BXG - 37

◎ Departure at Dawn ◎

Li Hongyu called out several times before Qu You finally snapped out of her daze. She looked up and saw a slender figure behind the folding screen.

Suppressing the overwhelming confusion in her heart, she stood up, but having squatted for too long, her legs went numb, causing her to stumble.

Zhou Tan quickly stepped forward to steady her. Leaning on his arm, Qu You limped out of the back hall.

After regaining some composure, she asked, “What did you find out?”

“Three maidservants in the Du household recently died,” Zhou Tan replied succinctly. “All were senior maids of Lady Liu. Two were implicated in the theft by the guard and died in the capital prefecture’s prison. The third was said to have gone mad and was sent to the firewood shed, where she died two days later.”

“There truly is something suspicious about the Du household—this reeks of guilt.”

“Lady Liu had four senior maids. Although the Du household suppressed the news, we still found out that one named Zhen’er escaped as a runaway slave. The Du family is currently searching for her.”

Qu You sighed. “And the body?”

Zhou Tan answered quietly, “You guessed correctly. Lady Liu was likely tortured to death by Du Gaojun.”

“The capital prefecture stored the body in a cold cellar. Fortunately, I arrived in time—it nearly got mixed with others for cremation. The coroner conducted a preliminary examination and found many old wounds on her body. The fatal injury was a ligature mark on her neck, but he also suggested she might have drowned. A more thorough examination will be conducted this afternoon, but there are no results yet.”

Qu You nodded. “I planned to visit North Street this afternoon. Now that we know about the runaway slave, it should be easier to track her down.”

“Mm,” Zhou Tan’s hand brushed over the documents on the desk. He suddenly removed his official hat. “I mentioned wanting to personally thank Boss Ai last time. Since we need his help again, it works out perfectly. Come with me.”

The last time Qu You and Bai Ying hadn’t even met Boss Ai, but this time Zhou Tan bypassed all formalities and directly led her to a secluded alley on Bian River Street.

Qu You stepped out of the understated carriage and followed Zhou Tan through the narrow alley. After walking for a while, they came upon a modest courtyard.

The outer fence was rough, and the yard was filled with oddly shaped wooden objects, indicating the owner enjoyed woodworking. A fat cat lounged on a wooden table, unmoving except for a lazy glance and a drawn-out “meow” when it noticed their presence.

Apparently hearing the cat’s sound, a boy who appeared around fifteen or sixteen ran out of the house. After scolding the cat, he opened the wooden gate and greeted them. His indifferent expression brightened with surprise upon seeing Zhou Tan, and he stammered, “Tea... Teacher…”

This was Zhou Tan’s student?

Zhou Tan gave a soft “Mm” and asked, “Is Master Ai here?”

The boy replied, “He’s taking a nap, but Master Su is in the main hall.”

Zhou Tan followed him inside, pausing momentarily. “When did you get a tabby?”

The boy glanced at him, unease flickering across his face. “It jumped into the yard a few days ago. Master Su forbade me from keeping it. If you also disapprove…”

“No need,” Zhou Tan sighed, patting the boy’s shoulder. “Since Master Ai is still resting, I’ll see Master Su.”

Qu You didn’t know who this “Master Su” was, but seeing Zhou Tan’s solemn expression, she refrained from following and stayed behind. As Zhou Tan left, she approached the cat with the boy, stroking its sleek fur. “How adorable. Does it have a name?”

Seeing her fondness for the cat, the boy relaxed slightly. He hesitantly petted it as well. “I haven’t named it yet. It’s a chi yu xiao fei lian —it deserves an elegant name.”

Just as they exchanged these few words, Zhou Tan returned with another man dressed in the deep blue robes commonly worn by scholars. The boy immediately straightened and formally bowed to the man. “Master, I’ve already reviewed today’s lessons.”

Qu You felt an inexplicable familiarity with this man, though she couldn’t recall meeting him before. Before she could dwell on it, Zhou Tan introduced him. “This is my wife.”

The man immediately raised his hand and bowed slightly to her in an ancient gesture. His scholarly demeanor was far more pronounced than Zhou Tan’s, his expression faintly aloof, yet his every movement exuded propriety. “Greetings, Lady.”

Seeing this, Qu You lifted her skirts and returned the courtesy, casting a questioning glance at Zhou Tan. Lowering his eyes, Zhou Tan introduced, “This is my fellow examinee, Brother Su.”

The man added, “My courtesy name is Chao Ci. Please, no need for formality, Lady.”

Qu You’s smile froze, and she instinctively took a step back.

Noticing her astonishment, Zhou Tan gave her a puzzled look. Ignoring his gaze, Qu You asked, “Chao Ci… as in ‘Departing at dawn amidst colorful clouds’?”

Su Chao Ci confirmed, “Precisely.”

