Daughter-in-law of a Noble House
Side Story 2: Wei Tan
“In the severe famine of Xunyang, Governor of Xunyang Liu Shu urgently reports, requesting the court to allocate grain for relief.” In the Kuangzheng Palace Hall, Da Sinong Zhu Min reported, and after speaking, handed over the official document to the palace attendant.
The Emperor sat on the imperial throne, receiving the official document.
“Xunyang,” he reflected after reading it, pondering, “I recall that during the flooding this spring, Xunyang suffered the most.”
“Indeed,” Zhu Min responded, “During the spring floods, Xunyang experienced a complete crop failure on an area of 300,000 acres, leading to famine. If disaster relief is not provided promptly, there will be discontent among the people.”
The Emperor remained silent but picked up another memorial document.
“Yangzhou is also experiencing famine. The Imperial Censor accuses the governor of Yangzhou, Gongyang Gui, of neglecting the welfare of the people and engaging in extensive construction projects.” After saying this, he instructed the palace attendant to hand the memorial to Zhu Min, and asked, “What are Qing thoughts on this?”
Zhu Min took the memorial, looked it over, and understood the situation.
Gongyang Gui, a year before the Emperor’s coronation, was appointed as the Intendant of Yangzhou. Over the next three years, he achieved remarkable governance. Consequently, the Emperor appointed him as the Governor of Yangzhou to administer the region. This famine wasn’t confined to Xunyang alone; its impact extended across much of the eastern Jiangnan region, including Yangzhou. Zhu Min had heard of the accusations against Gongyang Gui by the Imperial Censor, but he had his suspicions. He had someone investigate the number of people displaced in Yangzhou due to the disaster. Oddly, compared to other provinces, the figures were surprisingly low.
Zhu Min, with clear insight, immediately responded, “Chen has heard that what is referred to as extensive construction projects is, in fact, the Governor of Yangzhou encouraging wealthy households in the province to build houses. Additionally, he has used both government relief funds and privately collected donations to construct bridges and open channels. Tens of thousands of people are employed daily, and the citizens earn their sustenance through labor. This is why Yangzhou remains stable.”
The Emperor nodded and said, “Indeed, Zhen believes this strategy is feasible. The waterways in the east of the river have been neglected for many years, and the canal is not smooth, causing water shortages and droughts. Zhen intended to emulate the approach of Yangzhou, mobilizing the people in the east of the river to dredge the waterways and promote water conservation. It can be a beneficial endeavor. However, One just wonders about the current state of the granaries. How are they?”
After a moment of contemplation, Zhu Min responded, “In the past two years, the granaries across the regions were plentiful, and there was no need to worry about insufficient funds for requisitions. However, the ongoing construction of the city walls and Imperial Palaces in Chang’an has been draining substantial resources. If we further invest heavily in mobilizing manpower in Jiangdong, it might strain the national treasury.”
“Halt the construction in Chang’an for now,” the Emperor declared. “Once the affairs in Jiangdong are settled, we can resume the building projects.”
Zhu Min’s mind settled, and he bowed to the Emperor, saying, “One humbly complies.”
The Emperor, together with his courtiers, carefully assigned various tasks and instructed the Chief Secretary to draft an imperial edict.
Just as the gathering dispersed, the Emperor was about to rise when the Zongzheng arrived.
Zongzheng, being an elder in the Emperor’s family, received considerable respect. However, he rarely got involved in state affairs. Seeing him, the Emperor sensed that something unusual would happen today.
“In recent days, Zhen heard that Bofu’s health is not well, and Zhen intended to visit the residence to offer regards,” the Emperor said with a smile after ordering a seat for him through the attendants. “Unexpectedly, Bofu has come in person. One wonders if Bofu’s health has improved?”
“Bixia is benevolent, Chen is in good health,” Zongzheng said with a bow from his seat. “One has come today, to discuss an important matter.”
“Oh?” the Emperor inquired, “What is the matter?”
Zongzheng remained silent, his gaze fixed on the hall.
Understanding, the Emperor dismissed the attendants on either side.
“Bixia,” Zongzheng smiled, “throughout history, the most crucial matter for a sovereign is the heir. With Bixia having ascended the throne for five years, the realm in tranquility, it is time to expand the Imperial Harem. Chen has heard that Huanghou (The Empress) intends to release some of the older palace attendants. Perhaps, Bixia could consider selecting a consort while admitting the new palace attendant, to align with heavenly harmony.”
The Emperor looked at Zongzheng, his smile unwavering.
“This matter, is it Zongzheng’s wish?” he asked.
Zongzheng hurriedly replied, “It is not only Chen’s intention. During Chen’s previous illness at home, One discussed this matter with visiting court officials, and they all believed it to be feasible. Bixia is currently prosperous and mighty, yet the Imperial Harem has only Huanghou. For the sake of future heirs, we humbly request Bixia to expand the Imperial Harem.’”
The Emperor leaned on the desk and slowly said, “Zhen already has two sons and one daughter; the heirs are sufficient.”
Zongzheng said, “Bixia’s words are not accurate. In the previous dynasty, Emperor Gao had fourteen sons, and for three hundred years thereafter, the Imperial Family thrived. The imperial succession is crucial to the fate of the nation; One implores Bixia to reconsider.”
“After the demise of Emperor Gao, his four sons contended for power, and the stability of the nation was almost lost. Even in more recent times, Emperor Ling had many sons, leading to chaos and struggles for the throne.” The Emperor’s expression remained unchanged, “The rise and fall of the nation lies in governance. Zhen understands Zongzheng’s intentions, but there is no need to discuss this matter further.”
Although spoken with a gentle tone, these words left little room for refusal.
Zongzheng considered offering more persuasion, but observing the Emperor’s expression, he dared not speak further. He could only exchange a few pleasantries before departing with a disappointed sigh.
