HomeA Cup of LoveYi Ou Chun - Chapter 102

Yi Ou Chun – Chapter 102

The news startled Qingyuan so much that she stood up trembling. “What?”

The incident that occurred in the Commander’s inner residence had not been explained to the public before the people were thrown into prison. If nothing had happened, it would have been fine, but now that something had, Shen Run could not escape the charge of illegal imprisonment and causing the death of a court official’s family member.

Such an event occurring on the first day of the New Year meant the celebrations were thoroughly ruined. Though Xuebai and Lady Wang were detestable, their double suicide by hanging was unnecessary. When everyone rushed to the Lulong Military Camp, they found it was Xuebai who had died. The once sharp-tongued woman now lay there stiff as an object, a truly horrifying sight.

Fangchun was shocked and panicked upon seeing this, breaking into bitter sobs while covering her face: “I never wanted her to die, why did she have to do this…”

Perhaps having lost face left her without the courage to live on. After all, having been imprisoned once, she would inevitably face jail time after the New Year’s verdict. For a young woman, this meant her life was ruined – death might have seemed cleaner. But there were suspicious circumstances. While Xuebai’s suicide made some sense, Lady Wang’s crime was merely failing to teach her daughter properly, yet she also sought death as if joining a trend, which was truly perplexing.

The Imperial Guard’s officers began their investigation, and the coroner arrived, carefully examining every corner of the prison cell before inspecting the bodies. More and more suspicious points emerged.

“The deceased used their dress sashes to hang themselves, meaning they were improperly dressed without their full robes when they died,” Yan Fu analyzed, shaking his head. “This contradicts their supposed motivation for suicide. If they died to preserve their reputation, why die so indecorously? Was death even necessary? I’m not a woman, but I know how important proper dress is. For this mother and daughter to choose death while improperly dressed – I suspect foul play.”

Shen Run glanced at him. “You make a good point. What else?”

Yan Fu lifted the white cloth, pointing to the ligature marks on Yao Xuebai’s neck. “Based on the lividity, Yao must have died around the fifth watch this morning. That coincided with the guard shift change, and being a holiday, the patrol was lax. By the time she was discovered, she was already dead. Lady Wang survived because her knot came loose and she fell. Commander, look – the sash is about three inches wide, and even folded it would be about an inch thick. Yet there are faintly two marks on Yao’s neck, with the darker part only a finger’s width. This seems unusual.”

Shen Run nodded and turned to ask the coroner: “I recall you have a method to make injuries more visible.”

The coroner confirmed, “Yes, we can crush scallions and apply them to the injury, then cover it with vinegar-soaked paper. After about the time it takes to burn an incense stick, we wash it with water and the injury marks become visible.” With that, he and his apprentices began preparing, asking everyone to temporarily leave the mortuary.

Everyone retreated to the front hall. When Qingyuan and Fangchun saw them emerge, they hurried forward to ask about the results. Shen Run shook his head, “The coroner is still examining the injuries; we’ll know the results shortly. This place is inauspicious – you should head back first. Staying here won’t help.” He turned to ask the guard captain, “How is Lady Wang?”

The captain bowed and reported: “In reply to the Commander, she hasn’t regained consciousness. A doctor has been summoned to treat her, and we’ll report immediately if there’s any news.”

Though Fangchun hated them, now that someone had died, she couldn’t help feeling guilty. Standing there wiping tears, she kept blaming herself: “I never thought things would turn out this way. If I had known, I wouldn’t have pursued the matter – they didn’t need to die…”

But Shen Che frowned, “They killed my child – how could we let that go? Their suicide was to escape punishment. Even if it causes trouble, I’ll take responsibility.”

However, though he said this, the matter was far from simple. After all, the mother and daughter weren’t common citizens – if the Yao family pursued the matter, it would certainly cause an enormous scandal.

Qingyuan looked at Fangchun – she could only cry now, and staying would only distract them. She said softly, “Let them handle this – let’s go back and wait for news.”

As Fangchun moved away crying, Shen Run ordered vinegar to be poured on the burning charcoal for them to step over. Places where death occurred were unclean, and this method was necessary to ward off evil spirits. Still not completely at ease, he assigned capable men to escort them, adding: “Post guards at the gates. I’ll return shortly.”

Qingyuan acknowledged and supported Fangchun as they left. At this time, the coroner came out to invite them in to examine the findings. Indeed, after the faint bruising at the edges of the ligature marks had mostly faded, only a narrow line of distinct bruising remained, clearly showing it was caused by hemp rope strangulation – even the twisted pattern of the rope was visible.

This made things clear – someone had deliberately set this fire to bring down the Shen brothers. However, in this world, apart from the Justice Department, the Imperial Guard handled the most cases. Though the dead cannot speak, corpses can tell tales.

Of course, the result that the true culprit behind the scenes hoped to see soon manifested. When the entire Yao family learned the news, young and old all rushed to the Lulong Military Camp. Suddenly the air was filled with wailing, cries of injustice, and bitter cursing, creating an uproar.

Yao Shao never imagined that after parting that day, his next meeting would be with his daughter’s corpse and his unconscious wife. He nearly fainted from shock, and after barely recovering, he ground his teeth and cried to heaven: “Shen Run, you’ve shown contempt for human life and destroyed my family. I will petition the Emperor himself – even if it costs me my position, I must seek justice for my wife and daughter!”

In the blink of an eye, news of the deaths in the Yao family spread like wildfire. True to his word, Yao Shao entered the capital to petition the Emperor, weeping as he accused Shen Run of abusing his power and excessive punishment before His Majesty.

