Chapter 25: Palace Banquet, in a Secluded Place, He Firmly… p3
Fu Tangli tossed and turned all night. When the sound of the watchman’s clapper for the third watch came from outside, she was startled as if from a nightmare, and involuntarily sat up, clutching her chest and gasping for breath.
Yanzhi, who was on night watch, heard the noise and came in with a lamp, asking with concern, “My Lady, are you unwell somewhere?”
Fu Tangli shook her head, dazed for a moment, then fell back down and buried her head in the quilt, trying to pretend she was a turtle.
And so, she remained sleepless for a long time.
She finally managed to endure until the sky was faintly light. Fu Tangli had no desire to sleep. She put on her clothes and got up, asking, “What time is it?”
The maids lit the candles, gathered up the bed curtains, and brought towels, a basin of water, combs, and other things, attending to the Second Lady as she washed and dressed.
Yanzhi was the most nimble. She knelt on the ground, helping Fu Tangli put on her silk stockings, and said with a heartache, “It’s only just past the Mao hour. It’s still early. I saw that My Lady didn’t sleep well last night. You don’t look very energetic right now. Since you’re free today, why don’t you lie down a little longer?”
Fu Tangli remembered the appointment at Changfeng Pavilion. How could she lie down?
She let out a faint sigh and ordered, “Have the carriage prepared. I need to go out later.”
A short while later, after the morning meal, Dailuo came in and said, “The carriage is ready and waiting outside. May I ask My Lady, when do you wish to depart?”
Fu Tangli hesitated again. She sat there, silent for a long time, then said in a low voice, as if to herself, “Forget it. I’m not going.”
Dailuo agreed, “Yes. Then I will tell him to go down.”
“No, no.” Fu Tangli immediately changed her mind. She called out to Dailuo, “Wait. Let me consider it further.”
Dailuo withdrew to the side, puzzled.
Fu Tangli looked out the window. The sky was overcast, the dark clouds pressing down, making it impossible to distinguish between light and shadow. The air was slightly damp, sticky and uncomfortable. Yesterday had been a fine, clear day, but in just one night, the scene had changed. The will of heaven is unpredictable, I suppose.
She was hesitant. She casually picked up a book and flipped through two pages, her mind in a jumble, not knowing what was written in the book. Before long, she looked up and asked, “What time is it?”
Dailuo went out to check the water clock and replied, “A quarter past the Chen hour.”
Fu Tangli put down the book, paced back and forth in the room a couple of times, then stopped, sighed again, and after a long while, asked again, “What time is it?”
And so, she asked again and again, struggling with the desire to go out, only to shrink back at the last moment. She went back and forth seven or eight times. The furthest she got was to the hanging flower gate, only to flee back, leaving her maids utterly bewildered.
Just as Fu Tangli had summoned her courage and stepped out of her room once more, she happened to run into Yang-shi, who had come over with Fu Shaoyao and called out to her.
“Just in time, Queniang. I was looking for you. Come quickly, come out with me. Your aunt has returned.”
Fu Tangli stopped, slightly taken aback. “Aunt has arrived? Didn’t they say it would be another two or three days?”
Fu Fangxu had a daughter who had married into the Xu clan of Hedong. The Xu family’s uncle-in-law was the governor of Shuzhou, and Fu’s aunt had lived in Shuzhou with her husband for a long time. It was only because her son was participating in this year’s spring civil service examination that Fu’s aunt had sent a letter not long ago, saying she would be coming to the capital.
Yang-shi’s face was beaming, as if this were a great joyous occasion. “That’s right. They came by boat and had a smooth journey, so they’re two days earlier than expected. They’re about to arrive. Alright, let’s go quickly. Don’t neglect your aunt.”
At this moment, Fu Tangli could not refuse. She had to suppress her feelings, put on a nonchalant expression, and follow Yang-shi out.
When they reached the front courtyard’s flower hall, Fu’s aunt had not yet arrived. Yang-shi was giving a stream of orders to the servants—dusting, burning incense, serving tea, and arranging fresh fruits. She also had them light a tall, beast-faced brazier with white frost charcoal, making the room warm and cozy.
Before long, the First Mistress, Yan-shi, also came over. Seeing Yang-shi’s arrangements, she couldn’t help but whisper in Fu Tangli’s ear, “Do you know why your mother is so attentive?”
Fu Tangli was distracted. “Please enlighten me, Eldest Aunt.”
Yan-shi was a talkative person, especially fond of gossiping about Yang-shi behind her back. “I heard that this cousin from the Xu family has a good family background, is well-educated, and is said to have a good appearance and temperament. Such a fine cousin, and he’s not yet betrothed. Your mother’s heart is itching. She wants to recruit him as a son-in-law. You just watch.”
Hearing this, Fu Tangli glanced at Fu Shaoyao and only then realized that from the beginning, Fu Shaoyao had been sitting there with a long face and a pout, looking as if she were nursing a deep grievance.
