I’ve Got this Cannon Fodder’s Back

143: 142 143: 142 The Third Prince suddenly stood upright.

His eyes lit up.

Lu Deng, having learned his lesson, quickly stepped forward to take the plate of fried glutinous rice balls from Gu Ai, protecting it closely in his arms as he helped Gu Ai through the door, “Sir, His Highness, the Third Prince has come to check on you.” The protagonist’s gaze followed the enticing aroma of the fried glutinous rice balls for quite a while until he was bumped lightly by Lu Deng as he entered.

Snapping back to his senses, he took a deep breath and respectfully bowed to Gu Ai.

“Lu Liang greets Minister Gu.

Imperial Father heard that Minister Gu is residing at Prince Yi Residence.

Remembering today is the Lantern Festival, he is deeply concerned and has specially sent Lu Liang to check on you.” His speech was clearly a memorized decree, delivered in a smooth, emotionless manner.

At the end, he smiled apologetically at Gu Ai and cupped his hands again.

“I am merely here to convey the message.

I didn’t even have time to eat after returning home before Imperial Father sent me here.

It is just a word of concern from Imperial Father, hoping you will not take it to heart.” It would be hard for anyone to believe that Gu Ai harbored no resentment after being targeted and punished without reason.

Recently, the emperor had been pretending to be low-key while constantly testing Gu Ai’s limits through the noble families.

He initially thought Gu Ai would endure anything as long as he could protect the new policies.

However, he hadn’t expected Lu Chengru to openly take Gu Ai away while he was being punished, and for Gu Ai to stay at Prince Yi Residence without any indication of returning.

Could today’s refusal to accept punishment be a precursor to future defiance against imperial authority?

The emperor’s maneuvering had been entirely based on Gu Ai’s determination to push forward reforms, indifferent to his own life.

But if this previously steadfast and solitary official suddenly began to value his life, there could be mutual destruction in the end, threatening even imperial authority and dignity.

With these thoughts in mind, the emperor could not enjoy the Lantern Festival banquet.

Anxious, he decided to send someone to investigate.

After all, he still reside with the imperial uncle, so it was only appropriate and suitable to send a prince.

This inevitably stirred up a lot of trouble.

The Crown Prince couldn’t be involved in such muddy waters, and the First Prince was too reckless and brainless, leaving only the discreet and trouble-free Third Prince as the suitable choice.

Had Lu Liang returned any later, he might not have even made it home before being forcibly sent to Prince Yi Residence by the eunuch.

Everyone understood the underlying intentions, but no one mentioned them.

After exchanging a few polite words, they all took their seats.

Hearing Lu Liang mention he hadn’t eaten, Gu Ai, being courteous, pushed the plate of poorly fried glutinous rice balls toward him.

“This is simple home-cooked food.

If Your Highness doesn’t mind, please have some—” The Third Prince’s eyes instantly lit up.

Lu Deng, alarmed, sat up and was about to speak but was quickly calmed by Gu Ai’s reassuring hand under the table.

His face reddened, and he forgot most of what he was about to say.

In this world, he was still young, and his lover did not remember past events.

Even though there were occasional touches, they were limited to the wrist.

Hidden by the table, when Gu Ai pulled his hand down, it happened to fall right into his palm.

The little prince, protective of his food, blushed as he obediently let his warm hand be held, saying nothing more.

The gentle and easy-going Third Prince was not supposed to wolf down food like a barbarian.

Lu Liang maintained his composure, using his chopsticks elegantly, but his speed was so quick it left after images.

He barely had time to talk to them, his mouth constantly chewing.

The glutinous rice balls, fried and cooled on the outside, were still scalding hot inside.

Even Lu Deng felt concerned watching him, but Lu Liang devoured them like a storm, tears from the heat streaming down his face as he calmly smiled at Gu Ai in gratitude.

Lu Deng suddenly felt that the persona assigned to him by the system wasn’t so bad after all.