No wonder he seemed so familiar… she had seen his portrait!

Qu You instinctively glanced down, only to notice that Su Chao Ci’s wrist was bare—he wasn’t wearing the five-colored prayer beads that always adorned him in his historical portraits. With his handsome features and sharp eyes, he bore a striking resemblance to the depictions in ancient scrolls, even without the beard.

Zhou Tan’s political rival, Su Chao Ci—the upright chancellor who governed for twenty years after Zhou Tan’s death, ending the partisan strife of Beiyan and earning the first place in the study of influential figures in Chinese history professors’ research… why did he have personal ties with Zhou Tan?

Historically, these two were famous mortal enemies. In the later stages of Emperor Ming’s reform, Su Chao Ci compiled twelve charges against Zhou Tan, personally sending him to the imperial prison. After Zhou Tan retired, Su abolished most provisions of the Reform Decree .

Five years of effort were lost, and Zhou Tan died prematurely in his early thirties, a fate inextricably linked to these events.

Suddenly, Qu You tensed as another thought struck her.

She slowly turned her gaze to the boy beside her.

Zhou Tan had taken in numerous disciples after becoming chancellor. Though many later resented his actions and defected to other camps, hundreds still addressed him as “Teacher.” Su Chao Ci, who shared the role of imperial tutor with Zhou Tan, never formed factions and had only one student throughout his life—Emperor Ming.

Then the boy before her… must be the future Emperor Ming!

If calculated by age, it fit perfectly!

The late Emperor Xuan of Yin had few heirs, with only Emperor De as his son. Song Chang of De, in his youth, was deemed unfit for important roles. Shortly after his coming-of-age ceremony, he caused several scandals in Bian Capital. Historical records hinted that Emperor Xuan once summoned his younger brother, Prince Jing, back to the capital, considering him as a potential heir.

Emperor Xuan was diligent and open to advice, promoting Gu Zhiyan to the position of chancellor—a stark contrast to Song Chang. Seeing his own son’s lack of virtue, it wasn’t impossible for him to consider naming his brother as heir.

Then came the famous palace coup in history. At the age of forty, Emperor Xuan abruptly died. Song Chang, holding a forged edict, ascended the throne and slaughtered Prince Jing’s entire family. Qu You remembered reading a paper by a historian speculating that Song Chang had poisoned his father and forged the edict. The character “De” in his posthumous title didn’t seem like something the Ministry of Rites would bestow.

Though Prince Jing’s family was massacred, his daughter-in-law managed to save the child. The young heir lived in hiding until Emperor De fell ill, then emerged with Prince Jing’s seal. Prince Jing had been immensely popular, and with both Zhou Tan and Su Chao Ci clearing the court for him, his rise to power was smooth.

So Zhou Tan’s acquaintance with Emperor Ming dated back much earlier than historians had imagined. Following this line of thought, perhaps Gu Zhiyan had a hand in ensuring the young heir’s survival during the coup.

Her mind swirling with doubts, she heard the creak of a door opening. A thin, disheveled man walked out, stretching lazily and exclaiming in surprise, “The servant said there were distinguished guests. I wondered who it was—so Lord Zhou has finally graced us with his presence…”

This must be the legendary “Boss Ai.” He looked younger than Qu You expected, perhaps only a year or two older than Zhou Tan.

Boss Ai rubbed his eyes, pulled out a pair of glass spectacles from his chest, and perched them on his nose. Glancing at Qu You, he abruptly changed his tone. “I see why you didn’t come—you’ve married a beautiful wife and forgotten all about us!”

He and Su Chao Ci were teaching Prince Jing’s grandson here, presumably as future advisors to Emperor Ming. Qu You curtsied to him. “Greetings, Boss Ai. My surname is Qu. I’m deeply grateful for your assistance in the recent case of the fall from the tower.”

“No trouble at all, Sister-in-law, please rise,” Boss Ai smiled warmly. “Previously, I was preoccupied with business and not in Bian Capital, hence couldn’t meet you. Please forgive me.”

Zhou Tan frowned. “What were you doing in Jinling?”

Boss Ai retorted, “I was about to ask you the same—what made you finally decide to visit us? Hmph, I thought you were too busy chasing high office and wealth, never to set foot in this courtyard again.”

Prince Jing’s grandson, Song Shixuan, listened quietly, occasionally stroking the cat in his arms. Zhou Tan remained silent, but Su Chao Ci frowned and asked, “Have you not yet released this tabby?”

“Not yet,” Song Shixuan murmured softly.

“Do you remember the second of the Four Prohibitions of a gentleman?”

“A gentleman does not seek without reason; if he seeks, it must be justified. He does not act without purpose; if he acts, it must be righteous,” Song Shixuan recited. “Rest assured, Master, I will release it soon.”

