After taking medicine for two three days, Su Yan felt much better. Seeing the Crown Prince restless and eager to sneak out of the palace, even fidgeting during lessons, Su Yan knew something was amiss.
As soon as class ended at noon, Su Yan planned to use the “urination escape” method to slip away while the Crown Prince’s tutor was checking his homework.
But the Crown Prince would not let him go. Palace servants were already stationed outside the hall specifically to block him.
Seeing no way out, a eunuch came to deliver a royal edict, summoning Su Yan to the Imperial Study.
Su Yan felt a wave of relief and thought the Emperor’s summon was extremely considerate this time. He hurriedly followed the eunuch, while Zhu Helin stomped around in frustration.
Emperor Jinglong had initially called Su Yan to discuss some differing opinions among the ministers. He had remembered Su Yan’s insights and wanted to hear his thoughts. However, upon Su Yan’s arrival, instead of the previous timid demeanor, Su Yan seemed eager to stay by the Emperor’s side. This unexpected change pleased the Emperor, who decided to keep him as a companion until after the evening.
When Su Yan left the Imperial Study, he had someone inform the Crown Prince that it was getting late, the palace gates would soon be locked, and he wouldn’t be able to return to the Eastern Palace. He then made his escape through the Wumen Gate.
A few days later, when the Crown Prince saw him in the Wenhua Hall, he was almost fuming, his eyes blazing with anger, and he stormed over before class was even dismissed, demanding an explanation, “You, Su Qinghe, actually dared to avoid me and use Royal Father as a shield. Don’t forget you are my Shidu. Don’t you dare be half-hearted! If you want to climb to high branches, be careful I pluck all your sparrow feathers, so you can only hop around on the ground for the rest of your life!”
Su Yan put on a face of “I’m wronged and helpless” and, with a sorrowful expression, said, “Your Highness, please understand. It’s because the Emperor has recently shown extra concern for your studies, frequently summoning me to report. My head isn’t like leeks that keep growing back. How could I dare disobey the Emperor’s orders?”
The Crown Prince frowned, “The Emperor is asking about my studies? He’s not planning another exam, is he? No, if it’s just about studies, why would he keep you there for so long? Recently, you’ve spent more time in the Imperial Study than in the Eastern Palace. Su Qinghe, explain to me clearly what you’re doing in the Imperial Study every day, from early morning until late at night?”
What else could he be doing? Playing the role of secretary and tea boy! Su Yan thought grumpily to himself, but outwardly showed a helpless expression and laughed dryly, “The Emperor is occupied with state affairs, handling countless matters every day. Someone insignificant like me would not dare to disturb him. It’s quite common for me to stand there for one or two hours… But this has its benefits. I feel my focus and energy have improved a lot recently, and my stamina has increased as well. Ha, ha.”
The Crown Prince felt embarrassed by his explanation and, seeing that Su Yan had become so earnest, eased his anger, “In that case, I’ll tell Royal Father to excuse you from attending, so you don’t have to be so distracted all day.”
Su Yan said, “As long as Your Highness stays safely in the palace, my soul can finally settle.”
The Crown Prince shot him a glance. “I know you’re the timid, cautious type. Fine, next time I leave the palace, I won’t bother bringing you along.”
Su Yan achieved his goal and grinned cheekily.
The Crown Prince’s anger turned into amusement as he dragged Su Yan toward the Eastern Palace. “I’m hungry. You’re dining with me.”
***
The next day, Su Yan was tidying up books in the Eastern Palace when a eunuch arrived with an imperial decree.
The long-delayed imperial examination results, postponed due to chaos in the court, had finally been announced. The Emperor was hosting a grand banquet in the Ministry of Rites to honor the newly appointed scholars. High-ranking officials from the Ministry of Rites, scholars from the Hanlin Academy, and the new graduates were all invited. Su Yan, ranked seventh in the second class, naturally had a seat at the feast.
Donning a bright red ceremonial robe and a round hat adorned with colorful decorations, he joined the new scholars in bowing toward the palace gates, chanting praises to the Emperor. After the formalities, the Emperor declared the feast to begin.
As an array of exquisite dishes was served, the scholars raised their cups to praise the Emperor, composing poetry and painting to showcase their talents and earn his favor.
