Chapter 33

Chapter 33

With Pei Mushan's departure, the couple was left gazing at each other in silence.

Xu Yunqi naturally understood her sister's intention, to have Pei Musheng act as tenderly and persistently as Yan Shaoling – it was an absurd thought. Every couple had their own unique dynamics, and for her and Pei Musheng, their mutual non-interference yet deep respect for one another was the ideal arrangement.

Quickly, Xu Yunqi rescued her husband from his awkwardness,

"Third Master mentioned earlier that the Duke has invited us for dinner?"

Pei Musheng's gaze shifted slowly from where his sister had left, turning towards Xu Yunqi. His wife's almond-shaped eyes sparkled with a bashful smile, gentle and warm. She was like a flower blooming in a crevice of rock, delicate on the surface but resilient to the core.

"Yes."

His eyes suddenly fell upon her wrist, pure and unadorned. Pei Musheng was puzzled, "You don't like the bracelet I bought for you last time?"

Xu Yunqi lowered her gaze to look at her hands, blushing slightly, "I...forgot. Third Master knows, with all those pots and jars I handle daily, I'm afraid of damaging it, so it's not convenient to wear."

Pei Musheng replied, displeased, "We can always buy another if it breaks."

Xu Yunqi gradually understood the implications behind the extravagant tone. Every move she made represented her husband's dignity. If she dressed modestly, others might speculate that Pei Muheng was being harsh on her. With this realization, Xu Yunqi no longer resisted.

"I shall wear them with grace, then," she said to Third Master.

Pei Muheng nodded, reflecting on his sister's earlier remark, which hinted at his lack of concern for Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi was not usually petty. Perhaps she didn't wear the jade bracelets because his gifts didn't touch her heart. He decided to ask directly,

"What do you like?"

Understanding her husband's intention, Xu Yunqi quickly waved it off. "I lack nothing. My mind is focused on studying medicine; I have little interest in colorful jewelry."

Upon hearing this, Pei Muheng's gaze softened. He knew she devoted herself entirely to healing others.

He didn't press further and instead said, "Get ready, we'll dine at Jinhe Hall." With that, he entered the house first.

After a short while, the couple changed into casual attire and stepped out. This time, Xu Yunqi adorned her wrists with the pair of Hetian jade bracelets.

Pei Muheng studied her. Xu Yunqi had changed into a soft pink jacket with a delicate floral pattern and a apricot-colored embroidered skirt. The pale pink ensemble was adorned with scattered pear blossoms, as if a gentle spring mist enveloped her, imbuing her demeanor with a lightness and grace.

Satisfied, Pei Muheng led his wife towards the Jinhé Hall.

Princess Xi's migraines followed a pattern: they struck in the morning and reached their peak by noon, only to subside at night, leaving her with a clear mind and bright eyes. Doctor He had been unable to determine the root cause and could only prescribe remedies to alleviate her symptoms.

Seeing the princess suffer, Nurse Hao had repeatedly wanted to summon Xu Yunqi for a diagnosis, but Princess Xi sternly forbade it and instructed her not to inform anyone else.

The palace hosted a family banquet on the tenth day of every month, and today happened to be the twentieth of May. Princess Xi invited her children and concubines to dine in the main hall of the Jinhé Hall.

The eldest daughter-in-law, Yunyi, was busy in the kitchen, while the second daughter-in-law, Li Xuanyan, supervised the servants and maids in arranging the dining tables and stands. The others kept the prince and princess company with conversation.

High Concubine Gao was reserved, while Concubine Han was more talkative. She usually had to curry favor with Princess Xi and offer comfort. So, upon the arrival of Pei Muheng and Xu Yunqi, she seized the opportunity to tell the princess,

"My mother also suffered from such an ailment in the past, and it was cured by a wandering physician."

Prince Xi, overhearing this, immediately took interest, "How did he cure it?"

Consort Han suggested, "Acupuncture could be used."

Upon her words, the room fell silent.