At least being “gentle and carefree” wouldn’t have allowed him to bring Gu Ai back from kneeling at the palace gates to the warm mansion.

Even when scorched to tears, he couldn’t take flight.

A small sense of satisfaction fluttered in his chest, blossoming into a sweet, itchy joy.

Lu Deng pursed his lips and looked over.

Gu Ai’s gaze met his, and the candlelight reflected in his deep black eyes as he casually exchanged pleasantries with the Third Prince.

His eyes, however, remained fixed on Lu Deng, filled with warm affection.

Lu Deng’s face grew slightly warm, but he raised his head and smiled back.

Not getting any fried glutinous rice balls no longer felt so bad.

Glutinous rice balls as snacks were filling, especially when they were hot and sticky.

After devouring an entire plate, Lu Liang was too full to eat another bite.

Holding his stomach, he suppressed the urge to burp and thanked Gu Ai profusely.

“I was almost starved to death on my journey through the snow.

Thank you for saving me, Minister Gu.

I am very grateful…” His tongue and lips had been burned to the point of numbness, making his speech a bit shaky.

But Gu Ai remained unfazed, raising his hand slightly as if to indicate it was nothing and saying with a smile, “Has Your Highness had enough?” Lu Liang blinked, nodding blankly.

“Good.” Gu Ai nodded approvingly and suddenly got up, leaving the study.

Lu Deng was about to follow but was gently pushed back into his seat while Gu Ai himself stepped outside.

He was gone for almost fifteen minutes.

Things took a strange turn, leaving the two imperial family members alone, staring at each other in confusion.

Just as Lu Deng’s system was about to suggest that he use his persona to beat up the protagonist for stealing his food, Gu Ai returned with another plate of freshly fried glutinous rice balls.

Freshly made, the rice balls still sizzled with oil.

They were topped with sesame seeds and sugar, accompanied by a small dish of honey and another of thick cream.

They were even more golden, crispy, and enticing than the previous batch, emitting a sweet and fragrant aroma.

Lu Liang, “…” “The previous batch was just practice—our mansion makes fresh glutinous rice balls, unlike the ones frozen by the common folk, so the fried ones taste better.

I was going to advise Your Highness to eat less, but seeing how much you enjoyed them, I couldn’t bear to stop you.” Gu Ai smiled and placed the new batch before the little prince, pulling out a bowl of bright red hawthorn soup.

“And this is freshly made by the kitchen.

I figured Your Highness might be too full, so there’s no need for you to force it.” Lu Liang, “…” Lu Deng’s small sense of satisfaction suddenly expanded into an overwhelming joy.

He grabbed Gu Ai’s sleeve and smiled uncontrollably.

It looked so lovely.

Carefully watching the young prince’s delighted expression, Gu Ai rubbed Lu Chengru’s head and nodded with a smile, “Alright, enjoy your meal.” The Third Prince ran off in tears.

The holiday season was considered over by the seventeenth day of the New Year.

The heavy snow that had fallen all winter finally showed signs of clearing, and households swept away the snow to welcome spring, making the market lively again.

It had been several years since the new policies were implemented, and the changes among the people were noticeable.

Streets that were once dirty and crowded had become clean and orderly.

While the place was bustling, it wasn’t chaotic; people went about their business peacefully.

No bullies took advantage of others, and there were few beggars holding their children on the road.

Though the capital’s prosperity was a factor, it was far better than the decline of the past.

Gu Ai still had official duties to attend to, and Lu Chengru couldn’t keep the prime minister of the dynasty hidden away in the remote palace corner.

Once Gu Ai’s leg fully recovered, Lu Chengru personally escorted him back to the prime minister’s residence, moving in with him.

His behavior had become increasingly refined with practice.

He embodied the image of an arrogant, domineering figure, protecting Gu Ai firmly and unreasonably, leaving others with no options.

Even the prime minister, who had previously stayed away from political schemes, seemed to have been influenced by the young prince.

