Chapter 230: Auspicious Day
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In the Jinluan Hall, Wutuo envoy Maningbu stood respectfully on the side, waiting as his attendants continuously presented gifts to the Emperor of Great Wei.
A pomegranate tree made of gold, a pair of white peacocks, two pieces of ivory, a fist-sized luminous stone… Emperor Wenxuan eagerly looked at them, his expression very satisfied.
“These are all sincere gifts from the Wutuo people to Your Majesty,” Maningbu respectfully bowed, performing a grand salute to Emperor Wenxuan.
Emperor Wenxuan felt extremely content.
In his early years, with several sons to the late emperor, he was the most mediocre one in terms of talent. However, because he was the eldest legitimate son, the crown was passed down to him. After ascending to the throne, he was indeed as unremarkable in state affairs as he was in his youth. If it weren’t for Xu Jingfu’s support from the beginning, he might not have been able to secure the throne.
Over the years, from his ambitious beginning to later acknowledging himself as an ordinary man, he even came to appreciate the simplicity. Since ascending to the throne, he had finally achieved something remarkable, elevating the prestige of Great Wei and leaving behind a meritorious deed recorded in the annals of history.
“Your Wutuo country previously invaded the territories of Great Wei, and these meager gifts can’t account for it,” Emperor Wenxuan said sternly.
Maningbu lowered his head anxiously. “Your Majesty, it was all a misunderstanding. The Wutuo country is weak, how could we dare to be compared with Great Wei? It was all a thing of the past, and discussing it now won’t change anything. In addition to these gifts, our sovereign also wishes to present Your Majesty with a compensation.” He looked at Emperor Wenxuan and continued, “It includes granting permission for Wutuo merchants to establish markets within the borders of Great Wei.”
Emperor Wenxuan furrowed his brows. “Establishing markets within Great Wei is clearly beneficial to you. How does it become compensation? Crafty Wutuo people!”
The Crown Prince, standing on the side, spoke, “Royal Father, you might as well listen to what he has to say.”
Maningbu knelt down, “Your Majesty, the people of Wutuo have no intention of aggression against Great Wei. Establishing markets is also advantageous to Great Wei and harmless. Your Majesty, do you remember the historical records of the wise sovereign in the previous dynasty? They sent envoys to the Western Moon country to establish markets, learning horse-breeding techniques. Later, the country excelled in war horses, and the cavalry became formidable.” He paused, “The people of Wutuo are impoverished. If they can establish markets in Great Wei, mutually exchanging goods and resources, the citizens of Wutuo will no longer suffer from the days of hunger. Moreover, Wutuo is willing to offer half of the annual profits from the market to Your Majesty.”
If the preceding flattery was meant to make Emperor Wenxuan feel good, it had not necessarily stirred his interest. However, Maningbu’s final words happened to hit the emperor’s thoughts.
You see, the national treasury had been empty these past years. The war with Huayuan and Rundu had consumed a considerable amount of silver. Maintaining an army was quite costly, and the reason Emperor Wenxuan agreed to Wutuo’s peace proposal, aside from his personal aversion to war, was the financial strain.
Engaging in a war would not only require substantial funds but also time for recovery. Furthermore, without money, how could a war be waged? Now, by establishing the market, receiving fifty percent of the annual profits seemed like a good deal for Great Wei.
Emperor Wenxuan subconsciously looked at Xu Jingfu by his side.
Xu Jingfu was someone he still trusted. If it weren’t for Xu Jingfu’s support in the beginning, he wouldn’t have been able to sit securely in this position for so many years.
Xu Jingfu just stood there, smiling faintly without uttering a word. Emperor Wenxuan suddenly understood and said, “The matter of seeking peace, I can accept. However, the establishment of the market is a significant matter. I am the sovereign of Great Wei, and I cannot casually respond to you. It’s better to wait until I have thought it over and then give a reply.”
Maningbu was not disappointed. Gratefully, he knelt down, “Thank you, Your Majesty, for your benevolence.”
The Wutuo envoys behind him also knelt down, shouting long live to the Emperor. Emperor Wenxuan was in a very good mood. However, the Crown Prince standing on the side had a somewhat unpleasant expression. He glanced at Xu Jingfu, and a hint of gloominess was evident in his eyes.