It was Xu Yunqi who had stabilized Yan Shaoling's injuries with acupuncture that day. Consort Han's motive was straightforward – the Hui Wangfei was too proud to apologize to her daughter-in-law, so she could only make Xu Yunqi take the initiative.

The Hui Wang naturally perceived Consort Han's intentions, but alas, his advice had been in vain.

Xu Yunqi's medical practice had become a thorn in the Hui Wangfei's side. The Wangfei couldn't reconcile her disdain for Xu Yunqi with the benefits she derived from her treatments. As expected, she looked coldly at Consort Han and said, "Doctor He's prescription has been very effective; I'm much better now."

Consort Han realized her mistake and quickly covered her mouth.

Pei Muxiang and his wife entered through the screen, prompting everyone to cease their conversation. Their recent separation had caused quite a stir, and their two elder brothers were particularly attentive. It was hard to believe that the proud Pei Muxiang would lower himself to bring Xu Yunqi back into the household. However, upon seeing Xu Yunqi's delicate and resolute face, Pei Muxiang understood.

So even the third brother couldn't resist the allure of beauty.

Everyone knew of the strife between Hui Wangfei and Xu Yunqi, making the atmosphere at the banquet rather delicate.

Prince Xi swiftly changed the subject, gesturing for his daughter-in-laws and son to take their seats.

Gao Concubine gave a cold glance at the three young wives. Xie and Li were bustling about, but Xu Yunqi sat calmly, unperturbed. Despite not being favored by Princess Xi, she had not suffered any setbacks since her marriage. Her hands had never touched water for household chores, nor had she ever attempted to establish her authority with Princess Xi. Strangely, everyone felt sorry for her and empathized with her situation.

What was even more remarkable was that this young lady had silently gained control over her husband – Pei Muxiang, who had single-handedly helped the Prince Xi's palace establish its influence in court. Clearly, Xu Yunqi was not someone to underestimate.

Princess Xi decided she needed to advise her second daughter-in-law to cultivate a closer relationship with Xu Yunqi.

After Xu Yunqi entered, Princess Xi fell silent, and a faint headache began to nag at her. Soon, she ordered the meal to be served.

Prince Xi and Princess Xi sat at the head of the table, while Pei Muxiang and the other brothers and their wives shared a separate table. Gao Concubine, Han Concubine, and the two young misses each had their own small table.

No one dared speak until the royal couple did. The abundant dishes were distributed among the tables, each accompanied by a small table holding chopsticks, spoons, and a dish of ice-scented pear blossom fragrance. The pear blossom scent had a cooling and calming effect, particularly beneficial during the hot summer days. Green bamboos stood near the window curtains, and beneath each pot, a basin of ice was placed. As the bamboo leaves swayed, a gentle breeze flowed through the carved lattice panels, bringing a refreshing coolness to the room.

Princess Xi found it hard to continue eating after a few bites. She discreetly put down her utensils and scanned the room below. Her eyes first fell on Xie and her eldest son, Pei Muxiang.

Pei Muxiang had been absent for quite some time until Doctor Fan recently prescribed him a remedy, revitalizing his once-dull spirit and invigorating his demeanor. Though Xie usually maintained a strict demeanor, she was gentle and thoughtful towards her husband. Witnessing how she skillfully moved the dishes that Pei Muxiang enjoyed closer to him and personally ladled soup into his bowl, one could truly appreciate her virtue and consideration.

Observing the Li couple below, the second son, Pei Mujing, was born to a high-ranking concubine and was not favored by the Xi Wangfei. However, Li Xuanyan, his wife, was obedient and intelligent, showing great filial piety towards her. As a result, the Xi Wangfei never made things difficult for them.

Compared to Xue Yinyi and Pei Muxiang, Li Xuanyan and Pei Mujing were more affectionate. They served each other heaping bowls of food, exchanging subtle glances that even made the Xi Wangfei feel slightly uncomfortable.

When her gaze fell upon Pei Muheng and Xu Yunqi, the expression on the Xi Wangfei's face changed.

