In the Golden Hall, Wuto ambassador Ma Ningbu stood respectfully to one side, waiting as his attendants continuously presented gifts for the Great Wei Emperor.
A pomegranate tree crafted from gold, a pair of white peacocks, two elephant tusks, and luminous stones the size of fists… Emperor Wenzong watched with great interest, his expression quite satisfied.
“These are all tokens of sincerity from the Wuto people to Your Majesty,” Ma Ningbu said respectfully, performing a deep bow to Emperor Wenzong.
Emperor Wenzong felt extremely pleased.
When the late emperor had several sons, he had been the most mediocre one. However, because he was the eldest legitimate son and Crown Prince, the late emperor passed the throne to him. After Emperor Wenzong ascended the throne, he proved to be just as unremarkable in state affairs as he had been in his youth. If not for Xu Jingfu’s support back then, he might not have even been able to secure his position on the throne.
Over the years, he went from being ambitious to having to accept that he was just an ordinary person and later came to feel that this wasn’t so bad. From ascending the throne until now, he had finally accomplished one impressive feat that elevated Great Wei’s national prestige—something worthy of being recorded in the historical chronicles.
“Your Wuto nation previously attempted to invade Great Wei territory. How can these mere gifts make amends?” Emperor Wenzong said sternly.
Ma Ningbu lowered his head anxiously: “Your Majesty, it was all a misunderstanding. Wuto is weak—how could we dare compare ourselves to Great Wei? Even with a hundred times more courage, we would never dare attempt an invasion. However, regarding past matters, discussing the details now would be pointless. Beyond these gifts, our ruler has instructed me to present Your Majesty with another form of compensation.” He looked at Emperor Wenzong, “That is to allow Wuto merchants to establish trading posts within Great Wei’s borders.”
Emperor Wenzong frowned: “Establishing trading posts within Great Wei benefits you—how is this compensation? How cunning of you Wuto people!”
The Crown Prince, standing to the side, said: “Father, perhaps we should hear his explanation.”
Ma Ningbu knelt, “Your Majesty, Wuto has no intention of invading Great Wei. Establishing trading posts would bring Great Wei numerous benefits without any drawbacks. Does Your Majesty recall the historical records of how a wise ruler from the previous dynasty sent envoys to establish trading posts in the Western Moon Kingdom, learning their horse-breeding techniques, which later led to formidable cavalry forces? Wuto’s people are impoverished. If we could establish trading posts in Great Wei and engage in trade, Wuto’s citizens would no longer go hungry as before. Moreover, Wuto is willing to offer fifty percent of the annual trading post revenues to Your Majesty.”
While the earlier flattery had merely pleased Emperor Wenzong without truly moving him, Ma Ningbu’s final words struck directly at the emperor’s interests.
It was well known that the treasury had been depleted in recent years. The battle between Huayuan and Rundu had consumed considerable silver. Maintaining an army was extremely costly, which was one reason why Emperor Wenzong accepted Wuto’s peace offering—besides his distaste for war, the treasury was also empty.
A single battle required years of recovery. Moreover, how could they wage war without money? Now, establishing trading posts would bring in fifty percent of the profits annually. Given Great Wei’s size and the number of Wuto merchants… it sounded like a good deal.
Emperor Wenzong instinctively looked toward Xu Jingfu at his side.
He still trusted Xu Jingfu—if not for Xu Jingfu’s support back then, he wouldn’t have sat securely in this position for so many years.
Xu Jingfu merely stood to the side smiling, saying nothing. Emperor Wenzong immediately understood and said, “Regarding the peace offering, I can accept that. However, establishing trading posts is a significant matter. As Great Wei’s emperor, I cannot respond carelessly. Wait until I have thoroughly considered it before answering.”
Ma Ningbu showed no disappointment and gratefully knelt: “Thank you for Your Majesty’s benevolence.”
The Wuto envoys behind him also knelt, shouting long life to the emperor. While Emperor Wenzong was in excellent spirits, the Crown Prince’s expression darkened as he glanced at Xu Jingfu, his eyes filled with barely concealed malice.