The hall finally quieted down, devoid of attendants. The Emperor gazed outside the hall and let out a gentle sigh.
“Come out,” he said.
There was no response.
“Ah Mi, do you want Fuqin to catch you?” He picked up a teacup and took a sip.
Rustling sounds emerged, and shortly after, a small head peeked out from behind the screen behind the imperial throne. When those bright eyes met the Emperor’s gaze, the little girl’s tender face lit up with a pleasing expression as she said,”Fuqin…”
The Emperor, with a resigned expression, set down the teacup and extended a hand towards her.
The little girl instantly smiled and rushed towards him. The Emperor embraced her warmly, holding her close.
“How long have you been eavesdropping in the hall?” The Emperor patted his daughter’s sweaty, damp hair. “Did you go to play? In the palace gardens?”
Ah Mi, however, did not answer. She looked up at him and asked, “Fuqin, what does it mean to expand the Imperial Harem?”
The Emperor chuckles.
“What do you think?” He didn’t answer directly but spoke gently, “Haven’t you learned the Book of Rites?”
Ah Mi thought for a moment and said, “Is it like what Zhongmao Shufu did, giving several stepmothers for Biaoxiong?”
The Emperor found it amusing in his heart but restrained his expression, looking at her. “That’s right. What does Ah Mi think?”
Ah Mi pouted and asserted decisively, “No! Ah Mi wants only one mother!”
The Emperor couldn’t help but stifle a laugh.
“What’s happening in the palace gardens today?” He shifted the topic, “Your Biaoxiongs haven’t entered the palace. Who is playing with you?”
“A lot of animals have been brought to the garden!” Speaking of the palace gardens, Ah Mi’s displeasure immediately vanished from her face. Excitedly, she continued, “There are deer, cranes, and even those kinds of small ducks!”
“Ducks?” The Emperor chuckled. “Those are mandarin ducks. When did you see them?”
“I saw them early in the morning!” Ah Mi said. “After having breakfast, I heard that…” She abruptly stopped, looking at the Emperor’s still-smiling face, unable to continue her sentence.
“After breakfast?” The Emperor said nonchalantly. “Weren’t you supposed to attend the lessons given by Nǚshi?”
“I did go!” Ah Mi hurriedly said, “I memorized all the lessons Nǚshi gave yesterday, so Nǚshi allowed me to go to the palace gardens!”
Those eyes looked at the Emperor, wide open, truly resembling someone who felt greatly wronged.
The Emperor remained unfazed and asked, “What did Nǚshi ask you to memorize?”
Ah Mi thought for a moment and replied, “The Book of Rites.”
“Oh?” The Emperor was interested. “Recite it for Fuqin.”
Ah Mi hesitated for a moment, seeming a bit uncertain. After a brief pause, she thought about it and decided to start reciting, “The so-called attainment of knowledge lies in the investigation of things. To express and attain knowledge, one has to examine things and thoroughly explore their principles. Um… The spirit covered by the heart is not without knowledge, and everything in the world… Um… Everything in the world is not without reason. Only within reason there is no…..”
The Emperor looked at her slightly furrowed brow, her thoughtful expression, the look she had as she was in deep contemplation, was the look he had seen before.
He sighed inwardly. This daughter of his, although everyone claimed she resembled him in appearance, her temperament totally took after her mother. For instance, she doesn’t like reading.
He recalled the past when her mother first read in front of him, her eyes fixed on the characters on the pages with a similarly perplexed expression. And how was he at that time? The Emperor reminisced, feeling that he must have been like a fool, gazing intently at his beautiful lady. That kind of emotion seemed to linger even now.
The Emperor couldn’t help but self-deprecate.
He looked outside the palace, where the sunlight was gentle, and the sky revealed a deep blue hue beneath the eaves.
It’s been about fifteen years, hasn’t it?
He often wondered, what if, on that afternoon, he hadn’t gone to the city?
During that time, no one addressed him as “Bixia”.
He was just the son of a cavalry captain in Chang’an, having recently arrived with his father and not yet adopted a courtesy name.
His mother fell ill, and shortly after arriving in Chang’an, she passed away, leaving him with only a younger brother.
Wei Tan’s mother had a fondness for porcelain, and she passed on her appreciation to him.
He still remembered the day when he happened to pass through the East Market, and his eyes lit up upon seeing a plum blossom vase cradling upon a vendor’s arms by the roadside.
And when he went to inquire about the price, his eyes, involuntarily, kept glancing at the vendor’s face.
It was an exceptionally beautiful face. Smooth and fair skin, under the sunlight, with a faint blush on the cheeks.
From Luoyang to Chang’an, Wei Tan had seen many beautiful young men, but the one before him now was a woman disguised as a man. She seemed oblivious to the fact that her secret had been discovered, still adopting the mannerisms of a young man, as if bolstering her courage to navigate the city streets.
After that incident, Wei Tan sometimes, upon seeing porcelain vases, would occasionally recall the appearance of that vendor and find it funny. Chang’an was much larger than Luoyang, and Wei Tan had many more responsibilities to attend to.
For example, when the Emperor issued a decree to select young Yulin Guards from the aristocratic youths, Wei Tan was eager to give it a try.
And another example, when Wei Tan’s Zufu had arranged a marriage for him with a young lady from a high ranking family named Xu Pin…
And that chance encounter in the market, like a grain of sand in the vast sea, was quickly forgotten by him.
With Wei Tan’s mother and Zufu passing away one after another, he was in mourning period and couldn’t marry. The arranged marriage set by his Zufu had to be put on hold.
Wei Tan wasn’t in a hurry because he believed that establishing a career was a prerequisite for starting a family, and he felt the need to make a name for himself first.
