CXD - 77

Watching this absurd scene, Jiang Zhiyi’s head began to buzz. Unable to bear it any longer, she ordered the two—or possibly three—people involved in the back-and-forth exchange to shut up and demanded San Qi hand over the transcript.

San Qi hesitated but under Jiang Zhiyi’s stern gaze, folded the booklet and handed it over with lowered eyes.

As Jiang Zhiyi took the booklet and walked towards the rear courtyard, Pei Zisong followed her since they were on the same route. In his mind, San Qi apologized to Yuan Ce: “You yourself said that the Young Mistress’s orders are as yours, and violators will be punished by military law. The Young Mistress ordered me to shut up, so I have no choice but to comply...”

Nodding to himself, he thought it was correct and scratched the back of his head while heading out to select soldiers.

On the other side, on the way back to the rear courtyard, Jiang Zhiyi noticed several packets of medicine in Pei Zisong’s hand. Upon inquiry, she learned that the Pei siblings had been stranded in Xingyang City for a few days. Hearing about the influx of refugees from famine-stricken areas into the city, they decided to do their part by distributing porridge on the streets. Pei Xueqing, who had some medical knowledge, helped the local clinic treat many refugees suffering from hunger and heat-related illnesses, exhausting herself and falling ill in the process.

It turned out that while Jiang Zhiyi was cooling down in her room earlier, Pei Xueqing was lying in the west wing opposite her.

Jiang Zhiyi’s residual heatstroke wasn’t a major concern. Hearing that Pei Xueqing still had a high fever, she immediately took Doctor Feng to check on her.

Feng Su, the most capable apprentice under Li Dafeng, examined Pei Xueqing’s pulse and reviewed her current prescriptions. He assured them there were no issues; it was merely fatigue and wind-heat causing the fever. With proper medication, the fever would gradually subside.

Feeling reassured, Jiang Zhiyi saw that Pei Xueqing was sound asleep and quietly retreated without disturbing her. Outside, she asked Pei Zisong about the earlier incident involving refugee unrest.

Pei Zisong originally intended to escort her out of the wing. His guiding hand hesitated mid-air.

Seeing him genuinely reluctant to converse idly with her, Jiang Zhiyi tilted her chin towards the northwest: “You don’t need to worry about him. When he wrote those jokes, he didn’t know this summer would become such a disaster. If he knew that we’re all fellow wanderers now, he’d surely wish us to look after each other. My question about the refugees is to plan ahead.”

“I was narrow-minded,” Pei Zisong said awkwardly, his ears reddening. He invited her to sit in a guest chair and recounted the events from a few days ago. “That day, we encountered a group of refugees begging for food. Seeing how emaciated they were, their skin peeling from the sun, truly pitiful, we distributed all the dry rations and water from our carriage. Not long after we resumed our journey, another group of refugees appeared. We had nothing left to offer except one water pouch reserved for ourselves. But this group of refugees was aggressive, surrounding our carriage and attempting to seize what little we had. Fortunately, Chief Secretary Wei happened to be patrolling nearby and rescued us. He told us not to give away food casually, as it might seem like helping but could lead to greater calamity and even endanger ourselves.”

Jiang Zhiyi nodded. That Governor Zhu seemed obsequious, but Chief Secretary Wei appeared reliable.

She estimated that her journey had been protected by the Xuan Ce Army, and the sight of soldiers likely scared the refugees away, preventing them from approaching to beg for food. Otherwise, she would have undoubtedly acted like the inexperienced Pei siblings.

“With so many refugees, does the court not intervene?” Jiang Zhiyi furrowed her brows.

“This year, even the north has been unbearably hot, and the south even more so, starting earlier than usual. I only learned a few days ago that this drought actually began showing signs in March, started in April, and by the end of May, three southern provinces hadn’t seen rain for three consecutive months, resulting in total crop failure and famine. However, local officials kept suppressing reports of the disaster, and the court only learned the accurate situation in mid-June.”

