Chapter 23 – Golden Scales

Sheng Changzhou privately lamented his own rashness. Now that he had just arrived in the capital and was no longer in Minzhou, he shouldn’t have been so reckless with his words. Seeing trouble on the horizon, he could only wave his servants back. “There’s no need to worry. This is the friend of the Marquis of Jingguo. I’ll go talk to him for a bit. You all wait here.”

The stewards, guards, and servants hesitated. They had served the Sheng family for years and were well-trained. Despite the Young Master’s command, they still stepped back while holding their swords, their eyes fixed and unfriendly on the other party. The atmosphere was tense, an eruption imminent.

That young guard was Fang Zixing. He glanced at those guards. Though they were slender and short, several had scars on their faces, their eyes fierce, their temples bulging. Knives hung from their waists, and their clothes bulged as if they were hiding crossbows or other hidden weapons. He knew they were capable killers, hardened by bloodshed. He pondered how merchants and pirates often came from the same families, and this Sheng family, born of maritime trade, harbored many ruthless individuals. If a fight broke out, it wasn’t certain his side would come out unscathed. The Emperor would undoubtedly favor Prince Xu. Hurting his cousin wouldn’t bode well. With these thoughts, he smiled slightly. “It’s merely our master asking you to come over for a chat. There’s no danger. Young Master, please rest assured.”

Sheng Changzhou turned to reassure the guards. “Wait here. I’ll call you if anything happens.”

Sheng Changzhou stepped forward, leading the way through the depths of the courtyard and out the gate. They entered another residence. The house was eerily quiet, but the cobblestone path was spotless, suggesting someone cleaned it regularly. That guard led him to the door where someone greeted them. In a low voice, they advised Sheng Changzhou, “Young Master, answer truthfully later. Don’t provoke trouble.”

Sheng Changzhou could only bow and say, “Thank you, Steward, for your advice.”

Seeing his humility and proper etiquette, the steward’s face softened into a slight smile. “Don’t worry. Prince Xu and our Ninth Master have a good relationship.”

Sheng Changzhou felt somewhat reassured, knowing it was indeed that “Prince Helan.” Upon entering, he saw the young nobleman from earlier sitting above, having removed his outer cloak. Seemingly sensitive to cold, a thick bear fur cushion was laid beneath his seat, and a brazier provided warmth below. The nobleman wore a dark robe with wide sleeves and a long collar, his expression somber yet handsome. A teacup rested in his hand, as if lost in thought.

Sheng Changzhou hurriedly bowed and greeted, “Esteemed Sir, I am Sheng Changzhou, newly arrived from Minzhou. Tonight, I dined with my fellow townsfolk. After drinking, my eyes failed me, and I mistook Your Excellency. Please forgive me, esteemed sir.”

Xie Yi studied him for a moment, noting his handsome features and deep brown eyes, vaguely similar to Xu Chun’s. He asked, “Surnamed Sheng, what is your relationship with the Sheng Lady of the Marquis of Jingguo’s estate?”

Sheng Changzhou replied, “The lady of the Marquis of Jingguo’s estate is my aunt.”

Xie Yi nodded slightly. “In that case, the relative Xu Chun mentioned picking up at the port recently must be you?”

Sheng Changzhou confirmed it further. “Prince Xu Chun of the Marquis of Jingguo is indeed my cousin.”

Xie Yi asked, “Today, Xu Chun didn’t accompany you. How did you recognize me at first sight?”

Sheng Changzhou explained, “I’m ashamed to admit that the fur coat you wore earlier was purchased by my stewards from overseas and brought to the capital. Prince Xu liked it when he saw it and asked me for it, saying he wanted to gift it to someone.”

A hint of surprise crossed Xie Yi’s face. He turned to look at Su Huan, who was serving nearby. Su Huan hurriedly smiled. “Indeed, yesterday, Prince Xu sent Liu Shun to deliver it. We hadn’t reported it to Ninth Master yet. I’ve seen many kinds of furs, but I couldn’t identify what kind it was. Since the Prince went to such lengths to have it delivered, I assumed it mustn’t be ordinary. Today, we hurriedly left, seeing the gloomy sky and fearing snow that night. So, I had it carried along, thinking I’d find an opportunity to report it to Ninth Master.”

