Now, unrest has broken out in the south, which is a major concern for Emperor Xiping. Whoever can resolve this problem will be able to step into the Eastern Palace with one foot in the door.
The Prince of Ying's mother, Consort Zhao, had some distant ties with the Wei family, the Prince of Xiping, and intended to act as a go-between, recruiting and winning them over. If she could persuade the Prince of Xiping to intervene and quell the unrest in the south, the Wei family could then leverage their influence to send the Prince of Ying to the Eastern Palace. It is said that some progress has already been made; a few days ago, when the Prince of Xiping's subordinates came to the capital to deliver official documents, they visited the Prince of Ying's residence.
Xu Chaozong saw this and couldn't help but feel anxious.
However, both inside and outside the court, there were only a few military generals capable of fighting. The generals previously recommended had all failed and died. The only ones who could be considered equal to the Prince of Xiping were the Fu family of Yongning.
Within the Fu family, only Fu Deqing and Fu Yu could make a decision on this matter.
Fu Deqing was far away in Qizhou, beyond Xu Chaozong's reach. The only person Xu Chaozong could test nearby was Fu Yu, who rarely came to the capital.
Even though Xu Chaozong was extremely unwilling, he had to admit that at this critical juncture, he desperately needed the Fu family's help.
After being persuaded by Consort Ling, Xu Chaozong was convinced and decided to take this opportunity to try to win over Fu Yu.
Even though things turned ugly because of You Tong, and their identities were in an awkward position, they couldn't let emotions cloud their judgment when it came to important matters. If there was even a glimmer of hope, they had to try their best. Personal feelings were secondary; politics was paramount. Perhaps the Fu family would lend a hand to the increasingly powerful Prince Xiping in order to restrain him?
With these thoughts in mind, Xu Chaozong tossed and turned all night and came to see Emperor Xiping this morning, waiting here at the appointed time.
At this moment, he stood by the jade steps and railing in front of the Linde Hall, with a panoramic view of the scene before the hall.
Under the warming sunshine of early spring, the two figures walking side by side drew closer.
Fu Yu had come to visit relatives and was hastily summoned to the palace by imperial decree. He did not wear court robes, but his black, gold-embroidered round-necked long robe was upright and dignified, with a jade belt around his waist. His steps were steady, and his heroic figure was as imposing as Mount Hua. As a fierce general who had fought on the battlefield, he naturally possessed a fierce and valiant demeanor. Even in the most majestic palace in the world, he showed no sign of servility.
Beside him was You Tong, who had arrived in full regalia, her figure graceful and her steps elegant.
Since she had no official title, she could only choose a dignified brocade dress and walk from afar, her skirt fluttering in the breeze.
I hadn't seen her for half a year, and she had become much calmer. Judging from her gait, she was unhurried and composed.
This demeanor was completely different from the playful and naive girl in my memory. That girl was proud yet innocent, unaware of the hardships of life, and incapable of manipulating people's hearts. Every time she was with him, she only had him in her heart and eyes, and she would even run to his side with a big smile when they met.
But now, as he stands here, she seems to ignore him completely.
In the past six months, she has been married and moved to Qizhou. I wonder how she is doing.
Xu Chaozong felt a void in his heart, and his brows furrowed as if in pain. He then lowered his head to straighten his clothes, and when Fu Yu approached, he had a warm smile on his face. He didn't even glance at You Tong, but simply cupped his hands to Fu Yu and said, "General Fu."
"Your Highness Prince Rui." Fu Yu also cupped his hands, not disrespecting him.
You Tong's expression was calm and composed. He lowered his eyes and curtsied, saying, "Greetings, Your Highness Prince Rui."
"No need for formalities." Xu Chaozong's five fingers clenched slightly within his sleeve, but he dared not show any unusual behavior in front of Fu Yu. He adopted a warm and conciliatory posture, stepped across the threshold first, and said with a smile, "The borderlands are bitterly cold, and my father always speaks of the hardships your family has endured. He wished that I, the Prince, would personally go to reward the soldiers, but I have been too busy with court affairs to make the trip. General, you have spent your life on the battlefield, and your father and brother are even more commendable in their bravery. I have always admired you. Seeing you today, General, it is truly a case of like father, like son! Like father, like son!"
