Chapter 26 – Crane Viewing

Shen Mengzhen was at home listening to someone sing when Fang Zixing’s unexpected visit caught him off guard. “Why do you suddenly have time today? Is Old Master feeling better? I’ll visit again tomorrow.”

Fang Zixing handed him an invitation. “There’s good news. This is an invitation for the Prince of Jingguo’s Crane Viewing Banquet tomorrow. I can’t attend due to some matters, so I promised Young Duke Xu to recommend a friend.”

Shen Mengzhen took the invitation and opened it for a glance. “The Prince of Jingguo’s Crane Viewing Banquet? When did you start hanging out with these idle rich kids? As far as I remember, he’s still quite young, isn’t he? He doesn’t hold any official position in the government, so the guests he invites are probably just a bunch of spoiled young masters. Though we’re all eating, drinking, and having fun, we won’t be able to mix well. Moreover, rumor has it that his scholarly pursuits are a complete mess. This so-called crane viewing banquet is nothing more than a gathering where a priceless violin is burned and a precious crane is cooked. It’s meaningless.”

Fang Zixing replied, “I have duty tomorrow. Young Duke Xu invited me, and I couldn’t refuse his earnest invitation.”

Shen Mengzhen tossed the invitation aside. “At least I’m a Fourth Rank Chief Censor. You want me to attend this little rich kid’s party? Let me think… wasn’t he the fool who recently spent ten thousand taels on a Lady’s rank? It became a laughingstock. Only the Ministry of Works benefited from the ten thousand taels, grinning from ear to ear. Meanwhile, our Ministry of Rites has become a joke. Everyone asks us, since the Lady’s rank came from us, why did the Ministry of Works receive the money? Some people even came with silver to ask if they could buy one too! Ridiculous!”

Fang Zixing coughed lightly and picked up the invitation. “Tomorrow, Young Duke Xu invited the Prince of Shunqin. Since there’s no suitable companion, he thought of me.”

Shen Mengzhen scoffed. “What? Is he insane? He wants you to accompany the guests? That Prince Xie Fei, I’ve heard he’s a man of refined character, fond of literature and arts, respectful towards scholars. But if he lowers himself to befriend Young Duke Xu, it must be for the money.”

Fang Zixing remained silent.

He coughed lightly again before saying seriously, “His Majesty gave a verbal decree, asking Shen Mengzhen to attend the banquet. His Majesty has a talented student for him to teach. He is to choose a disciple tomorrow.”

Shen Mengzhen was stunned. He stood up and bowed respectfully. “Your servant, Shen Mengzhen, obeys the verbal decree.”

Fang Zixing then handed him the invitation again. “This is His Majesty’s wish. Just go honestly. Don’t go against His Majesty’s wishes again… you flirtatious scholar, when will you change your ways? You were once a scholar favored by the emperor, but now you’ve been reduced from the Imperial Academy to a lowly Chief Censor in the Ministry of Rites. Haven’t you repented yet?”

Shen Mengzhen’s face fell. “Is His Majesty thinking of having me teach Prince Xie Fei?”

Fang Zixing said earnestly, “Seize this opportunity. At least His Majesty still values your scholarship.”

Shen Mengzhen was speechless. Suddenly, he grabbed Fang Zixing’s hand. “Brother Zixing, you and I are old friends. What’s the reason behind His Majesty’s decision? With my ruined reputation, am I capable of teaching a member of the imperial clan? Shouldn’t those tasks be handled by the scholars of the Imperial Academy?”

He suddenly realized something. “Could it be that His Majesty is trying to ruin me? Letting me corrupt that young prince? If I were to corrupt the young prince, the Prince of Shunqin would cut my head off first!”

Fang Zixing couldn’t help but laugh and cry. “Just go with peace of mind. Don’t overthink things. The emperor is fair and just. Your mouth will eventually get you into trouble. Go tomorrow.”

He comforted Shen Mengzhen a few more times, but he didn’t reveal anything.

Shen Mengzhen was helpless. He looked at the invitation repeatedly. The next day, he casually had his steward prepare a set of Qingtian stone seals as a gift and headed straight to Baxi Estate on the outskirts of the city. The two peaks of Lujiao Mountain curved upwards, exquisite and majestic, resembling deer antlers, hence its name. On the mountain path, he could see several waterfalls cascading down from the peaks into deep pools, a spectacular sight.