The couple were absorbed in their own worlds, neither looking at the other. It wasn't unusual for Pei Muheng to be reserved, but how could Xu Yunqi be so oblivious? With Xue and Li as examples, why didn't she learn from them? The Xi Wangfei truly felt her son was being wronged.

Recalling that Xu Yunqi didn't have any love for her son, the Xi Wangfei's anger swelled within her chest.

No, she needed to teach her daughter-in-law a lesson.

After a moment of contemplation, the Xi Wangfei suddenly coughed softly, catching everyone's attention, expecting her to speak.

The Xi Wangfei picked up her chopsticks, which had been resting, and then picked up a slice of stuffed lotus root, placing it in the Xi Wang's bowl.

"Didn't His Highness usually enjoy dishes with a chewy texture? This stir-fried lotus root is quite well-prepared. I found the taste delightful. Your Highness should have more," she said, serving him three pieces in total.

Unaccustomed to his wife's initiative, Prince Xi was taken aback. He discreetly pinched his thigh and nodded with a smile. "Thank you, Your Highness."

Noticing that both his son and daughter-in-law were watching, Prince Xi decided to set an example for his son. He personally served a bowl of soup to his wife. "Have another bowl of soup, let the sweat come out, and you'll feel much better."

Xu Yunqi glanced at her mother-in-law and then at the table in front of her. She couldn't have missed the message. She had never intended to compete with her mother-in-law. Just as she was about to follow suit, someone else had already beaten her to it. A bowl of Huai Shan and pork rib soup was placed before her.

" Huai Shan is good for the spleen. You should drink more," he said.

Xu Yunqi was surprised. "Third Master knows that Huai Shan nourishes the spleen?"

Pei Muqing also served himself a bowl, speaking softly, "I've read a few medical texts as well."

Xu Yunqi curved her lips into a gentle smile, her eyes bending like crescent moons. As she held the soup bowl and sipped the broth, her smiling eyebrows seemed to overflow with delight. Pei Muheng gazed at her exquisite features; this smile held a distinct difference from before. In a fleeting moment of realization, something dawned on him.

Princess Xi looked at her youngest son with despair, closing her eyes briefly.

After the meal, Pei Mushan pulled Xu Yunqi aside to discuss how to care for the rabbit, and they had already made their way to Qinghui Garden.

Prince Xi, accompanied by his several sons, exited the main hall.

Pei Muxiang, having been humiliated by the previous incident, found it difficult to face his father and thus promptly made up an excuse to leave.

"I still need to tutor my son, Father. I'll take my leave now."

Prince Xi watched his back without a word. After a moment of silence, he turned to his second son. "It's mid-year. Keep an eye on the rents from across the lands. I've heard there was unrest among the farmers in the Northeastern Camp State. Has it been quelled?"

Pei Mujing replied, "Yes, it has, but the farmers still seem discontent with the rent. I plan to visit personally."

Prince Xi nodded. "That would be best. Also, you should start preparing for the winter fur orders soon, and don't forget to get some decent winter clothes for your mother and sisters."

As the eldest legitimate son, Pei Muxiang was next in line to inherit the title of heir. Prince Xi had no worries about his eldest son, Pei Mujing, who was already exceptionally talented and required little concern. Instead, it was his second son, Pei Mujing, that caused the most headache. Prince Xi intended to entrust him with managing the family affairs, hoping that through this experience, he could secure a leisurely position for him later.

Pei Mujing bowed slightly before leaving.

After dismissing his other sons, Prince Xi turned his gaze towards Pei Mujing.

Pei Mujing still had a pile of official bulletins to read in his study and was not in the mood for small talk with Prince Xi. "Is there something?"

Prince Xi shook his head. "Nothing major, just... " He looked at his son with a complicated expression, conveying his concerns. "In the future, when you're with your wife, remember to be humble and compliant. Accommodate her as much as possible in all matters."

Pei Musheng looked utterly perplexed. "What do you mean?"

Why were they all lecturing him today?

Recalling Xu Yunqi's deft handling of the needle that day, Prince Xi recalled with sympathy, patting his son's shoulder. "Your father is afraid that if she gets upset, she might poke holes in you in the middle of the night."