Yan-shi lowered her voice, but the ridicule in her tone became even more obvious. “Unfortunately, Yanniang doesn’t seem to be happy about it. She thinks Cousin Xu is not prominent enough. What is she thinking? Trying to compete with you? In her dreams. Queniang, your good fortune is unique. Not just in our family, but in the entire world, no one can surpass you.”
Fu Tangli gave a dry laugh, not even in the mood to reply. Her heart grew heavier.
Before long, everyone in the Fu family had gathered, and Fu’s aunt’s carriage finally arrived. Yang-shi personally went out to welcome her in. The cousin from the Xu family was dressed in fine clothes and a light fur coat, with a retinue of attendants carrying large and small chests of gifts behind him, making a grand entrance.
They had not seen each other for twenty years. Upon returning home, Fu’s aunt was both crying and laughing with her family, needless to say. Even the usually stern Fu Fangxu showed obvious joy.
The cousin from the Xu family was named Lianyi. As Yan-shi had said, he was indeed handsome, tall, with fine features. He met with the elders and cousins of his mother’s family one by one, his etiquette impeccable, his bearing gentle and refined.
The long face on Fu Shaoyao quietly relaxed.
Fu’s aunt was a versatile person, treating all of her nephews and nieces with more or less the same kindness. But when she met Fu Tangli, she was particularly emotional, holding her hand for a long time without letting go.
“When I was in Shuzhou, I heard that our family’s Second Lady had been designated as the Crown Princess. It is truly the blessing of our ancestors and the grace of the emperor. I was so happy that I went to pray to the Buddha that very night. Seeing the child today, indeed, this bearing, this appearance, she is like a celestial consort from the heavens. Our Fu family is truly fortunate.”
This heavy good fortune made Fu Tangli feel a tightness in her chest, but to Fu’s aunt, she still showed a perfectly appropriate smile, greeting and responding according to the rules.
Fu Shaoyao’s face turned green again.
Yan-shi was about to laugh and deliberately raised her voice. “What a coincidence, sister. Do you know that the place where Queniang lives now is the same old residence where you lived in your maiden days? It seems that courtyard has some good fortune in it. You and Queniang are both fated.”
In fact, Fu Fangxu had been quite partial to his sons back then. The best houses were all given to his three sons. As for his daughter, she would be married off sooner or later, so he had just casually assigned her a side courtyard. When Fu Tangli returned from Weizhou, this was the only place left, so she moved in.
Fu’s aunt, not knowing the inside story, was very pleasantly surprised. “Is that so? Queniang, can you let your aunt go to your room to sit and have a look? It’s been so long, I don’t know if it’s the same as it was back then.”
Fu Tangli was frantic, wishing she could cover Yan-shi’s mouth, but it was too late. Facing Fu’s aunt’s eager gaze, she could only lower her eyes and smile gently. “What are you saying, Aunt? What ‘can’ or ‘cannot’? You were the original owner. Now that you’ve returned, I should also make way. If you wish, I will accompany you to my place later for tea.”
Fu’s aunt naturally agreed. The First Mistress, Yan-shi, and the Second Mistress, Zhang-shi, brought the Fourth Lady, Fu Yulan, along to join in the fun. Yang-shi had no choice but to pull Fu Shaoyao along, and the group set out in a grand procession toward Fu Tangli’s courtyard.
On the way, Fu Tangli secretly asked Yanzhi, who was beside her, “What time is it now?”
Yanzhi ran to check and came back to reply, “It’s just past the Si hour.”
Hearing this, Fu Tangli’s heart trembled, and her legs felt a little weak.
***
In Changfeng Pavilion, the charcoal in the small red clay stove was burning, making a crackling sound. On top of it was a white pottery tea kettle. The water was boiling, bubbling, gurgle, gurgle. Everything seemed so quiet.
Zhao Shangjun sat alone, pouring and drinking tea by himself. The taste of Yangxian Snow Bud tea was on the tip of his tongue, clear and slightly bitter, much like this quiet spring day.
The weather was not good, and it looked like it was about to rain. Shaoling Plain was vast and desolate. Only the willows by the roadside were worth mentioning. The willow branches were a fresh green. Occasionally, a breeze would pass, and the catkins would rise with the wind, like a smoke screen enveloping the dome of the sky.
Zhao Shangjun took a sip of his tea. His expression was calm, showing no fluctuation. At this moment, he seemed to be the same as he had been for many years in the Daoist temple, observing the pure rules, showing neither joy nor anger. Or rather, others could not discern his joy or anger.
A tall, magnificent black horse was grazing under the willow tree. It had probably been waiting for a long time and was bored. After chewing for a couple of mouthfuls, it would raise its head and snort. Two Daoists stood outside Changfeng Pavilion. Their legs were numb, but they still stood straight, their hands at their sides, maintaining a respectful and solemn posture.
And so, they waited.
It was not until almost noon that a rider came galloping from the direction of Chang’an, breaking the stillness.
As he drew near, the rider reined in his horse, dismounted, and ran over. But he didn’t dare to go straight up and said a few words to Xuan’an and Xundu.