After the Wuto envoys left, only Xu Jingfu and the emperor remained in the hall. As the attendant supported Emperor Wenzong toward the inner hall, he asked, “Minister Xu, what do you think about establishing trading posts in Great Wei?”
“Although Ma Ningbu offered to give fifty percent of the profits to Your Majesty, this old minister believes we shouldn’t rush to a conclusion,” Xu Jingfu said. “Currently, in our engagement with Wuto, Great Wei holds the advantage—we shouldn’t let the Wuto people lead us by the nose. Moreover, they speak of fifty percent now, but the Wuto people are cunning. When the time comes, if they conceal their profits, Your Majesty will find it difficult to verify. Therefore, now is not the time.”
Hearing this, Emperor Wenzong also felt Xu Jingfu made good sense. He nodded and sighed, “Minister Xu, you are now the only one who can share my burdens.”
“I trust you.”
Xu Jingfu smiled slightly, “Sharing Your Majesty’s burdens is a minister’s duty. This old minister should do so, and would gladly give his life for Your Majesty.”
…
As soon as the Crown Prince returned to his residence, he angrily kicked over the table before him. The surrounding servants and attendants were startled and immediately knelt, none daring to approach. Only a maid in red robes walked out from within, disregarding the Crown Prince’s rage to stand beside him, speaking gently: “Why is Your Highness angry upon returning? Did you encounter someone disagreeable outside?”
Guang Yan looked at the beauty beside him. In the entire residence, when everyone else feared him, only this woman showed no fear, approaching him as usual. Yet this fearlessness wasn’t irritating; rather, it made one feel she truly cared.
“Yes, I encountered someone disagreeable,” the Crown Prince embraced Ying Xiang as they walked into the hall, continuing, “That old bastard Xu Jingfu dared to ruin my plans!”
He sat down on the couch, casually poured himself a cup of wine, and drank it, calming his anger. Ying Xiang nestled in his arms, smiling, “Minister Xu again? Lately, from what this servant has heard, Minister Xu has upset Your Highness several times.”
“You’re right,” Guang Yan snorted, “That old bastard relies on his age now, even interfering in my affairs. I see that before long, he’ll want to manage my private quarters too. I think Heaven made him childless in this life because he meddles too much in others’ affairs!”
This vicious comment made Ying Xiang giggle. She reached out her delicate hand to take the wine cup from the Crown Prince and took a sip, laughing coquettishly, “Of course, someone like Your Highness will surely be blessed with many sons in the future.”
“Are you hinting at something?” Guang Yan pinched her cheek. The beauty dodged playfully, turning his anger into desire. Just as he was about to pull her close for a kiss, someone outside announced: “Your Highness, someone seeks an audience.”
“Who is it?” Guang Yan asked impatiently, his mood spoiled.
“The Wuto envoy, Sir Ma Ningbu.”
The Crown Prince paused, then put down his wine cup, frowning as he waved his hand, “Let him in.”
Ying Xiang also stood up, adjusting her robes before taking her place beside the Crown Prince.
Ma Ningbu entered.
He had typical Wuto features—short and stout, appearing kind and friendly, but when his eyes moved, they revealed a hint of craftiness. He walked to the Crown Prince’s side with a smile, bowing slightly: “Your Highness, we meet again.”
Seeing Ma Ningbu, the Crown Prince’s earlier frustration resurfaced slightly, and he merely said, “Sit.”
Ma Ningbu sat across from the Crown Prince.
“Regarding the trading posts, you saw what happened,” Guang Yan said. “It’s not that I won’t help you, I’ve already done my best.”
Ma Ningbu continued smiling, showing no sign of annoyance, “Your Highness and our ruler had previously agreed that if you helped Wuto establish trading posts in Great Wei, Wuto would help Your Highness obtain everything you desire. Could it be…” he spoke unhurriedly, “that Your Highness has given up on that position?”
“Nonsense!” Guang Yan angrily replied, “What do you know!”
