By Tea Time Translations
On this day, as Pei You'an continued his journey toward the capital, he had just narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. Simultaneously, thousands of miles away in the Zhen household in Quanzhou, a rather unusual day was about to unfold.
Throughout the past year, many areas situated between Yunnan and the capital had been severely affected by the ongoing conflicts. Farmlands lay barren, and the populace sought refuge elsewhere. While Quanzhou retained much of its former prosperity, it wasn't entirely immune to the effects. The war required funding, and the imperial court's gaze naturally fell upon wealthy regions like Quanzhou. Three times within a year, the authorities had imposed additional taxes by force. Coupled with layers of extortion from the upper levels, the burden had trickled down to every household. The wealthy had to contribute more, and the poor found no escape. Complaints were voiced incessantly, and the tax collectors were equally exasperated.
At first, the common people followed the ongoing war with a sense of curiosity, debating which side, the emperor or the Third Prince, would emerge victorious. But as time went on, the desire for a swift end to the conflict began to overshadow all else. It didn't matter who won; they simply yearned for the days of peace and stability to return.
In the afternoon, a messenger from the local authorities arrived at the Zhen household. At first, they thought it was yet another visit to collect additional taxes, something that had become a routine annoyance over the past year. The news of this visitor irked Zhang Da, who presumed it was another tax collector. He scolded the messenger, “Why the commotion? Don't wake up the old lady.” However, the messenger replied, “It's Governor-General Gao himself! He comes with an imperial edict!”
Zhang Da was taken aback and asked, “You said what? Governor-General? Imperial edict?”
The messenger nodded eagerly and confirmed, “Yes, he claims to have an imperial edict from the emperor, and he orders everyone to come out and receive it.”
Governor-Generals were responsible for administering an entire province, and they usually maintained an air of aloofness and authority. Though Zhang Da often dealt with local officials, he had never crossed paths with someone of this high a rank. To hear that the Governor-General had come personally to their household was startling news.
Some time earlier, rumors had already been circulating in Quanzhou that the Third Prince was on the verge of capturing the capital city. When Zhang Da first heard this, he wondered which emperor the people referred to. However, his attention was quickly diverted. He grabbed the messenger and asked, "Has it been said why he's here?"
The messenger shook his head, lacking information on the purpose of the visit. Zhang Da promptly sent someone to inform the elderly lady in the household. He adjusted his attire and hurried to the entrance. Once he arrived at the gate, he noticed a line of about a dozen official sedan chairs, with a grand four-sided sedan chair in the middle. Surrounding it were local government officials and a group of attendants carrying ceremonial items. The display attracted the attention of numerous bystanders. Feeling a sense of unease amidst the spectacle, Zhang Da did his best to suppress his anxiety.
Kneeling before the steps at the entrance, he hastily said, "I apologize for not properly receiving Governor-General Gao and the other esteemed officials. Please forgive this unworthy reception."
The curtains of the grand official sedan were drawn aside, revealing the smiling face of the Fujian Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan. He cheerfully said, "No need for formalities. I'm here by imperial decree. Your household is about to experience a momentous event!"
.......
Mrs. Hu led Zhen Yaoting to greet Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan and his delegation, guiding them into the main hall with utmost respect.
Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan began, "King Shun'an has rebelled against the law and has been executed now. Our new emperor has ascended the throne, ushering in a new era of stability. We have dispatched proclamations to be posted at city gates across the empire to announce these events and to console the hearts of our people. I bear another imperial decree, which the Zhen family should hear."
Mrs. Hu and her family knelt as they listened intently. The gist of the decree was that the Zhen family, known as a respected local clan through generations, had contributed to public welfare by building roads and bridges, offering disaster relief, and constructing granaries. Their good deeds had reached the heavens, and the imperial court was eager to reward and honor them. The decree included the presentation of a special plaque, an amount of official funds, and an invitation for the Zhen family's daughter to travel to the capital to meet the emperor in person. Additional rewards would be communicated later.
When Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan finished reading the decree, the Zhen family was left in awe. They were overwhelmed with joy. Old Mrs. Hu came back to her senses, kowtowed and thanked him, feeling half-joyed and worried, not quite sure.
After Pei You'an left, the old lady has been paying attention to the news outside for more than a year. A few days ago, she finally heard that King Yunzhong was about to enter the capital. She breathed a sigh of relief and began to count the days in her heart while waiting for Pei You'an. She had been anticipating Pei Youan's arrival to discuss the marriage proposal, but now, in a surprising twist, they received this imperial decree first.
Despite her life's experiences and wisdom, Mrs. Hu was uncertain about the true meaning of the imperial decree. She suspected it was related to a noble from the new dynasty who had taken an interest in her granddaughter, but she remained in the dark about the identity of this noble or how he had become acquainted with her granddaughter.
Mrs. Hu managed to suppress her doubts, expressed her gratitude to Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan, and inquired about the specific reason for her granddaughter's summons to the capital.
