Chapter 27: Escape Fails, a Three-Person Shuraba… p2
The attendant led the way. Before long, they arrived at a waterside pavilion.
The pavilion was by the water, with an amber-tiled roof and glazed brick floor. There were sixteen pillars in the middle, and the two walls were open, completely covered by crystal bead curtains, semi-transparent. A gentle breeze blew, and there was the sound of tinkling pendants.
Above was a sandalwood-waisted luohan couch with a square table in the middle. Incense was burning in a beast-shaped censer. Zhao Shangjun was leaning back in it, the smoke curling around his sleeves. His posture was relaxed, his expression light, as if he were sitting under a plum blossom tree.
Fu Tangli stopped before she got too close, maintaining a distant, polite distance. She pursed her lips and said nothing. Now, facing Zhao Shangjun, she really had nothing to say.
Zhao Shangjun looked at her and uttered two simple words: “Come here.”
His tone carried the same oppressive authority as always, not allowing for any defiance.
Fu Tangli was silent for a moment, then slowly shuffled over, her hands tucked into her sleeves, her waist straight. She looked calm and composed, but her voice was cool. “What are your orders, Daoist Master?”
Zhao Shangjun’s expression did not change. He said nonchalantly, “A distinguished guest will be here shortly. You should meet them. There might be an unexpected surprise.”
“What does the Daoist Master’s distinguished guest have to do with me?” Fu Tangli replied, her face expressionless.
As soon as her voice fell, she heard an attendant announce from the steps in a drawn-out tone, “His Highness the Crown Prince has arrived.”
Immediately after, Zhao Yuanjia’s voice came in. “Imperial Uncle.”
It was like a dull clap of thunder striking her head.
Fu Tangli was caught off guard. For a moment, she felt her hands and feet turn cold, her head buzzing.
She couldn’t let Zhao Yuanjia see her here, absolutely not. She subconsciously took a step forward and looked around in a panic.
The pavilion was spacious, with curtains hanging on all four sides, empty, with nowhere to hide.
Zhao Yuanjia’s footsteps were already close.
And at this moment, Zhao Shangjun extended his hand to Fu Tangli, palm up, a tempting gesture. He looked at her silently, raised an eyebrow, a half-smile on his face, waiting for her to walk into his trap.
In a flash, Fu Tangli had no time to think. She threw herself into Zhao Shangjun’s arms, burying her face tightly in his chest, not daring to show even a sliver of it.
An attendant rolled up the crystal curtain. Zhao Yuanjia came in and happened to see this scene. He was taken aback for a moment, then smiled. “Imperial Uncle is in a fine mood.”
Zhao Shangjun put his arm around Fu Tangli and patted her gently. “Since a distinguished guest has arrived, why not greet them?”
Fu Tangli didn’t dare to make a sound and desperately shook her head.
Something light and soft was rubbing against him, making Zhao Shangjun’s chest itch a little. He let out a low laugh. “The Crown Prince is here. How can you be so rude?”
As he said this, he gripped her waist and moved slightly, a subtle gesture, as if he wanted to push her away.
Fu Tangli was frantic. She hugged Zhao Shangjun, hiding in his embrace, clinging to him. Her heart was pounding wildly. She didn’t dare, or perhaps was unwilling, to plead out loud. She made a small, sticky sound from her nose.
Like the chirping of a bird on a spring branch, it brushed against one’s heart.
Zhao Yuanjia stood there, only able to see the woman’s back. Her chignon was like a cloud of raven-blue mist. Under her plum-colored spring dress, her waist was slender, as if bound, and in Zhao Shangjun’s hand, it was almost too small to grasp.
The spring day was warm. A little sweat appeared on Zhao Yuanjia’s palm.
Zhao Shangjun looked up and smiled at Zhao Yuanjia. “The weather is fine today. I suddenly felt in the mood and invited you for a drink. Unfortunately, Anu is being unruly and prevents me from getting up to greet my guest. I have made a fool of myself.”
He was usually majestic and cold, rarely showing much emotion in front of others. At this moment, when he smiled, it still carried a sharp edge, like a blade pressing against one.
Zhao Yuanjia quickly composed himself, averted his gaze, and said without a trace of anything, “A beautiful woman should be both delicate and petulant. Only then is there charm. How can you say you’ve made a fool of yourself? Imperial Uncle need not be so polite.”