Sheng Changzhou chuckled. “To be honest, I didn’t know either. But I heard the seller say it’s called the Ji Guang fur. It doesn’t get wet in water and isn’t burned by fire. Because of its rare color, I recognized it immediately.”

Xie Yi nodded. “Ji Guang’s feathers are precious and unparalleled. Presumably, domestic merchants exaggerated to sell it at a high price. In reality, it should be a beast from overseas, still quite rare. Thank you for your courtesy. I’ve benefited greatly from Prince Xu before, and now I’ve received such a valuable gift from you. I owe you a favor in return. But I wonder, why has Young Master Sheng come to the capital this time?”

Sheng Changzhou paused, glancing at the steward who had spoken earlier. The steward nodded slightly, seemingly urging him to speak honestly. He said, “I assume Your Excellency knows that the Sheng family has been maritime traders in Minzhou for generations. Our main business is maritime trade. The other day, we suddenly received notice from the Market Supervision Department, appointing the Sheng family as imperial merchants. This is truly a great blessing. Although the Sheng family has a heart for the country, we’ve never contributed much to the court. Suddenly receiving such great grace, we’re anxious, unsure how to repay the court. Thus, the head of the family sent me to the capital. I wanted to inquire about this matter through the Marquis’s estate.”

Xie Yi’s face held a half-smile. “I suppose you’re worried that some powerful noble might have ulterior motives, using the name of imperial merchants to leverage the Sheng family’s wealth and influence. So, you’ve come to the capital to investigate.”

Sheng Changzhou repeatedly bowed. “Your Excellency also knows that we’re simple folk from the countryside, unfamiliar with formalities. The court’s kindness is beyond repayment, but the duty of imperial merchants is significant. We, the Sheng family, have no experience with it. Therefore, we can’t help but seek ways in the capital to see what goods are purchased each year, so we can gain the favor of the palace.”

Xie Yi observed the Sheng family’s Young Master, finding him warm and intelligent, his words measured. He was a hundred times more adaptable and clever than Xu Chun. Xie Yi wondered if the Sheng family indeed had some talents. Nodding, he said, “Fortunately, you met me today. If you asked others, you wouldn’t learn the details.”

Sheng Changzhou deeply bowed. “Thank you for enlightening me, esteemed sir.”

Xie Yi explained, “The Market Supervision Department has always been overseen by eunuchs. I instructed the eunuch supervisor of Minzhou, Xia Wan, to give the Sheng family the title of imperial buyer because you’re primarily maritime traders. The assigned duty is specifically to supply foreign goods. I believe this task won’t be difficult for the Sheng family.”

Sheng Changzhou was startled when he heard the name of the eunuch supervisor of Minzhou mentioned so casually. He deeply bowed. “So you were the one who arranged this all along. I apologize for my blindness and rudeness. But what does Your Excellency require?”

Xie Yi said, “Before, Little Duke Xu donated 100,000 taels to build ships. In return, I arranged for Lady Sheng to receive a first-rank title. That settles the debt. After all, the money the little duke used was Lady Sheng’s; the second matter is that I was ambushed by someone a few days ago. Fortunately, Little Duke Xu rescued me and let me stay at his home to recover for a few days. This created another debt to Little Duke Xu. Duke Jingguo is mediocre, and the doctor and attendants the little duke invited were from the Sheng family. Considering this, giving the Sheng family the title of imperial merchants could be considered repaying a debt.”

Sheng Changzhou looked enlightened. Xie Yi slowly continued, “I don’t like owing people. I’m telling you this to alleviate the Sheng family’s concerns. As for the duty of imperial buyers, you should focus on fulfilling it diligently.”

“There are many exquisite and ingenious items from abroad, such as farming tools, military equipment, folk crafts, and things beneficial to the country and people, like grain seeds, medicinal herbs, and spices that are not native to our country. All these can be brought back and offered as tribute.”