With the recent change in dynasties and his position as a high-ranking official, Gao Huaiyuan was especially sensitive to the situation. He discerned the implications behind the imperial decree and, therefore, had personally come to the Zhen family in Quanzhou to deliver the decree. Upon Mrs. Hu's inquiries, he abandoned his official tone and offered a more cordial response. He said, "Madam, there's no need for excessive formality in front of me. You should feel at ease. From my perspective, the new dynasty brings new opportunities, and the Emperor has recognized the Zhen family's virtues, which is why they have received this special reward. I suspect that your family will soon have the honor of hosting a noblewoman from the court. In the future, I hope you can guide and support her."
Mrs. Hu graciously agreed, and Gao Huaiyuan continued, "The imperial decree clearly states that your granddaughter should travel to the capital without delay. I have been summoned to pay my respects to the Emperor in the capital, and I hope to bring your family's representative along. Rest assured, the journey will be carefully attended to, and I guarantee her safety."
After expressing her thanks, Mrs. Hu promptly gathered her daughter-in-law Mengshi and granddaughter Jiafu to share the news. She explained the situation in detail.
Mengshi was puzzled and hoped that the favor had been granted by Emperor to Lord Pei. However, Jiafu, who had been quietly listening, had a growing sense of intuition.
It couldn't possibly be Pei Youan.
Given his character, he wouldn't orchestrate such an elaborate plan. The person behind this must be Xiao Yintang.
As far as Jiafu knew, King Yunzhong had indeed become the Emperor, and Xiao Yintang had risen to a prominent position in the new court. It was evident that despite over a year passing, he still harbored a relentless pursuit of her.
This served as confirmation of her worst fears. In the past, the mere thought of Xiao Yintang would fill her with dread and repulsion. However, perhaps due to numbness or indifference, she no longer felt the same terror. Even when faced with such devastating news, it failed to evoke the expected fear. Instead, she listened quietly to the discussions between her grandmother and mother.
They ultimately decided to send Jiafu to the capital in compliance with the imperial decree and await further instructions. There wasn't much else they could do. The one issuing these orders was the new Emperor.
The following day, under her grandmother's numerous admonitions, Jiafu, accompanied by her mother Mengshi and Zhang Da, set off on the road to the capital alongside Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan. As they left Quanzhou behind, Jiafu realized that the serene life she had known over the past year, which had felt almost like a stolen respite, was now fading into the distance, likely never to return.
On this day, it had been one year and twenty-three days since Pei Youan's last departure.
.....
Gao Huaiyuan rushed to the capital just before the new emperor's coronation ceremony, making the journey as if his tail were on fire. He finally arrived on this evening, with only three days left until the coronation. He changed into official attire without catching his breath, impatient to wait until the next day. He immediately went to the Ministry of Rites to report the Zhen family's matter, while Jiafu accompanied her mother to their home.
Before leaving the capital after the previous marriage proposal fell through, the Zhen family had kept a house with an elderly couple to look after it. Over the past year, the elderly couple had maintained the property well. During the chaotic days when King Yun entered the city, they had kept the doors tightly closed and suffered no losses. After the chaos subsided, they were initially afraid to open the doors. However, in recent days, they heard people saying that there was a new emperor, and apart from nighttime curfews, the city remained lively during the day, much like it used to be. This gave them relief. Unexpectedly, their master arrived today, and they welcomed him with joy, settling him in. By nightfall, the next day, someone from the palace came. Leading the group was a young-looking eunuch named Cui Yinshui, the godson of the chief eunuch Li Yuangui. He was capable, adept at understanding superiors' thoughts, and somewhat opportunistic. However, he remained loyal to Li Yuangui and the previous emperor, Xiao Lie. During the time when Xiao Lie was the emperor, Cui Yinshui had been extremely prominent in the palace. But later, when Xiao Lie fell seriously ill and died before reaching the age of fifty, his successor, Xiao Yintang, seemed to harbor great resentment towards this eunuch. Not long after, he found a pretext to have him beaten to death.
Cui Yinshui, who is still with his godfather, just entered the palace and has a bright future ahead of him. How could he know his fate in the future? At this moment, he is smiling, and after receiving the rewards brought by the eunuchs, he reads a royal edict to Madam Meng and Jiafu, who are kneeling below. The royal edict praises the Zhen family's daughter, comparing her to historical figures such as Ban Ji and Xie Ting, and mentions that when the crown prince ascends, she will be named a concubine. Then, he encourages her and finally allows her to stay temporarily in the capital to await further recognition.
Madam Meng had already assumed that Pei You'an would become her son-in-law, and she wanted to marry her daughter to him. Throughout the journey, she held on to a glimmer of hope, expecting that the emperor would choose her daughter for Pei You'an. Unexpectedly, she received this kind of news in the morning, leaving her in a state of shock.