Shen Mengzhen walked along the mountain path, passing through clusters of rocks and streams, with clear springs and cliffs. Wild flowers bloomed everywhere, and the road was lined with osmanthus trees, peach trees, plum trees, and magnolias. New green leaves sprouted on the spring trees, and peach blossoms were just blooming, their pink petals scattering to create a vibrant spring atmosphere. Originally, he was in a bad mood, but now, hearing the melodious songs of orioles and the babbling of streams, his heart softened slightly. He thought to himself, it’s the emperor’s command after all. Life is short, enjoy it while you can. It’s just a banquet where people sing and play music, listen to operas, and have fun. Why worry? Worst-case scenario, I resign!

With such a relaxed mindset, he rode his horse alone to the gate of Baxi Estate. There, he saw a capable steward come out to greet him. While instructing the servants to lead the horse away, he smiled pleasantly. “May I ask for your esteemed name, sir? I’ll inform the master to welcome you.”

Shen Mengzhen arrived alone, not bringing a single servant. Seeing that the steward still treated him with respect and enthusiasm, without any rudeness, he nodded inwardly in approval. He handed over the invitation and the gift box. “My surname is Shen. I’m a friend of Brother Zixing.” The steward hastily accepted it with both hands and passed it to a servant beside him, who ran off with it. The steward then bowed and led him onto a sedan chair, which four servants carried up to the second gate. There, Shen Mengzhen saw a youth emerge, dressed in a dark green round-collared robe embroidered with flowers, smiling and looking like a radiant pearl, exuding extraordinary charm.

Shen Mengzhen was startled. Was this the silly rich kid, Young Duke Xu Chun?

Xu Chun also looked at the friend of Big Brother Fang, somewhat surprised. This Mr. Shen was almost forty years old, lean and upright, but handsome. His demeanor was unrestrained, and as he descended from the sedan chair, his sleeves hung loosely, his bearing carefree like a wild cloud or a crane. Xu Chun was slightly impressed and stepped forward to bow deeply. “It turns out you’re Brother Zixing’s friend. Xu Chun greets you.”

Shen Mengzhen returned the bow. “I’m Shen Mengzhen. Brother Zixing said Young Duke is viewing cranes here today, but he can’t make it. So, I’m shamelessly coming to disturb you alone.”

Xu Chun quickly replied, “A friend of Brother Zixing is naturally a learned and refined gentleman. Your presence brightens our humble residence. Please come inside, Mr. Shen.”

Seeing that Shen Mengzhen’s name didn’t elicit any reaction, Xu Chun assumed he really didn’t know who he was. As they walked, Shen Mengzhen laughed. “You call this place your humble residence? There aren’t many places like this in the world.”

Xu Chun smiled. “With your praise, it does live up to the beauty of the scenery.”

Shen Mengzhen glanced at him again. “Young Duke Xu is different from what I’ve heard.”

Xu Chun was indifferent. “Thousands of people in the world, what do they have to do with me? Please follow this way, Mr. Shen. The Prince of Shunqin has already arrived. I’ll introduce you later.”

As they entered the second gate, they walked along a high corridor with carved railings and flower walls embedded with colored glaze. The buildings were clean and neat, and the flowers and trees were sparse. Along the corridor, mountain stones guided the mountain streams to flow down. In the distance, pavilions and gazebos dotted the landscape. The mountain wind blew, the stream stones were cool and cold, and several unknown species of white birds nested among them, perfectly integrated with nature, without any artificiality. From somewhere in the distance, the sound of a zither and flute could be heard, the tunes clear and melodious, echoing through the curtains, indicating the excellent taste of the banquet.

In his heart, he secretly praised. Alongside Xu Chun, he entered the main hall of the estate. It was a spacious hall with corridors outside made entirely of translucent tiles, making it particularly bright. People could observe the stream and fish from the corridors, or even go fishing. Inside the hall, several mother-of-pearl screens had been set up, with several paintings hanging on them. Upon closer inspection, all the paintings were of cranes.

So this is what the Crane Viewing Banquet is about. Shen Mengzhen nodded inwardly and walked over to carefully appreciate each painting.

The hall was surrounded by colored glass windows, allowing ample light. Extra candles as thick as a child’s arm were lit next to the paintings, and mirrors were placed behind them to reflect the candlelight, making every detail of the paintings visible. As Shen Mengzhen walked around, he indeed saw various crane paintings. Some cranes wandered under pine trees, others soared in the sky, some gathered by lakes, and some flew alone.