The Emperor placed great importance on the young Yulin Guards, not only granting them the same stipends as the Imperial Guards but also intending to promote talented individuals from their ranks. Although the selection was primarily from the aristocratic and affluent families, there were also many ambitious youths who aspired to join.
Wei Tan, born into a prestigious family, progressed smoothly through the various rounds of the competition. In the final match, his opponent was a fair-faced young man with a thick beard. Wei Tan saw his pretty face and immediately knew that he was from a wealthy family, so he didn’t pay much attention at first. However, as the bouts unfolded, it became evident that this man possessed exceptional agility. In several instances, Wei Tan struggled to counter his moves, forcing him to be on high alert. In the end, despite the opponent’s skilled maneuvers, he lacked the strength to match Wei Tan and was defeated, falling to the ground.
The onlookers cheered enthusiastically as Wei Tan and the young man, one standing and the other lying down, exchanged breaths while glaring at each other. After staring for a while, the man wiped the sweat from his face and slowly got up.
“Your name is Wei Tan?”
Wei Tan looked up and replied, “Indeed.”
The man looked at him and suddenly smiled. In the sunlight, his teeth were like strung pearls, and his brows, eyes, and overall countenance sparkled with vitality.
“Do you have some free time for the coming days?” he asked.
Wei Tan was puzzled by his intent.
“At the same time, two days from now, at the northern drill ground by Xuanwu Lake. We shall compete again.” The man didn’t wait for his response, leaving Wei Tan with these words before departing on his own.
Although Wei Tan didn’t like being commanded, he also disliked being underestimated. When the appointed time arrived, he went to Xuanwu Lake. However, upon seeing the person waiting there, he was genuinely surprised.
It was Pei Qian.
While Wei Tan had not been in Chang’an for long, he had heard of Pei Qian’s name. Wherever he went, people would mention this young man who was highly regarded in the capital. However, Wei Tan had little interest in those scholars who only indulged in empty talk. Even if he happened to encounter them at gatherings, he never bothered to join in the revelry.
The man with the beard turned out to be Pei Qian.
Despite knowing the other’s identity, Wei Tan showed no mercy and continued to exert his full strength. By the time the sun set, both of them were covered in numerous bruises. Pei Qian and Wei Tan exchanged a hearty laugh and, from that point on, they became good friends.
Pei Qian, despite his reputation, was modest and approachable. He had a fascination with swordsmanship and often sparred with Wei Tan, holding a deep admiration for Wei Tan’s martial skills.
Wei Tan also greatly appreciated Pei Qian. Despite his scholarly demeanor, Pei Qian lacked the ostentation and snobbish attitude typical of pampered young lad. His views on certain matters were also similar to Wei Tan’s.
Once, during a game of cuju, Pei Qian took off his sweaty shirt and gave instructions. Wei Tan noticed a red mark on his arm that looked like the imprint of fingers.
Others saw it too and laughed, “Jiyuan, which fierce lady is so fierce?”
Pei Qian glanced down, nonchalantly saying, “No lady at all, just scratches from a wild cat.”
Someone teased, “Jiyuan, does that wild cat have the surname Fu?”
Laughter erupted from the crowd, and Pei Qian joined in, showing no signs of annoyance, and continued playing cuju with the others.
When the mention of “surname Fu” came up, Wei Tan understood. He had heard earlier that when Pei Qian was eleven, he had been engaged to the youngest daughter of the Fu Situ family. Both families were prominent in Chang’an, and the match was considered quite suitable.
Wei Tan had not met Pei Qian’s fiancée and only knew that she was several years younger than Pei Qian. Although Pei Qian had never mentioned it to him, Wei Tan was aware that Pei Qian held affection for his fiancée. This was evident from the small peach charm hanging around Pei Qian’s neck, with “潜” (Qian) written on one side and the character “嫤” (Jin) on the other.
The roster of the young Yulin Guards was finally posted, and Wei Tan’s name was prominently listed without any suspense. His father was delighted, even going so far as to give him a courtesy name in advance—Mengjing.
The first time Wei Tan stood guard at the palace gates, he stood before the towering entrance, observing the majestic palace structures layered one upon another. Sunlight streamed through the clouds, casting a glow upon him, and he felt an immediate sense of expansiveness in his heart.
It was under this same light that the ornate jade-adorned carriage approached him. Passing through a distant city gate, its wheels rolled over bricks and stones, emitting a low, rumbling sound like distant thunder.
As the newly appointed sergeant, Wei Tan, full of youthful vigor, insisted on inspecting the occupant of the carriage. The attendant guiding the carriage was displeased, explaining that the noble lady inside had been summoned by the Empress Dowager.
In the midst of this standoff, the carriage curtain suddenly parted.
Wei Tan was momentarily stunned when he saw the girl inside with her hair intricately adorned.
Her face was exquisitely crafted, with bright, expressive eyes and lips like flower petals. The girl remained composed and unhurried, merely gazing at Wei Tan. “Now that you’ve seen, can we proceed?”
Wei Tan wasn’t sure how he had stepped aside or allowed passage. When he regained his senses, the carriage had already moved far away.
“Mengjing.” An older Yulin Guard approached with a cheerful smile, patting Wei Tan on the shoulder. “That’s the young lady from the Fu Situ family. The Empress Dowager dotes on her greatly. If you encounter her again, make sure not to offend her.”
As Wei Tan listened to the advice, his mind was occupied with other thoughts.
That face, that demeanor, he always felt like he had seen it somewhere before. Wei Tan racked his brain, feeling the answer on the tip of his tongue but unable to recall where he had encountered her.
It wasn’t until he returned home and saw the porcelain vase in the corner that he suddenly realized.
The market vendor who had disguised herself as a man was looking at him in the same manner, mimicking the rough voice of a man: “Without a hundred coins, don’t walk in Chang’an. This plum blossom vase of mine, I’m selling it for a hundred and fifty coins!”