Cui Yinshui thought she was stunned with joy and said with a smile, "Madam Meng, why haven't you accepted the imperial edict for your daughter yet? Your family will soon have a noblewoman, congratulations!"
Madam Meng couldn't find words to express herself, so she looked at her daughter, who said, "Thank you, Master Cui, and I appreciate your efforts. I would like to ask Master Cui to convey a message for me. I know my own shortcomings and cannot accept such great favor from the royal family. I humbly request the emperor to rescind this decree."
Cui Yinshui was taken aback and couldn't believe his ears. "This is a great honor. Are you really unwilling?"
Jiafu replied, "Master Cui, it's not that I'm unwilling, but I cannot accept such a generous reward without merit. Why would the emperor bestow such a great favor upon me? I have dared to guess that it might be related to an incident in the past. Once, there was an incident in Quanzhou where the imperial guards arrived, locked down the entire city, and arrested people everywhere. A nobleman from our family entered our house, and in the end, I was taken away in a carriage with him, protecting him as we left the city. The situation at that time was extremely dangerous, and I still remember it vividly. I dare to speculate that the nobleman of that time might be the current crown prince."
Cui Yinshui remained silent. The reason for the recent imperial edict was clear to him. He thought that the crown prince had taken an interest in the Zhen family's daughter, and this had been presented to the emperor. He had been curious before coming to the palace and was not sure what kind of beauty to expect. However, after seeing her, he became more certain of his speculation. But it was not appropriate to say this outright. Hearing the tone of the Zhen family's daughter, he couldn't be sure if she was genuinely unwilling or just pretending. He hesitated for a moment and then frowned, "Miss Zhen, do you know what you are saying? If you do not accept this, it is considered defiance of the imperial edict. Have you thought it through?"
Mistress Meng's heart was in turmoil. She was about to intercede for Jiafu, but Jiafu knelt down and said, "I dare not defy the imperial decree. As I mentioned earlier, I'm well aware of my humble status and unworthiness of such great favor from the imperial family. That's why I humbly request the Emperor to rescind the decree."
Cui Yinshui was astonished and thought for a moment. He said, "Alright, this is a first for me. I'm not sure about such matters. Since you're so determined, I'll go back and relay your message. It will be up to you..."
He initially wanted to say, "It will depend on your fate," but he held back the words. Without even drinking his tea, he turned and left with his attendants.
Once the eunuchs left, Mistress Meng immediately led Jiafu inside, closed the door, and said, "Afu, don't be afraid. The last time Young Lord came, he gave your grandmother a piece of jade, saying it was left to him by his father on his deathbed, and he left it with your grandmother as a keepsake. Before we set out on this journey, your grandmother gave me the jade and said that if we no longer needed it, I should find an opportunity to return it to Young Lord. Even though we don't know his current whereabouts, having this keepsake might help us. I will go find Madam Pei and see if she can help us intervene and resolve this matter."
Mistress Meng's heart was in chaos, and she was about to leave. But Jiafu stopped her, shook her head, and said, "Mother, back then, Young Lord only spoke casually, and now so much time has passed. Who knows if he has changed his mind? Let's not involve the Pei family in this matter to avoid causing them trouble. I'm not afraid. We've already spoken our piece, so we'll see how things unfold. I'm just unwilling to marry his son. It's not as though he would take my life for it, would he?"
Mistress Meng looked at her daughter, who appeared calm, and was left in a daze. That night, she tossed and turned, unable to sleep. The next day, someone from the palace arrived once again. This time, in addition to the eunuch Cui Yinshui, there was a middle-aged eunuch with an amiable demeanor. Mistress Meng learned that he was a high-ranking eunuch by the name of Li, who served closely to the current Emperor. He seemed friendly, and his purpose didn't seem confrontational, which slightly calmed her nerves.
Li Yuanji asked Madame Meng to bring Jiafu and cleared the room of any other people. Observing Jiafu for a moment, he asked, "My godson has reported your situation to me. I'm afraid you're not thinking clearly. I didn't report it right away. I wanted to see you in person first. How could you be so bold? Such a great opportunity that so many people dream of, and you dare to defy it? Have you thought this through?"
His tone wasn't light, but it wasn't heavy either, making it hard to discern his emotions.
.....
Jiafu knew that the chief eunuch Li Yuanji who served Emperor was known for his straightforward nature and wasn't a cunning person. She composed herself and said, "Thank you very much for your understanding, Chief Eunuch Li. In the Emperor's decree, not a single word explains why such a great favor was bestowed upon me. I've been thinking it over, and I recalled something from the past. There was an incident in Quanzhou where the Imperial Guards arrived, locked down the entire city, and were arresting people everywhere. A noble person entered our house, and in the end, I was brought onto a carriage, accompanying him as he escaped the city. At that time, the situation was extremely perilous, and the memory is still vivid in my mind. I dare to speculate that the noble person from back then might be the Crown Prince now."