An attendant respectfully led Zhao Yuanjia to a seat. On the table was a jar of wine. A young maid in green came forward to pour it.
The wine was poured into a white jade cup, as black as pure lacquer, as thick as congealed paste, the two colors distinct.
Zhao Shangjun, with one arm around the young lady in his embrace, raised his cup with the other. His voice was calm, as if he were just making small talk with Zhao Yuanjia. “This is Dragon Paste Wine, brought by a Hu merchant from the country of Wuyishanli. The taste is quite unique. Give it a try.”
With that, he drained it in one go.
Seeing this, Zhao Yuanjia followed suit.
The wine was extremely strong. The spicy taste rushed to his head, then instantly transformed into a clear qi that spread through his organs. When he smacked his lips, a sweet aftertaste lingered in his mouth. It was truly a roller coaster of flavors.
Zhao Yuanjia was unprepared and nearly choked. He coughed twice, put down his wine cup, and praised, “Good wine!”
He glanced at Zhao Shangjun and slapped the table with a laugh. “Imperial Uncle has always cultivated a path of tranquility, being frugal and self-restrained. But today, with a beauty in your arms and fine wine in your hand, it is truly rare. Gu has long advised Imperial Uncle that one should enjoy life to the fullest when one is successful. Why waste one’s youth? Imperial Uncle has finally come to his senses. You should really drink three large cups.”
“You have a point.” Zhao Shangjun suddenly lowered his head and called out gently, “Lihua.”
His voice was very low, a little muffled, probably only she could hear it.
Fu Tangli was startled and her body trembled.
She was almost completely pressed against him. He was such a cold person, yet his body was scorching hot, making her face burn, as if the snow had melted. Only a little of the scent of white plum blossoms remained, while the fragrance of ebony, bitter and long-lasting, clung to her hair, enveloping her.
“In that case, will you drink a cup with me?” he said.
How could Fu Tangli dare? She could only shake her head in a panic.
Inevitably, she rubbed against him a few more times, like the wings of a bird, brushing against the hardest place.
Zhao Shangjun let out a soft sigh. He cupped Fu Tangli’s chin with his fingers, his thumb caressing it. He seemed to smile, his voice almost inaudible. “What, you don’t dare? Even if you get drunk, the worst you can do is spout some nonsense and lie to me. What’s the big deal?”
The fingers touching her skin, the rough feeling was even more obvious. The man’s movements were light and slow, yet they carried a forceful strength, holding her in his hand.
Fu Tangli’s face grew even hotter, whether from shyness or anger. All the grievances she had suffered rushed up at this moment. A surge of anger and blood rushed to her head, and without thinking, she lowered her head, opened her mouth, and bit his hand.
She bit down especially hard. His palm was thick and solid. She used all her strength and ground her teeth fiercely twice. Soon, she tasted a special flavor.
Like a metal object being drawn from its sheath, rusted in the spring rain, damp and hot.
Zhao Shangjun let out a muffled grunt from his nose, but it carried a hint of pleasure. He withdrew his hand.
Fu Tangli raised her eyes, pursed her lips, and glared at him resentfully.
Zhao Shangjun met Fu Tangli’s gaze, raised his hand, and licked the wound. He lowered his eyes, his tongue touching a little blood, and the corners of his mouth curled up slightly, like a smile. His bearing was noble and elegant, yet he was like a dangerous wild beast.
Fu Tangli was at a loss for words.
But he averted his gaze. One hand still held Fu Tangli firmly, and with a slight turn of his head, he said to Zhao Yuanjia as if nothing had happened, “You see, she actually bit me.”
Zhao Yuanjia looked at the scene before him, not knowing what to say. He just smiled and took a sip of his wine.
“Such a naughty young lady. I don’t want to keep her either. How about I give her to you?” Zhao Shangjun suddenly said.
Zhao Yuanjia was caught off guard. He couldn’t figure out Zhao Shangjun’s intention and couldn’t help but hesitate.
But before Zhao Yuanjia could answer, Zhao Shangjun lowered his head and said to Fu Tangli in an almost gentle tone, “I’ll let you go with the Crown Prince. Are you willing?”
He even had a hint of a smile.
Fu Tangli’s heart was about to leap out of her throat. She hugged Zhao Shangjun, buried her entire person in his embrace, and shook her head frantically.
Zhao Shangjun was very patient and asked again, “I’ve promised you. You can go now. Think carefully. Are you willing?”