After the Wutuo envoys left, only Xu Jingfu and the Emperor remained in the hall. The eunuch at the side helped Emperor Wenxuan walk towards the rear hall. Emperor Wenxuan asked, “What does Minister Xu think about establishing the market in Great Wei?”
“Although Maningbu proposed to give fifty percent of the profits to Your Majesty, I believe it is not the time to make a hasty decision on this matter,” Xu Jingfu said. “Currently, Great Wei has the upper hand in the conflict with Wutuo. We cannot let the Wutuo people manipulate us. Moreover, even though they promise fifty percent now, the Wutuo people are cunning. When the time comes, if they hide the profits, it will be difficult for Your Majesty to verify each one. Therefore, it is not the right time now.”
Emperor Wenxuan, after listening, found Xu Jingfu’s words quite reasonable. He nodded and sighed, “Minister Xu, you are currently the only one by my side who can share my worries.”
“I believe in you.”
Xu Jingfu smiled faintly, “To share Your Majesty’s worries is the responsibility of a loyal subject. I should naturally do so, even if it means giving my all for Your Majesty.”
…
Back at the crown prince’s residence, the Crown Prince, infuriated, kicked over the table as soon as he entered. The maids and servants around were startled, immediately kneeling down, and none dared to approach. Only a maid in red walked out from inside, unafraid of the Crown Prince’s anger, and approached him gently, “Why is Your Highness in such a bad mood as soon as you return? Did you encounter someone unpleasant outside?”
Guangyan looked at the beautiful woman beside him. In the entire residence, everyone feared and avoided him, except for this woman who came without fear. Yet, this lack of fear didn’t make people dislike her; instead, it made them feel that she was genuinely concerned about him.
“Encountered someone annoying,” the Crown Prince embraced Ying Xiang and walked into the hall. While walking, he said, “That old Xu Xiang dared to ruin my good thing!”
He sat down in front of the soft couch, poured a cup of alcohol, and drank it to calm his anger. Ying Xiang leaned against him, smiling, “How come it’s Xu Xiang again? Recently, even I, as a servant, have heard that Your Highness has been unhappy with Xu Jingfu for several days.”
“You’re right,” the Crown Prince snorted, “That old man, relying on his age, even dares to intervene in my affairs. I can see it; in no time, even the backyard of my palace will be under his control. I think the heavens must have felt he meddled too much in everything, so they let him end his lineage in this lifetime!”
These malicious words amused Ying Xiang, and she laughed softly, accepting the alcohol cup from the Crown Prince’s hand and taking a sip. She smiled, “That’s right. With someone like Your Highness, there will certainly be many children and good fortune in the future.”
“Are you implying something to me?” The Crown Prince pinched her cheek, and while she dodged with a smile, he felt the remaining anger transforming into desire. Just as he was about to pull her over for a kiss, someone outside said, “Your Highness, someone is seeking an audience.”
“Who is it?” The Crown Prince, in a spoiled mood, asked impatiently.
“Mr. Wutuo envoy Maningbu.”
The Crown Prince was momentarily stunned, then set down his alcohol cup, frowned, and waved his hand, “Let him in.”
Ying Xiang also stood up, tidying her dress, and positioned herself beside the Crown Prince.
Maningbu entered the room.
He had the typical appearance of a Wutuo person, short and sturdy, looking amiable and affable. However, when his eyes moved, a hint of cunning and slyness became apparent. He walked to the Crown Prince’s side with a smiling face, bowing respectfully, “Your Highness, we meet again.”
Seeing Maningbu, the Crown Prince’s previous irritation in the hall resurfaced slightly. He said, “Please, have a seat.”
Maningbu sat down opposite the Crown Prince.
“You’ve seen the matter of establishing the market,” Guangyan said, “It’s not that I’m not helping you; I’ve done my best.”
Maningbu continued to smile, showing no sign of displeasure. “Your Highness and our lord had already agreed beforehand. By helping Wutuo establish a market in Great Wei, Wutuo will, in turn, help Your Highness obtain everything you desire. Could it be…” He spoke unhurriedly, “Your Highness has already given up that position?”