He began utilizing his status to eliminate opponents and establish his position, gradually connecting with officials who supported the new policies.

The power of the noble families was weakened layer by layer, and the false accusations against him were one by one dismissed.

The two sides’ struggle became increasingly balanced.

Rumor had it that the emperor couldn’t sleep at night, having smashed down several reports in the study.

Lu Deng ignored all of this.

He used his position to protect Gu Ai while secretly discussing the matter of seizing the throne with the protagonist.

Unfortunately, the protagonist’s system kept a tight leash on him, and the two barely had private conversations.

By the time spring arrived in March, he still hadn’t received a definitive response.

However, Gu Ai’s life had been extended.

“Is the prince not studying today?” Finally given the opportunity to be in high spirits, the officials had been smiling broadly for days.

Upon seeing Lu Chengru, they become even more familiar.

As soon as he entered, they quickly stepped forward to take his cloak, “The prime minister mentioned that he plans to test your knowledge when he returns from court personally…” “When… when did Sir say that?” Lu Chengru’s expression changed slightly.

Taking the handkerchief to wipe his face, he hurried toward the study.

The little prince protected the prime minister tightly.

The servants, now much more amiable, followed him with a smile, helping him carry things.

“He mentioned it this morning.

Seeing that you were sound asleep, he didn’t wake you, assuming you had agreed.” Lu Deng paused mid-step, coughed lightly, and sighed heavily, accepting his fate as he dove into the study.

Having recovered fully at the prime minister’s residence, all his injuries were completely healed.

Lately, he had become interested in firearms and archery of the ancient world.

He had become quite proficient after learning from skilled soldiers for a few days.

He practiced every morning before returning home, unaware that he would be tested today.

Ancient texts were even more challenging than his modern coursework.

Even with the system’s help, passing wasn’t guaranteed.

While the servants cheerfully went to prepare tea for him, Lu Deng crammed furiously, trying to memorize an article.

Just then, he heard the commotion of Gu Ai returning outside.

It was still chilly in March, but the first signs of spring were appearing.

The early morning court sessions had been moved earlier, so it also ended earlier.

Lu Deng couldn’t resist setting his book down and quickly went to greet him.

Gu Ai was handing his cloak to a servant.

Seeing Lu Deng, he smiled and waved him over gently, “What have you been doing at home?

Aren’t you bored being alone?” “I practiced martial arts and was just reading just now.” Lu Deng blinked and answered, catching the unreadable expression in those eyes.

He stepped forward, letting Gu Ai hold his hand as they walked back into the residence.

Gu Ai’s expression remained calm, and his tone was gentle.

At first glance, nothing seemed amiss.

Lu Deng hesitated before asking, “Sir, are you going to test me?” “Hmm?” Gu Ai seemed preoccupied.

Hearing the question, he straightened up, met those clear eyes, and smiled, shaking his head gently, “Not today.

I’m letting you off the hook so you can relax.” The young prince was intelligent, though he didn’t enjoy studying.

He was more talented than many who had studied for decades.

Gu Ai couldn’t bear to see him waste his talents, so he taught him every day, but his stance often softened.

On any other day, hearing that there would be no test, Lu Chengru would have unconsciously shown joy.

Today, however, there was no such reaction.

Gu Ai felt puzzled, raising an eyebrow to speak, but Lu Chengru grabbed his sleeve, “Sir, is everything alright in the court?” Gu Ai was taken aback, stopping in his tracks and looking at the overly perceptive young prince before him.

Lu Deng tightened his grip on his sleeve.

The death sentence that should have occurred in March of the original plot has not occurred.

The noble families were preoccupied with their own troubles, hence had not made any significant moves.

Instead, Gu Ai was still alive and also dealt with those families thoroughly.

He still had the previous emperor’s decree granting him land and soldiers, a solid foundation in the court, and the support of the people.

If he refused to follow the rules, none of those aristocratic families could do anything about him.

Logically, there shouldn’t be any issues right now… “It’s nothing.

