PM - 45

The dragon has nine sons, each different from the others. The greatest distinction of this Prince Jing Yuanbiao compared to his other brothers is his honesty. In all worldly matters, there must be a sense of measure. If one is too honest, they appear mediocre, which is why the throne that should have been his ended up in the hands of the late emperor.

Emperor Wen had seven sons in his lifetime. The first Crown Prince Yuanshu was born to Empress Jiang, being both the legitimate and eldest son, whom Emperor Wen adored greatly, making the succession almost without question. Unfortunately, this Crown Prince had a short life, dying at sixteen from a strange illness. Emperor Wen was deeply saddened, and for five years did not appoint another Crown Prince. With the position vacant for so long, everyone began guessing who would be the next heir. Among the six princes, only Prince Jing Yuanbiao met the strict requirements.

Throughout history, emperors chose their successors based on the principle of “appointing the eldest legitimate son rather than the virtuous, and the noblest son rather than the eldest.” After Crown Prince Shu’s death, Yuanbiao, the second son, became the eldest among the princes. His mother, Lady Xie, came from a prestigious family, adding to his noble status. If he had been more astute, the throne would likely have been his, leaving no room for the late emperor.

Yuanbiao’s simplicity was well-known; his honesty emanated from every pore. Whether it was studying, archery, or political insight, none of his traits met the standards expected of an emperor. If these shortcomings weren’t enough to disqualify him as heir, then his five-year marriage without progeny might have been Emperor Wen’s main hesitation. Later, Fu Wei heard a rumor that once, when Emperor Wen fell ill, Lady Xie wept incessantly while attending to him, pleading for Yuanbiao to be named Crown Prince. Emperor Wen, enraged, slammed the table, exclaiming, “Without heirs, how can the state endure?” He severely reprimanded Lady Xie. Thus, Yuanbiao was less shrewd than the third son, the late emperor, who would have secured the position first, knowing that sons could be born later, but the establishment of power waits for no one.

Fu Wei didn’t have a deep impression of this royal uncle, but since he had come to the palace, she needed to receive him with due respect. Her golden carriage soon returned to the inner palace, and as Prince Jing was a relative, he had already been guided to the eastern chamber of the main hall to await her audience. She took her seat within the tent and ordered the attendant to summon him. He entered in his official robes, walking solemnly and bowing respectfully, his somewhat plump figure appearing heavy and sluggish, “Your humble servant, Jing, wishes Your Majesty ten thousand years of prosperity.”

Fu Wei promptly rose to assist him, “Royal Uncle, no need for formalities. It’s been many years since we last saw each other. How have you been?”

“Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I have long resided in my fiefdom, always thinking of Your Majesty but unable to visit the capital. This time, taking advantage of Your Majesty’s joyous occasion, I specially came to the palace to see you…” He raised his eyes with a smile, gently observing the young emperor before lowering his head again, sighing sentimentally, “Your Majesty has grown up now, governing the country with wisdom and strategy. If the late emperor could see this, how comforting it would be!”

After all, they were blood relatives. Without sharp conflicts of interest, they could coexist harmoniously. Prince Jing was loyal and mild-mannered; Fu Wei sensed no threat from him, thus feeling quite at ease in his presence.

She gestured for him to sit and exchanged pleasantries, asking if the princess and the crown prince had accompanied him to the capital. Prince Jing replied affirmatively, adding humbly, “After the previous princess passed away, I was stationed in Shu. The current princess, since marrying me, has never experienced the splendor of the capital. As for the crown prince, he is just a naive child, always talking about seeing camels in the imperial city. I even disciplined him for it. The capital is not some barren land of the Western Regions—where would he see camels here!”

Hearing this, Fu Wei chuckled lightly, “Royal Uncle is too strict. He should let the crown prince leave Shu and see the world. He will need to serve the court in the future. How old is the crown prince?”

Prince Jing replied, “He is seven years old. Just the other day, he lost a tooth, so I didn’t dare bring him to pay respects to Your Majesty.”

As for this royal uncle, fate had not been kind. His first princess was jealous, preventing him from calling any maids to his chambers. She herself bore no children, leading many to believe Prince Jing was impotent. After her passing, his hardships ended. He remarried, and this new princess was virtuous, personally arranging several concubines for him. Like an old tree blooming anew, Prince Jing began fathering children one after another. Besides the established crown prince, he had three more sons and two daughters—a miracle. In fact, apart from the late emperor, the other princes of the Yuan clan were not lacking in progeny. Yet, ultimately, it was she who inherited the lineage—a twist of fate indeed.