“The court will arrange officials to test the cultivation and usage. If we discover some high-yield grain seeds or if farm machinery can be improved, which benefit the country and people, then the prosperity of the era without famine could be considered a great contribution from the Sheng family.”

Sheng Changzhou hastily bowed. “Your Excellency’s guidance, how can I dare not obey?”

Xie Yi nodded slightly. “Our chance encounter today is also fate. However, there’s no need to explain this to Xu Chun. Since you’re his cousin, you should properly advise him. Encourage him to study and cultivate virtue. Don’t let him associate with frivolous youngsters or frequent indecent places. More importantly, he should change his preference for men and carefully choose a wife from a prestigious family, following the righteous path.”

Sheng Changzhou found the words entirely proper and upright. He realized that this person couldn’t be the Prince Helan he thought. Judging from his noble birth and authority, the two instances of repaying debts to the Sheng family were to repay kindness, with no other demands. Clearly, he was a man of integrity. Specifically mentioning the need to persuade Chun to abandon his attraction to men was a subtle indication that he had no interest in Chun. This alleviated their worries. Sheng Changzhou felt a deep respect for him.

Admiring him, Sheng Changzhou hastily said, “Young Lin is young. Perhaps he temporarily strayed onto the wrong path. We will certainly counsel him… strictly discipline him…”

Xie Yi interrupted him. “Young Lin?”

Sheng Changzhou realized he had let slip Xu Chun’s childhood name due to his relaxed state. He quickly explained, “Young Lin is the nickname of my cousin, the prince. When my grandfather went to the Heavenly Empress Temple to pray for my aunt’s safety during childbirth, he dreamt of the Heavenly Empress tossing down a golden scale from the clouds. Later, the young prince was indeed born, and my grandfather gave him this nickname.”

Xie Yi was intrigued. “So it’s the scale of a fish. Then ‘young’ means young? Quite interesting. A golden scale, huh? Did your grandfather see if it was a fish scale or a dragon scale in his dream?”

Sheng Changzhou smiled and bowed. “I’ve never heard Grandfather mention it.” In his heart, he marveled that the esteemed sir had broad knowledge. Normally, when people heard “scale,” they naturally thought of a golden carp’s scales. Who would dare think of dragon scales?

Xie Yi smiled faintly, repeating the name “Young Lin” in his mind. He mused that this youth indeed had some destiny with him. Seeing his expression soften and carry a pleasant air, unlike the stern and cold demeanor earlier, Sheng Changzhou boldly pressed forward. “The entire Sheng family is grateful for your great kindness. Please tell us your name, esteemed sir, so we may repay you in the future.”

Xie Yi waved his hand. “There’s no need. The matters between us are settled. Since you no longer have doubts, focus on fulfilling your duties diligently.”

Su Huan came forward to escort Sheng Changzhou. “Young Master, please follow me.”

Leaving the residence, the same guard escorted him back. His servants, who had been following him, were relieved to see him return unharmed. They happily gathered around him. At this moment, Sheng Changzhou realized that despite the cold weather, he was sweating profusely. He felt as if he had narrowly escaped death.

Immersed in the business world for years, he naturally knew that the other party could have easily destroyed him and the Sheng family with a flick of their hand. He sighed heavily, first issuing a gag order. Not a word of today’s events could be revealed. Thinking of his young cousin, he felt a mix of emotions.

His young cousin had truly fallen for an extraordinary person.

Speaking of appearance, it was indeed heavenly, like jade under the moonlight. But ordinary people, upon seeing him, were first awed by his imposing manner, unable to gaze upon his features, let alone dare to harbor romantic feelings.

His cousin seemed to regard him as the Southern Prince of Jiangnan. Although Prince Helan had been wronged and was in a pitiful situation, his cousin treated such a noble as a male courtesan. Surprisingly, the noble didn’t get angry or feel offended. Not only did he handle the matters of the title and imperial merchant status perfectly, but he also earnestly instructed Sheng Changzhou to properly advise and educate his cousin, embodying the virtue of a true gentleman.

As Sheng Changzhou thought about this, he broke out in a cold sweat, unsure how to persuade his cousin. Burdened with worry, he returned to his lodgings and immediately ordered his servants to pack his luggage. Tomorrow, he would move to Zhuzhi Lane to live with his cousin, determined to counsel him properly.