Li Yuanji remained silent.
Jiafu knelt before him and continued, "Chief Eunuch Li, previously, during the purge of traitors by the Emperor, I heard from people in Quanzhou that the Emperor's army, while passing through, treated the common people with great respect, not harming a hair on their heads. His kindness towards the people is well-known throughout the land, and I deeply admire it. Yesterday, I also told Chief Eunuch Cui that I understand my own limitations, and I would never disgrace the royal family. If the Emperor bestowed such a great favor upon my family because of the events from that year, I would like to humbly request that you convey my plea to the Emperor to grant another form of grace."
After finishing her words, Jiafu touched her forehead to the ground and remained in that position, unable to rise.
Li Yuanji watched her, his expression showing some surprise. After pondering for a while, he said, "Enough. Initially, I thought you were speaking thoughtlessly out of ignorance. That's why I came to see for myself. But now that I see you are aware, I'll go back and deliver your message. Whether it is granted or not will depend on the Emperor's will."
....
Li Yuanji returned to the palace, where Xiao Lie was still busy. When he finally found a moment to rest in the evening, he recalled and asked, "Have you gone to check on the girl from the Zhen family? Even though the Zhen family once assisted Yintang, she needs to have acceptable qualities if she is to be a side consort."
Li Yuanji replied, "I report to Your Majesty that the Zhen girl has no issues with her qualities. However, there is one matter that I am unsure whether to report."
Xiao Lie, flipping through some documents, said, "Go on."
Li Yuanji continued, "I went to see the girl and listened to her words. I will repeat what she said to Your Majesty." He then recited Jiafu's words verbatim.
Xiao Lie, initially engrossed in his documents, gradually stopped and appeared slightly displeased. He huffed, "So, she is not pleased with my arrangement?"
Li Yuanji said, "I'm not certain, which is why I brought her words to Your Majesty. Your Majesty is wise; you will decide how to handle it. She's just a girl from a merchant family; her insights are limited."
Xiao Lie pondered for a moment and said lightly, "Let it go. If she's unwilling and we have to give her a high title, it would be inappropriate for us to force her. Tomorrow, go visit her again, offer her additional gifts, and send her back."
Li Yuanji smiled and said, "Your Majesty is wise. I understand."
"Your Majesty!"
A woman's voice suddenly came from the entrance of the hall. Li Yuanji looked up and saw the Princess of the Zhou Kingdom, dressed in magnificent palace attire, walking gracefully toward him. Behind her was a palace maid carrying a meal, and she revealed a smile and greeted Li Yuanji before going on her way.
The Zhou Princess arrived at Xiao Lie's side and stood still, casting a glance at Li Yuanji. Li Yuanji quickly retreated out of the way. The palace maid set the bowl and cup down and left as well.
With no one else present, the Zhou Princess softly said, "Your Majesty, you didn't return to the palace last night. I heard from Yintang that you were reviewing documents until dawn. I was worried, so I came to check on you. Take a break and have something to eat. Is that all right?" She moved behind him, gently massaging his shoulders.
Xiao Lie smiled and said, "Thank you for your concern. The New Dynasty has just been established, and there's inevitably more work to be done. After this busy period passes, I'll have more free time. You should return to the palace for now. I'll come back later once I'm done with these documents."
The Zhou Princess slowly exhaled a breath and stopped her actions, flashing a smile. "Then I'll return. Your Majesty, don't overexert yourself."
Xiao Lie nodded and watched her as she gradually walked away. When she was leaving, the Zhou Princess suddenly stopped and turned around. She said, "Your Majesty, it's not that I deliberately eavesdropped, but I happened to come to the hall and unintentionally overheard a few sentences just now. That girl from the Zhen family is truly disrespectful. She relies on the fact that she once escorted Yintang out of the city and doesn't seem to hold you, Your Majesty, in high regard. Why are you so lenient with her?"
Xiao Lie raised his head and glanced at her, saying, "In your opinion, what should be done then?"
The Zhou Princess replied, "She is clearly disobeying your orders! There's no need to appoint her as my son's side consort. If she refuses, there are plenty of other people who would be willing. Place her in the laundry department for a few days and see if she still dares to be so audacious. I don't believe she'll continue to be so defiant."
Xiao Lie furrowed his brows and said, "Never mind. She's just a commoner and doesn't understand the rules. There's no need to argue with her. Let this matter rest. You may go now."
"Your Majesty!"
The Zhou Princess was about to speak, but Li Yuanji hurriedly entered and bowed. "Your Majesty, the Lady of the Pei Clan from the Duke Wei's residence is here, seeking an audience with Your Majesty."
Xiao Lie was stunned and said, "Where is Madam?"
"Still waiting at the entrance of Huayang Palace."
Xiao Lie immediately put down his pen and stood up: "Quickly, welcome her in!"