The Crown Prince, seated to the Emperor’s left, scanned the crowd of red-robed scholars bowing and praising. His eyes landed on Su Yan, who was hiding at the back, happily munching on phoenix goose meat, holding jade-threaded tripe in his chopsticks, and eyeing a plate of crystal dumplings made from mountain lamb.
The Crown Prince immediately furrowed his brows and glared at him, gesturing subtly toward the throne with a nod to indicate Su Yan should follow the others’ example and present himself before the Emperor.
Su Yan merely smiled dismissively and continued eating.
The Crown Prince’s expression darkened further, and he shot Su Yan a sharp look before turning away in frustration, choosing to ignore him.
Su Yan brushed off the Crown Prince’s reaction as childish and continued eating. As he chewed on his chopsticks, his gaze inadvertently fell on a man seated to the right of the main throne.
The man wore a sapphire-blue narrow-sleeved robe embroidered with a coiled dragon in golden thread, the intricate design seeming ready to leap off the fabric. He looked to be around twenty-seven or twenty-eight, with facial features strikingly similar to the Emperor’s but even more refined. His demeanor was lazy and indifferent, his fingers idly toying with a glass wine cup as he squinted lazily at Su Yan.
Seeing his appearance and attire, Su Yan guessed he was likely a prince. He quickly lowered his head respectfully, avoiding further eye contact.
On the dragon throne, Emperor Jinglong was in high spirits and offered a few words of praise to the scholars toasting him.
Shilang Zhou Chuan of the Ministry of Rites smiled and said, “Thanks to Your Majesty’s divine grace, the spring examination has brought forth many exceptional talents. Today’s banquet is truly filled with the pillars of the empire. To add to the festivities, I propose that the first-class scholars each compose a short poem on the spot.”
Emperor Jinglong replied, “A fine suggestion, Zhou Shilang. And who shall provide the theme for these poems?”
Zhou Chuan cupped his hands and said, “Naturally, it should be none other than Your Majesty.”
“You all have it easy, pushing the troublesome tasks onto me,” the Emperor said with a laugh, tapping the table lightly. “I’m too lazy to think of anything elaborate. Let’s make the dishes before you the theme.”
The top scholar, Cui Jinping, naturally took the lead. A native of Northern Shuobei, his complexion was slightly tanned, and his sharp, energetic features exuded vitality.
He glanced at the plate of fresh perch with brasenia in front of him and, without hesitation, recited: “From the east comes purple aura falling upon the emerald pool. Rain kisses lotus blooms without fading their hue. What holds my gaze so steadfastly—”
Before he could finish, someone among the scholars interjected, “The fish?” prompting a few muffled chuckles.
Cui Jinping was unperturbed. He turned to the questioner with a sidelong glance and replied in a clear voice, “The dragon leaps, its golden scales destined for glory.”
The group fell silent, collectively impressed by the young man’s pride and confidence.
The emperor chuckled and said, “A fish turning into a dragon—a fine aspiration, well expressed.”
Zhou Chuan stroked his beard, smiling without comment. This young man has grand ambitions, but his unrestrained sharpness may bring him trouble in the future.
The 榜眼叶东楼second-place scholar, Ye Donglou, hailed from Jiangnan, a region known for nurturing grace and charm. His features were as picturesque as a painting, and his demeanor carried an unworldly gentleness and shyness.
Looking down at a plate of golden crisp sparrows garnished with red apricot blossoms, he recited softly: “Sparrows dart through green willow strands. Butterflies blush to rest on crimson blooms. Idle melancholy lingers beyond the blue hills. Alone I lean atop the perilous tower.”
The Emperor nodded. “Elegant and refined, filled with the lingering charm of spring. Well done.”
Cui Jinping interjected, “Yet it lacks vigor and is tinged with an overly delicate air—perhaps a bit provincial.”
The Emperor cast him a glance and said lightly, “Let the third-place scholar compose a verse to suit the occasion.”
Being addressed by the Emperor, the third-place scholar, Yun Xi, showed a slight change in his usually composed and aloof demeanor. Fixing his gaze on a plate of “Drunken Crabs from Yuanyang Lake,” he contemplated for a moment before beginning in a voice as clear and piercing as ice melting into a spring river: “Azure-sleeved sails drunkenly point eastward/ Through wind and waves, a laurel boat sails with ease. A lone crane’s cry pierces the chill and departs. The cold moon casts reflections on a thousand rivers.”
