PM - 69

Two days later, Wei Shixing quickly made progress.

Fu Wei rarely had leisure time. Seeing the beautiful spring sunshine outside, she had the eunuchs set up a tent next to the flower bed, planning to bask in the sun, drink tea, and read books. Unfortunately, just as she sat down, Bu Hai came in to deliver a message: “The Prefect of the Capital has entered the palace, presented his credentials, and awaits Your Majesty’s summons at the palace gate.”

She responded indifferently, slowly rising and pulling the desk towards her. Not wanting to move, she decided to receive him here and instructed Bu Hai, “Bring the person here.”

Zhangde Hall was the emperor’s private chamber, usually not used for receiving guests. However, since she was feeling lazy, breaking this rule once wouldn’t matter much.

Under the emperor’s black embroidered vermilion brocade canopy, green feathers hung down with pearl tassels. A gilded phoenix incense burner stood in the center, its elegant fragrance permeating the soft space; even the thick mats on the ground exuded a subtle aroma. Wei Shixing entered the tent and saw the young emperor sitting solemnly behind the desk, a short tong wood zither placed before her. As he stepped forward with his left leg, a deep sound resonated; with his right leg, a softer tone. Eventually, he hesitated, unsure whether to proceed further, standing under the brocade curtain and bowing deeply to pay his respects.

The young emperor chuckled softly, her smile carrying a youthful air as she took the small zither and placed it aside on the floor.

“Lord Wei, please sit.” She gestured to the lacquered table on her right hand side. “Today you come to the palace—have you found the source of that rumor?”

Wei Shixing thanked her and sat down, presenting a respectful bow. “Anyone implicated from the common folk has been taken into custody. Initially questioning the children, all twenty-four unanimously claimed a peddler taught them to sing it. Then we apprehended the peddlers, interrogating all those who roamed the streets of Yucheng, uncovering a Persian merchant. That Persian feigned ignorance until we drove two nails into his pipa bone, and he finally confessed. According to him, someone gave him five hundred gold pieces, instructing him to spread the words written on the silk.”

From children to peddlers, and finally implicating a Persian merchant—all for this one phrase—it was indeed painstakingly intricate.

The young emperor straightened herself. “Did you catch the person who gave him five hundred gold pieces?”

Wei Shixing shook his head. “He wore a veil, completely obscuring his features.” He pulled out a strip of cloth from his sleeve and presented it respectfully. “Your Majesty, I find this item very suspicious. Please examine it.”

The young emperor took the item and scrutinized it carefully in the sunlight outside the tent. The writing was bold and strong, like iron strokes and silver hooks, but seemingly revealing no clues.

“What is your meaning?”

Wei Shixing stood up and moved closer, pointing at the silk. “Your Majesty, please observe—this silk is not ordinary fabric. It’s a type of fine silk interwoven with silver threads, something not affordable by common people.”

She had always paid little attention to fabrics, leaving all attire matters to the Imperial Household Department. Thus, she didn’t know how such fabric circulated in the market. Hearing his explanation, she pinched the silk between her fingertips, examining its delicate texture that felt as smooth as spring water, finding it indeed thought-provoking.

“Have you investigated the origin of this material?”

Wei Shixing confirmed, “It originated from the Xiuchun Workshop in Hanzhong. This workshop exclusively provides silk to the imperial family. Not only do noble households possess it, but even within the palace... this year’s tribute silk included this kind of fabric.”

Surprised, she raised her head. “Even inside the palace uses it?”

A fire in the rear courtyard was truly a great tragedy of life. However, this palace was a mixed bag, filled with many people whose hearts weren’t united—some incidents were inevitable.

Could it be the Empress Dowager’s doing? She tightly clenched the strip of cloth in her palm, sighing deeply. “Order the Imperial Household Department to conduct a thorough investigation. Where exactly has this batch of silk been used inside the palace?”

The palace’s consumption was enormous, involving massive resources—used for curtains, window screens, everywhere imaginable. Even if investigated, she knew it would likely yield no results. Moreover, there were too many external relatives—how could they question each one individually? Even if questioned, who would admit? Stirring up trouble would only provoke anger, making it hard to settle.

“For now, one thing is certain—the mastermind behind this is either wealthy or noble, possibly even from my own clan.” She rose and slowly paced out of the tent. Spring was deepening; a gust of wind blew, and willow catkins floated in the air like an unexpected winter snow under the bright sun. She furrowed her brows and sighed deeply. “I am somewhat disheartened. Since ascending the throne, how many perilous situations have arisen, instigated by close kin. Does being emperor make so many unhappy?”

Wei Shixing disagreed. “Your Majesty must understand that whoever sits in this position faces equally numerous challenges. Your Majesty should remain calm, steadfast as a mountain, to make those people retreat in difficulty. If rebellion arises, suppress it with military force, no matter the cost.”