However, conversing with him felt grounded and homely. Prince Jing’s speech was unlike other nobles; he didn’t use flowery language to mask his intentions. Conversations with him required little mental effort, which was quite pleasant.

Fu Wei engaged in some polite conversation about her unseen younger cousins, then shifted the focus to the purpose of his visit.

Prince Jing spoke earnestly, “Since the turmoil in the fiefdoms during Emperor Xiaozong’s reign, many historical records and books were scattered among the common folk. I once visited the Orchid Pavilion archives, where the collection of thirty thousand scrolls paled in comparison to the era of Emperor Guang. Being a useless person, I have always loved reading. Since moving to Shu, I’ve collected books lost in various places, especially those with red spines and green pages, ancient texts, organizing them over ten years until reaching over twenty thousand volumes. This time coming to the capital, I brought these books to present to Your Majesty.” He licked his lips and smiled further, adding, “Did Your Majesty ever hear of formations like the Wild Goose Formation, the Mysterious Barrier, or the Crescent Moon Array? These combat tactics were nearly lost. Now, I’ve compiled all military treatises into collections, already transported to the White Tiger Observatory for scholars to examine. If Your Majesty grants permission, they will be sent to the Orchid Pavilion to enrich the library.”

Fu Wei was greatly surprised upon hearing this, “Royal Uncle retrieved over twenty thousand scrolls by himself?” Overjoyed, she leaned forward, “This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, but due to lack of time, I couldn’t manage it. Having Royal Uncle take care of this for me brings immense relief. You’ve worked hard, Royal Uncle.”

Prince Jing smiled broadly, waving his hand dismissively, “Your Majesty flatters me. I have no strategies for governing the nation or talents for stabilizing it. Only such small tasks are within my capabilities…”

“No, no, Royal Uncle, your efforts benefit generations to come. These books can be passed down through history, no less significant than governing and stabilizing the nation.” She flipped through the military treatises handed by the eunuch, delightedly patting her knee and praising these rare editions.

Prince Jing, however, showed no sign of joy. He still sat upright, hesitating repeatedly, seemingly wanting to say something but holding back.

Fu Wei noticed this and set aside the bamboo slips, studying his expression, “Does Royal Uncle have something to say to me?”

Prince Jing cleared his throat, accustomed to extreme caution, articulating major matters smoothly required considerable effort. He glanced at the young emperor repeatedly, finally saying, “Half a month ago, I received a report from the border officials under my jurisdiction in Shu. They intercepted a troop of several hundred soldiers with sixty carriages, all carrying armor and weapons. Initially believing it to be a government consignment, they didn’t pay much attention. However, when credentials were requested and not provided, suspicions arose. By the fourth watch, attempts to escape were made, alarming the situation, prompting immediate reports to my office. I ordered a thorough investigation, and the results were unsatisfactory…” He withdrew a scroll from his sleeve, handing it to the eunuch for presentation, then fell silent.

Fu Wei frowned, scrutinizing him, opening the scroll and reading it meticulously from start to finish. Indeed, the results were as he described, extremely unfavorable.

She composed herself, rolling up the bamboo slips and placing them aside, “The troops are from Jing, the weapons and armor funded by the Yan clan, transported from Guchuan through Shu territory into Jing’s domain…”

Prince Jing stood up, tucking his wide sleeves and bowing deeply to the young emperor, “Reporting to Your Majesty, fearing any oversight, I interrogated repeatedly. The results align exactly with what’s written in the report, without any discrepancies. I dare not deceive Your Majesty. Also, fearing that sending the report via courier might not reach Your Majesty’s hands, I came under the guise of delivering books to personally report the truth to Your Majesty. Please decide, Your Majesty.”

Fu Wei’s mind buzzed. This matter was too coincidental. Fabricating the collusion between the Yan clan and Prince Jing was originally her means to control the Chancellor. Even the anonymous letter last time was orchestrated by her. But now, the fabrication had become reality, requiring serious contemplation.

Mass private manufacture of weapons was no trivial matter. For someone without military authority to involve themselves in military affairs meant the entire family would be punished. Clearly, someone couldn’t wait any longer and started targeting the Chancellor. Who could it be? Prince Jing was certainly not involved—it made no sense for him to ally with the Chancellor while implicating himself. Honestly, this case was highly advantageous to her. By playing along, she could achieve multiple goals with one move. But she couldn’t do that, otherwise, she’d betray today’s heartfelt affection and tender feelings.