“Nonsense!” Guangyan retorted, “What do you know!”
“Nowadays, there are quite a few people in the court secretly supporting the Fourth Prince. The Emperor favors the Fourth Prince over the Crown Prince, and with the past grudges between the Crown Prince and General Fengyun….no matter how you look at it, Your Highness is at a disadvantage.”
The Crown Prince remained silent with gritted teeth.
Although he held the position of the Crown Prince, as long as Emperor Wenxuan did not issue an abdication edict, his seat as the Crown Prince would not be secure. Originally, he had finally driven Xiao Huaijin out of Shuojing, but unexpectedly, after the Battle of Jiyang, Xiao Huaijin regained his reputation.
How could he be willing to let someone like Guangshuo sit on the throne?
“It’s not Your Highness’s fault,” Ying Xiang muttered, “It’s obviously Minister Xu obstructing it. Our Highness is also willing to help Wutuo establish a market in Great Wei.”
Maningbu couldn’t help but look up at the speaker. Seeing this maid’s stunning beauty, he couldn’t help but be momentarily captivated. However, he quickly came back to his senses from the charm. He said, “Minister Xu? Minister Xu has been obstructing frequently lately. During the Battle of Jiyang, it was because he leaked information. Your Highness,” Maningbu smiled, “are you really sure that Minister Xu is on your side?”
“What do you mean?” Guangyan asked warily.
“Nothing much,” Maningbu chuckled, “I just think that Minister Xu is a clever person. General Xiao Zhongwu died at the hands of Minister Xu. Being a clever person, he would never reveal his trump cards to the public. Your Highness, why do you believe that Minister Xu’s apparent support for you is genuine?”
“Don’t try to sow discord between me and Minister Xu!” Guangyan coldly sneered, “Cunning Wutuo man, how could I fall for your tricks?”
“Your Highness, if you don’t believe it, it’s fine.” Maningbu smiled, “But I still want to say one more thing. If Your Highness is only reluctant to part with Minister Xu’s connections and relationships, rather than being overly concerned about Minister Xu himself, there’s actually no need to be so distressed. Because…” Maningbu spoke softly, “In the Shuojing of Great Wei, Minister Xu is not the only one who can help Your Highness. Just as Xiao Zhongwu could be replaced by Xiao Huaijin, Minister Xu can certainly be replaced by someone younger. Similar methods and connections, young eagles are easier to train than mature snakes, isn’t that so?”
Guangyan looked at him thoughtfully, while Maningbu burst into laughter, stood up, and said, “Your Highness doesn’t need to give me an answer too quickly. When His Majesty entertains the Wutuo envoy in a few days, it won’t be too late to respond. I’ll take my leave for now. I’ll wait for good news from Your Highness in a few days.”
Maningbu left.
Now, only Ying Xiang and Guangyan remained in the room.
Guangyan looked uncertain, thinking about Maningbu’s words. Although he had vehemently stated that he wouldn’t be swayed by the Wutuo envoy’s rhetoric, there was still a hint of doubt in his heart.
Was Xu Xiang really a wise man? Lately, he had frequently opposed Guangyan on the Wutuo matter, knowingly that if Guangyan didn’t comply with the Wutuo’s demands, he could lose everything. Despite this, Xu Xiang disregarded his own position and stubbornly persisted. Guangyan had thought Xu Xiang was becoming more unpredictable as he grew older, but now… Guangyan was no longer certain.
Had Xu Xiang been bought by Guangshuo for a long time?
***
In the He residence, it had been lively these past few days.
Bai Rongwei and Xiao Jing had visited again a few days ago, discussing the marriage between He Yan and Xiao Jue. As everyone knew, during the celebration banquet, Emperor Wenxuan had arranged marriages for Chu Zhao and Xu Pingting, and for He Yan and Xiao Jue. Chu Zhao and Xu Pingting were to marry the following month. After Bai Rongwei consulted a diviner, the wedding dates for He Yan and Xiao Jue were set for the seventh and tenth days of the first lunar month, both auspicious days for weddings.