When he arrived at Zhuzhi Lane, he saw the wind playing with the bamboo, casting green shadows. Looking out the window, the waters and skies merged, forming a tranquil picture. He couldn’t help but praise, “Cousin, you live in luxury!”

Xu Chun led him upstairs to his bedroom, showing him the various furnishings. He laughed mischievously. “I personally picked all these for Cousin. Your house in Minzhou is much larger and grander than this place. Don’t disdain my humble abode. If there’s anything unsatisfactory, just tell me or instruct Sheng Liu. I’ll have them take care of it.”

Sheng Changzhou pretended to complain. “I heard you spent a night with a courtesan a few days ago. This room wouldn’t have been occupied by the courtesan, would it?”

Xu Chun, however, said solemnly, “Cousin, all the servants attending to me are from the Sheng family. My little secret can’t be hidden from you. Let me clarify this to you. First, Brother Nine is someone I admire. In my heart, I hold him in the same esteem as Cousin. Although I admire him, Brother Nine treats me as a friend. Our relationship is pure and upright, without any impropriety. Second, Brother Nine stayed in my room while he was sick. I slept in the study. This room is indeed newly prepared and hasn’t been occupied by anyone. I hold you in the same esteem as Brother Nine.”

Sheng Changzhou felt a pang of guilt, gaining a new understanding of his cousin. Previously, he believed his cousin was young, naive, and lacked guidance and needed gradual cultivation and guidance. But after hearing his words, he realized his cousin was a sincere and passionate person, feeling a deep admiration. However, he still cautiously probed, “My fault, cousin, don’t blame me. I only heard that Prince Helan was someone you met in a pleasure house and spent a large sum to redeem him. I assume there’s more to the story?”

Xu Chun paused. “Brother Nine, I suspect, isn’t Prince Helan. That day, I indeed went to Prince Helan’s ship as per our arrangement. Drawn by his charm, I approached him, but he rejected me, telling me not to visit pleasure houses again. I felt greatly ashamed and also pitied Prince Helan’s situation, so I decided to free him from his contract. Afterwards, I discreetly contacted the capital’s authorities. Unexpectedly, he exchanged the money for a title for my mother. At the time, I thought he had connections in the imperial court that facilitated this. Later, I realized that even the most influential nobles wouldn’t have the power to ask eunuchs for help.”

“Furthermore, the 100,000 taels I gave to fill the deficit at the Capital Governor’s Office somehow became a donation for ship repairs by the Ministry of Works, involving the Ministry of Rites responsible for granting titles. This single matter involved multiple government departments. An ordinary person couldn’t have managed it or even thought about it.”

“Later, through a series of coincidences, I accompanied him during his convalescence. He allowed me to call him Brother Nine. Observing his elegant demeanor, extensive knowledge, refined speech, and noble character, completely uninterested in pleasures, I noticed he was accustomed to being served, clearly accustomed to a life of privilege and superiority.”

“Upon reflection, he never claimed to be Prince Helan. Prince Helan was forced into prostitution at a young age. Given his immaculate nature, it’s doubtful he would have survived until today. I believe Brother Nine must have been a guest of Prince Helan. That day, there must have been a meeting arranged on the ship, and I mistakenly identified him. He likely had his own reasons for not revealing his true identity to me.”

Fang Zixing, claiming to be Brother Nine’s friend in the imperial guard, displayed a clear sign of respect towards Brother Nine. Regardless of how precious the items he presented, Brother Nine treated them as ordinary. Remaining calm in the face of life and death, his knowledge was vast, his character as pure as snow, his spirit like the stars and moon. How could such a person be an ordinary individual? Over these days, Xu Chun gradually understood this as well.

Sheng Changzhou was taken aback, not expecting Xu Chun to have already discovered that the noble prince wasn’t Prince Helan Jingjiang. He smiled and asked, “Has Cousin investigated his background? Do you need my assistance?” He was worried that his impulsive cousin might expose the noble’s identity and incur his wrath.