Wei Tan, with a free-spirited nature since childhood, had roamed both Luoyang and Chang’an. What others found to be extraordinary tales, he often considered as nothing particularly noteworthy.
However, the matter of the Fu Situ’s family’s Nujun occupied his thoughts for several days.
She hailed from a noble family, lived a pampered life, had an influential Yi Zumu like the Empress Dowager, and a fiancé like Pei Qian. Why would such a woman disguise herself and peddle goods in the market?
Given the constraints of her lifestyle, it seemed impossible that she would do it out of necessity. So, was it a hobby?
The more Wei Tan thought about it, the more he found it both amusing and perplexing. Some people were inclined toward literature, others toward martial arts, some had a penchant for craftsmanship, and others for extraordinary pursuits. However, encountering a noble lady who enjoyed blending into the market crowd was a first for him.
Did Pei Qian know? Wei Tan was curious, but he wasn’t one to pry, preferring not to reveal what he had discovered.
‘Jin’. Wei Tan recalled the character on Pei Qian’s neck charm, and that was the word.
After that incident, Wei Tan encountered Fu Jin’s carriage a few more times. However, he didn’t stop it again, only checking the credentials and letting it pass. Of course, the person inside the carriage didn’t unveil the curtain to look at him again.
“Mengjing, there’s a lady looking for you!” One day, as he was coming down from his shift at the palace gate, someone loudly called out to him, pausing before adding, “Not the one from last time!”
His fellow Yulin Guards burst into laughter.
Wei Tan gave them a helpless glare, walked over, and indeed found an unfamiliar woman.
“Are you Wei Tan?” The woman, holding a silk fan, spoke in the delicate yet haughty tone of a privileged Chang’an lady.
“That’s right,” Wei Tan replied, feeling puzzled as he didn’t recognize the woman.
The woman, who seemed to be smiling behind her fan, handed him a small item. “Xu Zizi asked me to give this to you,” she said before turning and walking away.
Wei Tan stood in place, opening the item to find a hairpin.
Xu Ping. It was only then that he recalled the woman who wore a hairpin adorned with a depiction of the flower Yumeiren—the fiancée he had yet to formally engage.
Wei Tan and Xu Ping’s Zufus were old friends, and their marriage had been arranged by the two elders.
When Wei Tan and Xu Ping first met, she was quite shy. After Wei Tan joined the Yulin Guards, although he couldn’t return home frequently, their encounters increased. The Emperor and Empress often hosted gatherings and festivities in the palace for officials and their families. Sometimes, passing through the Imperial Garden, Wei Tan would spot Xu Ping among those noble ladies, looking at him from a distance and occasionally sharing a smile.
His colleagues in the Yulin Guards, born into wealth and well-versed in social niceties, often teased Wei Tan and Xu Ping when they observed their interactions.
“Mengjing turns out to favor Xu Shaofu’s family,” someone remarked.
Wei Tan just smiled, neither confirming nor denying. He held great respect for his Zufu, and he had no objections to a matter that had been arranged by the elders. Honestly, Xu Ping was not only beautiful but also gentle in temperament, and with her noble lineage, Wei Tan couldn’t think of any reason to oppose the arrangement.
As for the word “liking”, Wei Tan felt that he and Xu Ping got along well enough, and as long as there was no aversion, that was akin to liking. In matters of parental decree and matchmaking, the fact that two people who didn’t know each other could become a couple without finding fault with each other was considered a good thing.
“Mengjing, are you free tomorrow?” Pei Qian asked as soon as he saw Wei Tan.
“What’s the matter?” Wei Tan felt that there was something unusual about Pei Qian seeking him out.
Pei Qian gave a wry smile and glanced around. “There’s something, and at the moment, only you can help me.”
Wei Tan was surprised; Pei Qian was actually referring to Fu Jin’s matter.
Pei Qian didn’t hide Fu Jin’s penchant for peddling goods and told Wei Tan that in the past, every time Fu Jin went out, her second brother would personally follow her or send someone to accompany her to prevent any mishaps.
“Now that Zhongxun Xiong is not in the capital, I also have pressing matters tomorrow and can’t leave. This matter is difficult to talk about, and I dare not inform anyone other than those I trust. Upon consideration, One can only come to ask for your help.” Pei Qian seemed quite embarrassed.
Wei Tan looked at him, still feeling surprised, but soon he smiled. “What’s so difficult about this? Jiyuan, rest assured.”
Wei Tan has always kept his promises. The next day, he requested leave and went early to the Longyin Temple in the eastern part of the city, as mentioned by Pei Qian.
Noblewomen from wealthy families, riding various carriages, were continuously arriving for their incense offerings. Wei Tan went straight to a side gate of the temple. After waiting for less than half an hour, he heard the gate gently open. Wei Tan hid behind a large tree and saw a slender figure swiftly emerge from inside.
Wearing plain clothes and a headscarf, the woman seemed no different from the ordinary youths seen everywhere in the marketplace. However, Wei Tan vividly remembered that face. When he bought the plum blossom bottle, and even when she peeked out from behind the brocade curtain to gaze at him, it was those eyes and brows.
Fu Jin had no horse and didn’t ride in a carriage. She carried a bundle on her shoulder, and its contents seemed not particularly heavy. Her steps were light and agile, but initially, she appeared somewhat cautious, glancing left and right.
However, such tactics posed little hindrance to Wei Tan. He alternated between hiding and strolling, occasionally pretending to be a casual passerby, and Fu Jin remained unaware.
Following her all the way, Fu Jin eventually stopped at the same place where Wei Tan had initially bought the plum bottle from her, the southern market. After looking around a few times, it seemed like Fu Jin had finally eased her guard. She took out her goods from the bundle.