“Currently in Great Wei’s court, there are quite a few who secretly support the Fourth Prince. Your Highness has past grievances with General Feng Yun, and the Emperor favors the Fourth Prince… From any perspective, things don’t look favorable for Your Highness.”
The Crown Prince gritted his teeth in silence.
Although he held the position of Crown Prince, as long as Emperor Wenzong hadn’t issued an edict of succession, his position remained unstable. He had finally managed to drive Xiao Huaixin out of Shuojing, but unexpectedly, the battle of Jiyang restored his reputation.
How could he accept letting that weakling Guang Shuo take the throne?
“It’s not our Prince’s fault,” Ying Xiang pouted, “It’s Minister Xu interfering. Our Prince is very willing to help Wuto establish trading posts in Great Wei.”
Ma Ningbu couldn’t help looking up at the speaker, and seeing this maid’s extraordinary beauty, he was momentarily stunned.
However, he quickly recovered from the distraction and said, “Minister Xu? Minister Xu has been frequently obstructing things lately. During the battle of Jiyang, information was leaked because of him. Your Highness,” Ma Ningbu smiled, “Are you certain Minister Xu is on your side?”
“What do you mean?” Guang Yan asked alertly.
“Nothing,” Ma Ningbu smiled, “I just think Minister Xu is a clever man—after all, Xiao Zhongwu died by his hand. Being clever, he never reveals his true cards to others. What makes Your Highness believe that Xu Jingfu’s displayed support is genuine?”
“Don’t try to sow discord between Minister Xu and me!” Guang Yan sneered, “Cunning Wuto people, how could I fall for your tricks?”
“If Your Highness doesn’t believe me, so be it,” Ma Ningbu smiled. “However, I must add one more thing—if Your Highness is merely reluctant to give up Minister Xu’s connections and relationships, rather than being overly attached to Xu Jingfu himself, there’s no need to be so troubled. Because…” Ma Ningbu said softly, “In Great Wei’s Shuojing, Xu Jingfu is not the only one who can help Your Highness. Just as Xiao Zhongwu could be replaced by Xiao Huaixin, Xu Jingfu can certainly be replaced by someone younger. The same tactics and connections—a young eagle is easier to train than a mature snake, isn’t it?”
Guang Yan looked at him thoughtfully, but Ma Ningbu merely laughed heartily and stood up, “Your Highness needn’t give me an answer too quickly. When His Majesty hosts a banquet for the Wuto envoys in a few days, you can give me your response then.” He instructed his attendants, “I shall take my leave now, and await Your Highness’s good news in a few days.”
Ma Ningbu left.
Only Ying Xiang and Guang Yan remained in the hall.
Crown Prince Guang Yan’s expression wavered as he pondered Ma Ningbu’s words. Though he had righteously declared he wouldn’t be swayed by such rhetoric, a seed of doubt had been planted in his heart.
Minister Xu was indeed clever. Lately, he had frequently opposed him regarding Wuto matters, clearly knowing that if the Crown Prince didn’t follow the Wuto people’s suggestions, he might lose everything, yet still stubbornly acted against his interests. Initially, Guang Yan thought the minister was becoming senile, but now… he wasn’t so sure.
Could Minister Xu have been bought by Guang Shuo long ago?
…
Meanwhile, the He family household was bustling with activity.
Bai Rongwei and Xiao Jing visited again a few days ago to discuss the marriage between He Yan and Xiao Jue. As everyone knew, during the victory celebration banquet, His Majesty had arranged marriages for both Chu Zhao with Xu Pingting and He Yan with Xiao Jue. Chu Zhao and Xu Pingting would marry next month. After Bai Rongwei consulted a fortuneteller, two auspicious dates were selected for He Yan and Xiao Jue’s wedding.
One was the seventh day of the new year, the other the tenth—both considered favorable days for marriage.
He Yan wasn’t home. Though he held a position without much real authority, he still had duties to attend to daily, mostly miscellaneous tasks. When He Yunsheng heard Bai Rongwei’s words, he immediately frowned and said, “Wouldn’t that leave only a month for preparation? Isn’t it too rushed?”