There was even the famous ‘Auspicious Cranes Painting,’ with a sky of blue and green colors, where cranes flew in flocks like clouds or mist, exquisite and unparalleled. He couldn’t help but walk over for a closer look. He realized that it was a copy, but a very good one. The blue-green sky, with its bright colors, was particularly eye-catching. The white paint on the cranes also shimmered with a pearly luster, and the black eyes shone brightly.

His eyes lit up, and he stood motionless in front of the painting. Seeing Shen Mengzhen’s interest in this particular painting, Xu Chun smiled. “Mr. Shen, you also like the Auspicious Cranes Painting? This is a copy.”

“The original is kept in the palace. I’ve seen it once. The composition is bold, combining movement and stillness, with a refined and elegant style. The use of color is especially exquisite,” a voice sounded from behind.

Xu Chun turned around and saw Xie Fei and a few others coming from behind the screen. Liu Sheng, Li Xiangyu, and Sheng Changzhou followed closely behind. He quickly bowed with a smile. “Your Highness, let me introduce you. This is Mr. Shen Mengzhen…”

Shen Mengzhen bowed. Xie Fei’s eyes flickered as he smiled. “So this is the poetic and wine-loving Sir Shen. Long admiration.”

‘Master’? Xu Chun was taken aback. Beside Xie Fei, Mr. Li snorted coldly. “Sir Shen truly has wide-ranging friendships. Be it literati, opera stars, or courtesans, he associates with them all. He visits brothels without hesitation. Who would have thought that even this mountain retreat would attract Sir Shen.”

Seeing Mr. Li, Shen Mengzhen’s expression changed slightly, and he sneered. “Who do you think you are? If I knew it was Prime Minister Li here, I wouldn’t dare sully your eyes—though I wonder how your period of reflection is going, since you are suspended from duty and reflecting at home.”

Li Meiyi’s face changed slightly. Xie Fei hurriedly laughed. “I was invited today and heard that Young Duke Xu has collected many famous paintings. That’s why I invited Prime Minister Li to come and appreciate them. Now that we’ve encountered Sir Shen, who is said to be knowledgeable and well-versed in astronomy, calligraphy, and painting, it’s perfect for us to gather around art.”

Due to Xie Fei’s noble status and good looks, such flattery made it hard for Shen Mengzhen to continue targeting Li Meiyi. He could only return the courtesy with clasped hands. “Your Highness flatters me. I also heard that Young Duke Xu has some ancient paintings here. A friend recommended me, so I specially came to appreciate them.”

Xu Chun quickly introduced them with a smile, exchanged pleasantries, but in his heart, he wondered about the earlier introduction of His Highness with Mr. Li. Now, it seemed they both had some background. He led the guests to the main hall to take their seats and ordered tea and dishes to be served. Finally, he found an opportunity to give Liu Sheng a meaningful look and asked quietly if he knew the backgrounds of those two “Mr. Li” and “Mr. Shen”.

Liu Sheng, who was well-informed, naturally understood. Quietly, he told Xu Chun, “My Young Duke, who would have thought you’d invite such two great figures? Let’s not talk about Li Meiyi. He’s a poor scholar, who, after his mother remarried, passed the imperial examinations and returned to his original surname. He’s incorruptible and capable, the youngest Grand Secretary in the Cabinet, the Deputy Prime Minister! A few days ago, he somehow offended the Emperor. The Emperor ordered him to stay at home to reflect during his suspension. Now, everyone in the court is watching, unsure of the Emperor’s intentions.”

“The other Sir Shen is indeed well-known. He’s a Jinshi scholar from two consecutive exams and comes from a wealthy and influential family. His father was also a prime minister. His grandmother was a princess. Unfortunately, they’re all gone, and the family has declined. Because his elders are no longer around, he’s uncontrolled. From a young age, he had a reputation as a free-spirited and unrestrained scholar. They say his literary talent is excellent, skilled in calligraphy and painting, and he also has a broad range of interests, including chess and soccer. He also has a hobby of singing, often appearing on stage at private gatherings at his own home.”

Xu Chun laughed. “Indeed, he sounds like a poetic and unrestrained scholar.”