The Emperor, still immersed in the New Year’s atmosphere and preparing to change the era name after the holiday, was bewildered. “How did your family members end up imprisoned in the Lulong Military Camp? Wasn’t the Shen family just hosting banquets to thank their guests a few days ago? Everything seemed fine – why would the Shen brothers do this? There must be some explanation!”

The explanation was awkward to give, but since things had reached this point, there was no helping it. Yao Shao said: “My wife and Shen Che’s wife are aunt and niece. My daughter grew up close to Lady Dong, and after I was appointed as Deputy Magistrate of Xuanzhou, our family moved to Youzhou. Because Lady Dong was lonely, my daughter often visited her at the Shen residence. Lady Dong was pregnant at the time, and one day she accidentally fell and miscarried. The Shen brothers blamed my daughter and instigated their servants to frame her, throwing my wife and daughter into prison overnight.” He broke into loud sobs, “Your Majesty, please consider – my wife and daughter are sheltered women from good families, and they’re related to Lady Dong. How could they do such a thing? Shen Run’s power overshadows the court, he acts with impunity, crushing whoever he targets. All officials fear him but dare not speak out. When my family met with this disaster, we had nowhere to turn for help. We had planned to petition Your Majesty after the New Year, but instead received this terrible news. Your Majesty! My daughter died unjustly, and my wife’s fate remains uncertain – I beg Your Majesty to uphold justice, rid the court of corrupt officials, and restore peace to the realm!”

Yao Shao spoke passionately, but the Emperor was displeased. He turned back and said: “According to Counselor Yao’s view, my empire is not peaceful enough, allowing corrupt officials to hold power while the people suffer… Am I a foolish ruler being manipulated?”

Yao Shao was terrified, his face changing color as he stammered: “No… no… Your subject would never… never dare suggest such a thing. I meant… the Shen brothers have gathered too much power, causing widespread discontent. Now they’ve arbitrarily imprisoned my wife and daughter, who died with their grievances unaddressed – if we weren’t completely desperate, why would they need to prove their innocence through death? My daughter was only eighteen this year, ending her promising life – even in death, she remains a wronged spirit. Your Majesty loves your people like children, showing mercy to young and old alike in the streets – how could you not care for my family? Therefore, I dare to petition before Your Majesty against the Shen brothers, begging Your Majesty to make a clear judgment and uphold justice for my family.”

This matter, setting aside personal feelings, did show that Shen Run had gone too far. Even if female family members of officials committed serious crimes, they should have been detained in a separate, proper place, not sent to a military prison. Now that people had died leaving no way to verify the truth, it appeared that Shen Run had abused his power. Since an imperial petition had been made, showing too much favoritism wouldn’t do. Shen Run’s arrogance was also a fact – using this to teach him a lesson would be appropriate enough.

The Emperor sighed, seeing Yao Shao crying floods of tears, and spoke soothingly: “Your family has suffered such misfortune, and I deeply sympathize. However, this is currently the New Year’s break, and this matter cannot be decided by hearing only one side. Wait until the fourth day when the officials return to court for further discussion. Then you can present your cases face to face, and if the Shen brothers truly broke the law, I will show no favoritism and will certainly punish them severely.”

Yao Shao was stunned – he had expected the Emperor would at least reluctantly summon them to the capital for questioning, but instead, he wanted to wait until after they had peacefully finished the New Year celebrations before making a decision. The Emperor’s righteous words specifically used the term “no favoritism.” Shen Run’s relationship with the Emperor had already become a personal friendship. He immediately felt disappointed – could he, a mere sixth-rank minor official, really shake such a powerful court official?

While Yao Shao was exerting himself at the palace, Qingyuan was restless at home. During dinner, she held her chopsticks absent-mindedly, finding no taste in the food.

Shen Run served her some dishes, “Why aren’t you eating? These are young pheasants just sent from the estate, they’re extremely delicious. I’ve ordered some live ones to be kept in pens – after they lay eggs, they’ll be better than regular chicken eggs.”

Qingyuan made a sound of acknowledgment, lifted and lowered her chopsticks several times, but finally put them down. “I can’t eat.”

Shen Run knew she was worried and comforted her: “Just put your mind at ease, I have my plans for this matter. Although I’ll inevitably face some blame in the end, compared to what I aim to achieve, it doesn’t matter.”

Qingyuan was surprised – these words seemed increasingly mysterious. She could hardly believe it: “Could it be that the fate of the Yao mother and daughter was arranged by you?”

He kept his eyes lowered, calmly eating his meal, and after a while said it wasn’t: “However, they harmed my Shen family’s flesh and blood – they truly deserved to die.”

Qingyuan understood his deep hatred regarding the harm done to Fangchun’s child. Even ordinary families would pursue such matters to the end, let alone the Shen family who had just gotten their first descendant. Regarding Shen Run, she knew his character – though he was an excellent husband to her, he was still ruthless and powerful in the outside world. She was somewhat afraid, afraid that his hatred had driven him to kill because according to the law, Xuebai’s crime didn’t warrant death. To make her pay with her life, only by fabricating suicide could he avenge that unborn child.

But doing so might backfire. He had ordered their imprisonment, and now they had died under suspicious circumstances – the Yao family certainly wouldn’t let the matter rest. Fortunately, he had always had a fearsome reputation, and Xuebai’s eight sisters didn’t dare cause trouble. If it had been some other minor official, their roof might have been torn off by now.

Looking at him again, he remained silent, eating as elegantly as ever. Qingyuan hesitated several times but couldn’t bring herself to ask more, fearing that persistent questioning would add to his troubles. She couldn’t help him much in official matters; all she could do was stand with him through whatever storms might come.