He Yan was not at home. Although she held a position as an official without much real power, she still had duties to attend to every day, even if they were minor. Upon hearing Bai Rongwei’s words, He Yunsheng immediately furrowed his brows and said, “Isn’t that only a little over a month for preparations? Isn’t it too hasty?”
He Sui also felt a bit uneasy, despite his initial excitement.
“Second Young Master He, don’t worry,” Bai Rongwei smiled, “We’ve been preparing for his marriage with Xiao Jue for the past two or three years. However, Huaijin didn’t have a girl he liked until now, so the preparations were put on hold. Now that the emperor has arranged the marriage, and Huaijin likes Miss He, there’s no need to delay. I’ll have the dowry list sent over by our household staff tomorrow.”
“Two or three years ago?” He Yunsheng was skeptical, “Even if you don’t know who Commander Xiao likes, how can you be ready with the dowry?”
This time, it was Xiao Jing who spoke. He spoke seriously, “In the Xiao family, the matter of marriage is not based on the status of the family. As long as it’s a girl liked by Huaijin, she’s bound to be the best. So, the dowry will definitely not be lacking.”
“Yunsheng doesn’t know how to speak, Eldest Young Master Xiao, don’t take offense,” He Sui scolded He Yunsheng with a glance. “It’s not about the size of the dowry. Yanyan is my daughter. My wife passed away early, and I raised Yanyan. Although we are not wealthy, Yanyan has been brought up with care since childhood. I don’t care about other things, but…” He looked at Bai Rongwei, and on He Sui’s usually easygoing and honest face, there was a hint of seriousness. “The person my daughter marries will undoubtedly cherish and love her, just as I have treated her. Dowry is for others to see. Yunsheng and I don’t spend much money on usual days. I don’t care about that; what I care about is the life Yanyan will have after entering the Xiao family.”
He smiled and said, “I am a rough man, not good with words. I know the Xiao family holds a prominent position in Great Wei, and it’s a high connection for our family. But… not to boast, looking across the entire Great Wei, my daughter is also unique. I just want to know…” His tone suddenly sharpened, “Once Yanyan enters the mansion, will Commander Xiao still take concubines? If he does, I don’t mind waiting another year or two to marry my daughter off. If not, on the seventh or tenth day, I have no objections.”
He Yunsheng looked at his father in surprise.
He had never liked He Sui’s favor towards the Xiao family, always feeling like they were too eager to climb up. Even though it was a royal marriage, He Yan was still a young girl and should maintain some reserve. If people thought the He family was easy to manipulate, wouldn’t they take advantage of He Yan in the future? Not to mention these high-ranking families, even in the ordinary alleys where they lived, rumors of husbands bullying new wives were heard from time to time.
He thought He Sui would agree to the marriage between He Yan and Xiao Jue following Madam Xiao’s words, but he didn’t expect He Sui’s question to be so sharp.
Their family was poor, and in He Sui’s marriage, even after his wife’s death, he had never considered remarrying or taking concubines – it was natural. He Yunsheng didn’t think there was anything wrong with it, but for poor families, supporting an additional person was not an easy task. However, for wealthy and influential households, it was different. Since He Yunsheng started attending school, many of his well-off classmates had several concubines in their homes.
This was common for large families, not to mention aristocratic families.
He Yunsheng had thought about this, but every time he reached this point, he deliberately avoided thinking further. Because the royal marriage was unchangeable, and that’s how the world worked. Wealthy and powerful families having multiple wives and concubines was normal; without them, the main wife would be criticized for being envious behind her back.
But now, He Sui was not hiding anything, stating it directly. Moreover, in his words, there was a hint of a threat – if Xiao Jue dared to take concubines, he wouldn’t give his daughter to him. Regardless of the royal marriage, speaking frankly, the emperor was getting older, while He Yan was in her prime. Even if they waited a few more years, people would age and who would care about whether the marriage was granted or not?
Things change, and when there’s a choice, rules are just rules when there’s no choice. When there’s a choice, they become meaningless!