By Tea Time Translations
On this day, as Pei You'an continued his journey toward the capital, he had just narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. Simultaneously, thousands of miles away in the Zhen household in Quanzhou, a rather unusual day was about to unfold.
Throughout the past year, many areas situated between Yunnan and the capital had been severely affected by the ongoing conflicts. Farmlands lay barren, and the populace sought refuge elsewhere. While Quanzhou retained much of its former prosperity, it wasn't entirely immune to the effects. The war required funding, and the imperial court's gaze naturally fell upon wealthy regions like Quanzhou. Three times within a year, the authorities had imposed additional taxes by force. Coupled with layers of extortion from the upper levels, the burden had trickled down to every household. The wealthy had to contribute more, and the poor found no escape. Complaints were voiced incessantly, and the tax collectors were equally exasperated.
At first, the common people followed the ongoing war with a sense of curiosity, debating which side, the emperor or the Third Prince, would emerge victorious. But as time went on, the desire for a swift end to the conflict began to overshadow all else. It didn't matter who won; they simply yearned for the days of peace and stability to return.
In the afternoon, a messenger from the local authorities arrived at the Zhen household. At first, they thought it was yet another visit to collect additional taxes, something that had become a routine annoyance over the past year. The news of this visitor irked Zhang Da, who presumed it was another tax collector. He scolded the messenger, “Why the commotion? Don't wake up the old lady.” However, the messenger replied, “It's Governor-General Gao himself! He comes with an imperial edict!”
Zhang Da was taken aback and asked, “You said what? Governor-General? Imperial edict?”
The messenger nodded eagerly and confirmed, “Yes, he claims to have an imperial edict from the emperor, and he orders everyone to come out and receive it.”
Governor-Generals were responsible for administering an entire province, and they usually maintained an air of aloofness and authority. Though Zhang Da often dealt with local officials, he had never crossed paths with someone of this high a rank. To hear that the Governor-General had come personally to their household was startling news.
Some time earlier, rumors had already been circulating in Quanzhou that the Third Prince was on the verge of capturing the capital city. When Zhang Da first heard this, he wondered which emperor the people referred to. However, his attention was quickly diverted. He grabbed the messenger and asked, "Has it been said why he's here?"
The messenger shook his head, lacking information on the purpose of the visit. Zhang Da promptly sent someone to inform the elderly lady in the household. He adjusted his attire and hurried to the entrance. Once he arrived at the gate, he noticed a line of about a dozen official sedan chairs, with a grand four-sided sedan chair in the middle. Surrounding it were local government officials and a group of attendants carrying ceremonial items. The display attracted the attention of numerous bystanders. Feeling a sense of unease amidst the spectacle, Zhang Da did his best to suppress his anxiety.
Kneeling before the steps at the entrance, he hastily said, "I apologize for not properly receiving Governor-General Gao and the other esteemed officials. Please forgive this unworthy reception."
The curtains of the grand official sedan were drawn aside, revealing the smiling face of the Fujian Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan. He cheerfully said, "No need for formalities. I'm here by imperial decree. Your household is about to experience a momentous event!"
.......
Mrs. Hu led Zhen Yaoting to greet Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan and his delegation, guiding them into the main hall with utmost respect.
Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan began, "King Shun'an has rebelled against the law and has been executed now. Our new emperor has ascended the throne, ushering in a new era of stability. We have dispatched proclamations to be posted at city gates across the empire to announce these events and to console the hearts of our people. I bear another imperial decree, which the Zhen family should hear."
Mrs. Hu and her family knelt as they listened intently. The gist of the decree was that the Zhen family, known as a respected local clan through generations, had contributed to public welfare by building roads and bridges, offering disaster relief, and constructing granaries. Their good deeds had reached the heavens, and the imperial court was eager to reward and honor them. The decree included the presentation of a special plaque, an amount of official funds, and an invitation for the Zhen family's daughter to travel to the capital to meet the emperor in person. Additional rewards would be communicated later.
When Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan finished reading the decree, the Zhen family was left in awe. They were overwhelmed with joy. Old Mrs. Hu came back to her senses, kowtowed and thanked him, feeling half-joyed and worried, not quite sure.
After Pei You'an left, the old lady has been paying attention to the news outside for more than a year. A few days ago, she finally heard that King Yunzhong was about to enter the capital. She breathed a sigh of relief and began to count the days in her heart while waiting for Pei You'an. She had been anticipating Pei Youan's arrival to discuss the marriage proposal, but now, in a surprising twist, they received this imperial decree first.
Despite her life's experiences and wisdom, Mrs. Hu was uncertain about the true meaning of the imperial decree. She suspected it was related to a noble from the new dynasty who had taken an interest in her granddaughter, but she remained in the dark about the identity of this noble or how he had become acquainted with her granddaughter.
Mrs. Hu managed to suppress her doubts, expressed her gratitude to Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan, and inquired about the specific reason for her granddaughter's summons to the capital.