How to handle this… She slowly paced on the thick mats. The jade and pearls hanging from the corners of the canopy seemed to lose their luster. To investigate thoroughly would entangle him; not to investigate would mean letting slip the perfect opportunity to deal with Prince Jing. Weighing the pros and cons, why not seize the opportunity first and deal with the remaining Yan clan easily?

“Did Prince Jing come to the capital this time?” She turned to ask Hulü.

Hulü Puzhao replied, “Only the regional prime minister was sent to extend congratulations on his behalf. Prince Jing himself did not arrive.”

“The Tiger General Huo Ding and the Pass Commander Sima Qi were dispatched by the Chancellor in July to inspect the army in Jing. Their reports stated everything was normal, advising Your Majesty to rest assured. And now? In just three months, large quantities of weapons have been transported from the largest iron mine in Central Plains to Jing. What does this signify? A rebellion!”

Her anger erupted at the end, sweeping all the ornaments off the lacquered table. The incense in the Boshan burner spilled out, burning large yellow patches on the felt carpet. The eunuchs serving nearby were terrified but dared not step forward to clean up, all looking fearfully towards the Chief Eunuch. Jianye, fearing a fire, discreetly signaled them to roll up the entire carpet and remove it.

The emperor’s wrath was like a collapsing mountain. Prince Jing was also apprehensive, clasping his hands and stammering, “Please, Your Majesty, calm your anger. My investigations are merely based on the soldiers’ statements. The actual situation...”

She didn’t let him finish, loudly commanding the summoning of Huo Ding and Sima Qi, pointing towards the direction of the Court of Judicial Review, “Summon the Deputy Chief Justice to me.”

In Dayin, all government offices were located within the inner city, making the summoning of officials very convenient. Huo Ding and Sima Qi arrived quickly, their hearts racing at the sight of the chaos, exchanging glances before bowing, “Your Majesty…”

“Shut up!” the young emperor cut them off, her face dark, eyes like icicles in winter, “When the Chancellor assigned you to investigate Jing, I trusted your diligence and approved. Never did I expect such negligence! You assured me everything was fine, and now, mere three months later, you’re proven wrong. I ask you both, how can you justify my trust and the Chancellor’s important mission?”

The two generals still looked bewildered, panicking under the young emperor’s wrath, unable to make sense of things, only standing helplessly, “We are foolish, please enlighten us, Your Majesty.”

Wei Shixing finished reading the bamboo slips, presenting them with both hands. The young emperor furrowed her brows, disdainfully throwing the scroll at them, “Read it yourselves, see if you still have the face to hold office in this court!”

While the two generals examined the document, Wei Shixing bowed and asked the young emperor, “What is Your Majesty’s current thought? I believe relying solely on the soldiers’ testimonies is insufficient evidence.”

She averted her gaze, “I know. Prince Jing is my royal uncle, and the Yan clan is a century-old distinguished family. Neither can be charged lightly. Before you came, I deliberated. Without conclusive evidence, I cannot justify to the court and the public.” She bit her lip, thinking for a moment, “You go to Shu. This matter requires the involvement of the Court of Judicial Review. I have no hope for these two walking corpses. Take people to thoroughly investigate, ensuring this matter is resolved.”

Wei Shixing felt puzzled but still bowed to accept the order, “Yes.”

Meanwhile, Huo Ding and Sima Qi finally understood the situation. The young emperor’s remark about ‘walking corpses’ made them feel utterly ashamed. Unable to kneel in their armor, they bowed deeply, “Please allow us to redeem ourselves, Your Majesty. We are willing to assist Wei Cheng in jointly investigating this case. Once concluded, we are at Your Majesty’s disposal.”

Fu Wei snorted, not responding. The positions of General of the Tiger Guards and Pass Commander were crucial military posts. She intended to replace them with trusted individuals, worrying about finding an opportunity. Now it was delivered to her hands. However, without concrete evidence, acting hastily would undermine her authority. Moreover, she hadn’t formally taken power yet. Acting too aggressively now would alarm everyone.

She sighed deeply, lowering her eyes, “The Court of Judicial Review has its procedures. It’s inconvenient for the two ministers to accompany them, lest suspicion arises. Before the truth is fully revealed, hand over your duties and return home to await instructions. I will discuss this matter with the Chancellor. The final decision will be according to the Chancellor’s opinion.”

The two generals left dejectedly. Regardless of how they previously underestimated the young emperor, in the end, the emperor was the emperor. If she was determined to punish them, no one would dare oppose her.

