Chapter Three: The Examination

Inside the Eastern Palace, Su Wan’er had disappeared somewhere. Unable to find his sister-in-law, Chang Le had no intention of lingering and was about to take her leave when Li Chengqian stopped her.

“Chang Le, you know I’ve always cared for you. You must be honest with me. Today, you truly weren’t just defending that scoundrel Su Chen for your sister-in-law’s sake, were you?”

Irritated by his repeated questioning, Chang Le put her hands on her hips and snapped, “Brother, what do you take me for? If it’s true, it’s true; if not, then no. How could I lie? Besides, I think young Master Su is just a little wild by nature, but he’s nowhere near the scoundrel you’re making him out to be.”

Mentioning Su Chen made Li Chengqian’s anger surge uncontrollably. What was worse, his own sister was defending him, which only added to his fury. He waved dismissively and said, “What do you know? That boy is a black sheep in Chang’an. Alright, alright, go back and rest well. Don’t tell Father or Mother about this, lest they worry.”

After Chang Le left, Li Chengqian paced the study, growing increasingly puzzled. Everyone in Chang’an’s aristocracy knew exactly what kind of man Su Chen was. Before he was married, Su Chen often ran around the city with Cheng Chumo, Zhangsun Chong, and Li Huairen.

Their days were spent in the pleasure quarters, frequenting brothels and music houses, and it wasn’t uncommon for them to get drunk and assault patrolling guards. He had thought that was the height of debauchery, yet after the engagement with the Su family, Su Chen had entered this circle and played even more recklessly, nearly causing a fatal incident — the very epitome of a degenerate.

If not for the Eastern Palace’s protection, his legs would have been broken long ago by the emperor. Could such a thoroughly despicable man truly reform within just a dozen days? Li Chengqian would sooner believe a sow could climb a tree than accept that.

After much contemplation, a sudden plan sprang to his mind.

The next day, Su Chen was dragged out of bed early by his father. His injuries were not serious, and after a day of cold and hot compresses and a good night’s sleep, he was able to stand. Hearing that Li Chengqian had sent three imperial physicians to test his medical skills, Su Chen was furious—such a trivial matter had disturbed his sweet dreams.

Reluctantly, his father seated him in the front hall, where three middle-aged physicians with graying beards awaited. These men were of eighth-rank officials, and being in a fifth-rank official’s residence made them somewhat uneasy.

Knowing these men had come to cause trouble, Su Chen was unceremonious. With the maids’ help, he washed his face and rinsed his mouth before lazily nibbling on pastries, showing no intention of engaging them.

The sun was nearly at its zenith, and the three had already left for the privy four or five times, yet Su Chen remained silent.

They exchanged glances until the one surnamed Chen finally mustered courage and said, “We have received the Crown Prince’s orders to assess Master Su’s medical skills. MightI'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that request.