“So even the court only received news in June...” No wonder there was no hint of trouble in Hexi during April and May. Otherwise, she might have been recalled by Yuan Ce halfway through her journey in May. Now, it was too late; seven-tenths of the journey was already completed, leaving them in a difficult position.

Pei Zisong frowned deeply and shook his head: “What worries me more is that after questioning many refugees from the south, I found that the actual disaster situation might be even worse than what the court knows. The three southern provinces may already be barren wastelands with starving people everywhere. With continuous refugee unrest, if this continues, natural disasters may not subside, and human calamities may arise... A few days ago, I wrote a letter to my father explaining this situation, hoping to prevent further deterioration.”

Whether in Chang’an or Hexi, information isn’t as swift as among the common folk closest to the disaster. Pei Zisong, who passed the imperial exams at a young age and possessed extraordinary knowledge, made this judgment, indicating that civil unrest might indeed erupt.

Jiang Zhiyi was initially only worried about being delayed a few days, thus seeing her uncle later. After hearing Pei Zisong’s explanation, unease grew in her heart.

Pei Zisong quickly reassured her: “But you shouldn’t worry too much. Recently, Xingyang City has opened its granaries to aid refugees. Many incoming refugees are grateful, so the place we’re in won’t experience civil unrest.”

Jiang Zhiyi nodded, contemplating solemnly: “Pei Zisong, I have an inappropriate question to ask. If you find it inconvenient, there’s no need to answer.”

“Please speak, Your Highness.”

“With the disaster dragging on like this, His Majesty must be extremely furious, and many officials will likely be dismissed. Having inquired about so many matters, do you know if this relief effort implicates any princes?” Seeing Pei Zisong’s genuine surprise, Jiang Zhiyi coughed lightly, circling the topic: “You know, I was acquainted with the Fourth Prince in childhood. I wonder if this matter involves him...?”

So that’s why Shen Yuan Ce didn’t target the Fourth Prince but singled him out...

Oh, right, because the Fourth Prince is already married...

A thought flickered in Pei Zisong’s mind, and he earnestly replied: “There’s no harm in saying this. As far as I know, the official originally responsible for this relief effort was from the Crown Prince’s faction. Such a major mishap likely impacted the Crown Prince severely. The Fourth Prince, however, wasn’t implicated. Instead, he was entrusted with handling the relief efforts.”

“That’s good!” Jiang Zhiyi smiled with visible relief, though unease lingered in her heart.

The Crown Prince making a mistake should theoretically allow the Second Prince to seize the opportunity, showcasing his capabilities by recommending his own officials or volunteering to handle the relief efforts. Yet, this task was ultimately handed to the Fourth Prince.

It seems His Majesty has become highly vigilant against the Second Prince and his backing from Hedong.

Jiang Zhiyi recalled asking Yuan Ce about the court situation the night before leaving Guzang. Yuan Ce said that tensions between the court and Hedong were just a thin veil away from outright confrontation. By the end of the year, the Hedong Military Governor might not visit the capital.

If Fan Denian doesn’t come to the capital, whether the court strikes first or Hedong initiates action, war between the two sides wouldn’t be far off.

At that time, Jiang Zhiyi thought that even if there were hostilities, they would occur after the New Year. By then, Yuan Ce would be in the capital, and together they would face anything unafraid.

But now, the sudden natural disaster plunged both the court and the countryside into chaos. It was uncertain how things might change...

To get firsthand news about the court, she needed to return to Chang’an as soon as possible.

The next morning, in the main hall of the governor’s office.

Zhu Fengyuan stood respectfully aside, astonished at the noble personage seated above: “Your Highness has only rested overnight, yet you’re continuing your journey? Could it be that my humble abode failed to accommodate you properly?”

Jiang Zhiyi couldn’t be bothered with these official formalities and lightly closed her eyes, resting her hand on her temple.

Behind her, Jingzhe spoke on her behalf, smiling: “Whatever the Young Mistress asks, Governor Zhu, you need only answer. Just tell the Young Mistress whether there are any refugees scattered along the main road from Xingzhou to Chang’an. If there are, we’ll trouble you to send some men to clear the way for the Young Mistress.”