Su Chao Ci nodded approvingly. “A gentleman exercises restraint and avoids indulgence in trivial pleasures. Only then can he maintain integrity. Remember this well.”

Boss Ai interjected, “Oh, it’s just a child’s plaything. Why be so strict? I don’t understand how you elites were raised. Xiao Bai, are you the same?”

Zhou Tan replied, “Chao Ci speaks wisely.”

After a pause, he added, “However, Ziqian hasn’t indulged excessively, so there’s no need for undue harshness.”

Su Chao Ci remarked, “You’re always lenient.”

Song Shixuan, still holding the cat, stepped forward and looked at Qu You. “There’s no need for argument, Masters. I admit I’m not suited to care for it… Earlier, I noticed Madam seems fond of it. Would Madam be willing to take it in?”

His eyes sparkled with a hint of pleading. Zhou Tan turned his head and asked, “If you’re willing, keep it. You may bring it over for Ziqian to see. If not, I’ll find another home for it.”

The young Emperor Ming, still a boy, looked adorable cradling the cat. Qu You reached out and took the cat, smiling. “I’d be happy to. Ziqian, don’t worry.”

Su Chao Ci remained noncommittal. “That works as well.”

As Su Chao Ci turned away, Song Shixuan secretly winked at Qu You. When Su Chao Ci turned back, the boy stood obediently in place once more. His youthful antics amused Qu You, who chuckled and scratched the cat under its chin. Comfortable in her arms, the cat purred contentedly.

“I’ve come here today for two reasons. First, to express my gratitude, and second, to ask for your assistance,” Zhou Tan said. “My wife must have already informed you—Emperor Ming has entrusted me with the case of Du Gaojun and Lady Liu. A key witness has escaped from the Du household, and I’d like your help in locating them.”

Su Chao Ci led the group into the house and took a seat at a square table. Qu You discreetly glanced around and noticed a large map of the Yin Empire’s territory and military defenses hanging in the main hall.

“This isn’t difficult; I’ve already found some leads,” Boss Ai said, glancing meaningfully at Qu You as he spoke. “If we find the witness, I’ll ensure they’re handed over to the Ministry of Justice.”

None of these individuals knew that Qu You had already deduced Song Shixuan’s identity, so their conversation remained only partially veiled. Sitting at the table, Qu You pondered why Zhou Tan dared bring her to such a place. Did he not fear she might uncover something?

Su Chao Ci and Zhou Tan had taken the imperial examinations in the same year, with Su ranking second. Both had been posted to remote regions for similar durations. However, Su hailed from an influential family in Bian Capital and hadn’t studied under Gu Zhiyan. He was currently in mourning and thus avoided entanglement in political scandals. In the eyes of the public, his presence here was unremarkable.

As for Boss Ai, he was essentially the hidden ruler of North Street. No one would connect him to the supposedly long-dead Prince Jing’s grandson.

Knowing Song Shixuan’s true identity, seeing these three together struck Qu You as akin to a treasonous gathering. But to Zhou Tan, this was merely introducing her to old acquaintances.

Qu You sighed and decided to steer clear of their discussion, turning instead to Song Shixuan: “Ziqian is your teacher’s student, so today I’ll test you on his behalf. If you answer well, I’ll reward you next time.”

Su Chao Ci raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Lady, are you also learned?”

Boss Ai interjected, “Chao Ci, you’re oblivious to worldly affairs. Don’t you know that before marriage, our sister-in-law was a celebrated noblewoman in Bian Capital? She could have easily become a female scholar if not for her marriage.”

Smiling, Qu You took Song Shixuan aside.

After she left, Su Chao Ci turned to Zhou Tan: “Why did you dare bring her here?”

Zhou Tan remained silent, but Boss Ai spoke first: “Your wife is quite extraordinary. I found her intriguing when she beat the Drum of Appeals on Imperial Street. Now that I’ve met her, I see it’s true.”

He continued, “I urged him to bring you here. During the fall-from-the-tower case, she contributed significantly. The women of Fangxin Pavilion praised her righteousness. Hearing this reassured me—it’s good someone can care for Xiao Bai.”

“She’s no villain. I’ve tested her repeatedly; she harbors no cunning thoughts. Qu Cheng remains neutral in partisan struggles, which is why Consort Gui arranged your marriage. She’s unlikely to be a pawn of Fu Qingnian or Gao Ze.” Zhou Tan rubbed his white jade thumb ring. “I rejected marriage multiple times until after the assassination attempt, when I had no choice. Care? There’s no need for care. When the time comes, a divorce is preferable.”

Su Chao Ci fell silent. “You can’t remain unmarried forever.”

Zhou Tan gave a bitter smile. “Why not? What we do is more perilous than walking on thin ice. One misstep means annihilation. It’s better to face it alone rather than drag others into it. Before success, would you dare marry?”

