and treasures included jade articles, porcelain, bronze ware, and more, each piece of great value.

At the end was a tall redwood screen, carved with a magnificent landscape painting, depicting towering mountains and rushing rivers, full of grandeur. In front of the screen was a redwood desk, with the four treasures of the study and some official documents on it, but there were no signs of use, presumably just for show.

He had only come here twice as a child with his mother, and after his mother's death, he had never been back. The layout of the items remained unchanged, except for a few additional pieces.

However, the study that he used to find oppressive as a child now seemed just fine to him.

Jiang Zhen Ting was sitting in the main seat, drinking tea, as dignified as ever.

Jiang Li knelt down and bowed,"Your son greets his father."

Jiang Zhen Ting did not ask him to get up, took a sip of tea, and said softly,"Have you been well lately? Have your brothers and sisters treated you unfairly?"

[Even if I say something, what would it change? Every time he asks such insincere greetings, the last time I told him that the fourth brother deducted my money, he didn't react. If you really cared about me, you wouldn't let me kneel here.]

But he could only answer helplessly and normally,"I'm very well, we get along harmoniously, and I've caused you worry."

Jiang Zhen Ting nodded,"That's good. The spring imperial examinations will be held next spring, and you must perform well and take care of your health. Don't miss it like you did three years ago!"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Li's heart skipped a beat,[I thought I had been hiding it well, but it turns out my father has always known?]

Then he felt relieved, of course, he is the Duke of An Guo, how could anything be hidden under his nose? It's just a matter of whether he wants to interfere or not!

Jiang Zhen Ting has always been a person with a strong desire to control. How could he not know about the big and small affairs in the mansion? It's just a matter of whether he wants to interfere or not!

Thinking back to three years ago, before the spring imperial examinations, his health had been improving, but just the day before the exam, he became so ill that he couldn't get out of bed. He had always suspected that someone did it on purpose, but he didn't know who.

[It seems that my father also knows about this. Since he didn't interfere, it means he agreed with it, but why?]