"Your Highness is too kind. It is my duty to guard the border and protect the peace of this region."
Fu Yu spoke calmly, with the polite smile befitting a court official, seemingly unconcerned about matters of personal affection.
As they entered the inner hall, they saw Emperor Xiping sitting upright on the dragon throne, with Prince Ying standing beside him with his hands behind his back.
Below were four low tables, on which were placed pastries and fine wine, with palace maids kneeling behind each table, waiting to serve them.
You Tong glanced at it briefly, surprised that Fu Yu, at such a young age, would receive such treatment.
He then lowered his eyes, gathered his sleeves, and knelt down to pay his respects.
Emperor Xiping had been ill for two years, yet he was not too restrained in his sexual activities. Even with the best imperial physicians in the land to treat him, he looked rather haggard. He leaned weakly against the armrest of his throne, raised his hand and smiled, "My dear minister, you have come from afar. There is no need for formalities. Please take a seat." After he finished speaking, an eunuch came over to invite the two of them to sit down.
You Tong kowtowed to express his gratitude for the Emperor's grace. As he was about to get up, supporting himself on his knees, he suddenly felt someone grab his right shoulder.
My gaze slanted slightly, and I caught a glimpse of a black cuff embroidered with gold, concealing a hand with distinct knuckles that was clean and strong.
Before the emperor and in front of everyone, Fu Yu seemed completely oblivious to the impropriety, embracing her and then quickly pulling away after helping her to her feet. You Tong was caught off guard, but immediately understood his meaning. After straightening up, she quietly reached out to smooth his sleeves. Although she didn't show any concern, her affection was naturally evident.
Xu Chaozong, standing to the side and slightly in front, caught a glimpse of that barely perceptible movement, and his gaze tightened slightly.
On his throne, Emperor Xiping saw it all clearly, a hint of amusement appearing in his cloudy eyes.
Then, the eunuch led the couple to sit on the cushions behind the low table.
Prince Rui and Prince Ying sat down opposite each other, with Prince Ying taking precedence over Prince Rui in terms of seniority.
It was early spring, and the weather was gradually warming up. The hall was like the Shou'an Hall, filled with a stuffy, hot atmosphere, and the strong aroma of ambergris easily masked the crisp taste of the wine in the cup.
You Tong walked over under the sun, feeling warm all over. The smell of charcoal made her almost break out in a thin layer of sweat.
Emperor Xiping, however, still seemed to feel the cold. Dressed in a bright yellow, expensive robe, he began by praising the Fu family for their bravery. He said that the Fu family had worked tirelessly in the harsh borderlands for many years, and that Fu Yu and his son had previously earned numerous military merits without seeking any rewards or honors from the court, their integrity and talent serving as a model for all military generals. He had originally intended to reward the soldiers handsomely, but the national treasury was empty and the people's livelihood was difficult, so he had prepared some gold, silver, silk, horses, and other items as a token of his appreciation.
Fu Yu maintained a respectful attitude before the emperor and accepted the emperor's gratitude without hesitation.
Afterwards, Emperor Xiping said to You Tong, "When the late emperor was alive, he greatly admired your intelligence. Now, the hero and the beauty complement each other perfectly. The Empress has not seen you for a long time and misses you very much. Feng Zhong-an, please escort the young mistress to the Empress's palace for a visit."
This means attacking from both inside and outside, and providing thorough hospitality.
You Tong guessed that Emperor Xiping had some court matters to discuss with Fu Yu, so he stood up, bowed respectfully, and retreated outside the hall.
After passing through the Silver Light Gate, we headed towards the Phoenix Palace where the Empress resided.
To her surprise, when she arrived there, it was also a very grand scene—the Empress, Consort Ling, and Consort Zhao sat in the hall with seemingly amicable expressions, smiling at her, and sitting below them was Xu Shu, who had already become the Princess Consort of Prince Rui.