In the following two days, he showed no signs of anxiety, eating, drinking, and enjoying himself as usual, accompanying the old master in fishing and appreciating paintings.

The seven-day New Year’s break was nearly over, and due to the circumstances, Shen Run’s additional ten days of leave had to be postponed. Qingyuan helped him change into his court robes with a heavy heart, arranging his collar while saying: “Your wound hasn’t fully healed. Let me go to the capital with you – staying in Youzhou… I’m not at ease.”

He laughed at this, gently pinching her cheek, “What is there to worry about? I always do things with certainty – don’t act like an old worried wife.”

Qingyuan had no choice but to give up. When seeing him off at the gate, she still wore a worried expression, standing at the bottom of the steps waving her hand, “Please be very careful.”

Shen Run, splendid in his official robes, mounted his horse with spirited vigor and smiled: “I know what I’m doing. Wait at home for my news.”

As the brothers rode away with flying whips, Qingyuan and Fangchun exchanged glances. Fangchun said: “Let’s pack up – as soon as they give the word, we’ll move.”

Qingyuan nodded, looking down the straight road with her hands in her sleeves. That group of riders gradually became tiny black dots before disappearing completely. In this misty season, the whole world was a cold whiteness – the hard road surface, the leafless tree branches, and even the sky were white, pale, and empty, making one melancholy.

Regarding the Shen brothers’ downfall, some at court naturally clapped their hands in delight, but more officials, having eaten at their thank-you banquet and received their return gifts, with their wives getting along well, couldn’t bring themselves to take sides against them.

Yao Shao knelt in the imperial court, weeping bitterly, every word a bloody tear in accusation against Shen Run. Those eager for chaos loudly discussed how princes should face the same law as commoners, while the fence-sitters held their tablets and mused: “There must be some misunderstanding.”

Censor Liu Ang had never gotten along with Shen Run. Shen Run hadn’t sent gifts for his wedding, and he couldn’t attend the later thank-you banquet, so their relationship showed no signs of improvement. Though he hadn’t been present, he knew everything happening at the Shen residence as if he’d witnessed it himself, and spoke freely even in Shen Run’s presence: “No matter how high one’s rank, one shouldn’t disregard family ties. Earlier when Commander Shen’s wife became enemies with Envoy Xie’s family, that could be explained, but for the same thing to happen again in the same household makes one wonder whether it’s coincidence or inevitable. Deputy Magistrate Yao’s wife was originally the aunt of Commander Shen’s wife – blood is thicker than water. Even if there were misunderstandings between them, it shouldn’t have led to imprisonment in a military prison. Now with one dead and one injured, Commander Shen can’t escape blame. We used to say Commander Shen oppressed his colleagues, but who knew he’d be just as ruthless in handling family matters.”

Infantry Commander Han Yu glanced at Liu Ang. Since his wife greatly admired Shen Run’s wife, he had grown considerably closer to Shen Run than before. Additionally, as they were both among the highest commanders of the Three Offices, they often helped each other. He cupped his hands and said: “Your Majesty, Deputy Magistrate Yao’s wife was merely a distant aunt of the Commander’s wife – what kind of close relation is that! That day when we were feasting at the Shen residence, Young Commander Shen left the table drunk. According to my wife, the Yao girl secretly slipped away, planning to force Young Commander Shen to take her as a secondary wife by compromising him. Also, regarding Young Commander Shen’s wife’s miscarriage, it was the Yao girl who deliberately threw elephant hide to make her fall. How can such matters be considered mere family affairs? Censor Liu, taking advantage of someone’s misfortune is beneath a gentleman. You shouldn’t use your grudge against Commander Shen to frame him, nor let private interests corrupt all the years of studying the classics.”

Liu Ang’s face and neck reddened at Han Yu’s words. “Commander Han, I never seek private revenge, and I speak only the truth. First the Xie family, now the Yao family – who’s framing whom?”

All eyes in the court turned to Xie Shu. He stepped forward holding his tablet. Everyone expected him to use this chance to air his grievances, but instead, he made a calm, deep bow and spoke evenly: “Your Majesty, there’s a saying that even a wise official finds it hard to judge family matters, but regarding what happened in my household, I understand clearly. I have four daughters in my life, the three elder ones grew up under my care, only the youngest wasn’t by my side since childhood…”

Shen Run turned his head, smiling as he picked up where Xie Shu left off: “Since we’ve come to this point, why doesn’t the Envoy speak plainly? It would also stop people from using my wife’s departure from the Xie family as gossip, and save you from the reputation of divorcing your wife without cause.”

This matter had indeed been the talk of the city, and he wasn’t comfortable speaking about such a shameful affair. But now there was no turning back, and further concealment was meaningless. After some internal struggle, he bowed his head and said: “Recently when I divorced my wife, Your Majesty, and the officials must have heard about it. The hidden truth… is truly difficult to speak of. My household was unfortunate, and I failed in supervision, resulting in the main wife poisoning a concubine and framing another concubine. To save face, I covered it up multiple times, causing my flesh and blood to be lost outside the family without recognition. I have failed my fourth daughter. Everything has its cause and effect, so when she married Commander Shen and refused to return to my Xie family, it wasn’t her fault, but mine.”

For a second-rank official to expose such dark family secrets required enormous courage. Shen Run had waited for him to speak before the entire court – once he said it himself, Qingyuan would no longer have to bear the blame for her mother’s murder.

At least Xie Shu still had a conscience, not continuing to remain muddled at this crucial moment. Satisfied, Shen Run stepped forward onto the wide corridor and made a deep bow: “Your Majesty, the Yao mother and daughter did not commit suicide, but were murdered. I have already captured the culprit and imprisoned them in the official jail, awaiting Your Majesty’s judgment.”