The young emperor casually waved her hand. Two rows of guards entered, escorting the men away. She glanced at the uneasy Prince Jing, changing her expression to a smile, “Royal Uncle has rendered great service this time entering the capital: one, for the preserved classics; two, for exposing Prince Jing’s transgressions. I remember these contributions.”

Having witnessed the thunderous rage and now receiving gentle words, it was particularly flattering. Prince Jing clasped his hands repeatedly, “Your servant only fulfilled his duty, not daring to claim credit.” Exchanging a few more pleasantries, he tactfully withdrew from the main hall.

In the now empty hall, only the young emperor and Wei Shixing remained. Wei Shixing addressed her as “Your Majesty,” “I find this matter highly unusual. Earlier, you discussed it with us, and the truth was known. Now, such a thing actually happened—it’s too coincidental. However, if you can act decisively, it’s a good opportunity to overthrow Chancellor Yan. Although he’s not part of the Yan clan, blood ties remain. How can he absolve himself? Even if he doesn’t face execution, he won’t be able to remain in his position. Now, at the juncture of Your Majesty assuming power, once he’s impeached, the governance must return whether willingly or not. What does Your Majesty think?”

Before today, she was determined to compete with him. As his student, challenging her mentor was uniquely stimulating. If victorious, it would sufficiently awe the court and the country. However, circumstances kept changing. She couldn’t destroy him for her own power. Such a proud man, what would he do if he truly lost everything? She also found it difficult—one side was her grand ambition, the other was love. She used to charge ahead unhesitatingly, but since he kissed her, she felt her heart beginning to melt, like an ordinary girl, wanting to protect her beloved, accepting some disadvantages and grievances.

Standing in the sunset, she played with the jade pendant in her hand, pressing its notch painfully into her palm. Closing her eyes briefly, she said, “Minister Wei, Prince Jing must fall, but the Yan clan… it’s better not to involve them.”

Wei Shixing felt disappointed, “Is Your Majesty planning to give up?”

She pondered for a long time, “My wings are not yet full-grown, that’s the reality. Rushing now might lead to chaos in the court. Have you considered who the mastermind is behind this? What is the purpose of this move?”

Wei Shixing was equally confused, “Your Majesty’s concerns are not unfounded, but missing such a good opportunity is regrettable… Does Your Majesty wish to protect the Chancellor?”

Indeed, she wanted to protect him. Though he had been domineering in the past, he had supported her. Now it was her turn to repay him. Seizing an opportunity to destroy him would be too inhumane.

Wei Shixing did not wait for the young emperor’s response, knowing her decision was firm. Further persuasion would be futile, so he bowed and retreated.

Exiting the magnificent palace, he encountered a ray of evening glow illuminating the corridor. He walked slowly in the glowing path, turning the corner to meet a magnificently dressed beauty. The lady wore deep clothing, her black and red collars adorned with red leather belts. Wherever she walked, the guards stood with their backs turned… He was startled, quickly lowering his head and stepping aside, hurriedly turning around.

In the glow of the setting sun, everything was silent except for the faint sound of the Empress’s footsteps crossing the central path. The most esteemed woman in the realm, like the young emperor, was an undeniable presence. Her passing was truly daunting. Assuming she had come for the young emperor, they parted ways. However, her footsteps stopped, out of his line of sight.

“Is this the Deputy Chief Justice?”

Wei Shixing was startled again, bowing lower, “Yes, your humble servant Wei Shixing, wishing Your Majesty endless happiness.”

The Empress hummed, “I heard earlier that Prince Jing paid a visit, bringing troubling news, correct?”

Wei Shixing frowned. News from the imperial court reached her ears so quickly—it was no wonder she was the Chancellor’s adopted daughter. No need for subtle talk in front of discerning eyes. It was too late to feign ignorance, so he admitted, “Troops passing through Shu were detained, intercepting several pieces of armor and weapons.”

The Empress was already fully aware of everything, simply asking, “How does Your Majesty plan to handle this?”

Though Wei Shixing resented the interference of the harem, her status compelled him to respond, “His Majesty has ordered a thorough investigation. The outcome still awaits discussion with the Chancellor.”

The Empress said nothing more, pausing briefly before heading towards the main hall. Taking a couple of steps, she stopped again, slightly turning back, “His Majesty’s temporary mercy doesn’t guarantee lasting leniency. Minister Wei, remember to conduct a genuine ‘thorough investigation.’“

Wei Shixing was astonished, catching a glimpse of her flowing robe as she walked away without waiting for his reply.