Liu Sheng said, “Isn’t it true? With his exceptional talent, he was originally a lecturer in the Imperial Academy. Before Prime Minister Li joined the cabinet, he worked as a censor for a period. Prime Minister Li disliked him and accused him of debauchery, claiming it harmed social morals. As you know, the current emperor is extremely strict and solemn, only valuing officials who uphold justice and practicality, disliking frivolous and restless ones. Therefore, he demoted him to the Ministry of Rites as a Chief Censor, reportedly saying that he should learn propriety in the Ministry of Rites.”

Xu Chun was taken aback. “So that’s how it is…”

Liu Sheng said, “Isn’t it? Now, the two have become enemies. In the capital’s banquets, invitations are sent to ensure they don’t overlap…”

Xu Chun was lost in thought. Liu Sheng added, “I don’t know how you managed to invite him. In my opinion, you should keep a distance from him. After all, today’s guest of honor is Your Highness, and Prime Minister Li was brought by Your Highness. Furthermore, Prime Minister Li is known for his diligence. His sudden anger from the emperor resulted only in suspension and reflection at home, without any punishment. The emperor still values Prime Minister Li. He will be reinstated sooner or later. It’s best not to offend him. He’s stubborn, righteous, and upright. Over the years, he’s impeached countless members of the imperial clan.”

Xu Chun thought to himself, Mr. Shen is Brother Zixing’s friend, so naturally, he’s also Ninth Brother’s friend. In terms of closeness, Mr. Shen is obviously closer. I should naturally side with Mr. Shen. But on the surface, he didn’t say anything, only smiling it off. Then, he went out to instruct the steward to serve the dishes.

Servant girls flowed in with dishes one after another. Various delicacies covered the long tables, with water and land delicacies available, all of them expensive dishes and rare wines. When Xu Chun entered, he saw Sheng Changzhou introducing overseas goods, customs of Min Prefecture, commerce, and folk customs.

Xie Fei was clearly interested and asked several questions in succession. Xu Chun remembered what had happened earlier and interjected with a smile. “If Your Highness is interested, why not let me have my cousin send some overseas goods to the royal mansion later for you to see. My cousin’s family has just received the imperial business assignment. They will be coming to the capital frequently in the future. If Your Highness needs to purchase anything, please feel free to instruct.”

Xie Fei curiously asked, “Has he just received the imperial assignment? Which specific task is he responsible for?”

Sheng Changzhou replied, “It’s specifically related to foreign goods imported from abroad.”

Xie Fei nodded in approval. “It’s a good assignment. As the saying goes, regardless of size, scarcity determines value. Goods imported from abroad are valuable due to their rarity, offering substantial profits. By exporting our empire’s goods, it’s said that foreigners cherish our empire’s porcelain and silk greatly. This can enhance our empire’s prestige.”

Sheng Changzhou smiled and nodded. “Your Highness speaks truly.” However, in his heart, he thought, comparing this young prince to the “Ninth Lord,” the difference is clear. When discussing foreign trade, ordinary people only think about profits and national prestige, but the Ninth Lord thinks about the livelihood of the people and benefits for centuries.

Li Meiyi suddenly said, “When going abroad, Young Master Sheng should pay more attention to grain varieties. If you can introduce some disaster-resistant and high-yielding grain varieties, it would be a great benefit to the common people.”

Upon hearing that this person shared the same thoughts as the Ninth Lord, Sheng Changzhou was filled with respect. Bowing with clasped hands, he smiled. “I humbly obey Prime Minister Li’s command.”

Li Meiyi said, “No need for such formalities. I have disappointed the emperor’s grace. Now, I’m suspended from duty and have no official responsibilities. I’m just a poor scholar. I’ve experienced poverty and know the bitterness of hunger.”

Xie Fei smiled. “Prime Minister Li truly puts the people first. I didn’t consider that. Admirable, admirable.”

Shen Mengzhen spoke sarcastically, “Assisting the emperor and benefiting the people is the responsibility of the cabinet. We can all care about the world and the people, but it is not appropriate for Your Highness to say that.”

Everyone at the table fell silent. Xie Fei, seeing the straightforward meaning in his words, laughed. “Please spare me, Sir Shen. Let’s talk about the paintings instead! The Auspicious Cranes Painting you showed earlier was indeed good, but it’s clear that the copier hasn’t seen the real Auspicious Cranes Painting. Therefore, the colors used are overly opulent and lack the necessary subtlety and artistic conception.”

Xu Chun laughed. “Your Highness hit the nail on the head. This painting is indeed a copy I made. What I saw was also a copy. I liked the thousands of cranes flying across the sky in various postures, so I repeatedly copied the painting. This is the best copy I’ve made, which is why I dared to mix it in with other famous paintings for the gentlemen to appreciate. Unfortunately, the original is kept within the palace, and I haven’t had the chance to see it.”