Don’t worry.” After a moment of silence, Gu Ai smiled at him, raising his hand to ruffle the young prince’s hair, “I’ve just been a bit tired lately.

I didn’t realize I was distracted.” Lu Deng frowned but said nothing further.

Since he had shown interest in court affairs, Gu Ai had patiently taught him, never hiding any information about court battles.

This was the first time he had been vague and evasive.

It must be a serious matter if even Gu Ai couldn’t manage this situation.

Lu Deng asked the system to investigate while he accompanied Gu Ai back to the study.

Not long after, the system reported back with an urgent mechanical tone, “Host, someone in the court is accusing you of the previous incident of riding through the streets, saying you still owed fifteen strokes of punishment.

Someone is using this to accuse the target of lax enforcement and undermining the rules…” Lu Deng’s heart leaped, and he suddenly remembered what he had forgotten.

It had been so long ago that he barely recalled it.

At the time, Gu Ai had said they would wait until he healed to administer the punishment.

His injuries had taken nearly three months to recover, and now that he was even practicing martial arts with ease, it seemed unreasonable not to proceed with the punishment.

Mistakes should be corrected, and since the law was established, it was only right for him to be punished.

Looking at the figure deep in thought at the desk, Lu Deng hesitated for a moment before quietly approaching, “Sir, did you forget about the flogging?” “Who told you that?” Gu Ai’s heart sank, and he met the young prince’s startled gaze.

Taking a deep breath, he softened his tone, “We’ll discuss this later.

You’ve practiced martial arts today, haven’t you?

Go rest for a while; it’ll be time for lunch soon.” The more he avoided the subject, the more Lu Deng was convinced.

Straightening up, he said urgently, “Sir!

If someone is using this to attack the new laws—” “That’s my concern, not yours.” Gu Ai cut him off again, his expression serious, “Chengru, this matter is directed at me.

There’s no need for you to get involved.

Go rest.” Seeing his resolute expression, Lu Deng nodded obediently and returned to his room.

The day passed quickly.

A small issue, like fifteen strokes of punishment, was not significant.

Still, it had become a weak point for the usually just and fair chief minister, leading to constant attacks.

The court was deadlocked over these mere fifteen strokes for two days in a row.

Gu Ai remained silent but firmly refused to enforce the punishment unless the Ministry of Justice did it.

The nobles insisted he was trying to protect Lu Deng, demanding public punishment as an example.

The arguments escalated, and the emperor remained silent, seemingly indifferent, letting the issue drag on.

“If the people learn that the supposedly impartial Minister Gu is now showing favoritism, neglecting law enforcement, and delivering unjust verdicts, how many of them would still believe in the new laws?” Duke Jiang Yang sneered, crossed his arms, and stared at Gu Ai with a hint of malice: “If this is made public, can Minister Gu still claim to be righteous and upright?” “The prime minister himself said it’s only fifteen strokes.

Since the rules are set, they cannot be abandoned.” The Minister of Rites stroked his beard, nodding in agreement, “It’s ridiculous that we’ve been arguing over such a small matter for so many days…” “Everyone knows it should be punished.

If Minister Gu continues to avoid it, it will seem inappropriate.

People might even think he’s covering up and protecting someone—” “In the past, Minister Gu never showed leniency when punishing officials or royals.

Why is he hesitating now?” “If this incident is overlooked, can ours be excused too?

If law enforcement is lax, why should we be the only ones punished?” … The court clung to this point, relentlessly criticizing.

Gu Ai’s expression grew darker as he turned his gaze to the figure on the throne.

The emperor had remained silent, his eyes coldly fixed on Gu Ai with a mocking smile.

Gu Ai’s heart grew heavier.

He understood what they were trying to do.

When the emperor was still the Crown Prince, he had been punished for breaking the law, whipped publicly while wearing the imperial robes, and exiled for several years.

The emperor had always resented him for this, and the recent attacks likely had his support.

In their eyes, if Lu Chengru were removed, they would effectively cripple Gu Ai.