Emperor Jinglong sighed softly, “You have a style that suggests you’ve transcended the mortal realm, with an air of ethereal grace. The sentiment is good, but it does come across as a bit too solitary and pure.”
Yun Xi’s pale face seemed like ice and snow, with a translucent chill about it. He slowly bowed and said, “I am lacking in talent and have spoiled His Majesty’s mood.”
Emperor Jinglong waved his hand generously, “No blame on you.”
The hall fell into a solemn silence, the air seeming to chill with a sense of loneliness.
The sound of Su Yan pouring alcohol was particularly jarring.
Emperor Jinglong looked around and called out, “Su Yan.”
Su Yan was startled and quickly set down the alcohol pot, “This official is here.”
“I’ve heard you have remarkable talent and are renowned across the eight provinces. Today, with all these scholars present, don’t just drink. How about composing a poem as well?”
Su Yan was internally screaming. Wasn’t this asking him to put his foot in it? No matter how many Tang or Song poems he reviewed, he wouldn’t find one suitable to cover up this situation.
“My talents are not up to par with those of the seven-step scholars. I fear I would only embarrass myself, so it’s better to keep my skills hidden.”
Emperor Jinglong chuckled lightly, “You’re being too modest, Scholar Su.”
Su Yan quickly cast a pleading look at the Crown Prince, but even he was looking at Su Yan with eager anticipation. Su Yan felt like the world was collapsing around him, despairing.
Facing countless burning gazes, Su Yan braced himself and made a show of deep thought, his mind racing: It looks like I’ll have to do as those characters from the past and shamelessly improvise. Who would be suitable? Nalan? Yuan Mei? Cha Shenxing?
After much deliberation without a clear choice, he decided, “I have one.”
Emperor Jinglong’s lips curled into a faint smile as he slowly intoned: “After the Qionglin Banquet, Du Fu—”
The entire hall was stunned. Everyone exchanged puzzled glances, doubting their ears.
“—claimed he was once insulted by Li Bai.”
The Emperor’s smile twitched uncontrollably, and the Crown Prince’s face contorted. Someone couldn’t suppress a laugh and let out a snicker, while others, struggling to hold it in, turned red with the effort.
Su Yan sighed dramatically, saying, “Why am I growing thinner, you ask? Because I, too, must suffer the pain of composing poetry at the feast.”
The hall erupted in a cacophony of coughs and suppressed laughter. Finally, Emperor Jinglong couldn’t hold it in and broke into laughter, prompting the entire room to join in, roaring with mirth.
Covering his face with his dragon sleeve, the Emperor Jinglong wheezed, “Well done, Su Qinghe! Even Li Bai and Du Fu were once mocked…why should the poets of future generations be spared…”
Grand Secretary Li Chengfeng pointed his fan at Su Yan, half-laughing, half-scolding: “You impudent brat!”
A few fellow scholars patted Su Yan on the back, laughing as they teased, “A masterpiece! A true masterpiece! Brother Qinghe, your wit is unparalleled!”
Only Crown Prince Zhu Helin looked around in confusion, unsure why everyone was so amused. A Hanlin scholar leaned over and whispered an explanation, which sent the Crown Prince into such hysterics that he nearly rolled onto the floor.
The previously stiff and formal atmosphere had turned lively in an instant. Emperor Jinglong, clearly in high spirits, downed two more cups of wine before departing with the Crown Prince to return to the palace. Once the imperial entourage had left, the scholars collectively sighed in relief and dove into their food and drink with abandon.
Su Yan, having survived the ordeal and enjoyed a hearty meal at the Emperor’s expense, left the side hall feeling thoroughly satisfied. He wandered into the palace garden to enjoy the breeze and clear his head.
The garden was lush with blooming flowers and well-placed pavilions and rockeries. Though it lacked grandeur, it had a quiet charm with winding paths leading to secluded corners. Su Yan strolled leisurely along the gravel paths, feeling the faint warmth of late spring in the breeze. It made him feel wonderfully lazy, as though the contentment seeped into his very bones.
Stretching with a long yawn, he suddenly caught the sound of hushed voices coming from the depths of an artificial hill. The words were faint and indistinct, but there was a sense of urgency in the tone.