This statement fit the identity of a stern official. She turned back and smiled. “Lord Wei speaks wisely. I shouldn’t lament excessively. For thousands of years, conspiracies have thrived within the palace walls, darkness breeding alongside brilliance. Wearing this crown means enduring the tests.”

Investigations outside the palace proceeded. The tangled web required someone to unravel it. After Wei Shixing left, she stood under the peach tree for a long time. Jianye approached quietly and said, “Your Majesty, return to the hall. There are too many willow catkins; you might sneeze again.”

Only then did she notice the itch in her nose. Annoyed, she brushed it off with her hand and turned around, saying, “The Empress Dowager’s birthday approaches. Let’s visit Yong’an Palace.”

As she walked, she kept pondering—should she bring out this narrow strip of silk in front of the Empress Dowager? If this matter really involved her, the expression on her face would surely be fascinating. But what then? More vigilance, more plots—thinking about it made her heart cold.

Arriving at the Yong’an Gate, she saw that the Empress Dowager also had a tent set up in front of the hall. Several young attendants sat on cushions playing double sixes, while she leaned over to watch.

An elder eunuch knelt outside the tent. Seeing the young emperor approach, he reminded the Empress Dowager and stood up to greet her. Fu Wei waved her sleeves slightly, smiling as she entered the tent to pay respects to the Empress Dowager.

The Empress Dowager was still relatively young, not yet forty, at the prime of wisdom and maturity. The deeper one’s experience, the calmer one becomes when facing events. Her face always carried a smile, which over time became a constant state, making it difficult to discern her emotions.

Seeing the young emperor, she always appeared affectionate and considerate. “Is Your Majesty not busy today? How is the newly established commandery in the northern region progressing?”

Fu Wei remained composed, subtly watching her words. “The Grand Censor has submitted a report to the capital. Everything is proceeding smoothly; Mother need not worry. Affairs in Shuofang have concluded. I was occupied these past few days and couldn’t report to Mother earlier.” Pausing briefly to observe her expression, she continued deliberately, “Marquis Gai has been executed on-site, and the Shuofang garrison has been taken over by the Grand Marshal. Since Marquis Gai’s fiefdom has been abolished, it will now be directly overseen by the court, giving me peace of mind.”

Hearing this, the Empress Dowager looked bewildered. “I never expected—first Langlang, then Princess Zhang and Marquis Gai—a family that seemed intact ended up like this.”

A faint smile gradually emerged on Fu Wei’s face. “Without ulterior ambitions, how could things end this way? People shouldn’t be greedy. Not content with their position, they meddle in politics, striking stones with eggs, ending in ruin—whom can they blame?”

“Very true,” the Empress Dowager still smiled, absentmindedly turning her head to look at a crabapple tree outside the tent.

Strange—different states of mind made everything seem profoundly meaningful. Even sitting opposite each other, their hearts seemed miles apart. A green-clad palace maid brought in pastries, placing them before the Empress Dowager. She accepted them and placed them before her. “I’ve come here today for Mother’s birthday. The sixth day of the third month is approaching—a joyous occasion. In the past, I couldn’t show filial piety to Mother. This year, being my first year of personal rule, I’ll take this opportunity to host a grand celebration for Mother’s birthday.”

What should have been a happy event caused the Empress Dowager’s smile to fade. She hesitated. “The overall situation is still unstable, and it’s not a significant birthday milestone—there’s no need for extravagance!”

But Fu Wei insisted. “This is my filial devotion. Mother must accept my sentiments.”

The Empress Dowager’s birthday would open the palace gates. They needed such an opportunity, and she provided it. Those who should enter the capital would enter; those intending rebellion might as well rebel.

Hosting a grand banquet was uncontroversial, and the Empress Dowager readily agreed, speaking gently, “It’s good for the clan to gather. Last year during the emperor’s wedding, the empress was still healthy, but recently her health has declined, and she hasn’t shown her face.”

Fu Wei casually replied, “Her Majesty’s constitution is weak. With spring arriving, after some recuperation, she will surely improve.” Pausing briefly, she added, “Does Mother remember the rumors circulating after the New Year? ‘The female phoenix enters Deyang…’ claiming I’m a woman with hidden ambitions to seize the empire.”

The Empress Dowager immediately grew solemn. “I remember. When I first heard it, I was truly enraged. Such malicious slander—who knows who instigated it?”

Fu Wei’s attitude remained calm as she stroked her hand. “Prefect Wei Shixing is investigating this matter under orders. It seems there are some leads. Let’s wait a bit longer—there will surely be an explanation.”