With the recent change in dynasties and his position as a high-ranking official, Gao Huaiyuan was especially sensitive to the situation. He discerned the implications behind the imperial decree and, therefore, had personally come to the Zhen family in Quanzhou to deliver the decree. Upon Mrs. Hu's inquiries, he abandoned his official tone and offered a more cordial response. He said, "Madam, there's no need for excessive formality in front of me. You should feel at ease. From my perspective, the new dynasty brings new opportunities, and the Emperor has recognized the Zhen family's virtues, which is why they have received this special reward. I suspect that your family will soon have the honor of hosting a noblewoman from the court. In the future, I hope you can guide and support her."
Mrs. Hu graciously agreed, and Gao Huaiyuan continued, "The imperial decree clearly states that your granddaughter should travel to the capital without delay. I have been summoned to pay my respects to the Emperor in the capital, and I hope to bring your family's representative along. Rest assured, the journey will be carefully attended to, and I guarantee her safety."
After expressing her thanks, Mrs. Hu promptly gathered her daughter-in-law Mengshi and granddaughter Jiafu to share the news. She explained the situation in detail.
Mengshi was puzzled and hoped that the favor had been granted by Emperor to Lord Pei. However, Jiafu, who had been quietly listening, had a growing sense of intuition.
It couldn't possibly be Pei Youan.
Given his character, he wouldn't orchestrate such an elaborate plan. The person behind this must be Xiao Yintang.
As far as Jiafu knew, King Yunzhong had indeed become the Emperor, and Xiao Yintang had risen to a prominent position in the new court. It was evident that despite over a year passing, he still harbored a relentless pursuit of her.
This served as confirmation of her worst fears. In the past, the mere thought of Xiao Yintang would fill her with dread and repulsion. However, perhaps due to numbness or indifference, she no longer felt the same terror. Even when faced with such devastating news, it failed to evoke the expected fear. Instead, she listened quietly to the discussions between her grandmother and mother.
They ultimately decided to send Jiafu to the capital in compliance with the imperial decree and await further instructions. There wasn't much else they could do. The one issuing these orders was the new Emperor.
The following day, under her grandmother's numerous admonitions, Jiafu, accompanied by her mother Mengshi and Zhang Da, set off on the road to the capital alongside Governor-General Gao Huaiyuan. As they left Quanzhou behind, Jiafu realized that the serene life she had known over the past year, which had felt almost like a stolen respite, was now fading into the distance, likely never to return.
On this day, it had been one year and twenty-three days since Pei Youan's last departure.
.....
Gao Huaiyuan rushed to the capital just before the new emperor's coronation ceremony, making the journey as if his tail were on fire. He finally arrived on this evening, with only three days left until the coronation. He changed into official attire without catching his breath, impatient to wait until the next day. He immediately went to the Ministry of Rites to report the Zhen family's matter, while Jiafu accompanied her mother to their home.
Before leaving the capital after the previous marriage proposal fell through, the Zhen family had kept a house with an elderly couple to look after it. Over the past year, the elderly couple had maintained the property well. During the chaotic days when King Yun entered the city, they had kept the doors tightly closed and suffered no losses. After the chaos subsided, they were initially afraid to open the doors. However, in recent days, they heard people saying that there was a new emperor, and apart from nighttime curfews, the city remained lively during the day, much like it used to be. This gave them relief. Unexpectedly, their master arrived today, and they welcomed him with joy, settling him in. By nightfall, the next day, someone from the palace came. Leading the group was a young-looking eunuch named Cui Yinshui, the godson of the chief eunuch Li Yuangui. He was capable, adept at understanding superiors' thoughts, and somewhat opportunistic. However, he remained loyal to Li Yuangui and the previous emperor, Xiao Lie. During the time when Xiao Lie was the emperor, Cui Yinshui had been extremely prominent in the palace. But later, when Xiao Lie fell seriously ill and died before reaching the age of fifty, his successor, Xiao Yintang, seemed to harbor great resentment towards this eunuch. Not long after, he found a pretext to have him beaten to death.
Cui Yinshui, who is still with his godfather, just entered the palace and has a bright future ahead of him. How could he know his fate in the future? At this moment, he is smiling, and after receiving the rewards brought by the eunuchs, he reads a royal edict to Madam Meng and Jiafu, who are kneeling below. The royal edict praises the Zhen family's daughter, comparing her to historical figures such as Ban Ji and Xie Ting, and mentions that when the crown prince ascends, she will be named a concubine. Then, he encourages her and finally allows her to stay temporarily in the capital to await further recognition.
Madam Meng had already assumed that Pei You'an would become her son-in-law, and she wanted to marry her daughter to him. Throughout the journey, she held on to a glimmer of hope, expecting that the emperor would choose her daughter for Pei You'an. Unexpectedly, she received this kind of news in the morning, leaving her in a state of shock.