A woman sent back to her maiden home lived a very difficult life.

Lady Hu had tried to die by hitting her head at the Xie residence but unfortunately didn’t succeed. Xie Shu was ruthless – he wouldn’t even let her recover, sending word to the Hu family while she was still dizzy. Her elderly parents couldn’t bear the shame and naturally wouldn’t appear. The one who came to collect her was her youngest brother, the only one in the family without an official title, serving as an unremarkable court attendant. He brought two old women servants and a horse carriage. Seeing his sister in such a state upon entering, he jumped up like a firecracker ready to argue. Xie Shu sneered impatiently: “She has ruined the Xie family, and I haven’t gone to your Hu family to demand justice, yet you come here to make trouble? Better keep quiet and take her away quietly. If there’s anything unclear, just ask your sister. Don’t make a scene at my residence – we can’t accommodate such a grand presence anymore.”

Fourth Master Hu was bewildered: “My sister has been in your family for over twenty years, managing your household, bearing and raising your children, and you dismiss her with one divorce letter – is that it?”

Xie Shu became angry: “Hasn’t she ruined our family enough? What more does she want? Get out quickly, or I’ll have you thrown out!”

Fourth Master Hu saw his determination and knew there was no room for negotiation at the moment. Zhengze silently came forward to carry his mother into the carriage, then turned back saying: “Fourth Uncle, please take my mother to stay with you for a few days. I’ll think of something – perhaps when Father’s anger subsides, he might allow Mother to return.” As he spoke, he took out a purse from his chest and placed it by her pillow, whispering, “Mother, I’ll come to see you whenever I’m free.”

Fourth Master Hu looked at the purse containing bank notes, unable to tell the amount, and noticed that his sister was also allowed to take two large bundles with her – having been the main wife for decades, she must have saved considerable private funds. With no other option, they had to accept this arrangement for now – without a husband, having money would have to do.

The carriage creaked as it entered the alley where the Hu residence was located. The old madam and several daughters-in-law were waiting at the door, still unable to adjust to this sudden change.

They had known about the earlier scandal at the Xie residence and had been anxious, especially since the second young lady had been involved in such a major incident – they feared Xie Shu would place blame upon his return. Now their fears had proven correct: he had indeed acted, sending their eldest sister back to her maiden home. A husband divorcing his wife was no small matter, especially in a centuries-old noble family like the Xie family. Everyone who saw the divorce letter knew the situation was hopeless – their eldest sister had completely fallen from grace. But then again, she had borne the Xie family’s eldest son, so perhaps Xie Shu was just angry for a few days, and with no one to manage the household, considering their son’s sake, there might still be a day when she would be taken back. So everyone decided to first observe the situation patiently, after all, a main wife of twenty years being divorced and sent back to her maiden home was unheard of.

Therefore, in the first few days, the sisters-in-law were still decent to her, comforting her and showing concern, without any disrespectful words. But five days passed, then ten days, and not only did Xie Shu not appear, but even Zhengze stopped visiting. Now the Hu family became worried – would this sister who had been driven from her married home stay in her maiden home forever?

The elderly parents of the Hu family were advanced in age and no longer managed household affairs, and with four daughters-in-law who were all difficult to handle, they only arranged for her to stay in her original courtyard and set up a small kitchen for her use. The four sisters-in-law took turns coming to speak bitter words, first cursing Xie Shu for being heartless, then complaining about Zhengze being unfilial, allowing his mother to fall into hardship.

“Not to speak ill, but the young master is useless. If he had any backbone, he would have already caused a scene and established his household to take his mother in. But no, he probably still covets the Xie family’s wealth and doesn’t want to lose out, so he has to let his eldest sister make do at her maiden home. Alas… having such a son is worse than having a wooden stick.”

Lady Hu heard this with a bitter heart but felt she couldn’t argue back, so she could only endure in silence.

When she first returned, the Hu family had also been in an uproar, with her brothers planning to seek justice for her, discussing filing a complaint against Xie Shu for groundless divorce. However, since she had weaknesses that others could exploit, taking it to court would bring no good outcome, so after careful consideration, they had to let the matter rest. Those sisters-in-law were amazed by her ruthless methods and dared not provoke her for a few days, but as time passed, the unpleasant words began, criticizing indirectly outside her courtyard walls: “Which family doesn’t have three wives and four concubines, yet to be so intolerant! At that time, one had just given birth, and another was still pregnant – what a cruel heart it must take to play such a trick killing two birds with one stone. We’re useless, made of dough with hearts of tofu, unable to learn such tactics. But good deeds bring good rewards – children’s success all depends on this.”

Lady Hu had no choice but to use the money to buy peace, giving each courtyard eight to ten taels of silver for the New Year, with additional rewards for those serving her. Seeing she had money, the four sisters-in-law’s attitudes changed again, their idle talk turning to complaints about the high cost of living and tight finances. From initial hints, it finally turned into borrowing.

When she left her husband’s home, she did indeed have some money, but with such a large family each trying to squeeze money from her, even if she were made of iron, how many nails could she forge? In twenty days, three hundred taels of silver were gone, and she began to tighten her purse strings, but living under others’ roofs, how could life be so easy!

The eldest sister-in-law came, with an insincere smile: “Elder Sister, this can’t go on. You’re still young, not seventy or eighty – why not find someone else? Even as a secondary wife, at least you’d have food to eat.”