Wei Tan glanced over; it was a wooden box that, from a distance, appeared finely crafted.
Fu Jin chose a spot under the shade of a willow, spread the cloth from the bundle on the ground, and placed the wooden box on it. Then, she sat down, her eyes observing the pedestrians passing by.
Wei Tan stood behind a donkey cart piled with goods. With nothing else to do at the moment, he could only watch Fu Jin from across the road.
Amidst the bustling crowd, Fu Jin remained unrushed. Occasionally, she would glance at the pedestrians on the road, and then turn her head to observe nearby vendors and buyers engaging in lively price negotiations, seemingly finding it interesting.
Wei Tan looked at that face and suddenly remembered her appearance when he first saw her in front of the palace gates. Despite the stark contrast in attire, Wei Tan found it intriguing. Compared to the arrogance of that noble lady, the woman before him, with curious eyes, appeared more vibrant and lively.
Though Fu Jin’s goods were old, their quality was excellent. Before long, quite a few people stopped to take a look. When they inquired about the prices, Wei Tan could faintly hear her voice, which, amid the bustling marketplace, sounded remarkably clear. When she spoke with others, she completely adopted the appearance of a common market vendor, without shyness and devoid of the awkwardness that high-born ladies sometimes displayed. Watching her during the negotiations, Wei Tan noticed that when she calculated, her eyes would involuntarily glance to the side, and she would lightly bite her lip, looking very serious.
The wooden box was eventually bought by someone. Wei Tan watched as Fu Jin carefully wrapped several heavy strings of coins in a cloth, tied a knot, and slung it over her shoulder.
She seemed quite content and satisfied, showing no hurry to return. Instead, she strolled through the marketplace with enthusiasm. Wei Tan followed behind, observing her wander around, now looking at miscellaneous items, then at those people buying fabrics, and occasionally being drawn towards groups of people haggling over prices.
The marketplace was crowded, often mingling with some unsavory characters. Wei Tan dared not let his guard down and stayed closely behind Fu Jin. After wandering for a while, Wei Tan began to feel a bit impatient, but Fu Jin seemed tireless. When she finally walked out of the southern market, Wei Tan felt a sense of relief.
However, Fu Jin had not yet returned. She crossed streets and walked for quite a while, turning towards the Emerald Lake between the south and east parts of the city.
The Emerald Lake was not particularly large, and being in a remote location, especially in the afternoon, there weren’t many visitors. Wei Tan was puzzled about why Fu Jin came to this place when he saw her walk straight to a large rock by the lake. After looking around to ensure no one was nearby, she took off her shoes and socks, sitting on the rock to wash her feet.
Wei Tan didn’t know whether to cry or laugh. For a respectable young lady to expose her bare feet alone by the lake, it would generally be considered improper. Why wasn’t Fu Jin concerned about the possibility of someone inadvertently witnessing her?
When that thought crossed his mind, he chuckled. Others, others… wasn’t he the only “other” nearby?
Thinking about this, he stole another glance at Fu Jin by the lakeside. Unaware of his presence, she was humming an unfamiliar tune, enjoying the refreshing lake water. Her feet stirred up sparkling water droplets, creating a lovely reflection in the clear lake.
Wei Tan averted his gaze, listening only to the sound of the water, feeling an unexpected warmth on his face.
The next day, Pei Qian personally came to express his gratitude.
Upon seeing him, Wei Tan surprisingly felt a slight sense of guilt.
“In the marketplace, there are inevitably various people. It might be better for Jiyuan to give more advice to Fu Nǚjūn,” he sincerely suggested.
Pei Qian sighed, “I’ve told her many times, but she’s not one to heed advice. Well, she was never one to enjoy a quiet life.”
Wei Tan looked at Pei Qian, and although there was a sense of helplessness on his face, there was no hint of disgust.
Pei Qian was outstanding in both appearance and talent, and numerous women in Chang’an secretly and openly admired him. However, unlike other young dandies, Pei Qian never considered himself a romantic figure. When it came to women approaching him, he never crossed any boundaries. Some people joked that Pei Qian feared his future father-in-law so much that he turned into a model son-in-law, but Wei Tan didn’t see it that way. Whenever Fu Jin was mentioned, the expression in Pei Qian’s eyes would always soften, and a faint smile would play on his lips.
Perhaps because he knew Fu Jin’s secrets, Pei Qian shared quite a few things about her with Wei Tan.
For instance, she doesn’t like reading.
For instance, she loved doing calculations since childhood.
For instance, she disliked others touching her nose.
For instance, she always fantasized about traveling overseas to seek the immortal mountains.
“She even insisted that I take her,” Pei Qian chuckled.
Wei Tan smiled in response.
Seeking the immortal mountains just because of a Daoist’s words is indeed foolish, a voice in his heart remarked. However, when he glanced out the window, beyond the green shadows in the courtyard, it seemed like a glimmering patch of water. Over there, a woman was humming a song while washing her feet…
In the days that followed, Pei Qian never asked Wei Tan to look after Fu Jin when she went out alone again. However, Wei Tan’s home was in the south of the city, and during his leisure days, he would purposely go to the southern market. Finding a seat at a roadside eatery, he would watch the comings and goings of people.
“Is this Xiao Langjun looking for someone?” the woman at the eatery, being quite friendly, asked him with a smile after several attempts.
Wei Tan withdrew his gaze. “No.”
The woman looked him up and down, saying, “Xiao Langjun, looking at your appearance, are you one of the Yulin Guards?” Lowering her voice, she added, “Many young ladies around here have secretly asked me about you.”
Wei Tan was surprised.
“Aiya, why meddle in other people’s affairs?” The shop owner walked over and said to the woman, “Hurry up and serve the soup! Those few over there have been waiting for quite a while!”