Pei Musheng: "..." He glanced expressionlessly at his father before leaving without looking back.

In Xu Yunqi's quarters, she had used wormwood to boil water and cleaned the rabbit thoroughly, then sent it back with Pei Mushan.

While Xu Yunqi was seated at her desk writing medical records, Xingyin sneaked in quietly.

"Miss, do you know what this servant was doing just now?"

Without lifting her head, Xu Yunqi asked softly, "What did you do?"

Xingyin leaned close to her ear and whispered mysteriously, "Uncle Zhou found out from the Xun residence today that Xun Yunhe actually sent Xun Yunling to a nunnery in Qingshan Temple outside the city overnight."

Uncle Zhou was the driver that Xiu Niang had initially arranged to drive Xu Yunqi around the palace. Now, he was under Xingyin's arrangement to keep an eye on the Xun family, serving as Xu Yunqi's spy.

Xu Yunqi paused in her writing, setting down her wolf-hair brush as she propped her chin in her hand, narrowing her eyes.

"A female spectator?"

"Indeed, it seems that Minister Xun is aware of the mother and daughter spreading rumors."

Unconcerned, Xu Yunqi offered a faint smile, a chill gradually seeping into her gaze. "With Xun Yunling gone, Ye will likely find it hard to endure. It's not Prince Qin's birthday celebration in a few days, right? Let's add fuel to the fire for her then."

*

The next morning, the court was abuzz with commotion. Two young censors from the Board of Censors had launched verbal and written attacks against Prime Minister Yan Ping, accusing him of corruption, dereliction of duty, and failing to discipline his subordinates, which had led to the prevalence of selling official ranks for profit. Though Yan Ping held the esteemed position of Minister of Rites, the Qin Prince had been overseeing the department for years, directly handling many matters, and both vice ministers of the Rites were also loyal to the Qin Prince.

Prince Qin promptly convened officials to advocate on behalf of Yan Ping and the Ministry of Personnel, little anticipating that the two imperial censors in question were no pushovers. Overnight, they meticulously compiled the career backgrounds and pedigrees of officials from the Six Ministries and Nine Courts, steadfastly presenting their case with compelling evidence.

Emperor Xian, in his time, once declared, "Censors are the guardians of the nation's integrity, bearing the responsibility to uphold discipline and rectitude. Only those with profound learning, noble character, and unwavering integrity shall be appointed." It was also said that one could not enter the Hanlin Academy without being a jinshi, and one could not enter the Cabinet without being part of the Hanlin Academy. Following this principle, the imperial court later issued an edict stipulating that all officials ranked seventh or higher in both the Hanlin Academy and the Board of Censors must have passed the jinshi examination. As a result, over ten personnel appointments were found to violate the ancestral system.

Prince Qin found himself at a loss for a response.

Following the imperial audience, Yan Ping took the initiative to present the memorials of censure to the emperor in his study, prostrating himself before the monarch to seek punishment.

The Emperor was in a pleasant mood today, engrossed in calligraphy. He returned my gaze with a warm, amiable smile.

"Vice Premier Yan has arrived. Please be seated."

"I dare not," Yan Ping replied, his gaze lifting to reveal a noticeable lack of his usual vigor, instead displaying a hint of sorrow and grievance.

Observing this, the emperor passed the large calligraphy brush in his hand to the Chief Secretary Liu Xiwen, washed his hands, and sat behind the imperial desk. He sighed and said, "We have been comrades-in-arms for many years. I am well aware of your character. Rise, there's no need for such formality."

Liu Xiwen instructed someone to bring a cushion for Yan Ping. Only then did Yan Ping wipe away the tears from the corners of his eyes and sit down below the emperor.

Yan Ping presented the petition before the emperor, his face revealing a pained expression. "Your subject comes here today to confess my wrongdoing."

Nothing that transpired in the court could escape the emperor's knowledge. Without even glancing at the document, he knew its contents. He didn't read it nor did he speak, waiting to see the purpose of Yan Ping's visit.