Lady Hu nearly lost her breath in anger and burst out cursing: “Where did such a despicable woman come from? No matter how low I’ve fallen, I’m still your husband’s elder sister. In the past, when you came to me for favors, you were all compliance and sweet words, but now that you see me powerless, you dare suggest I remarry – what a vicious heart!”

The eldest daughter-in-law let out a sharp cry: “Elder Sister still considers herself a former noble lady and can’t lower herself. But what can be done? You’ve been divorced, stripped of your title as a commandery lady, and the court won’t give you a penny in pension. If no one supports you, do you expect us to care for you in your old age?”

Lady Hu collapsed from anger. While every household was busily preparing for the festival, she had become a stray dog, humiliated by these rotten-hearted people. The more angry she became, the more hatred she harbored – all of this stemmed from Qingyuan. She was only throwing her weight around because she had married Shen Run. If one day Shen Run fell from power, how long could she remain so proud?

So she had to keep watch on the Shen family – any sign of trouble might be her chance to turn things around.

When the Shen family held their grand banquet, trouble arose in the second branch that day, with the Yao mother and daughter being thrown into prison. When she learned this news, she could neither stand nor sit still with joy. Her second brother served as a Training Officer in the Lulong Army – such a convenient position couldn’t be wasted.

The New Year was approaching, and all officials were granted leave. That day, Hu Zhongkuan happened to be at home, and the second sister-in-law had gone out shopping. She went to their courtyard, specifically seeking out this brother for a conversation.

Hu Zhongkuan was teasing a parrot under the eaves at the time. Seeing her enter through the gate, he was quite surprised and came out to greet her as “Elder Sister.” Though there were many siblings in the family, even those born of the same mother weren’t all close, Zhongkuan was different – she had raised him herself, and among all the siblings, only this second brother shared the deepest bond with her.

Hu Zhongkuan deeply sympathized with his elder sister’s situation, but as a married man, many things were beyond his control. Therefore, apart from verbal comfort, he had no other means of help. Today, with his second wife absent, it was more convenient for the siblings to talk. He quickly invited her inside to sit, had servants bring tea and pastries, and then asked: “How have you been lately, Sister? I’ve been in the military camp and really couldn’t attend to your situation. I was just thinking of visiting you, but the maid said you were unwell and resting, so I didn’t want to disturb you.”

Lady Hu’s face showed a rueful expression. “I’m living worse than a dog now – how good could things be? My illness was all caused by anger. The other day, the eldest sister-in-law came to suggest I become a widower’s secondary wife. How could family members say such things? I’ve finally seen clearly – earlier they all curried favor only because they valued the Xie family’s wealth and power. Once I lost my position, the first to look down on me were my people.”

Hu Zhongkuan sighed along with her. “The world is naturally so fickle. Elder Sister, try to take it easier and focus on taking care of yourself.”

The siblings sat in silence for a while before Lady Hu finally said: “My current situation is entirely the fault of Shen Run and his wife. I simply cannot swallow this anger – I must repay them in kind.” She looked at him earnestly, “Zhongkuan, do you wish for your sister to have a day of restoration?”

Hu Zhongkuan was the most sentimental and least calculating among the four brothers. He said dumbly: “Of course, how could I not wish for Sister’s well-being?”

Lady Hu moved closer and said: “Right now there’s a way to help me escape this predicament and return to the Xie family. Are you willing to lend me a hand?”

Though Hu Zhongkuan didn’t know what she meant, he still nodded: “Please tell me, Sister.”

“Have you heard about what happened to the Shen family?” she asked urgently. “Deputy Magistrate Yao’s wife and daughter were imprisoned in the Lulong Military prison. If handled properly, this could be a great opportunity to bring down Shen Run. Think about it – that girl Qingyuan hates me to the bone, and now that I’ve returned, with you working under Shen Run, how could he not make things difficult for you? Currently, during the festival, he hasn’t had time to deal with you, but after the holiday, I fear you won’t be able to keep your position as Training Officer.”

Hu Zhongkuan looked at her hesitantly: “What do you mean, Sister?”

Lady Hu said: “Let me ask you this – if the Yao mother and daughter were to commit suicide in grief, would Shen Run be implicated?”

“Of course,” Hu Zhongkuan replied. “To imprison someone before sentencing, one must ensure the prisoner’s safety. It was inappropriate to put women in a male prison in the first place. If the higher-ups blame him, the consequences wouldn’t be good…” He spoke increasingly slowly, then paused to study her expression. The murderous air in her eyes made his heart skip a beat. “The Yao mother and daughter might not be planning to commit suicide…”

“Then we’ll find a way to make them ‘commit suicide.’ During the major holiday, the military camp’s security will be lax, and those prison guards will be careless in their watch. It won’t be too difficult to fake their suicide.”

Hu Zhongkuan was frightened by her boldness. “Sister, this involves human lives!”

Lady Hu sneered: “I know it involves lives, but what we’re doing is self-preservation. If we wait, Shen Run will come after you and Zhongliang. By then we’ll be powerless to resist – the Hu family will become the next Xie family.”

However, Hu Zhongkuan still hesitated, unsure if such a risky move was worth it. He was at a loss, pacing anxiously, looking at his sister’s pleading eyes, then thinking of his uncertain career. Human life, in the eyes of military officers, wasn’t viewed as seriously as by ordinary people. Especially for those who had experienced battles, having lived through years of wielding swords on horseback, arranging two deaths didn’t seem so difficult.

Having served in the Lulong Army for a long time, he knew the various departments and offices even better than Shen Run. Among those prison guards were many young soldiers with unfulfilled ambitions – after all, they hadn’t joined the army to do such lowly work. Given the opportunity for reassignment, who wouldn’t want to seize it?