The two of them continued their bickering and left, leaving Wei Tan with a bemused expression. He looked around, and in the two nearby small shops, young women tending to the entrances were glancing frequently in his direction.
“Looking for someone…” The woman’s words echoed in Wei Tan’s ears, and suddenly, he felt that his actions were indeed suspicious and ridiculous. He lifted his gaze to the bustling marketplace, where figures moved about. Whom was he searching for? His thoughts became jumbled for a moment. He picked up the bowl, finished the soup, took out a copper coin from his pouch, gave it to the shop owner, and stood up to leave.
The mourning period for his Zufu has finally passed, and Xu Ping is also not young anymore. Wei Tan’s father personally went to the Xu Residence to propose marriage, and Xu Shaofu agreed. The wedding date for Wei Tan and Xu Ping has been set for the coming year.
Wei Tan no longer goes to the southern city. However, every fifteenth of the month, the Empress Dowager summons the noble families to the palace. As Wei Tan stands in front of the palace gate, watching the splendid and luxurious carriages rushing in, he knows that Fu Jin is inside.
He feels somewhat ridiculous. Even if Fu Jin had once made his heart flutter, so what? Just like the precious brocade curtains on that luxurious carriage, although thin, they are an insurmountable barrier for him, and the person inside wouldn’t even know what he is thinking.
Her fiancé is Pei Qian.
Wei Tan watched the departing carriage and horses, his heart now calm.
The father of Xu Ping, Xu Shaofu, was not pleased with their engagement. This was something Wei Tan had heard his father and stepmother discuss privately.
Wei Tan didn’t take it too much to heart, as the marriage had already been settled, and moreover, Xu Ping treated him well.
She would often take advantage of opportunities to visit him when she went in and out the palace. Every time they met, it would attract envy from those around them.
“Mixing honey and adding oil like this, don’t blame the brothers for showing no mercy on the day of the wedding.” Someone said, slapping Wei Tan’s shoulder with a malicious tone.
Wei Tan smiled dismissively, “You all can come at me anytime.”
As he spoke, Wei Tan was already a junior military officer, and his father, it was said, would soon be transferred back to their hometown Hexi to serve as a governor.
Leaving Chang’an, many people were unwilling, but Wei Tan knew his father’s ambitions. Compared to being idle in Chang’an, being a regional governor would allow him more opportunities to showcase his abilities.
“Do you also want to go to Hexi?” Xu Ping asked him.
“I don’t want to,” Wei Tan replied. “Next year, His Majesty will promote officials, and I want to stay here.”
Xu Ping smiled knowingly, as if deep in thought.
Just when Wei Tan thought he wouldn’t have to go to the South Market again, Pei Qian came to ask for a favor.
“Tomorrow, I need to meet the scholar at the Imperial College, and her brother is also busy. I have to trouble Mengjing again,” he said.
Wei Tan wanted to refuse, but seeing Pei Qian in a difficult situation, he agreed.
Once again, he went to the South Market. As he watched Pei Qian’s relieved figure depart, he took a deep breath.
Wei Tan wasn’t someone who dwelled on things. He thought he might feel a bit heavy-hearted that day, but the reality was different.
It had been a while since they last met, and Fu Jin had become even more refined than before. Even when disguised as a vendor, she didn’t resemble her old self as much. Fortunately, the down-to-earth manner in which she spoke carried a stronger market flavor than before, preventing anyone from doubting that she was a genuine businessperson.
Wei Tan watched her from not far away, leaning against the base of the wall, thoroughly intrigued. He felt that every expression on her face exuded cleverness when she harbored thoughts.
Pei Qian was also an interesting person. When these two were together, they truly seemed well-matched, he thought.
As for Wei Tan, he had his own path to follow.
Chang’an was bustling, and everyone living there wanted a share of the prosperity, including Wei Tan. He came from a military family and, like his ancestors, rose through the ranks, was his long-cherished wish.
However, Xu Ping did not want him to go down that path. This led to a dispute between them. Shortly afterward, Wei Tan’s father’s worries become true. Xu Shaofu visited them and called off his engagement with Xu Ping.
Several months passed before Wei Tan learned of this matter. He was both puzzled and indignant. However, what ultimately calmed him down were the words Xu Ping spoke when he confronted her.
“Mengjing,” she said, “if it weren’t for our Zufus arranging this marriage, would you have married me?”
Wei Tan was taken aback.
On that day, he didn’t know how he made his way back home, but the dream of that night remained vivid for many years. He dreamt of navigating through the bustling streets, people coming and going, yet only the slender figure at the end was clear in his sight.
He smiled bitterly. Xu Ping was right. If it wasn’t what he desired, why not let it go?
Time passed swiftly, and some things that people thought were inevitable never happened. Meanwhile, some seemingly impossible things, like sprouts in warm soil, broke through the surface one day, changing the world entirely.
Fu Jin did not marry Pei Qian.
Her family had fallen suddenly before their marriage, and Pei Qian’s father took the initiative to call off the wedding ahead of time.
When Wei Tan heard this news, he was serving as a military commander in Longxi. Upon learning of the situation, he hurried back to Chang’an. Pei Qian had already married, but he stayed confined at home, and Fu Residence was sealed. Wei Tan inquired from various sources and found out that Fu Jin had been protected by Empress Dowager Liu and stayed in the palace.
A year later, Empress Dowager Liu passed away, and Fu Jin was married off to Laiyang.
That was the last time Wei Tan saw her in Chang’an. To be precise, he didn’t see her. The new bride sat in a carriage, adorned less splendidly than any she had ridden in before. Onlookers crowded the streets, gossiping.
“She has gone.” Wei Tan and Pei Qian stood side by side on the railing of the Wanggui Tower outside the city, watching the carriage depart into the distance.
Pei Qian’s thin face showed no emotion. “Mengjing,” he gazed into the distance and spoke slowly, “if I manage to find her in the future, can we go back to the way things were?”