The Empress Dowager nodded. “Having leads is good… I’ve heard that the newly established three auxiliary regions are gaining momentum lately, especially the Prefect of the Capital. While investigating the source of the rumors, Your Majesty must remember not to lose the people’s hearts due to a harsh official. Once the officials mobilize, chaos ensues everywhere. This is the capital after all, with various subordinate states watching. We mustn’t let others laugh at us.”

Fu Wei acknowledged with a respectful sound. The Empress Dowager then inquired about the chancellor’s recent movements. Fu Wei slowly hardened her gaze. “The chancellor arbitrarily mobilized the capital’s defense forces without even informing me, showing he doesn’t recognize me as emperor. Wei Shixing escorted Prince Jing into the capital and submitted a memorial accusing the Yan clan of assisting Prince Jing in illegally manufacturing weapons. Prince Jing’s rebellious intentions were evident when the tiger guards unearthed ceremonial robes from his residence—an unforgivable offense.”

Hope gleamed in the Empress Dowager’s eyes. “So, what does Your Majesty intend to do with the Yan clan?”

“If I use this opportunity to eliminate the chancellor, what does Mother think?”

The Empress Dowager was instantly shocked. “Your Majesty truly intends to do this?”

Her face grave, she gritted her teeth. “For years, I’ve endured his restraint. I’ve had enough. Since this excellent opportunity has arisen, why not make full use of it? He has enjoyed all the privileges for so many years. The debts he owes—I will settle them thoroughly with him…”

What exactly were these debts? Besides making the young emperor unable to straighten her back, there were certainly other implications. The Empress Dowager pursed her lips, remaining silent for a long time before saying, “He is like a centipede—Your Majesty must proceed with caution.” Without asking how she planned to handle him, she picked up the lacquered cup; the rising steam blurred her features.

Fu Wei clasped her hands and bowed her head, responding softly with a “Yes.”

Two days later, during the court session, the young emperor sat high on her throne, her distant voice echoing across the vast hall.

“I have always held great respect for my father the chancellor, who has served tirelessly for many years. However, I recently received a confession document, and its recorded testimony truly shocked me. The chancellor often claims he belongs to the imperial registry and has no ties with the Yan clan, but today I must question this assertion. Being of the same lineage, to say they have had no contact at all seems exaggerated.”

The chancellor, seated at the forefront among the officials, was somewhat surprised. He rose and bowed deeply toward the throne. “Your Majesty’s words leave me deeply apprehensive. Since assuming my duties as regent, I have strived to fulfill them faithfully without a moment’s slack. If I have made any errors, please enlighten me. Should there be accusations against me, I implore Your Majesty to make a wise judgment.”

The young emperor’s face remained impassive, enduring for a long while before finally rolling up the bamboo slips on her desk and hurling them fiercely at him. “The Yan clan has resided in Hongnong and then moved to Jingzhou—a family full of talent yet not a single member serving in the court, surely harboring discontent. Does the chancellor wish to read the confession? The sworn testimony of the Yan clan elder points directly at you. As the saying goes: ‘Trust those you employ, and do not employ those you doubt.’ To me, the chancellor is both a teacher and a father figure. Now that you have betrayed me, it pierces my heart more deeply than an enemy’s blade.”

The young emperor’s outburst in court left the officials trembling, shocking both the court and the nation. Such outcomes were inevitable ever since the chancellor relinquished his regency. Throughout history, regents rarely met good ends—either forced to drink poisoned wine or executed along with their entire families. This young emperor was particularly ruthless; her kindness to anyone was merely a temporary measure until she could consolidate power. Once her wings grew strong and her teeth sharp, a mere chancellor would be easily crushed.

The chancellor’s supporters still tried to salvage the situation. Fu Wei watched as half the officials knelt, wailing and pleading for the chancellor’s mercy, urging the emperor to investigate thoroughly. She only sneered. “What further investigation is needed? Enlighten me, esteemed ministers. If the Yan clan and the chancellor are connected, what benefit does implicating the chancellor bring to the Yan elder? The Yan clan can only rise with the chancellor’s support. Without him, this century-old noble family would collapse entirely—isn’t this logical?”

Thus, the pleading officials fell silent, and all eyes turned to the chancellor. Once arrogant and domineering, his face now turned ashen. After staring at the throne for a long while, he finally removed his ceremonial crown and sighed deeply. “I cannot prove my innocence; I can only bow my head and submit to Your Majesty’s judgment.”

The young emperor descended from her throne, took a few steps, paused on the wooden stairs, then shifted her tone. “To condemn the chancellor based solely on a memorial might invite accusations of rashness. Resignation is unnecessary for now, but involvement in court affairs must cease. As for military matters—to avoid conflicts of interest—control will temporarily be handed over to the Grand Master of Ceremonies and the Commander of the Palace Guards. You have labored for many years; rest well. Coincidentally, your betrothal is imminent. Use this opportunity to spend time with Princess Yuan Han—a pleasant affair indeed.”