He found Ma San, who was scheduled for guard duty on New Year’s Day, treated him to drinks, and explained his purpose. He had thought that if Ma San refused, he would abandon the plan. But prison guards were all rough soldiers with their heads barely attached to their necks. Ma San first tactfully indicated that killing someone Shen Run had imprisoned carried great risk, then changed his tone, smiling: “I’m not asking for any official position. After they die, I’ll be transferred out of the prison – no one will suspect me. How about this: if the Training Officer gives me some drinking money to pay off my gambling debts and enjoy the New Year, I’ll handle everything.”

Hu Zhongkuan felt half relieved and went back to discuss with his sister. Lady Hu took out a hundred-tael bank note to give him, her movements and expression showing no hesitation.

Very well – there was no turning back now. He delivered the money to Ma San and repeated: “Whether this succeeds or fails, you must keep your mouth shut. Don’t forget you have a wife, children, and elderly mother – if not for yourself, think of them.”

Ma San took the bank note between two fingers, grinning maliciously in the lamplight: “Taking money to solve someone’s problems – Training Officer can rest assured.”

Later when news came that one of the Yao women had died and one was injured, this wasn’t a good sign. If Lady Yao woke up and identified the culprit, things would go badly.

Hu Zhongkuan hurriedly sent his capable servant to find Ma San, but he was nowhere to be found. Lady Hu sat there stunned, her mind spinning like a lantern wheel: “Could it be that Shen Run falsely claimed Lady Yao hadn’t died to lure Ma San out…”

Before she could finish speaking, a squad of guards burst in and arrested the siblings without explanation, saying coldly: “Training Officer Hu, happy New Year! The Commander orders you to come to have tea at the Imperial Guard headquarters.”

The whole family didn’t know what had happened. Watching her husband being taken away, the second wife slapped her thighs and wailed: “This whore, this harbinger of doom! After ruining the Xie family she comes to ruin her maiden family! Heaven above! Second Master… Second Master!” She chased after them, falling on the straight road in front of the gate.

The hall was silent as they listened to Shen Run finish speaking. The Emperor gritted his teeth: “A woman’s evil, when it emerges, is truly chilling. Is Lady Yao currently alive or dead?”

Shen Run replied: “In response to Your Majesty, both mother and daughter are dead. If I hadn’t released such news, I couldn’t have drawn out the true culprits.”

Yao Shao was like a clay figure ruined by rain – he had thought at least his wife was still alive, but it turned out to be just Shen Run’s deception. He mumbled with drooping sleeves: “No wonder… no wonder they wouldn’t let me see my wife…”

Shen Run turned and made a formal bow to Yao Shao: “Though Lady Yao and her daughter did indeed harm others, I still must apologize to the Deputy Magistrate. According to law, they would have only faced fifty strokes and three years’ imprisonment, yet now they’ve lost their lives. I feel deeply guilty toward the Deputy Magistrate.”

Yao Shao looked at him coldly: “Two lives – can they be written off with just a word from Commander Shen?”

The Emperor on his gilded dragon throne frowned, knowing that showing too much favoritism toward Shen Run would inevitably lead to private discussion among his officials. After some thought, he said: “Shen Run was wrong in failing to properly guard the prisoners. The Lulong Army is our dynasty’s elite force guarding the capital region – for prisoners to be murdered in such a major camp is outrageous, and Shen Run cannot escape blame. Considering the Shen couple’s establishment of the Orphans’ Garden and their care for the city’s elderly and young, I order his salary to be forfeited for half a year and his position suspended for one month, allowing him to reform himself and observe the results.”

For a second-rank official with a monthly salary of five hundred shi, losing half a year’s pay meant little to Shen Run. As for the one-month suspension, it wasn’t punishment but practically a honeymoon leave.

Shen Run’s face showed sorrow while his heart secretly rejoiced. He knelt and kowtowed, his forehead firmly pressed against his hands: “Your subject accepts the decree. Long live Your Majesty, long live!”

After the court was dismissed, the officials left the Hall of Supreme Harmony – human life truly wasn’t worth much these days. No one consoled Yao Shao’s desolation; after all, he was just a sixth-rank official, and this resulted from poor household management – the death of women in the inner quarters was just that. Compared to the Yao family, people would rather sympathize with Xie Shu. Though Lady Hu had been divorced, she had done all manner of evil things – what kind of eyes did Envoy Xie have, to share a bed with such a wolf for all those years?

Shen Run left together with Han Yu, studying him for a moment before saying: “Thank you for today, Brother Lantian, but how did you know about what happened in my inner courtyard?”

Han Yu smiled: “Your wife visited my wife on the second day of the New Year and told her everything.”

Shen Run suddenly understood: “Women! When women encounter problems they always want to discuss them with others…” He shook his head helplessly while speaking, “Ah, women!”

Those around him laughed at his pretense of complaint despite his good fortune. The group dispersed after leaving the Gate of Supreme Harmony, each heading to their own offices. Shen Run paused to look at Xie Shu, feeling that his figure had suddenly aged – even though Lady Hu no longer had any connection to him, she was still the mother of his eldest son, and after this incident, the Xie family couldn’t remain uninvolved.

But regardless, being suspended for a month was a good thing for Shen Run. With Shen Che and trusted subordinates managing the office, he had no worries. After the court dismissed, he returned directly to Youzhou, where he found Qingyuan packing their belongings. She was surprised to see him return.

“How did the case investigation go?” She looked outside. “Did His Majesty blame you?”

He wore a troubled expression, entering with sighs: “His Majesty was furious and dismissed me from my position.”