Su Chao Ci could only remain silent.

“Since Emperor De granted this marriage, how easily will he permit a divorce?” Boss Ai sighed. “When you were attacked last time, Chao Ci and I were terrified, stranded in Jinling. We couldn’t even send a physician in time. Without your wife, would you have survived this long? Gu… Before Gu died, he instructed me not to pressure you. I never expected you to visit this Wind-Seeking Cottage again. Even when seeking help, you sent your wife instead. Xiao Bai, why did you finally come today?”

Zhou Tan replied indifferently, “I once held unrealistic hopes for him. Now those hopes are shattered, making self-deception impossible.”

He looked up. “I have a plan. I’d like your thoughts.”

Song Shixuan was now of age to take the imperial exams, though he wouldn’t need to. His studies encompassed astronomy, archery, poetry, and classical texts. Much of this education came from Su Chao Ci, who hailed from a prominent family in Bian Capital and excelled in various subjects. From earlier discussions with Gu Zhiyan, Song Shixuan had likely learned much from Zhou Tan, hence the title “teacher.” This remained unknown to the public.

Song Shixuan admired Qu You for her drumming incident, which had spread widely. Qu You hadn’t anticipated its fame, often recounting it to new acquaintances.

After discussing history with Song Shixuan, Qu You sat with him under a tree, debating the ten methods of cat care. As Zhou Tan exited the house, he saw Qu You demonstrating the difference between “pink paw pads” and “black paw pads” to Song Shixuan, who listened intently. Upon Su Chao Ci’s appearance, Song Shixuan quickly regained his composure.

Holding the cat, Qu You politely bid farewell with Zhou Tan. Before leaving, Zhou Tan suddenly remembered something and asked Boss Ai, “The black-clad man you assigned to me—what is his origin?”

Boss Ai didn’t directly answer but vaguely replied, “He’s absolutely trustworthy. You can rely on him as a confidant, but don’t assign him to others.”

Zhou Tan accepted this without suspicion and thanked him with a bow. Song Shixuan peeked out from behind Su Chao Ci, his eyes fixed on the cat, asking, “Teacher, will you visit often?”

“Mm.” Zhou Tan patted his head, revealing a rare softness in his gaze. Qu You waved the cat’s paw goodbye before leaving with Zhou Tan through the alley.

Exiting, Qu You noticed numerous hidden guards—some concealed in trees, others disguised as vendors. They subtly bowed as Zhou Tan passed, revealing their presence. No wonder Song Shixuan dared open the door himself; strangers likely wouldn’t even reach the gate.

Zhou Tan led her into an unfamiliar carriage waiting at the alley entrance—not the one they arrived in. Inside, there was no driver. After they sat for a while, someone silently climbed aboard and drove them away.

Qu You scratched the cat’s belly, her mind brimming with thoughts yet unable to articulate them. Seeing her hesitancy, Zhou Tan initiated conversation: “Will you take the cat back to the mansion?”

Finally finding a topic, Qu You nodded vigorously. “Ziqian said the cat still doesn’t have a name.”

“Then name it,” Zhou Tan suggested.

Mentioning names reminded Qu You of something. “Ah, I forgot to ask Boss Ai’s full name earlier.”

Zhou Tan noted her keen interest in names. Her habit of asking for full names showed progress—she now introduced herself merely by her surname. “Boss Ai’s name derives from ‘Who knows where the jade flute flies secretly?’ His courtesy name is Disheng.”

Qu You nearly choked. “So his name is Ai Disheng???”

...

What a name for a great inventor.

Unaware of her amusement, Zhou Tan simply confirmed, “Yes.”

Suppressing laughter, Qu You petted the cat and casually remarked, “This xiaofei lian has a strong connection to you. Let’s call it ‘Xiaobai’.”

Zhou Tan paused, then saw Qu You looking at him earnestly. “Speaking of which, I only call you by your full name, which seems disrespectful. You’ve never used my given name either...”

Before she finished, Zhou Tan swiftly stroked the cat, avoiding her gaze as usual. He remained silent until they reached the mansion gates, where he finally murmured, “...It’s not disrespectful.”

“Oh—”

Qu You unraveled her male hairstyle and loosely tied it up again, cradling the cat in one hand as she prepared to disembark. Seeing his composed expression, a mischievous impulse arose, and Zhou Tan heard her drawl calmly, “Dear Tan.”

Satisfied, Qu You observed as Zhou Tan’s pale complexion remained unchanged, though his ears reddened. Pretending to frown, he reprimanded her half-heartedly, “Don’t be silly,” then lowered the carriage curtain and instructed the driver to head to the Ministry of Justice.

Nanny Yun welcomed Qu You inside, noting her cheerful demeanor. “Madam seems particularly pleased today.”

Qu You smiled. “Playing with the cat was quite amusing.”