Bai Rongwei and Xiao Jing exchanged a glance. After a moment, Bai Rongwei chuckled and said, “Lord He is joking. The Xiao family has never had a tradition of taking concubines.”
“When the parents were alive, there were no concubines in the mansion. I have been married to Rubi for many years, and there has never been anyone else. If Huaijin marries, it would be the same.”
Xiao Jing also said, “Lord He’s words may underestimate Huaijin. It’s precisely because Miss He is a unique woman in Great Wei that Huaijin has deep feelings for her. I, as his elder brother, know his temperament very well. Once he decides on something, he won’t glance at others again. I dare to swear on behalf of the entire Xiao family that, in Huaijin’s lifetime, besides Miss He, there won’t be another woman. If Lord He doesn’t trust me, you can ask Huaijin again face to face. However,” he smiled and added, “oaths are such things that, even if said a thousand times, those who don’t keep their promises will still betray. Those who truly value their commitments don’t need to say it; it’s already in their hearts.”
He Yunsheng looked at Xiao Jing and secretly thought, just like how he defended He Yan, this Xiao Rubi seemed to particularly support Xiao Huaijin. The bond between these two brothers was strong, indicating a good family upbringing.
The two young masters of the Xiao family, one as gentle as spring breeze and the other as vast as autumn water, were both outstanding individuals. What they said could certainly be trusted.
He Sui laughed heartily, “No need. I trust Eldest Young Master Xiao, and I trust Commander Xiao as well. Whether it’s the seventh or the tenth, I have no objections!”
Bai Rongwei also joined in the laughter, “That’s great! From today onwards, I will start preparing the invitations to avoid any delay in the auspicious time.”
After discussing the details of the marriage for a while, Bai Rongwei and Xiao Jing got up to leave. After they left, He Yunsheng looked at He Sui and asked, “Dad, about what Eldest Young Master Xiao just said, how many percent chance do you think that Commander Xiao won’t take concubines in the future?”
He Sui replied, “About fifty percent.”
“What?” He Yunsheng was almost startled, “Didn’t you just say you trust the two brothers? You sounded so sure, and I actually believed it!”
“I didn’t grow up with them. These are just things I’ve heard from others. How would I know if what they say is true or false? Time will reveal everything. I’ve only seen them a few times. Do you think I can read minds?” He Sui scolded.
“But you…”
“I just wanted a promise from them and to let the Xiao family know that, although we are poor and not an official family, we are not easy to bully. If Yan Yan suffers in their family, even if I have to risk my life, I won’t let them off easily.”
“Come on,” He Yunsheng didn’t believe, “even if we risk our lives together, we might not be able to move a finger of theirs.”
He Sui slapped his head, “Why always boost others’ morale while diminishing your own prestige? Learn something from your sister will you.”
“Learn what? Learn to smile and be happy when she sees Commander Xiao? Besides, if Commander Xiao really wants to take concubines in the future, our worrying on this end might not matter to He Yan. She might even foolishly help him count money.”
“She won’t.”
“What?”
He Sui lowered his head and chuckled, “Yanyan won’t.”
“This child, although appearing proud, has a good heart and can be a bit stubborn at times. Xiao Rubi said his brother won’t glance at anything once he’s decided. Yan Yan is the same,” he nostalgically continued, “When she was little, I took her to the market to pick a dress. She insisted on getting the most beautiful one she had set her eyes on. Even if there were others more expensive and better, she didn’t want them.”
“I said those words just to scare the Xiao family. If Yan Yan really wants to marry, I won’t stop her. I can see that she likes Xiao Huaijin. The way she looks at him is like your mother looked at me back then.”
He Yunsheng was initially moved by He Sui’s words, but when he heard the last sentence, his expression changed immediately. He grumbled, “Stop saying these things. Besides, don’t talk about Yanyan being so stubborn. Before, she was obsessed with that surname Fan, acting like her world was going to end. Now, I haven’t seen her mention that person again.”
There was one thing He Yunsheng didn’t dare to say – when Fan Cheng died, He Yan remained calm, as if a roadside ant had died, without shedding a tear.
He Sui said, “Is it the same? The person with the surname Fan was not human.”
He Yunsheng: “…”
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