Qingyuan was dumbfounded, but quickly accepted it. She wasn’t the type to crave power and position – if he was no longer an official, they would surely find another path and still live well.

She patted his shoulder: “I’ve long wanted to travel the famous mountains and rivers with you – now we finally have the chance.”

Shen Run looked at her puzzled: “You’ve also lost your title as a noble lady – don’t you feel regret?”

She smiled: “That title was earned by you for me anyway. I’ve enjoyed it for a couple of days, that’s enough. It doesn’t matter if it’s gone, as long as I haven’t lost you…”

Before she could finish speaking, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a loud kiss on the cheek, bursting into laughter: “Let the ancestors witness – I’ve married a good wife who can share both fortune and misfortune!”

Qingyuan was bewildered by his behavior. After he proudly explained everything that had happened these past days, she couldn’t help but kick him: “You’re always like this – do you enjoy scaring people? You nearly frightened me to death!”

He smiled while rubbing his calf: “My dear, I’ve avenged your mother and Fangchun’s child – are you pleased?”

She understood: “So you deliberately sent the Yao mother and daughter to the Lulong Military prison? Because Lady Hu’s brother served in the Lulong Army, you predicted they wouldn’t miss the opportunity, setting up a trap where the mantis catches the cicada while the oriole waits behind?”

No wonder he had said that day about achieving his purpose – so this was it. Qingyuan had always known he was deeply calculating – if he weren’t, he couldn’t have reached his current position. Now the revenge that needed to be taken had been taken, yet inexplicably, her heart filled with melancholy.

She embraced his waist melancholically, “Thank you – my mother and Concubine Xia can rest in peace in the underworld now. But the Yao mother and daughter… we shouldn’t have used them as bait! We must never do such things again – too much killing karma is not good for us.”

But he felt no regret: “Good and evil will eventually be repaid, but some things if too much time passes, even Heaven forgets. In such cases, it’s more direct if I handle it myself. I’m not a good person – I only know life for life. It’s a pity Lady Hu only had one life, otherwise, her head should have been chopped off four times.”

Perhaps this was the cycle of karma – no one knows which execution blade they might fall under after making a wrong step.

The Yao family case was quickly settled, with the three culprits sentenced to immediate execution. On the day of the execution, Qingyuan brought her mother’s spirit tablet to the execution ground. Shen Run wouldn’t let her leave the carriage, only stopping at the roadside to watch from afar. She watched as Lady Hu and the other two were pushed onto the high platform, watched as the executioner removed the cloth from their necks. At the moment the blade fell, Shen Run raised his hand to cover her eyes. She held up the spirit tablet high – she wanted her mother to see that today, finally, her wrongful death was avenged.

However, they still felt guilty toward the Yao family. Qingyuan and Fangchun gathered five hundred taels of silver as condolence money and sent it over. Yao Shao flew into a rage and drove the messenger away, but the married young ladies of the family decided together to accept it. After all, the dead were gone, and the living had to continue bearing their burdens with dignity. The Shen brothers’ official ranks were too high, and they had the Emperor’s protection – opposing them would be like eggs striking stone. The married young ladies deeply understood this principle.

“This grudge with the Yao family has grown too deep – a few hundred taels of condolence money probably won’t resolve their hatred,” Shen Run sat in his circular chair, holding Big Yuanzi while mumbling. “We need to find a permanent solution.”

Though he was suspended from office, he could still move about the palace. He raised this concern before the Emperor, who resolved it directly: “If keeping him in the capital might cause more trouble, just send him far away. He’s currently of the sixth rank – rewards him with the position of Water Control Commissioner of the full sixth rank, and let him manage irrigation canals and reservoirs in Shu.”

Shen Run agreed: “Your subject will order the Secretariat to draft the decree.”

But the Emperor said there was no hurry: “There’s another matter troubling me. Tibet has sent envoys to the capital requesting to marry one of our princesses. After much consideration, a princess won’t do – firstly, we can’t let our flesh and blood marry far away in such barbaric lands; secondly, our princesses are too proud, and if things go badly and fighting breaks out, it could lead to war between our nations.”

Shen Run pondered for a moment: “Then we could select a suitable girl from among the noble families, and bestow her with a princess title – that would work.”

The Emperor frowned: “Since our Great Jing’s founding, there has never been a precedent of royal women going beyond the frontier. If we break this tradition in my reign, how can I face the ancestors?”

This made things very clear. Shen Run, who still held the title of Imperial Adviser, understood the Emperor’s inner thoughts better than anyone.

Some things the Emperor couldn’t say directly – there had to be someone considerate nearby to make suggestions, to say what the Emperor couldn’t. Shen Run was an expert at this. He smiled with his hands in his sleeves: “Since Your Majesty can’t bear to send a precious royal daughter far away, there are many beauties in the palace. Selecting one of noble birth to serve as a princess wouldn’t dishonor the Tibetan king.”

The Emperor showed an approving smile: “Then in your opinion as my minister, who would be suitable?”

He turned to look at the layered palace buildings – perhaps there was someone perfect to fill this role.

The next day, Qingyuan entered Changqiu Palace to pay respects to the Empress and chat casually. The Empress asked if their residence in the capital was properly settled, and she smiled in reply: “Everything was ready-made. The capital is more prosperous than Youzhou – my sisters-in-law and I wandered for two days and still haven’t seen all of the east market.”

The Empress nodded: “This year there are more foreign merchants than before, bringing many rare items. Just hearing the servants describe them makes my head spin.”

Qingyuan agreed: “It shows how peaceful and prosperous our nation is under His Majesty’s rule. Now that the border conflicts are settled, merchant caravans can travel freely, naturally making goods plentiful.”