Eavesdropping was never wise, so Su Yan turned to leave, but then a voice abruptly rose:
“…No matter how I plead, why are you so unreasonable?”
Another softer, indistinct voice replied, “…Must I prove my sincerity through death?”
“Enough of this! I can’t stand it when people bring up death in arguments…”
Su Yan sneered slightly, thinking that whether they were unhappy lovers or happy enemies, it was none of his business. He brushed off his sleeves and turned to leave.
After walking a hundred steps, a clear voice called out from behind, “Su Qinghe—”
It was a remarkably good voice, deep and resonant with a slight rumble, like the warm sun that suddenly appears on a cold winter afternoon, making you shiver before you even feel its warmth.
A bass voice! A dream for voice lovers! Su Yan shivered, slowly turning around to see a man in a royal blue robe with golden embroidered dragons, the one who had been seated on the upper right side during the banquet.
Not knowing whether he was a prince or a county prince, Su Yan could only vaguely salute, “Su Yan pays respects to Your Highness.”
The man in blue stepped forward, supported him, and shook his hand, “No need for such formalities. I am Yu Wang.”
Su Yan awkwardly shifted, withdrawing his hand, “So it’s His Highness Yu Wang. I apologize for not recognizing you. I have long heard of Your Highness’s fame, and meeting you today is truly like seeing a mountain.”
Yu Wang smiled, “Is that so?”
“Not a word of it is false.”
Su Yan thought to himself: Zhu Xujing, you are indeed famous, famous for being a debauched Wangye, a hedonistic lord. Even the historical records mention “Yu Wang’s indulgence and amorous nature,” so this isn’t slander on my part.
“Qinghe,” Yu Wang said in a familiar tone, “There have been rumors about the palace examination inside and outside the court. It’s rare to see you so upright and pure. This Wang has admired you for a long time.”
The phrase “upright and pure” gave Su Yan goosebumps. He forced a smile and said, “Wangye overestimates me. I feel unworthy.”
“Let’s skip the formalities. I wish to befriend you, to stay in touch more. What do you think?”
“Wangye, it would be a great honor to receive your patronage. I am deeply honored.” Su Yan laughed along with Yu Wang, inwardly praising his own skill in maintaining a smooth facade.
Yu Wang continued to smile comfortably and even unconsciously placed an arm around him.
At that moment, a palace attendant in blue rushed over, his eyes lighting up when he saw Su Yan. He panted, “Lord Su, I’ve been searching for you everywhere.”
Su Yan took a couple of steps back, looking at him gratefully, “So it’s Fu Bao Gonggong. May I ask what brings you here?”
“The young master is throwing a big tantrum, saying he wants to smash all those chess pieces, shadow puppets, and cards. Everyone in the Eastern Palace is on edge, so I took it upon myself to come and ask you to go over.”
“Ah, so you’re all afraid of getting caught in the crossfire, and you’re sending me to take the brunt of it.”
Fu Bao smiled sheepishly, “It’s just that Lord Su has such a kind and gentle demeanor. The young master always calms down when he sees you.”
Su Yan turned his head, “Wangye, you see…”
“No worries. Since Qinghe is the crown prince’s shidu, it’s only right to prioritize the duties of the Eastern Palace. When you have some free time, do come by this Wang’s residence more often.”
“Then I shall take my leave for now.”
Su Yan had only taken a couple of steps when he heard someone call out behind him, “Wait a moment.” He turned back reluctantly.
Yu Wang leaned in close to Su Yan’s ear and whispered, “Lately, Marquis Fengan has been ordered to face the wall in penance, yet the main and side gates of the Marquis’s residence still see a steady flow of people, day and night. Qinghe, be cautious.”
Su Yan’s heart skipped a beat. He didn’t have time to ponder it deeply, so he bowed and said, “Thank you for the warning, Wangye. I will keep it in mind.”
Yu Wang smiled and squeezed his hand gently, “It’s good that you’re aware.”
On the way back to the palace, Su Yan suddenly erupted, kicking a sapling by the roadside in half.
Fu Bao jumped in fright and stammered, “Lord Su…”
Su Yan smiled reassuringly at him, “Just letting off some steam, it’s nothing.”