Fu Tangli’s mouth was bitter. Her lips moved, like a fish out of water, gasping in vain, but she couldn’t say a word.
Zhao Shangjun raised an eyebrow. His tone was unhurried, with his usual condescending air. “You’re not willing? Very good. Since you want to stay, you will have to listen to my commands in the future. No more trouble. Remember, you chose this yourself.”
Fu Tangli looked at Zhao Shangjun. Her eyes slowly turned red, and a tear clung to the corner of her eye, on the verge of falling. She looked so pitiful, but she had a stubborn and angry expression. She suddenly gritted her teeth, pushed Zhao Shangjun with all her might, and retreated.
Zhao Shangjun was quick. He grabbed her.
Fu Tangli said nothing, pressing against Zhao Shangjun’s chest. Her hands were trembling, but she used all her strength to resist him.
But his strength was so formidable. He supported the back of her head with one hand and pressed her against his heart, easily suppressing her, like holding a bird in his palm.
“Alright, Lihua, be good. Behave,” he bent down slightly, almost whispering, his tone softening, probably still trying to coax her. “Mm, don’t make a fuss.”
No matter how hard Fu Tangli tried, she couldn’t move an inch. Realizing this, she gradually gave up struggling and lay against Zhao Shangjun’s chest, gasping for breath. Her voice was faint, as if she were desperately suppressing something. She finally quieted down.
Zhao Shangjun ruffled her hair, satisfied.
He then turned to Zhao Yuanjia with perfect composure. “Anu is spoiled and is always making a fuss. It’s not good to give her away. I’ll give you something else. Whatever you want, just ask.”
Zhao Yuanjia’s eyes moved, and he went along with it. “A beauty is wonderful and can please Imperial Uncle. How would gu dare to take what Imperial Uncle holds dear? As for something else, I dare not accept anything. I came here today, actually, to ask Imperial Uncle for your advice.”
Zhao Shangjun, with a beauty in his arms, looked languid. His fingers tapped twice on the table. “Let’s hear it.”
Zhao Yuanjia’s face showed a troubled expression. “Two days ago, Li Huai’en and Sun Cheng fought in front of the Vermilion Bird Gate. Both the Left and Right Jinwu Guards suffered casualties, and the imperial procession was disturbed. My Imperial Father was furious and ordered me to deal with this matter. I don’t know what to do. I ask for Imperial Uncle’s guidance.”
Zhao Shangjun took a sip of his wine and said casually, “Since a mistake has been made, just punish them according to the law. What’s so difficult?”
Zhao Yuanjia raised his wine cup, hiding his expression, and said, “Sun Cheng has guarded the capital and served loyally. He is a pillar of the state. Gu cannot bear to punish him. And Li Yan has just defeated the Khitans and won a large territory by the Xilamulun River for the court. He has made great contributions. Li Huai’en, as Li Yan’s eldest son, has come to Chang’an as a hostage, showing the Li clan’s loyalty and courage. He cannot be left unappeased either. You see, Imperial Uncle, doesn’t this put gu in a difficult position?”
Zhao Shangjun looked at Zhao Yuanjia, his gaze cold and emotionless, and said, “Sun Cheng has led the Jinwu Guard for many years, and the capital’s defenses are all under his control. This has made him arrogant, which is why he dared to move troops at the foot of the emperor. This trend cannot be allowed to continue and must be strictly guarded against. He can be sent away, to keep him far from the capital. As for Li Huai’en, he is a barbarian and does not know the rites. His Majesty treats the Li clan with a policy of appeasement, so it is not convenient to be too harsh. Just order him to go back and reflect.”
Sun Cheng was Zhao Shangjun’s old subordinate. He was a meticulous man and had managed the Jinwu Guard flawlessly, which had gradually aroused Emperor Yuanyan’s suspicion. He had wanted to demote him but was concerned about Zhao Shangjun, which was why he had sent Zhao Yuanjia to test the waters. Now, hearing Zhao Shangjun’s words, Zhao Yuanjia thought to himself that Emperor Yuanyan had been overthinking things, and a look of relief appeared on his face.
“Imperial Uncle is wise. Your planning is much more thorough than mine. We will do as you say. It is very appropriate.” Zhao Yuanjia glanced at Zhao Shangjun’s face and added, “Since Sun Cheng is leaving, how about we have Guo Yuanjian take charge of the capital’s defenses, Imperial Uncle?”