What pleasant affair? It clearly fulfilled last year’s ominous celestial phenomenon of Mars guarding the heart—either the emperor dies, or the chancellor falls. Now that the chancellor has fallen, the emperor need not die—what peace of mind!

Power transitions,shifting winds and clouds, let us talk about human relationships—the chancellor is your royal uncle and mentor... No, the state comes first; personal feelings must not interfere. Presumably, everyone present felt a sense of sorrow akin to seeing a rabbit die and a fox mourn. This world is inherently a matter of life and death—even the chancellor couldn’t endure forever, let alone others!

One court session, one major upheaval. Though the chancellor retained his titles and rank, they were essentially meaningless. Exiting Deyang Hall into the glaring sun, he felt both certain and uncertain, watching officials pass by with a dazed expression.

Human nature is fickle—he lost power, and no one paid him heed. How tragic, how lamentable. Fortunately, he still had a few loyal aides who consoled him. “My lord, please remain calm. The emperor has not dismissed you from office; there is still room for reversal.”

“I believe His Majesty is using this as a pretext. To judge solely on hearsay—where in the world is such a divine being found?”

The chancellor furrowed his brows. “Speak cautiously. When the sovereign orders a subject to die, the subject must comply. His Majesty has been lenient—not granting me poisoned wine allows me to keep my head and continue eating, which is already fortunate.”

Walking with his hands clasped behind his back, the jade pendants at his waist clinked ironically. He smiled faintly at them. “I am nearly ruined. Continued association with me will harm your careers. I appreciate your loyalty, but it is best for each of you to take care of yourselves. Disband the office; staying tied to me will ruin your futures.”

During the chancellor’s tenure, talented retainers had been promoted under his patronage and would not abandon him now that he had fallen. He remained composed and elegant as usual; a temporary setback meant nothing. Those who trusted him naturally believed he would rise again.

They didn’t disperse, but he hoped to create an image of isolation. Bowing to thank them, he no longer needed to go to the office. Exiting through Canglong Gate, he boarded his steward’s carriage and slowly returned home.

The steward appeared grief-stricken, having vaguely sensed the rift between the young emperor and the chancellor, making him feel even more disillusioned. Hadn’t they been inseparable before? Yet now, they severed ties so easily. Cracking the whip, he frequently glanced back. “My lord, don’t be disheartened. The emperor will change her mind.”

The chancellor propped his elbow on the carriage railing, his long, pale fingers covering the lower half of his face, making his eyes appear especially bright. He hummed softly. “Change her mind? On what basis?”

The steward frowned miserably. “The emperor once relied so heavily on you, seeking you even when ill. How could she dismiss you over such baseless accusations?”

Hearing this, he chuckled. “In the imperial household, affection holds little value. Relying on you was because you were useful. Once capable of governing independently, why continue flattering you?”

The steward was on the verge of tears, unable to believe his master had fallen so low. The chancellor looked at the small-eyed, big-nosed face and remarked strangely, “How did I never notice how ugly you are?”

The steward gasped, his lips drooping. “Presumably, my lord was too busy before to even glance at me.”

The chancellor found this reasonable. Approaching the neighborhood, he said, “I am penniless now, though I still have some money. Allow you to take a thousand gold pieces and return home to care for your elderly mother.”

When the tree falls, the monkeys scatter—it’s always been this way. But the steward refused. “Regardless of whether my lord is rich or poor, noble or humble, I vow to follow you to the death, never parting.”

Alas, ugly as he was, his resolve was firm. The chancellor adjusted the jade pendants hanging from his waist, lifting the two golden seals and shaking them. The clinking of red gold produced only dull thuds, devoid of any amusement.

Falling from grace isn’t entirely loss—it may also bring gains. Such as seeing people’s true colors, or receiving favor from those previously unapproachable.

For several days, the chancellor remained secluded in his residence, relieved of his duties. Unburdened by officialdom, he sat under the eaves to admire flowers and drink wine, no longer preoccupied with the piles of documents or calculating whether the granary would last until the autumn harvest. He found great contentment in this.

The warm breeze stirred the tassels on his crown. He slightly turned his face, noticing the fake flower on the windowsill—long neglected, now in tatters. Walking over, he picked it up and tossed it into the drainage ditch. Just as he intended to return to his study to write a letter to Lian Zheng, a servant rushed in to announce that the Prefect of Hengshui had sent his visiting card, requesting an audience.

The Prefect of Hengshui oversaw the finances of the imperial parks, holding a significant position alongside the Minister of Agriculture and the Imperial Household Department. While the chancellor was in power, their interactions were strictly professional with no personal ties. A visit at this time carried profound implications.

“Finally waited!” He smirked lightly. “Invite the prefect into the reception hall; I will be there shortly.”