Cui Yinshui thought she was stunned with joy and said with a smile, "Madam Meng, why haven't you accepted the imperial edict for your daughter yet? Your family will soon have a noblewoman, congratulations!"
Madam Meng couldn't find words to express herself, so she looked at her daughter, who said, "Thank you, Master Cui, and I appreciate your efforts. I would like to ask Master Cui to convey a message for me. I know my own shortcomings and cannot accept such great favor from the royal family. I humbly request the emperor to rescind this decree."
Cui Yinshui was taken aback and couldn't believe his ears. "This is a great honor. Are you really unwilling?"
Jiafu replied, "Master Cui, it's not that I'm unwilling, but I cannot accept such a generous reward without merit. Why would the emperor bestow such a great favor upon me? I have dared to guess that it might be related to an incident in the past. Once, there was an incident in Quanzhou where the imperial guards arrived, locked down the entire city, and arrested people everywhere. A nobleman from our family entered our house, and in the end, I was taken away in a carriage with him, protecting him as we left the city. The situation at that time was extremely dangerous, and I still remember it vividly. I dare to speculate that the nobleman of that time might be the current crown prince."
Cui Yinshui remained silent. The reason for the recent imperial edict was clear to him. He thought that the crown prince had taken an interest in the Zhen family's daughter, and this had been presented to the emperor. He had been curious before coming to the palace and was not sure what kind of beauty to expect. However, after seeing her, he became more certain of his speculation. But it was not appropriate to say this outright. Hearing the tone of the Zhen family's daughter, he couldn't be sure if she was genuinely unwilling or just pretending. He hesitated for a moment and then frowned, "Miss Zhen, do you know what you are saying? If you do not accept this, it is considered defiance of the imperial edict. Have you thought it through?"
Mistress Meng's heart was in turmoil. She was about to intercede for Jiafu, but Jiafu knelt down and said, "I dare not defy the imperial decree. As I mentioned earlier, I'm well aware of my humble status and unworthiness of such great favor from the imperial family. That's why I humbly request the Emperor to rescind the decree."
Cui Yinshui was astonished and thought for a moment. He said, "Alright, this is a first for me. I'm not sure about such matters. Since you're so determined, I'll go back and relay your message. It will be up to you..."
He initially wanted to say, "It will depend on your fate," but he held back the words. Without even drinking his tea, he turned and left with his attendants.
Once the eunuchs left, Mistress Meng immediately led Jiafu inside, closed the door, and said, "Afu, don't be afraid. The last time Young Lord came, he gave your grandmother a piece of jade, saying it was left to him by his father on his deathbed, and he left it with your grandmother as a keepsake. Before we set out on this journey, your grandmother gave me the jade and said that if we no longer needed it, I should find an opportunity to return it to Young Lord. Even though we don't know his current whereabouts, having this keepsake might help us. I will go find Madam Pei and see if she can help us intervene and resolve this matter."
Mistress Meng's heart was in chaos, and she was about to leave. But Jiafu stopped her, shook her head, and said, "Mother, back then, Young Lord only spoke casually, and now so much time has passed. Who knows if he has changed his mind? Let's not involve the Pei family in this matter to avoid causing them trouble. I'm not afraid. We've already spoken our piece, so we'll see how things unfold. I'm just unwilling to marry his son. It's not as though he would take my life for it, would he?"
Mistress Meng looked at her daughter, who appeared calm, and was left in a daze. That night, she tossed and turned, unable to sleep. The next day, someone from the palace arrived once again. This time, in addition to the eunuch Cui Yinshui, there was a middle-aged eunuch with an amiable demeanor. Mistress Meng learned that he was a high-ranking eunuch by the name of Li, who served closely to the current Emperor. He seemed friendly, and his purpose didn't seem confrontational, which slightly calmed her nerves.
Li Yuanji asked Madame Meng to bring Jiafu and cleared the room of any other people. Observing Jiafu for a moment, he asked, "My godson has reported your situation to me. I'm afraid you're not thinking clearly. I didn't report it right away. I wanted to see you in person first. How could you be so bold? Such a great opportunity that so many people dream of, and you dare to defy it? Have you thought this through?"
His tone wasn't light, but it wasn't heavy either, making it hard to discern his emotions.
.....
Jiafu knew that the chief eunuch Li Yuanji who served Emperor was known for his straightforward nature and wasn't a cunning person. She composed herself and said, "Thank you very much for your understanding, Chief Eunuch Li. In the Emperor's decree, not a single word explains why such a great favor was bestowed upon me. I've been thinking it over, and I recalled something from the past. There was an incident in Quanzhou where the Imperial Guards arrived, locked down the entire city, and were arresting people everywhere. A noble person entered our house, and in the end, I was brought onto a carriage, accompanying him as he escaped the city. At that time, the situation was extremely perilous, and the memory is still vivid in my mind. I dare to speculate that the noble person from back then might be the Crown Prince now."