Li Meiyi said, “Emperor Huizong’s painting is indeed exquisite, but as a ruler, he only indulged in the auspicious signs and didn’t focus on governing and caring for the people. Instead, he spent all his energy on calligraphy and painting, leading to the pitiful signs of a doomed country from the beginning. It’s better not to see it.”

Seeing Shen Mengzhen’s mocking expression, Xie Fei knew he was about to argue. He lightly coughed. “Prime Minister Li’s point is valid. However, the paintings stored in the Hongwen Academy are not completely inaccessible. I happen to have duties at the Hongwen Academy. Every year, there’s an inventory check and airing of the paintings. There are also times when court painters are invited to jointly appreciate and copy the paintings. When the time comes, I’ll invite Young Duke Xu to copy the paintings together, providing a chance to view this painting.”

Xu Chun hurriedly bowed. “Thank you for Your Highness’s consideration.”

However, Li Meiyi didn’t seem to know how to gracefully accept the offer. Instead, he obstinately said, “Earlier, I wanted to say this. There’s a popular saying that ‘if you treasure your clothes, you’ll have clothes; if you treasure food, you’ll have food.’ Today’s banquet is so extravagant, and the hall is so lavish, yet there are only a few guests. All the food on the banquet table will be wasted, squandering resources. Not to mention, to view the paintings, so many candles are lit during the daytime. How wasteful! Ordinary people read by the light of fireflies or chisel holes in the wall to steal moonlight, but you all light candles in the daytime, pretending to be cultured while neglecting your duties. How regrettable!”

The faces of everyone at the table turned ugly, especially Xu Chun, who was the host and still young, with thin skin. He immediately turned red. Sheng Changzhou, who had been in business for many years, stood up and apologized with clasped hands. “It’s all my fault, not considering it properly. Coming from Min Prefecture to the capital, thinking of handling imperial assignments in the future, I asked Young Duke Xu to host a banquet to introduce important people. I didn’t understand the customs of the capital and was afraid of offending the distinguished guests and officials, so I spent extravagantly. Normally, I don’t do this. I’ll order the servants to extinguish the candles and remove the excess dishes, giving them to nearby farmers.”

However, Shen Mengzhen stood up with a sneer. “How noble and selfless Prime Minister Li is. Your Highness brought you here to relax, and the host feared being disrespectful. He did his best to entertain the guests. What’s wrong with that? You’re stepping on everyone’s faces to maintain your reputation for integrity.”

Li Meiyi’s expression remained unchanged as he coldly said, “A sparrow builds its nest in the forest, but uses only one branch; a mole drinks from a river, but only fills its belly. Sir Shen, while you enjoy wine and revelry every day, you should also remember the principle of cherishing blessings and taking care of your health. Remember, lifespan does not guarantee longevity; when your luck runs out, you’ll perish!”

Shen Mengzhen was furious. Xie Fei inwardly thought it was not good and hurriedly pulled Shen Mengzhen. “Everyone, please calm down. Prime Minister Li is speaking from the heart, although his words may not be pleasant to hear, they come from a pure heart…”

However, Shen Mengzhen spat, his face filled with anger. “Would Prime Minister Li dare to speak so bluntly at a palace banquet? Isn’t it just bullying the host for lacking power and influence, using this as a platform to gain fame? His desire for fame is greater than ours! His so-called righteousness, integrity, and incorruptibility are all carefully cultivated to climb the social ladder. I know what you’re doing. You sacrifice everything, sever ties with relatives and friends, to earn the reputation of a loyal and upright official, all for power and prestige…”

Suddenly, Li Meiyi stood up, his expressionless face turning away as he left with a wave of his sleeve.

Shen Mengzhen continued to yell behind Li Meiyi’s back. “I know what you’re doing!”

Everyone looked at each other in dismay. Only the musicians far away were unaware of the incident at the banquet hall and continued playing their instruments leisurely.

Embarrassed, Xie Fei said, “It’s my fault. I apologize to Young Duke Xu on behalf of Prime Minister Li…”

Shen Mengzhen chuckled. Xu Chun forced a smile. “It’s not worth mentioning. Indeed, we didn’t consider things thoroughly beforehand. Please don’t blame us, Your Highness and the rest of the officials.”