As they spoke, Qingrong entered carrying a tea tray, respectfully served the tea cups, then respectfully withdrew. Qingyuan carefully observed her expression – after several months of training in Changqiu Palace, she no longer seemed as cynical and resentful as before. But with the younger sister becoming a noble lady while the elder sister served tea, this situation inevitably felt ironic.

Qingyuan smiled at the Empress: “Your Highness, I request a favor – please allow me to speak a few words with Talented Lady Xie.”

The Empress understood and nodded her approval. Qingyuan then rose, bowed, and withdrew from Changqiu Hall.

The season had turned to spring with blooming flowers. The palace trees were slowly budding, their crowns covered with a layer of light green fuzz, with faint flower buds emerging like sharp sprouts. Qingrong stood under the trees with her tea tray, looking up – at the nearby trees, and distant birds in the sky, all composed of a clear spring day.

From the corner of her eye, she saw someone stop beside her, standing shoulder to shoulder, also learning to gaze into the distance. Without looking, she knew it was Qingyuan.

“Lady Hu has been executed – did you know, Sister?” Qingyuan said her tone light as if merely remarking on the lovely spring.

“You finally accomplished this,” Qingrong said indifferently. “When I first entered the palace, I also dreamed of rising above others, gaining the Emperor’s favor, then killing her… but I wasn’t so fortunate. Now that you’ve taken revenge, that’s good too – I suppose I’ve borrowed your success.”

Qingyuan turned to look at her: “Third Sister, have you ever thought about leaving?”

Qingrong was slightly startled: “Leaving?”

“Rather than staying in this deep palace as a servant, why not fly far away and live freely? There are too many beautiful and talented women in the palace – when will the Emperor ever notice you? I can’t bear to see you waste your life on these palace walls. You’re young now and can stay in Changqiu Palace, but in the future when you’re older, without children, do you want to grow old alone in Shangyang Palace?”

She had thought of these things before, but what could be done?

“Once entering the palace gates, it’s deep as the sea…” Qingrong shook her head with a bitter smile. “How could I leave?”

Qingyuan said: “If there was a way for you to both leave and save the Xie family from disaster, would you be willing to try?”

Qingrong finally turned her head, ripples stirring in her previously dead-water eyes as she looked hopefully at Qingyuan.

The Xie family’s reputation was thoroughly ruined after Lady Hu’s execution. Though she was in the deep palace, she wasn’t completely ignorant of outside affairs. The home where she grew up, though lacking in warmth, still pained her heart to see it fall so low.

She opened her mouth, asking awkwardly: “What way do you have?”

Qingyuan said: “Yesterday the Emperor summoned Shen Run to discuss state affairs, saying the Tibetan Tsenpo is requesting marriage with our dynasty. His Majesty doesn’t wish to marry off a princess, wanting instead to select a noble lady to go beyond the frontier in a princess’s stead.” She paused briefly, then continued: “The frontier is harsh, the climate surely not as pleasant as the Central Plains, but I think if one could represent a princess in marriage, His Majesty would certainly bestow a princess title. Going there would make you the Tsenpo’s primary wife – isn’t that better than suffering lonely in the palace? But benefits always come with drawbacks – leaving your homeland, you might never return in this lifetime. This must be carefully considered.”

Qingrong fell silent after hearing this. After a while, she said: “There’s nothing here that I miss – there’s only father, but this father… was never very close anyway. I endured sixteen years in the Xie family, and after my birth mother was gone, my father only had eyes for Qingru. I was the least noticeable daughter of the Xie family. If I could go beyond the frontier and save the Xie family’s reputation one more time, it would repay Father’s grace in raising me.”

This was the most helpless yet most advantageous choice – when you’re about to rot in one place, only by moving can you find a new path.

Qingyuan nodded: “If you’ve made up your mind, I’ll have Shen Run petition on your behalf. But Third Sister, shouldn’t you consider it more carefully?”

Qingrong said it wasn’t necessary, smiling desolately: “Elder Sister was promised to the Founding Earl’s family, you married the Commander, if I become a queen, I won’t be inferior to you both, right?”

Some people compete their whole lives, and in the end, even a tiny advantage to console themselves with is enough to support them through the decades ahead.

Qingyuan agreed: “In terms of status, neither Elder Sister nor I can compare to you.”

The smile on her face turned to boundless bitterness. She nodded while smiling: “Good… good… let’s do this then. I want to leave this place, never to return for all eternity – this is very good.”

Qingyuan withdrew from Changqiu Palace. Shen Run was still waiting for her at the Left Silver Tower Gate. Seeing her appear, he reached out his hand.

Those fingers were warm, just as on their wedding day, gently holding her hand in his palm as they walked slowly along the moat outside the palace walls. In the second month when grass grows and orioles fly, willow branches brush lightly, occasionally touching his shoulder. Under the soft sunlight, his profile still looked like that of a handsome young gentleman just coming of age. His voice was lazy: “What did she say?”

Qingyuan felt a delicate melancholy: “She agreed. It was originally good for both her and the Xie family, but somehow, I feel sad. Perhaps because I have so few relatives in this world, and one by one they’re all going far away – life will become increasingly lonely.”

Shen Run suddenly stopped walking: “My dear, you’ve become quite sentimental lately.”

Qingyuan made a surprised sound: “Wasn’t I always like this?”

He evaluated frankly: “Vengeful and evil, but determined.”

She looked stunned: “I was that kind of person?”

Shen Run nodded solemnly.

“Then why have I become so weak now?”

He thought for a moment and came up with the most reasonable answer—

“Could you be pregnant?”

—End of Main Text—

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