Seeing that the emperor remained silent, Yan Ping had no choice but to speak up. He started by condemning himself:

"I have investigated, and the two Censors' statements are indeed true. As the Minister of Personnel, I bear an unshirkable responsibility. I humbly request Your Majesty to relieve me of my position as Minister of Personnel to set a clear example."

Yan Ping held two titles: Minister of Personnel and Grand Secretary of the Wenyuan Pavilion, effectively serving as the Prime Minister. By only mentioning the removal of his position as Minister of Personnel and not mentioning his role in the cabinet, the emperor understood Yan Ping's intentions and slowly chuckled.

"As the Prime Minister of the cabinet, it is understandable that you might not always be able to attend to the matters of the Ministry of Personnel promptly. I can comprehend that."

From a song's melody, one can discern refined intentions, Yan Ping replied promptly, "The selling of official ranks has long been a practice. In the past, this servant abhorred it deeply, but after genuinely taking charge of the cabinet for Your Majesty, I came to understand the hardships within the court and inevitably had to blend in with the prevailing norms."

The emperor could only smile bitterly at the phrase "blend in with the prevailing norms."

Since when did our dynasty start easing restrictions on selling official ranks? It began in the third year of Chengping when the Mongols invaded from the south. That year, a flood struck the southern region, causing the tax revenue of Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces to be less than half of previous years. The imperial treasury was depleted, and the Great Yuan took advantage of the situation by advancing south, with border alarms sounding. At that critical moment, silver was needed to procure grain. What could be done?

Yan Ping, who was then serving as the chief counselor, had no choice but to alleviate the emperor's burden. Amidst the urgency, someone suggested selling insignificant positions to merchants in exchange for military funds. The emperor tacitly approved this, but how could he, as the emperor, engage in such dishonorable dealings? Thus, the task fell on Yan Ping.

By recounting this episode, Yan Ping was telling the emperor that he had taken the blame for the government back then.

Upon hearing this, the emperor's expression indeed changed. He sighed deeply and said, "You make a valid point."

Pausing for a moment, the emperor swiftly shifted the topic, "However, your cabinet and the Ministry of Personnel have gone too far this time."

Yan Ping had been waiting for this response. He knelt before the cushion once more, tears streaming down like rain, "Therefore, this servant humbly requests Your Majesty to relieve me of all my duties and hold me accountable according to the law."

The emperor looked at Yan Ping with a somber expression.

Yan Ping had held sway over the cabinet for two decades, with disciples and allies scattered across the land. If he were truly held accountable, the empire would be in turmoil. More importantly, the emperor was well aware of Yan Ping's cunning nature – this old fox wouldn't have left any real evidence behind. Even if there were instances of selling official ranks within the Ministry of Personnel, it must have been carried out by underlings in cahoots with Prince Qin. At most, Yan Ping could be blamed for negligence and failure to maintain discipline.

Yet, the emperor clearly could no longer tolerate Yan Ping's continued dominance in the cabinet.

The emperor picked up on the conversation, saying, "Public opinion is in an uproar. I must give the people an explanation."

Yan Ping promptly bowed, saying, "Your Majesty's wisdom is unparalleled. However, the Ministry of Personnel cannot be without a leader for long. I propose that after my dismissal, Left Vice Minister Cao Yide should succeed as Minister of Personnel."

Upon hearing this, the emperor narrowed his eyes. "Cao Yide, is he capable?"

Yan Ping replied with a smile, "He has served in the Ministry for over a decade, rising from a low-ranking officer to Vice Minister. There is no aspect of the ministry he is not familiar with. Who else could be more suitable?"

The emperor chuckled, leaning back and eventually sitting cross-legged on his imperial couch.

Everyone knew that Xun Yunhe was the successor groomed by the emperor to take over from Yan Ping.

Yet, at this critical moment, Yan Ping wanted one of his own people to succeed him. How could that be possible?

The emperor was well aware that Yan Ping was trying to negotiate terms.

The Yan family's influence is vast; ensuring a smooth transition of power is no simple task.