Xu Chun shook his head gently, a tinge of melancholy in his expression. “He doesn’t want me to know, so I don’t. There’s no need to delve too deeply into everything. I only recognize him as my Brother Nine.” Although they never exchanged names and parted ways hastily, from beginning to end, he didn’t know where Brother Nine lived. Yet, he could sense Brother Nine’s genuine care and protection for him.

Brother Nine concealed his identity, living in sorrow, even hiding his life-or-death situation. Clearly, he wasn’t living well. Able to communicate with government officials and employ servants, why was he targeted to the brink of death, even needing to hide when seeking medical treatment? His enemies must have been formidable, and not revealing his name could have been a protective measure. All he wished was for Brother Nine to forget his troubles when they were together, content with nothing more.

But he couldn’t reveal these details to Cousin. The Sheng family was cautious even with the imperial merchant title. If they knew he had entangled himself with someone of uncertain background, they would worry even more. Moreover, Brother Nine was the person he deeply admired, and Longzhou Cousin was his blood brother. He didn’t want Cousin to utter a single disparaging word about Brother Nine.

Sheng Changzhou burst into laughter, no longer underestimating his young cousin, who appeared foolish but had a keen intellect. He held his cousin’s hand and said with a smile, “Take a step back, retreat a little, and enjoy peace of mind. Sometimes, it’s better to be blissfully ignorant! Cousin, this is a wise approach. No need to dwell on these matters. We brothers rarely meet, so we shouldn’t waste this opportunity. Let’s call for some fine wine and dishes. We should indulge ourselves!”

Xu Chun grinned. “Longzhou Cousin, stay in the capital for a few more days. After the Spring Imperial Examinations, there will be the announcement of the results, Qingming Festival, Shangsi Festival, Buddha Bathing Festival, and so on. It will be bustling. I’ll definitely take Cousin to taste all the delicious food in the capital.”

Sheng Changzhou sighed. “Unfortunately, I can’t stay in the capital for long. Soon, it will be the birthday of the Heavenly Empress, and I have to return to assist Father with the sacrifices.”

Xu Chun remembered and lamented, “That’s a major event. No problem, we have plenty of time.” He then urged, calling for wine. Specifically requesting the newly brewed lamb wine, he said, “I want to get drunk, enjoying the moment. Luckily, Cousin Longzhou is here. We’ll drink until we pass out tonight.”

Sheng Changzhou chuckled. Watching Xia Chao pour the lamb wine for him, he said, “Young Master, you should try it. We don’t have lamb wine in Minzhou. It’s made from glutinous rice, tender lamb, apricot kernels, and sandalwood. The flavor is rich, smooth, and sweet. Indeed, it’s excellent.”

Sheng Changzhou looked at the clear, beautiful wine in his cup but didn’t rush to drink it. Instead, he held the cup and smiled. “I fear that your prince is getting drunk for someone else’s sake, using me as a decoy. I won’t be your shield. Tomorrow, when Aunt scolds you for being drunk, blaming me for corrupting you, I can’t bear the responsibility of incitement.”

Xu Chun raised his cup and toasted, drinking the next cup straight down. A blush rose to his cheeks as he laughed. “I intend to get drunk in a fit of madness. Singing and drinking, even forced joy tastes bitter. My belt grows loose, but I don’t regret it. I wither away for his sake.” (From Liu Yong’s poem “Butterfly Lovers Among Flowers”)

Sheng Changzhou, usually steady, was now losing his composure. He laughed, holding his wine cup. “You even remember poetry. I didn’t realize, Cousin Young Lin, you’re a hopeless romantic.”

Xu Chun sighed. “He doesn’t fancy me.” The hot wine slid down his throat, reaching his troubled heart. At this moment, Xu Chun genuinely felt sad. “He wants me to study hard, but unfortunately, I’m not good at studying.”

Watching Xu Chun’s flushed face and the round, moist cat-like eyes, Sheng Changzhou recalled how the noble prince indeed instructed him to advise his cousin to pursue education and cultivate virtue. He also sighed deeply. His cousin was destined for heartache. He might as well accompany him in drunkenness. In a few days, perhaps he would forget this fleeting infatuation.