Wei Tan looked at him. “Find her? How would you find her?”
Pei Qian remained silent. After a moment, he gestured with the wine cup in his hand, lifted it, and drank.
Forget it. With a throw, the cup smashed to the ground with a “bang.”
After Fu Jin left, Wei Tan never received any news about her. He didn’t have much time to inquire because after Fu Jin’s departure, trouble erupted in the palace, and the situation in Chang’an changed abruptly.
Under the chaotic rule of He Kui, everyone condemned him. As a result, the court and the people were in turmoil, and those who held military power in their hands quickly became the rulers of the world.
Wei Tan’s father, Wei Jue, raised an army of 50,000 in Hexi.
“The way of heaven is no longer present; only the strong survive!” At that time, he handed a weighty suit of armor to Wei Tan, his expression solemn. “I’m giving you five thousand troops. If you can’t take down Fufeng, don’t bother coming back!”
Wei Tan was both nervous and excited. It was his first military campaign, and within three months, he successfully captured Fufeng. After that, he accompanied his father in campaigns across the north and south, becoming one of the most capable generals under his command.
The honing of the winds, sands, and tampered by iron and blood had transformed him. He no longer bore the greenness of the young Yulin Guard from before.
He displayed martial skills and strategic acumen, conquering cities and territories, gaining attention. When he rode back to Chang’an, he overheard people on the roadside saying, “That’s the eldest son of Wei Jue, the one who now commands wind and rain.”
“You’ve changed.” This was the first thing Pei Qian said to Wei Tan during their negotiations in Huaiyang.
Wei Tan smiled and glanced at Pei Qian. “So have you.”
Pei Qian chuckled self-deprecatingly.
Since the chaos in Chang’an, Pei Qian and his family had moved to Yangzhou. Four years had passed since they last saw each other. The two sat down for a long talk, discussing current affairs as freely as they used to.
However, when it came to their personal lives, both men could only share bitter smiles. Pei Qian’s wife had been frail and passed away on the way to Yangzhou, and he hadn’t remarried since. Wei Tan, busy with military campaigns, hadn’t had the time to consider settling down.
“She’s still in Laiyang,” Pei Qian suddenly mentioned. Wei Tan was taken aback.
“En,” he nodded. During the previous conquest of Luoyang, among the surrendered generals was a nephew of the Governor of Laiyang, Han Kui. Wei Tan had personally inquired about Fu Jin at that time.
“The road from Yangzhou to Shandong is in your hands,” Pei Qian said. “After the spring, I plan to go to Laiyang and bring her back.”
“Is Han Kui willing?” Wei Tan asked.
Pei Qian pondered, “I’ve inquired. She hasn’t borne any children, and Han Kui and his wife aren’t fond of her. With careful planning, everything should be fine.”
“You’re in Yangzhou, and traveling to Laiyang may pose difficulties,” Wei Tan looked at him and said, “I can take care of this matter for you.”
Pei Qian was surprised, but as he listened to Wei Tan’s detailed plan, his expression deepened.
“What if she is unwilling to come?” he asked. Wei Tan met his gaze without hesitation.
“If that’s the case, she will be my wife,” he replied softly. “I will take care of her.”
✦
“… able to be a teacher, then able to be a leader. Um… able to be a leader, then able to be a ruler. Thus, about a teacher, Um… so, learning is for becoming a ruler. Therefore, choosing a teacher must be done with utmost care. Recording the days… um… recording says…” Ah Mi recited, seemingly unable to recall what came next, his brows almost knitted together.
The Emperor recovered from his memory, took a moment and said, “Recording says, ‘The three kings and four dynasties solely had their teachers’.”
“Oh, right,” Ah Mi hurriedly responded, “that’s what it means.” After saying this, she flashed a sparkling and pleasing smile at the emperor, whispering, “Fuqin, I’ve finished reciting.”
The Emperor patted her head, “Do you still want to play?” Ah Mi blinked, shook her head, and then nodded. “Ah Mi wants to go to Muqin’s palace to see Didi,” she said.
The Emperor smiled, stood up from his seat, and lifted her up, “Let’s go together then.”
The weather was nice as they passed the Palace wall. with trees reflecting the beautiful sunny blue sky, creating a refreshing atmosphere. Under the shade of the trees in front of the central palace, several palace maids gathered, playing with a two-year-old child, creating a lively scene. Upon seeing the imperial carriage approaching, they quickly bowed in respect.
“Fu… Fuqin…” The little child spotted the Emperor, opened his arms to approach, almost stumbling, but a palace maid quickly steadied him.
“Chen,” the Emperor looked at his chubby-faced eldest son and spoke gently, “What have you been up to today?”
Chen looked at him and then glanced at Ah Mi, speaking in a childish tone, “Catch… sparrows…”
“Huanghou is taking care of San Huangzi (third prince) inside, while Er Huangzi (the second prince) is playing in the courtyard,” a palace maid responded on the side.
The Emperor smiled and was about to step forward to pick up the child, but Ah Mi tightly grabbed his shoulder, glaring at him discontentedly.
The Emperor sighed.
Ever since the youngest son, Huan, was born, Ah Mi had been like a protective cat, always wary of sharing affection.
“This is your Didi,” he said, both amused and a little exasperated, pinching Ah Mi’s nose. “Can’t Fuqin hold Didi too?”
Ah Mi pouted in silence.
Although he said that, the Emperor didn’t put her down. Instead, he lifted Chen with his other hand and walked towards the palace chambers.
The room was very quiet. The attending palace maids were about to bow as they saw the Emperor approaching, but he shook his head.
As he turned around the folding screen, he saw a woman leaning on the couch, flipping through a book.
“Muqin!” Ah Mi had just stepped down and immediately rushed towards her.