Guo Yuanjian was a famous general of the Great Zhou. He had outstanding military achievements in his early years. Although he was old now and no longer wore armor or wielded a sword, in terms of prestige, he was still above Sun Cheng. Moreover, he was of an upright and unyielding character and was fiercely loyal to Emperor Yuanyan. It seemed like the most suitable choice.
Zhao Shangjun only said, “This matter should be decided by His Majesty’s will. I am a subject and it is not convenient for me to comment.” His expression was placid, but his tone was unquestionable. “No war, no command of troops. I am a Daoist and do not involve myself in worldly affairs. I have already said too much today and cannot discuss it further. Crown Prince, do not spoil the mood. Drink your wine.”
Zhao Yuanjia had achieved his goal and a great weight was lifted from his heart. He now smiled and changed the subject, drinking his wine and talking about trivial matters in the palace and the Empress Dowager Feng’s daily instructions.
Musicians in the lower hall played the se and sang. From a distance, the music was faint and clear, as if coming from the river. The wind blew, and the crystal curtains moved, like the tinkling of jade cong.
Zhao Shangjun’s expression never changed, even holding a hint of arrogant languor. He held the beauty in his arms, just listening, not saying much, occasionally nodding in acknowledgment.
Zhao Yuanjia had long been accustomed to Zhao Shangjun’s ways and even felt that Imperial Uncle was more approachable today than usual. He relaxed. The Dragon Paste Wine was clear and mellow. He unknowingly drank a whole jar and was eight or nine parts drunk before he stood up to leave.
As he was leaving, Zhao Yuanjia felt as if he had forgotten something. He paused, turned around, and his gaze fell on the beauty.
She was curled up, nestled silently in Zhao Shangjun’s arms. From beginning to end, Zhao Yuanjia could not see her face. But a beauty, with her magnificent and graceful bearing, her gentle and charming demeanor—just looking at her back, for some reason, he felt a little itch in his heart.
Zhao Yuanjia couldn’t control himself and took a second look. Perhaps because he was drunk, he had an illusion and found her strangely familiar. Thinking this, he turned and took a few steps, wanting to get closer.
Zhao Shangjun suddenly looked up, his gaze like a sword, a sharp chill flashing across it.
Zhao Yuanjia was startled. A cold sweat broke out, and he was half-sober. He didn’t dare to look any longer and, pretending to be drunk, was helped away by an attendant.
After Zhao Yuanjia had left, Zhao Shangjun finally released his hand.
Fu Tangli broke free from Zhao Shangjun’s embrace. She was so desperate that she stumbled a few steps before she could stand steady.
Zhao Shangjun still sat in the high hall. His gaze was deep, and he said unhurriedly, “You see, I am not like you, so fond of lying. I always keep my word. I did have someone come to take you back, didn’t I? It’s just a pity that your fiancé couldn’t recognize you at all.”
He seemed to sigh, and a hint of a pleased smile appeared on his face. “Lihua, is such a man worth your longing?”
Fu Tangli stood there. No matter when, her waist was always perfectly straight, making her look so proud. But at this moment, she was undoubtedly furious, her face flushed, even her eyes bloodshot. She stared at Zhao Shangjun without showing any weakness and said, word by word, “Your Highness, the Prince of Huai, listen carefully. What Zhao Yuanjia is like has nothing to do with me. I am not Zhao Yuanjia’s person. I do not belong to anyone. I only belong to myself. I want to leave. I don’t need anyone to control me. I can leave on my own!”
Zhao Shangjun raised an eyebrow. His gaze was arrogant, yet it held a hint of pity, as if he were looking at a bird kept in a cage, patiently indulging her.
“No one else, mm, alright. You can leave now. I won’t stop you. Lihua, tell me, how will you leave?”
Fu Tangli suddenly smiled. The corners of her eyes still held the traces of unshed tears. In that instant, she had already regained her usual composure and elegance.
She nodded and said clearly, “Alright. Your Highness, the Prince of Huai, keeps his word. Do not stop me.”
With that, she suddenly turned, ran to the railing of the waterside pavilion, nimbly climbed over, and without hesitation, jumped.
“Lihua!” Zhao Shangjun’s expression changed drastically. He let out a sharp cry, leaped over, and desperately reached out his hand, trying to grab her.
But the hem of her skirt slipped from his fingertips, missing by a hair’s breadth.
With a plop, Fu Tangli fell straight into the river.