Chapter 34 Nails
When You Tong was young, she was often brought into the palace to play and had quite a bit of influence with Emperor Wenchang. After Emperor Wenchang passed away, she lost that favor. After Emperor Xiping ascended the throne, she and Xu Chaozong were in love. Occasionally, she would be summoned to the palace to show her face to Consort Ling or to be given a seat at royal banquets, but she was never summoned by the Empress alone.
Who would have thought that entering the palace would lead to such a scene?
The Empress and two Imperial Concubines specially entertained him; such a grand reception is rarely seen.
Xu Shu's appearance is quite intriguing—just now, outside the Linde Hall, Xu Chaozong waited for Fu Yu with great enthusiasm, but it was certainly not out of genuine feeling. In contrast, although the Prince of Ying was also polite, he didn't try to win him over like Xu Chaozong did. Now, with the Princess Consort of Rui by his side and the Princess Consort of Ying absent, it's likely because of Xu Chaozong.
Something unusual must be going on. The sudden change in attitude of the couple who had previously stabbed her in the back was naturally because of Fu Yu.
You Tong had been in the Fu family for half a year, and although the news she heard about the situation was only superficial, she could still sense something unusual from the slightest clues. The rebellion in the south had made the capital uneasy. Last night at dinner, Wei Sidao mentioned this matter, revealing that the court was finding it difficult to quell the rebellion and was probably seeking capable military commanders.
Fu Yu's bravery and skill in battle are well-known, and his cavalry, which can strike like thunder, is an excellent choice for suppressing rebellions.
Just now in the Linde Hall, Emperor Xiping praised the Fu family's military achievements and said that the people's lives were difficult. He also praised Fu Yu's cavalry for sweeping away the Tatars. The intention behind this was almost obvious.
You Tong's mind raced, but she simply lowered her brows, gathered her sleeves, and respectfully paid her respects.
"Your humble servant, Lady Wei, greets the Empress and the Noble Consort."
His voice was clear and melodious, and his posture was proper and dignified; these were skills he had honed since childhood.
After bowing, he straightened up, his wide sleeves draped over his chest, without mentioning Princess Rui or even glancing at her.
Xu Shu was openly ignored, and her expression changed slightly, but the Imperial Concubine and Consort Zhao seemed not to notice.
Empress Sun, now forty, had grown increasingly thin since the Crown Prince's death, her face losing its former vibrancy. However, her noble bearing remained; seated at the head of the table, her demeanor was dignified and composed. Having spent much of her life in the palace, she was adept at reading people. Seeing that it was Feng Zhong, Emperor Xiping's most trusted advisor, who had brought You Tong, she immediately guessed his intentions—
If it were just You Tong, how could he have received such treatment?
This woman must have won Fu Yu's favor for Emperor Xiping to have hinted that she should not be neglected.
Empress Sun was well aware of the feud between You Tong and Xu Shu, and she knew who was superior and who was inferior. Seeing You Tong like this, she didn't bring it up. Instead, she had her maid help You Tong up and said with a smile, "It's been a long time. You look even more presentable. I heard it snowed a few days ago. Was the journey smooth?"
"Although it delayed the journey a bit, it went smoothly. Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty."
You Tong smiled gently and gracefully.
Empress Sun smiled and nodded, then ordered someone to offer her a seat.
...
Fengyang Palace, the location of the central palace, was built in a magnificent and opulent manner.
The hall was furnished with low tables and cushions, just like the Linde Hall, but unlike the Linde Hall, it was not spacious and open, and the tables and cushions were only a few steps apart.
Consort Zhao, the mother of Prince Ying, had a lukewarm impression of the Wei family and no interest in the Fu family. She would not normally condescend to meet such a young, unranked woman from outside the family, but she came because of Emperor Xiping's decree. At this moment, she sat upright behind a low table, with Empress Sun above her and no supporters below. Although her attitude was amiable, it actually revealed a detached indifference.
In contrast, Consort Ling's attitude was much warmer.