“Hush!” The nursemaid on the side quickly stopped her.
“Don’t disturb your Didi.” Fu Jin smiled as she hugged Ah Mi, running her hand over Ah Mi’s collar. “Have you been playing?”
“Went to eavesdrop on the court discussions and skipped lessons,” the Emperor said as he walked over, handing Huan to the nursemaid.
“Who told Muqin to accompany Didi, not me,” Ah Mi said, clinging to her mother with a hint of grievance.
“Silly girl,” Fu Jin touched her head, smiling. “When your Didi grows up, won’t you have two people to play with?”
Ah Mi glanced at the baby sleeping soundly on the small couch nearby. “How long will it take for him to grow up?”
“Soon,” the Emperor said. “When you were as big as Chen, Fuqin took you to see the sea, but your Didi hadn’t seen anything yet.”
Ah Mi thought for a moment, seeming to find the reasoning acceptable. A smile finally appeared on her little face.
At this moment, a palace maid came in to report that the Wangzi and Wengzhu from Xiangling Wang’s residence had arrived at the palace gardens.
“Your Biaoxiongs are here, go and join them,” Wei Tan said to Ah Mi. “Weren’t you planning to see the deer? Take Chen along.”
Ah Mi agreed with a joyful response and ran outside. As the children left, the room immediately quieted. Fu Jin looked at the Emperor and smiled, “Why come back so early today?”
The Emperor looked at her and smiled, sitting down with her on the couch. Half-teasing and half-sincere, he said, “Cause one misses Furen.” After saying this, he glanced at the book in her hand, surprised, “Biographies of Exemplary Women?”
“That’s right,” Fu Jin said.
The Emperor raised an eyebrow, his gaze filled with amusement.
Fu Jin knew what he was about to say, sighed, and said, “Ah Mi has grown up. Qie always feels that we should choose some classics to cultivate her character.”
“Oh?” the Emperor asked, “Has Furen chosen any?”
Fu Jin sighed and shook her head.
As expected, the Emperor chuckled, took the book from her hand, and said, “There are Nushi to teach the Book of Rites, that should be enough to cultivate character. Biographies of Exemplary Women and Lessons for Women are not something you found appealing in the first place. How could you bear to bring them for Ah Mi to read?”
Fu Jin felt he made a valid point and was about to nod when she sensed something amiss.
“Qie received education from a young age, and Biographies of Exemplary Women and Lessons for Women are must-reads,” she corrected.
The Emperor pretended not to hear and held her close, saying, “There’s something that you have to be told to.”
“What is it?” Fu Jin asked.
“The construction of the Imperial Palaces and buildings in Chang’an will be delayed,” the Emperor.
“Why?” Fu Jin asked.
“I plan to temporarily divert the funds allocated for the construction in Chang’an to carry out water conservation projects in Jiangdong and provide relief to the famine-stricken people,” he explained. Feeling that his explanation might not be clear enough, he was about to elaborate when Fu Jin nodded and said, “Alright.”
The Emperor was surprised.
Fu Jin smiled, “Qie also has heard about the incident involving Gongyang Gui. Developing water resources in Jiangdong is a long-term goal. Handling the famine with manpower now could save a considerable amount of funds compared to undertaking the project during a prosperous year. Why not make the most of the situation? The construction project in Chang’an is massive anyway. It can’t be completed in two years, so why not put it aside for a while?”
“The Imperial City is more urgent; as for the Palace City… we can move there once the Central Palace, the Eastern Palace, and the Imperial Garden are completed,” he said, caressing Fu Jin’s hair, speaking slowly.
“Why the rush?” Fu Jin asked. “The Palace City is so vast; there’s no harm in completing it before moving.”
“Yeah, why the rush?” The Emperor raised an eyebrow, looking serious as he pondered. “Once the concubines’ chambers are built, we can recruit beauties to fill the palace chambers. Five women for each palace, accompanied by the yellow silk… Ss!”
Fu Jin playfully and teasingly tickled him under the ribs. The Emperor burst into laughter, but in the midst of it, they both toppled over together.
“Speaking of which, there is indeed a portrayal of me in Biographies of Exemplary Women.” After the playful moment, the two snuggled together, and Fu Jin suddenly said, “One recited it word for word when we first got married.”
“En? Very well,” the Emperor said. “Zhen has a virtuous empress.”
Ignoring his digression, Fu Jin looked at him and asked, “How come Fujun went to memorize Biographies of Exemplary Women?”
“Weifu admired Furen, but was unable to get her for a long time. Reciting the book was the only way to ease the yearning,” the Emperor said, smiling as he stroked her hair.
Fu Jin was taken aback, looking into those deep eyes. Unreasonably, a wave of warmth surged in her heart, stirring emotions she thought were long subdued.
“Always teasing people,” she chided, but this time she didn’t use her hands to pinch him. Instead, she leaned her head back on his shoulder.
Both remained silent, savoring the rare leisure time amidst their busy lives.
“Ah Jin,” after a while, the Emperor suddenly spoke.
“En?”
“Do you still remember the time I bought the plum bottle from you?”
“I remember.” Fu Jin looked at the beams above, smiling. “Without a hundred coins, one can’t leave Chang’an.”
The Emperor also smiled, his thoughts returning to the past.
Outside the gate city of Huaiyang, Pei Qian glanced at Fu jin’s carriage and then back at him, his gaze calm and determined. “If she’s not happy, I’ll take her away at any time.”
“As long as I’m alive, there’s no need to trouble Jiyuan,” he replied slowly, each word was clear and distinct…
THE END
This time we get the story from Wei Tan’s POV, and it truly feels like everything has come full circle.
I find it incredibly sweet that even after ascending the throne, Wei Tan still calls Fu Jin “Furen” 🥹.
Thank you so much for staying with my translation until the very end~
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