He Sui, who had initially been quite pleased, also found it somewhat inappropriate after hearing He Yunsheng’s comment.
“Second Young Master He needn’t worry,” Bai Rongwei smiled. “Rubi and I began preparing for Huaixin’s marriage two or three years ago. It’s just that Huaixin never found a girl he liked, so the preparations had to be set aside. Now that His Majesty has arranged the marriage and Huaixin is very fond of Miss He, naturally, there’s no need for delay. I’ll have someone deliver the betrothal gifts list tomorrow.”
“Two or three years ago?” He Yunsheng remained skeptical. “How could you prepare betrothal gifts when you didn’t even know whom Commander Xiao would like?”
This time, Xiao Jing spoke up seriously: “In the Xiao family, we don’t consider social status in matters of marriage. Whoever Huaixin likes must be the best choice. Therefore, the betrothal gifts will certainly not be lacking.”
“Yunsheng doesn’t know how to speak properly. Please don’t take offense, Young Master Xiao,” He Sui glared at He Yunsheng. “We’re not concerned about the betrothal gifts. Yan’er is my daughter. Her mother passed away early, so I raised her myself. Though we’re not wealthy, Yan’er has been raised with care and affection. I don’t care about other things, but…” he looked at Bai Rongwei, his usually easy-going face turning serious, “The man my daughter marries must love and cherish her as I do. Betrothal gifts are for others to see. Yunsheng and I don’t need much money in our daily lives. I don’t care about that—I care about how Yan’er will live after entering the Xiao family.”
He smiled: “I’m a simple man, not good with words. I know the Xiao family holds an extraordinary position in Great Wei, and we’re the ones marrying up. However… not to boast, but in all of Great Wei, my daughter is also unique. I just want to know…” his tone became uncharacteristically sharp, “After Yan’er enters the household, will Commander Xiao take concubines? If he will, I don’t mind waiting another year or two to marry off my daughter. If he won’t, I have no objection to either the seventh or the tenth.”
He Yunsheng looked at his father in surprise.
He had always disapproved of He Sui’s favorable attitude toward the Xiao family, feeling it seemed like they were desperately trying to climb the social ladder. Even though it was His Majesty’s arranged marriage, He Yan was a young lady and should maintain some dignity. If they let the other family think the He family was easy to push around, wouldn’t they completely dominate He Yan in the future? Not just among these noble families—even in their ordinary neighborhood, they frequently heard rumors of entire families bullying newly married daughters-in-law.
He thought He Sui would agree with Madam Xiao’s words and quickly approve of He Yan and Xiao Jue’s marriage, but he hadn’t expected He Sui’s question to be so pointed.
Their family was poor. When He Sui married, even after his wife’s death, he never considered remarrying or taking concubines—this was natural. He Yunsheng didn’t think there was anything wrong with this, but poor families were all like this—supporting an additional person wasn’t easy. But wealthy households were different. Since He Yunsheng started attending school, many of his well-off classmates’ families had several concubines.
If ordinary wealthy families were like this, noble families were even more so.
He Yunsheng had considered this point but deliberately avoided it. Because His Majesty’s arranged marriage couldn’t be changed, and this was how society worked—it was normal for wealthy and powerful families to have multiple wives and concubines. If they didn’t, the main wife would be criticized behind her back for being jealous.
But now, He Sui did not attempt to hide it, stating it directly. Moreover, his words carried a threat that if Xiao Jue dared to take concubines, he wouldn’t give his daughter in marriage. What about His Majesty’s arrangement? To put it bluntly, His Majesty wasn’t young anymore, while He Yan was in her prime—worst case, they could wait a few years until he passed away, and who would still care about the arranged marriage then?
Each emperor brings their officials; who knows what tomorrow will bring? Rules are rules when there’s no choice, but when there is a choice, they mean nothing!
Bai Rongwei and Xiao Jing exchanged glances, and after a moment, Bai Rongwei chuckled, saying, “Master He jests. The Xiao family has never had the custom of taking concubines.”