Li Yuanji remained silent.
Jiafu knelt before him and continued, "Chief Eunuch Li, previously, during the purge of traitors by the Emperor, I heard from people in Quanzhou that the Emperor's army, while passing through, treated the common people with great respect, not harming a hair on their heads. His kindness towards the people is well-known throughout the land, and I deeply admire it. Yesterday, I also told Chief Eunuch Cui that I understand my own limitations, and I would never disgrace the royal family. If the Emperor bestowed such a great favor upon my family because of the events from that year, I would like to humbly request that you convey my plea to the Emperor to grant another form of grace."
After finishing her words, Jiafu touched her forehead to the ground and remained in that position, unable to rise.
Li Yuanji watched her, his expression showing some surprise. After pondering for a while, he said, "Enough. Initially, I thought you were speaking thoughtlessly out of ignorance. That's why I came to see for myself. But now that I see you are aware, I'll go back and deliver your message. Whether it is granted or not will depend on the Emperor's will."
....
Li Yuanji returned to the palace, where Xiao Lie was still busy. When he finally found a moment to rest in the evening, he recalled and asked, "Have you gone to check on the girl from the Zhen family? Even though the Zhen family once assisted Yintang, she needs to have acceptable qualities if she is to be a side consort."
Li Yuanji replied, "I report to Your Majesty that the Zhen girl has no issues with her qualities. However, there is one matter that I am unsure whether to report."
Xiao Lie, flipping through some documents, said, "Go on."
Li Yuanji continued, "I went to see the girl and listened to her words. I will repeat what she said to Your Majesty." He then recited Jiafu's words verbatim.
Xiao Lie, initially engrossed in his documents, gradually stopped and appeared slightly displeased. He huffed, "So, she is not pleased with my arrangement?"
Li Yuanji said, "I'm not certain, which is why I brought her words to Your Majesty. Your Majesty is wise; you will decide how to handle it. She's just a girl from a merchant family; her insights are limited."
Xiao Lie pondered for a moment and said lightly, "Let it go. If she's unwilling and we have to give her a high title, it would be inappropriate for us to force her. Tomorrow, go visit her again, offer her additional gifts, and send her back."
Li Yuanji smiled and said, "Your Majesty is wise. I understand."
"Your Majesty!"
A woman's voice suddenly came from the entrance of the hall. Li Yuanji looked up and saw the Princess of the Zhou Kingdom, dressed in magnificent palace attire, walking gracefully toward him. Behind her was a palace maid carrying a meal, and she revealed a smile and greeted Li Yuanji before going on her way.
The Zhou Princess arrived at Xiao Lie's side and stood still, casting a glance at Li Yuanji. Li Yuanji quickly retreated out of the way. The palace maid set the bowl and cup down and left as well.
With no one else present, the Zhou Princess softly said, "Your Majesty, you didn't return to the palace last night. I heard from Yintang that you were reviewing documents until dawn. I was worried, so I came to check on you. Take a break and have something to eat. Is that all right?" She moved behind him, gently massaging his shoulders.
Xiao Lie smiled and said, "Thank you for your concern. The New Dynasty has just been established, and there's inevitably more work to be done. After this busy period passes, I'll have more free time. You should return to the palace for now. I'll come back later once I'm done with these documents."
The Zhou Princess slowly exhaled a breath and stopped her actions, flashing a smile. "Then I'll return. Your Majesty, don't overexert yourself."
Xiao Lie nodded and watched her as she gradually walked away. When she was leaving, the Zhou Princess suddenly stopped and turned around. She said, "Your Majesty, it's not that I deliberately eavesdropped, but I happened to come to the hall and unintentionally overheard a few sentences just now. That girl from the Zhen family is truly disrespectful. She relies on the fact that she once escorted Yintang out of the city and doesn't seem to hold you, Your Majesty, in high regard. Why are you so lenient with her?"
Xiao Lie raised his head and glanced at her, saying, "In your opinion, what should be done then?"
The Zhou Princess replied, "She is clearly disobeying your orders! There's no need to appoint her as my son's side consort. If she refuses, there are plenty of other people who would be willing. Place her in the laundry department for a few days and see if she still dares to be so audacious. I don't believe she'll continue to be so defiant."
Xiao Lie furrowed his brows and said, "Never mind. She's just a commoner and doesn't understand the rules. There's no need to argue with her. Let this matter rest. You may go now."
"Your Majesty!"
The Zhou Princess was about to speak, but Li Yuanji hurriedly entered and bowed. "Your Majesty, the Lady of the Pei Clan from the Duke Wei's residence is here, seeking an audience with Your Majesty."
Xiao Lie was stunned and said, "Where is Madam?"
"Still waiting at the entrance of Huayang Palace."
Xiao Lie immediately put down his pen and stood up: "Quickly, welcome her in!"