Xuan’an hesitated for a moment, then walked over, stood at the foot of the steps, and reported to Zhao Shangjun, “Senior Brother, General Zhuang requests an audience.”
Zhao Shangjun’s eyes were lowered, his expression cool. He continued to drink his tea in silence.
Xuan’an withdrew and said a few words to General Zhuang. General Zhuang was so anxious that he kept bowing, but Xuan’an refused, so he had to have Xundu go up instead.
“Senior Brother, General Zhuang has an urgent matter of great importance. He begs you to see him.” Xundu was a little bolder and said a few more words.
There was no reply for a long time.
It began to rain, not heavily, but enough to dampen one’s clothes. The willows grew heavier and drooped low. The spring was still chilly, with a coldness that pierced to the heart.
“Your Highness!” General Zhuang couldn’t help but call out from a distance.
With a soft clink, Zhao Shangjun put down his white jade teacup and finally uttered a single word: “Send him.”
Xundu went down to relay the message. Zhuang Jing immediately ran over, his face long, and called out again, “Your Highness.”
Zhuang Jing held the rank of General of the Garrison, and was the Prince of Huai’s right-hand man, skilled in both battle and strategy. However, he was a shrewd man and was accustomed to showing weakness in front of others. For example, at this moment, from his posture, it was as if he wanted to kowtow to Zhao Shangjun twice before speaking.
“This subordinate has been looking for you everywhere. I went to Yunlu Temple and only then learned that you were here. I’ve been delayed for quite some time, but I’ve finally found you.”
Zhao Shangjun’s expression was indifferent. He glanced at Zhuang Jing.
Zhuang Jing shivered, immediately sensing Zhao Shangjun’s mood. Sweat broke out on his forehead with a whoosh. He didn’t dare to ramble any longer, composed himself, and summarized the matter.
“His Majesty has appointed Li Huai’en as the Grand General of the Left Jinwu Guard. This scoundrel went to the guard headquarters this morning with his men and demanded that Sun Cheng hand over the duty of patrolling the capital to him. Sun Cheng could not stand the provocation and got into a dispute with Li Huai’en. Both sides have called their men. I couldn’t stop them. I’m afraid they’re about to fight in the capital.”
The Jinwu Guard was in charge of the forbidden palace and the patrol, beacon watch, and roads of the capital. Sun Cheng was the Grand General of the Right Jinwu Guard and had been in charge for many years. How could he allow others to interfere? But to move troops in the capital without an imperial edict was a grave crime. Sun Cheng had always been a meticulous man and would not be unaware of the stakes. Today’s situation must be unusual.
“His Majesty has been relying heavily on Li Yan and his son lately. That barbarian has gained power and is very arrogant. But it’s strange, why did he pick on Sun Cheng?” Zhuang Jing seemed to be hinting at something.
Zhao Shangjun’s fingers tapped twice on the table. He said coolly, “Sun Cheng is my old subordinate. His Majesty probably wants to replace him. Just follow His Majesty’s will. What’s the harm?”
When he mentioned Emperor Yuanyan, there was no dissatisfaction in his tone; it was even gentle. The entire court knew that Emperor Yuanyan was magnanimous and benevolent, and that he and the Prince of Huai were loving and respectful brothers. Zhao Shangjun’s words seemed ordinary.
The Prince of Huai’s statement confused Zhuang Jing, but he didn’t dare to guess his master’s thoughts. So he changed the subject and said urgently, “The Left and Right Jinwu Guards are arrayed outside the Vermilion Bird Gate. If they clash, it will be equivalent to treason. Sun Cheng is in danger. The Capital Governor, Lord Liu, and the Duke of Han are trying to cover it up and have not yet alerted His Majesty. I ask Your Highness to go quickly and take charge of the situation. Right now, only you can control the scene.”
Zhao Shangjun stood up, slowly paced a couple of steps, clasped his hands behind his back, and looked out into the distance from the Changfeng Pavilion.
Shaoling Plain was a stretch of desolation. There were occasional passersby, but they all came and went in a hurry, and none of them were her.
A wind rose. The rain brushed against his cheeks and hair, so light, like a lover’s gentle caress. The corners of his mouth curled up in a smile, but his eyes were ice-cold.
“Your Highness!” Zhuang Jing was anxious. He braced himself and urged him.
“Let’s go.” Zhao Shangjun brushed his sleeve and strode out, without any further lingering.
Xuan’an brought the Prince of Huai’s warhorse.
This was a heavenly horse from Dayuan, capable of traveling a thousand li, as fast as the wind. It had been waiting here for a long time and was already impatient. As its master leaped onto its back, it immediately let out a neigh, raised its four hooves, and galloped away, leaving only a trail of dust in an instant.
Zhuang Jing and the two young Daoists immediately followed.
…
Just as the dust from the horse’s hooves had settled, a carriage came speeding from the other side of the official road, heading straight for Changfeng Pavilion.