“When my parents-in-law were alive, there were no concubines in the household. Rubi and I have been married for many years, and there has never been anyone else. Huaixin will naturally be the same.”
Xiao Jing added, “Master He perhaps underestimates Huaixin. It’s precisely because Miss He is unique in all of Great Wei that Huaixin has fallen deeply in love with her. I know my younger brother’s character well—once he sets his mind on something, he won’t look elsewhere. I dare swear on the entire Xiao family that in this life, Huaixin will have no other woman besides Miss He. If Master He doesn’t trust me, you can ask Huaixin directly. However,” he smiled, “Oaths are such things that even after being sworn thousands of times, those who don’t keep their promises will still break them. Those who truly value their word need not speak it—they’ll keep it in their hearts.”
He Yunsheng looked at Xiao Jing, secretly thinking that just as he protected He Yan, this Xiao Rubi seemed particularly protective of Xiao Huaixin. With such good relationships between brothers, the family values must be decent.
The two young masters of the Xiao family—one gentle as spring breeze, one clear as autumn waters—were both extraordinary men. What they said, they would surely do.
He Sui laughed heartily: “No need! I trust the Young Master and Commander Xiao. I have no preference between the seventh or tenth!”
Bai Rongwei joined in laughing, “That’s wonderful then. Starting today, I’ll begin writing the invitations to avoid missing the auspicious time.”
After discussing more wedding details with He Sui, Bai Rongwei and Xiao Jing took their leave. After they left, He Yunsheng turned to He Sui and asked, “Father, regarding Young Master Xiao’s words that Commander Xiao won’t take concubines in the future, how much do you believe it?”
He Sui replied, “About fifty percent.”
“What?” He Yunsheng nearly jumped up. “Didn’t you just say you trusted both brothers? You sounded so certain, I believed you!”
“I didn’t grow up with them, and such families—we only know them by reputation. How would I know if what they say is true or false? Time reveals a horse’s strength and a person’s heart. I’ve only met them a few times—you think your old man can read minds?” He Sui scolded.
“Then you…”
“I just wanted a guarantee from them, and to let the Xiao family know that although we’re poor and not officials, we’re not easy to bully. If Yan’er suffers any grievances in their family, I’ll risk my life to make them pay.”
“Come on,” He Yunsheng didn’t believe it, “Even if we both risked our lives, we probably couldn’t touch a single finger of theirs.”
He Sui slapped him on the head, “Why do you always boost others’ confidence while dampening our own? Why can’t you learn from your sister?”
“Learn what? Learn to beam with joy whenever she sees Commander Xiao?” He Yunsheng sneered. “Besides, if Commander Xiao takes concubines in the future, we might be jumping up and down with anger here, but that silly He Yan might not even care—she might even help count their money.”
“She won’t.”
“What?”
He Sui lowered his head and smiled, “Yan’er won’t.”
“This child, though she appears spoiled, she has a good heart, sometimes a bit stubborn. Xiao Rubi said his brother won’t look elsewhere once he sets his mind on something. Isn’t Yan’er the same?” he reminisced nostalgically: “When she was little and I took her to the market to choose dresses, once she set her eyes on the prettiest one, she had to have that specific one. Even if I offered her more expensive or better ones, she wouldn’t take them.”
“I said those things just to frighten the Xiao family a bit. If Yan’er wants to marry, I won’t stop her. I can see that Yan’er likes Xiao Huaixin—she looks at him the same way your mother used to look at me.”
He Yunsheng was initially moved by He Sui’s words, but upon hearing the last sentence, his touched expression immediately disappeared. He grimaced and said, “Let’s not talk about that anymore. Besides, don’t make it sound like He Yan is so stubborn—didn’t she used to be desperately in love with that Fan fellow? Now she doesn’t even mention him anymore.”
There was another thing He Yunsheng didn’t dare say: when Fan Cheng died, He Yan was as calm as if an ant had died by the roadside—she didn’t even shed a tear.
He Sui: “How can that be the same? That Fan fellow wasn’t even human.”
He Yunsheng: “…”