In her early years, You Tong was the future granddaughter-in-law of the royal family. The two met quite often and were quite familiar with each other. Consort Ling also doted on You Tong. Later, Xu Chaozong abandoned You Tong and married Xu Shu, causing a great uproar in the city. Consort Ling did not express any consolation. She only sent people to add some dowry after You Tong was betrothed to the Fu family.
According to the letter Xue sent home, on one occasion when Xue attended a banquet in the palace, the Imperial Concubine summoned her alone to inquire about You Tong's situation after her marriage and to explain the circumstances surrounding the marriage proposal. She only said that she had acted out of necessity due to the circumstances at the time and hoped that the Wei family could understand and not blame her.
You Tong could no longer tell how much of it was genuine and how much was feigned.
There's no need to distinguish between them.
Now that they have reunited in the palace, Consort Ling seems to have forgotten the previous controversy surrounding Prince Rui's marriage. She said gently, "Youyou has been clever and intelligent since you were little, and you are becoming more and more outstanding now. I haven't seen your mother and grandmother for a long time. How are they?"
"They are all well. This morning, before they left, they reminded me to send my regards to them. Thank you for your concern, Your Highness."
You Tong bowed slightly in response.
Empress Sun smiled and said, "The old lady and the others are all in the capital, so it's convenient for them to come and go. When spring comes and the flowers bloom, we'll invite them to the palace to enjoy the flowers and have a banquet. It will be quite lively. Back when the late Emperor was alive, we often enjoyed the flowers together."
"Yes, that's right," Consort Ling agreed with a smile.
Empress Sun then chatted casually, asking if the old lady of the Fu family was well, whether You Tong had adapted to the local customs and culture after arriving in Qizhou, and whether he had encountered any difficulties, etc.
You Tong answered them one by one.
Afterwards, Empress Sun casually steered the conversation towards Fu Yu—
"I've heard countless times about General Fu's illustrious reputation even in the deep palace. He was young and valiant, with numerous military achievements. Among the young men in the capital, none can compare to him. A hero deserves a beautiful woman. I've heard that you once had a relationship with him. I imagine your new marriage is very harmonious. This pair of jade ruyi scepters is a congratulatory gift."
As he spoke, he beckoned to the stewardess beside him to bring over the lacquer tray.
The pair of jade ruyi scepters on the plate were of exceptional quality, their surfaces smooth and lustrous like cream.
Behind the head maid were two other palace maids, carrying a pair of coral bracelets and a set of writing implements, all of which were of the highest quality.
You Tong glanced at it, then looked at Empress Sun with a smile—this gift was truly generous!
The man was also looking at her. Although his smile was calm, he couldn't hide his probing and scrutinizing attitude.
You Tong understood the implication in her words and guessed that she was inquiring about her relationship with Fu Yu. She thanked her and bowed her head with a slight shy smile, saying, "Although my husband has a reputation for being fierce and ruthless, he is also clear about right and wrong and treats people very well. It was by chance that we formed a good relationship in the past. Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty."
Empress Sun smiled and nodded, then looked her over twice before lowering her eyes to drink her tea.
Consort Zhao and Consort Ling also received gifts, which, though not comparable to those given to the Empress, were still rare items.
You Tong accepted all the thanks.
The atmosphere in the hall seemed harmonious, and the Imperial Concubine's repeated "yoyo" sounds were even more affectionate and gentle.
Xu Shu knelt beside her, her hands, hidden in her sleeves, clenched tightly, and slowly a layer of fine sweat began to seep out.
She was dressed exceptionally elegantly today. Her clothes were meticulously sewn by several embroiderers. From the brocade, the cut, the embroidery, to the pattern, everything was exquisite and outstanding. The headdress in her hair was made of pure gold, precious yet light, and inlaid with pearls and rubies. It was priceless. Such a luxurious item was a luxury exclusively for the royal family.
When Xu Shu was a young girl, she would occasionally serve at banquets in the palace. Wei Youtong would always whisper that she envied such luxury and honor.