Letting the Ministry of Justice carry out the punishment would not be an issue, but the executioners stationed at the street corner were experienced floggers.

Gu Ai could almost imagine the severity of those fifteen strokes.

Lu Chengru’s life will be at risk.

Though punishment was warranted, when so many were determined to use this flogging as a means to separate Lu Chengru from him, he could not back down even an inch.

“Minister Gu… is it possible that you decided not to punish him?” The court was deadlocked.

The emperor’s cold smile deepened as he slowly spoke, “If that’s the case, I will issue an edict exempting Imperial Uncle from punishment.

It’s not a big deal, after all…” “Your Majesty!” Gu Ai’s heart raced, his blood almost surging backward.

He stepped forward, “Your Majesty, do you truly intend to do this?” He had never clashed with the emperor, knowing the new emperor had his faults but was not foolish.

He had ambition.

Even if he sacrificed his life, the new policies would remain intact.

But if this decree was issued, it would signal that human intervention could override and destroy the rule of law.

In the future, no matter what happened, a simple edict could absolve anyone, reducing the new policies to mere paper.

The emperor stared at him coldly, “Isn’t this what you wanted, Minister Gu?” Gu Ai tasted blood in his mouth.

Taking a deep breath, he slowly exhaled, “Very well.” If the new policies were being hindered because of him, then he only needed to disappear.

Gu Ai removed his official hat, placing his seal on the steps as he slowly unbuttoned his robe.

The emperor’s eyes remained cold, watching him with a cruel smile.

The court gradually fell silent.

Gu Ai had just unbuttoned half of his robe when a figure suddenly rushed in from outside, stumbling and kneeling, “Your Majesty!

Prince Yi has gone to the street corner to receive his punishment!” As his words echoed, the court fell into a dead silence.

Everyone looked at one another in shock.

Gu Ai’s heart pounded.

Grabbing his hat and seal, he rushed out without a word of farewell.

He could die.

If Lu Chengru really died, what would he do?

Resign and retire to the mountains, living a dazed life, or… The emperor’s cold, ruthless gaze remained vivid in his mind.

He had a decree from the previous emperor, one he had never used.

It was a matter of national security, something he had intended to take to the grave.

He had thought that the emperor’s flaws were minor, but now he saw otherwise.

Gu Ai’s expression grew grave.

Mounting his horse, he galloped off, accompanied by another rider who seemed to appear from nowhere.

The Third Prince, pulling the reins, whispered, “Minister Gu, don’t worry!

The executioners have been replaced, and the prince was informed.

He’ll be fine…” Hearing his confident assurance, Gu Ai’s tension gradually eased.

He slowed his horse and turned back, “Is what you say true, Your Highness?” “It’s true.

The Prince didn’t want you to worry, so he asked me to inform you.” Seeing him calm down, the Third Prince sighed in relief, dismounting as they walked quickly toward the bustling market where horses were not allowed, “Don’t worry, Minister Gu.

The people were carefully chosen.

They have their schemes, and we have ours… you’re just too straightforward to imagine such tactics…” Gu Ai’s chest still churned, but he barely heard the details.

He hastily moved forward until he saw the crowd gathered around the thin figure.

The executioner raised the stick high, ready to strike.

Lu Deng had activated his pain shield, and the strokes, though loud, didn’t hurt.

Keeping his head down, he quietly endured the punishment.

Hearing the crowd stir, he looked up and met Gu Ai’s deep, dark eyes.

The Third Prince was still trying to calm him, his voice reassuring, “Don’t worry, Minister Gu.

The people I chose are careful.

There will be no harm…” Before he could finish, the little prince, who had tied up all the elite soldiers in charge of guarding him in the prime minister’s mansion before jumping out of the house, became nervous.

Facing the prime minister’s gaze, he gritted his teeth and lowered his head.

Just as the board fell high, he couldn’t avoid biting his tongue, and a thin line of blood trickled from his mouth.