Yan Ping, acting with humility today, compelled the emperor to show respect. The emperor promptly changed the subject,

"Rise, now. How is that young rogue, Shaoling?"

Yan Ping rose to express his gratitude. Speaking of Yan Shaoling, a noticeable tenderness appeared on his face, "Thanks to Your Majesty's protection, he's much better. That boy has a resilient constitution; it won't be long before he's back on his feet, a formidable lad once more."

The emperor chuckled heartily, "When it comes to tenacity and spirit, no other noble youth in the city can surpass him."

Yan Ping also felt a sense of pride, "It's all thanks to the Emperor's willingness to groom him; otherwise, he wouldn't possess such abilities."

With the conversation reaching this point, both parties understood each other's intentions. The emperor decided to speak frankly,

"Suffering this hardship, Concubine Yan wept for several days. I, too, grieve for him. In consideration of this, once he has recovered, I shall appoint him as the Commandant of the Wu Du Guard, so as not to belittle his exceptional abilities."

WuDou Guard is in charge of apprehending thieves and patrolling the capital city, being one of the esteemed Six Guards under the direct command of the Emperor. The Yan family, hailing from a scholarly background, was unexpectedly assigned a military post for Yan Shaoling by His Majesty. This move served dual purposes: it severed any potential support for Yan Shaoling, preventing the Yan family's influence from entrenching itself in an intricate web of power, while simultaneously granting them the opportunity to establish a firm presence within the imperial court. Thus, the Emperor could be said to have provided a fitting arrangement for the Yan family.

Yan Ping was evidently displeased. "He was injured because of Princess Shan Shan this time. If we were to appoint him to a military position again, I fear his health might not withstand it."

Speaking of Pei Mushan, the emperor recalled Yan Shaoling's request to marry her. Back then, he had gently refused due to their inappropriate family relationship. But now, such considerations were no longer significant. It was crucial to appease the Yan family first and then reorganize the cabinet.

The Emperor said, "If not for Shaoling, it would have been Young Lady Shan caught up in the incident. Perhaps this is fate's predetermined bond. I, therefore, shall act as a matchmaker, fulfilling Shaoling's desire and rewarding his earnest affection."

The Emperor's tone brooked no refusal, and Yan Ping's objective was thus accomplished; the crisis of this power shift dissolved imperceptibly.

That very afternoon, the Emperor issued an edict, dismissing Yan Ping from his positions as Minister of Rites and Chief State Councillor, allowing him to return to his estate for retirement. The State Council could not be without a leader for a single day. The following day, during an imperial conference, the Emperor transferred Xun Yunhe from his role as Deputy Minister of Revenue to become the Minister of Rites, concurrently assuming the position of Chief State Councillor.

With this, Xun Yunhe officially succeeded Yan Ping in governing the cabinet.

Xun Yunhe was about to celebrate his fortieth birthday, and officials from all ranks in the court were bustling with activity, each trying to curry favor with the newly appointed Prime Minister.

The Xu residence was no exception. In the past, Xu Ke had never been qualified to appear before the Grand Secretary. But now, with the marriage alliance to the Xi Palace, the Xu family's status had risen significantly. He advised his wife, "I've heard that the Prime Minister also hails from Jingzhou. You should prepare a congratulatory gift and accompany me to celebrate the Grand Secretary's birthday. It would be a good opportunity to get closer to the Prime Minister's wife."

Madam Zhang had only been in the capital for two or three years, living a secluded life and not being well acquainted with the capital's officials. She showed reluctance, "Sir, you can go alone. Why must I accompany you?" She vaguely remembered that Pei Muhang had initially intended to marry the Grand Secretary's daughter, and Madam Zhang saw no reason to ingratiate herself with them.

Understanding his wife's predicament, Xu Ke knew that Xun Yunhe was now the Chief State Councillor, holding the key to his own promotion. He had no choice but to yield, "The Xun residence is right next to the Xi Palace. This is a perfect chance for you to meet Yunqi and have her accompany you there."

Thinking of her daughter, Lady Zhang's eyes brimmed with tears, and she accepted the proposal.