Zhu Fengyuan realized he had spoken out of turn and his expression turned serious: “Yes, I understand. I’ll arrange it immediately.”

Jingzhe smiled and nodded: “The Young Mistress will not forget your efforts when she returns to Chang’an.”

“How could you say that? It’s my utmost honor to serve the Young Mistress!”

Just as Zhu Fengyuan was about to retreat with a smile, hurried footsteps sounded behind him: “Master, something has happened!”

Jiang Zhiyi opened her eyes and saw Wei Ji, the deputy who had accompanied Zhu Fengyuan yesterday.

Zhu Fengyuan twitched the corner of his eye and signaled Wei Ji: “What is the matter? Don’t disturb the Young Mistress!”

Wei Ji quickly lowered his head and bowed to Jiang Zhiyi: “Forgive me, Your Highness, I didn’t know you were here. Please pardon my rudeness.”

Jiang Zhiyi furrowed her brows: “What has happened?”

Wei Ji looked questioningly at Zhu Fengyuan.

Jiang Zhiyi raised an eyebrow: “I’m asking you a question, who are you looking at?”

Wei Ji hastily clasped his hands and replied: “To answer Your Highness, there’s unrest among the refugees in Peng County to the east of Xingzhou. The local county office can’t handle it and requests reinforcements.”

“Oh dear,” Zhu Fengyuan exclaimed, “That’s exactly on the Young Mistress’s route back to Chang’an. For now, it would be safer for the Young Mistress to stay in Xingyang City!”

Jiang Zhiyi rubbed her temples in frustration. It wasn’t a matter of safety; the hundred soldiers of the Xuan Ce Army accompanying her were elite among elites. Even against the fierce cavalry of the Northern Jie, each soldier could take on ten. Handling the rioters naturally wouldn’t be a problem.

However, the conflict between the refugees and the court had escalated to this extent. At this critical juncture, the Xuan Ce Army shouldn’t engage in combat with the refugees. Even if they acted to protect her, swords were blind. If they accidentally defended too forcefully and caused more resentment, malicious individuals might exploit this situation, potentially implicating Yuan Ce in this mess unrelated to Hexi.

Jiang Zhiyi exhaled deeply: “When can this unrest be quelled at the earliest?”

“Probably not until tonight or early tomorrow morning.”

“I’ll wait for your news, Governor Zhu.” Jiang Zhiyi gave Zhu Fengyuan a prompting look and rose to leave the main hall.

By evening, Jiang Zhiyi sat by the bedside in the west wing, observing Pei Xueqing’s complexion.

Seeing Pei Xueqing frowning with flushed cheeks, after a day, not only had her fever not subsided but she had become even more delirious.

Jiang Zhiyi’s heatstroke had subsided, leaving only some fatigue. However, Pei Xueqing’s condition was far from optimistic.

Feng Su had examined Pei Xueqing three times from last night till today, saying she continuously had chaotic dreams while unconscious, her mind in turmoil. Her persistent fever and lack of awakening might stem from a heart ailment. External medical intervention might be futile.

Jiang Zhiyi inquired with Pei Zisong and learned that Pei Xueqing exhibited similar symptoms in Chang’an during the first month.

Pei Zisong said that Pei Xueqing seemed much cheerier after relaxing in Hexi. But ever since leaving Guzang, the further they got from Hexi, from one day onwards, she often lapsed into thought. Now, coinciding with fatigue and catching a chill, her illness had struck like an avalanche.

Seeing no improvement in Pei Xueqing, and the news of Governor Zhu quelling the unrest still delayed, Jiang Zhiyi grew increasingly anxious throughout the day, fearing something might happen.

To reduce carriage weight and expedite travel, she brought only one maid, Jingzhe, who had been dispatched to monitor the news in the front courtyard. With no one to console her, she could only comfort herself—Pei Xueqing would recover tomorrow, and early tomorrow morning, she would bring the Pei siblings back to the capital.