Liu Sheng and others also came forward to smooth things over. Everyone tried to laugh it off, but the situation was awkward. After another round of drinking, Xie Fei rose first to bid farewell.

After sending off Xie Fei, Liu Sheng, Li Xiangyu, and others also took their leave. Shen Mengzhen stayed until the end, holding a wine cup and drinking until he was drunk. Laughing, he discussed and appraised each crane painting with Xu Chun before bidding farewell. Before leaving, he held Xu Chun’s hand and said, “Young Duke.”

Xu Chun thought he had something important to say and hurriedly replied, “Please speak, Mr. Shen.”

Shen Mengzhen said seriously, “One who fails to plan ahead…” Xu Chun listened attentively, watching as Shen Mengzhen slowly burped. He continued, “Must have money.”

Xu Chun was taken aback, but Sheng Changzhou laughed. “Sir Shen is truly humorous.”

Shen Mengzhen burst out laughing and said to Xu Chun and Sheng Changzhou, “Thank you for the hospitality!” He mounted his horse and galloped down the mountain road alone, returning as he had come.

Interrupted by Shen Mengzhen, Xu Chun’s previous gloom dissipated somewhat. Turning around, he consoled Sheng Changzhou, “Don’t be upset, Cousin. This is how things are in the capital. People often bring up grand principles and rules…”

Sheng Changzhou, however, put his arm around him. “No need to console me, Brother. I’ve seen all kinds of people in the business world. Even local officials in Min Prefecture, not to mention regular officials, can lecture us with a set of rules. Now that we’ve taken on the imperial business, our status has improved significantly. As for Little Carp, you’ve suffered a slight injustice for the Sheng family today.”

Being embraced by his cousin, Xu Chun felt warmth in his heart. He smiled. “We’ve achieved our goal anyway. It seems that the imperial business wasn’t recommended by Your Highness. I’ll have to find out where it came from and inquire further.”

Sheng Changzhou, however, said, “Little Carp, there’s no need to investigate further. I’ve given it careful thought. The capital is full of hidden dragons and crouching tigers. You’re still young. Rushing around to inquire might inadvertently offend someone. Since it’s the emperor’s grace, we should loyally carry out our duties. If someone has ulterior motives, they’ll eventually seek us out. There’s no need to rush to find out. It’s like a game of chess. We’ll deal with moves as they come. No need to worry too much. We’ll handle things according to the rules.”

Xu Chun agreed. “Cousin, you’re right.”

Sheng Changzhou took his hand and smiled. “You must be tired today. Why don’t you rest here at the villa tonight and return tomorrow? I’ve already arranged rooms for you. Go down and change your clothes, have some tea, and sober up a bit.”

Xu Chun, however, felt a bit troubled in his heart, fearing that Sheng Changzhou would notice his inner guilt. He smiled. “I came in a hurry yesterday. There are still some matters to handle at the bookshop. I’ll go back and deal with them first and tell Mother. Cousin, you must be tired from handling the banquet today. Rest here and return to the city tomorrow. It’s not too late.”

Sheng Changzhou didn’t force him. He only instructed the four young bookkeepers, Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter, and made proper arrangements for the steward and carriages, ordering the servants to carefully escort Young Duke back to the city.

Xu Chun returned to the city, but he went straight to Bamboo Branch Workshop. He took out the wine left in his room, poured himself a glass, and drank alone while looking at the moon. His heart was filled with bitter thoughts. In the past, he only knew that his father and he had a bad reputation. It turned out that being despised openly by these upright officials was so painful. Since they were never on the same path, there was no need to force integration in the future. They could be their virtuous officials, and they would continue walking their own mundane paths.

But, does Brother Nine see me in the same way?

As Xu Chun thought about it, his heart ached, and he drank several more cups of wine.

Unbeknownst to him, Shen Mengzhen, who had just returned to the city, had already been taken back to the palace by Su Huai’s orders. After being given a cup of sobering tea and washing up, he was then led before the Emperor.

Shen Mengzhen hadn’t really been drunk. Being suddenly summoned to face the Emperor, he was frightened sober long ago. He approached and bowed without further ado.

Xie Yi looked at him and said, “Rise. Which student did you choose today during the banquet?”

Bolstered by the alcohol, Shen Mengzhen boldly replied, “Your Majesty commanded me to observe the students, and I found Prince Xu Chun of Jingguo to possess natural beauty and quality, unrefined, making him worthy of guidance.”