Jiang Zhiyi checked the wet towel on Pei Xueqing’s forehead, about to call for a maid to replace it when she suddenly heard urgent knocking on the door. Before she could invite them in, the sliding door was pushed open.

Jingzhe, usually the most composed, rushed in breathlessly, unprecedentedly flustered.

Jiang Zhiyi’s heart tightened, and she abruptly stood up: “What has happened?”

“Mistress, Master Pei overheard new refugees discussing something alarming. A few days ago, a river in the south dried up, revealing stones inscribed with words—”

“… What words?”

Jingzhe took a deep breath: “Heaven is angry, Wu shall rise, drought will come, Zhong Huang shall emerge.”

Jiang Zhiyi listened, word by word, gripping the bedpost tightly.

Wu was the era name of the current emperor.

Zhong Huang referred to the Second Prince.

Hedong and the Second Prince… they were rebelling.

Jiang Zhiyi’s heart raced; for a moment, her mind went blank. After a brief pause, she tremblingly spoke: “… Quickly, quickly have San Qi use the Xuan Ce Army’s falconry to transmit this message to Hexi as fast as possible, inform Yuan Ce!”

Jingzhe turned to leave.

Jiang Zhiyi added: “And to the capital—”

Jingzhe turned back: “Mistress, rest assured. The message might reach Hexi a bit later, but the capital should be around the same time. Master Pei also informed Governor Zhu, requesting him to immediately dispatch messengers to nearby prefectures.”

After Jingzhe left, Jiang Zhiyi steadied herself, instructed the maidservants to care for Pei Xueqing, and headed towards the governor’s office in the front courtyard.

In the bustling front courtyard, messengers carrying letters stamped with the governor’s seal galloped out of the governor’s residence, mounted their horses, and sped off in various directions.

Inside the main hall, Pei Zisong anxiously paced back and forth.

Jiang Zhiyi approached him and quickly asked, “What’s the current situation in the capital?”

Pei Zisong stopped pacing, his face grave: “My letter sent home three days ago received no response. I fear that by the time we received the news, the capital might already—”

Pei Zisong didn’t continue, but Jiang Zhiyi understood.

The superstitious sayings on the stones were designed by Fan Denian and the Second Prince to create momentum for their rebellion and stir public sentiment. While these rumors spread among the populace, the rebel army’s vanguard must have reached the outskirts of the capital. Otherwise, how could they risk exposing their plot?

Over at the desk, Zhu Fengyuan finished sealing the official stamp on the last letter, looked up, and saw the worried Jiang Zhiyi. He quickly approached her: “Young Mistress, fortunately you delayed your departure. The situation in the capital is unclear for now, so please stay here and rest assured!”

However, Pei Zisong’s face wasn’t as reassuring as Zhu Fengyuan’s. He shook his head and said: “Governor Zhu, given the current situation, if the outskirts of the capital truly fall, it’s likely Xingzhou won’t escape unscathed either.”

Zhu Fengyuan’s brows twitched: “What do you mean, Master Pei?”

Jiang Zhiyi’s eyelashes trembled slightly.

It meant that if the outskirts of the capital fell completely, the biggest hope for rescue would be Hexi. And Xingzhou was the gateway from Hexi to Chang’an. If Hedong wanted to block Hexi, then including Xingzhou, the nearby provinces would inevitably become battlegrounds.

Hedong’s army would eventually point its spears here.

...

As the sky gradually darkened, lanterns were lit in the main hall.

In the bright light, everyone awaited news, hoping the message would confirm that the capital had suppressed the rebellion and the Second Prince had been captured.

At the hour of Xu, the sound of a horse neighing broke the silence within the governor’s residence.

A messenger tumbled off his horse at the entrance, rushing inside: “Report—!”

Everyone straightened instantly, but their hearts sank heavily in the next moment.

“The Hedong army is pressing in, tens of thousands of troops are heading towards our Xingyang!”