Xie Yi smiled slightly. Seeing the Emperor’s smile, Shen Mengzhen’s heart relaxed, knowing he had guessed correctly. Indeed, it wasn’t Xie Fei. Xie Yi asked, “Prince Xu is notorious for his frivolous behavior throughout the capital. Are you not afraid?”

Shen Mengzhen replied, “I’ve also inquired. Although he has a reputation as a dissolute son of privilege, he hasn’t done anything as vile as bullying men and women. The most notable incident was when he generously donated ten thousand taels of silver to obtain an imperial title for his mother. Such an act can be considered filial according to reason. Are there few dissolute sons of privilege in this capital? I’ve seen those even ten times more frivolous than Prince Xu. It’s just that the reputation of Jingguo’s House for being frivolous is spread far and wide, as if someone is fanning the flames.”

Xie Yi nodded slightly.

Shen Mengzhen bowed and said, “Should I send word to Jingguo’s House to prepare for the teacher-student ceremony after I return?”

Xie Yi shook his head and said, “No need. Let’s discuss this later. First, tell me everything about today’s banquet. Do not conceal anything.”

Shen Mengzhen recounted everything.

Seeing the Emperor’s indifferent expression and lack of reaction, he felt uneasy, especially when recounting Li Meiyai’s words. He didn’t dare to embellish or omit, only repeating them verbatim.

Xie Yi chuckled. “And then? Minister Shen, with your fiery temper, didn’t you retort?”

Shen Mengzhen hesitated for a moment but ultimately dared not hide the truth. He vaguely replied, “I refuted him, saying that he only sought a good reputation, betraying the host’s hospitality, and becoming an isolated official who broke ties with friends and family. All this was merely to gain fame and power.”

Xie Yi said indifferently, “I know what he was after. It was merely for the Regent King.”

Shen Mengzhen bowed deeply. Xie Yi continued, “The Regent King passed away young, falling from his horse during a hunt. In his youth, Li Meiyai received the Regent King’s favor. He refused to believe it was an accident, and wanted to uncover the truth.”

Shen Mengzhen dared not speak further. Xie Yi, however, said, “Li Meiyai is upright and bold, hates evil, and is diligent and capable. He is a capable official. If I am not bothered by his actions, neither should you. Gentlemen may disagree, but they remain harmonious. You should all focus on serving the people and assisting the state. I value you all equally.”

Shen Mengzhen was convinced. He bowed and said, “Your Majesty is wise.”

Xie Yi added, “The Prince of Jingguo’s House possesses talent for governance. However, due to his young age and lack of guidance, his studies are somewhat lacking. I wanted to hone his talents, which is why I instructed you to observe his character today. Although you are playful and unrestrained, you have never lost sight of the greater good. Now that you’ve spent a few years learning etiquette in the Ministry of Rites and have been cautious in your duties, you should understand your mistakes. Soon, the Ministry of Personnel will make an appointment. You shall serve as the Chief Scholar at the Imperial Academy, responsible for teaching students and handling inquiries. I hope you will change your dissolute and flamboyant ways. As a teacher, you must not mislead your students.”

Shen Mengzhen hurriedly bowed to accept the command, secretly speculating. Imperial Academy? Was the Emperor planning to let the Prince of Jingguo’s House enter the Imperial Academy? But he didn’t dare ask, only taking his leave under the guidance of the eunuch.

Xie Yi turned to Fang Zixing and asked, “Did you find out? Did Xu Chun stay outside the city tonight or come back? Is he staying at Jingguo’s House?”

Fang Zixing replied, “He left Young Master Sheng to arrange things at the suburban residence. Prince Xu returned to Bamboo Branch Workshop tonight.”

To Su Huai, he said, “Go to the Hongwen Academy’s warehouse and fetch the ‘Auspicious Crane Painting.’ I’m leaving the palace.”

Su Huai hurriedly complied, ordering someone to immediately open the warehouse and retrieve the painting. Glancing at the water clock, it was almost midnight. The palace gates had long been locked. Well, when did this master ever care about palace restrictions? If not for his habit of riding alone frequently and leaving the palace casually, how could he have been so easily targeted? One could only say that it was fortunate that Prince Xu lived nearby.

It seemed the child had suffered a great injustice, his warm-hearted efforts to entertain guests had been met with a cold shoulder and a large accusation. He might be very upset right now. Yes, he needed to go and comfort him.