Chapter 110 – Watching the Play

Before dawn broke, Xie Yi diligently got up to head for court. Xu Chun held onto his arm, reluctant to let go and rubbed his face against Xie Yi’s shoulder. Suddenly remembering something, he asked, “By the way, Dinhai should have told you about it—the Empress Xuemei meeting with the former concubines of the Prince’s Manor and Minister Li. Should I attend?”

Xie Yi replied, “If you want to go, then go. Didn’t He Zhiqiu say he would accompany you? Let him do that.”

Xie Chun said, “I was also thinking that the Qianqiu Garden is our own property. If something happens even on our turf, then we shouldn’t be attending.”

Xie Yi looked at the excited glint in Xu Chun’s eyes and chuckled. “You’re going to be a department head soon. You should make your own decisions.”

Xu Chun, however, said, “Ninth Brother probably thinks they wouldn’t dare.”

Xie Yi replied, “Yes, after lying low for so long, I’ve released Li Meiyai and Empress Xuemei, and spread the word around. They still have enough patience to remain inactive. We can only guess that they lack the capability to seize the throne. But there’s a huge secret they need to hide—a secret related to the Regent’s death back then. Once this secret is discovered, they will lose everything.”

“The key is to find out what secret was uncovered back then—it’s likely at the imperial mausoleum. However, that’s where the ancestors of the previous emperor rest, and I cannot afford to disturb them. Moreover, it’s not in the capital, so it’s better to stay put. They’re waiting for chaos; they can only wait for chaos. As long as I remain steadfast, they won’t have a chance.”

Xie Yi got dressed for court, turned to look at Xu Chun, who seemed somewhat dejected, and asked softly, “What’s wrong?”

Xu Chun forced a smile. “Ninth Brother, hurry and go to court. I’m just feeling melancholic about having to separate from Ninth Brother. You’re surrounded by danger, yet I must leave you, and unable to help in any way.”

Xie Yi gazed deeply into his eyes, his gaze resting on his straight nose, bright eyes, and thin lips. Reaching out, he tilted Xu Chun’s chin and kissed his slightly cool lips. “Just taking care of yourself helps me.”

Xu Chun immediately wrapped his arms around Xie Yi, tasting his tongue like he couldn’t get enough and did not allow him to pull away. It was cautious, as if offering comfort or repaying a debt.

Xie Yi naturally didn’t refuse his lover’s affection, caressing his chin while holding his hand tightly, intertwining their fingers.

After Xie Yi left, Xu Chun sat on the bed, wrapped in blankets, his thoughts lingering: As long as Ninth Brother remains steadfast, they won’t have a chance. But wasn’t Ninth Brother’s biggest problem now that he was nearing thirty without a consort, a crown prince, or an heir?

Ninth Brother was originally an accomplished ruler, unprecedentedly benevolent. He was supposed to expand territories and leave a name in history. But he had always left the harem vacant…he had no children. What were they waiting for? Chaos. And an emperor without an heir had always been the source of national turmoil.

Xu Chun dared not think further. The guilt brought on by the sacrilege did not discourage him. Clenching his teeth, he stood up, refusing the assistance of Wu Fu to dress himself. He put on his clothes piece by piece, held his head high, and walked out of the palace.

The sun was shining brightly outside. Xu Chun thought, Maybe Ninth Brother and I can find another path?

Ninth Brother hasn’t said anything, so I can’t admit defeat first.

I’m not qualified enough yet.

Xu Chun called Xia Chao over and instructed him to find out which room Daoist Xuexue and Li Meiyai reserved at the Qianqiu Garden today. Then, he ordered Qiuhu to invite He Zhiqiu.

As usual, the Qianqiu Garden was bustling with activity. When Xu Chun met He Zhiqiu, he felt somewhat awkward after seeing him kneeling and serving tea humbly the day before. He smiled and cupped his hands in greeting. “I was worried that Big Brother He might be busy with official duties today.”

He Zhiqiu replied, “Only officials of the third rank and above can attend court. Investigating cases is part of my job, especially when accompanying a young lord.” He spoke normally, without showing any sign of humility, treating Xu Chun like a close friend he could confide in. Xu Chun secretly admired him once again.

He told He Zhiqiu, “I’ve already arranged for the kitchen to prepare a whole roasted lamb and several exquisite dishes. Later, when we coincidentally meet Minister Li, we can naturally join them. That way, their guests won’t know you’re an examiner from the Ministry of Justice and become wary. Even if Minister Li and Empress Xuemei know, they probably won’t expose us.”

He Zhiqiu couldn’t help laughing. “Young Lord is skilled at pretending to be oblivious when he has a plan. Admirable.”

Xu Chun’s eyes sparkled with delight. “Flattery will get you nowhere.”

He Zhiqiu was momentarily dazzled by his radiant features, feeling more certain about his suspicions. Smiling, he accompanied Xu Chun as they walked towards a private room, ordering Xia Chao and Qiuhu to bring in the perfectly roasted golden lamb and a jar of chrysanthemum wine.

A moment later, Li Meiyai emerged, looking somewhat embarrassed upon seeing them. He bowed deeply. “This subordinate greets Young Lord and Minister He.”

Xu Chun approached with a grin. “Minister Li, Empress Xuemei invited me yesterday too. I figured I’m not as meticulous as Big Brother He, so I invited him along. But I was worried it might alarm the ladies, so I wanted to give Minister Li a heads-up first. Let’s just pretend it’s a coincidence.”

Li Meiyai smiled bitterly, cupping his hands in greeting, and invited them inside. Empress Xuemei was taken aback by their appearance but quickly put on a smile. “It turns out to be Young Master Xu and Mister He. I thought I wouldn’t be able to invite such esteemed guests. I’m grateful for your presence here for my sake.”

She rose and introduced a couple standing nearby, who appeared confused. “This is Manager Zhao and his wife. They run a theater troupe called Xiuxi Troupe, currently performing at the Qianqiu Garden.”

Then she introduced Xu Chun and He Zhiqiu. “Big Brother Zhao, Sister Zhu’er, these are the two gentlemen who knew about our hardships and offered generous assistance. Young Master Xu and Mister He are noble and righteous, eager to uncover the truth behind our past. Please don’t treat them as outsiders.”

Manager Zhao stood up, smiling. “I am Zhao Ruolong. I used to sing for a few years, playing martial roles. Now, my wife Yang Zhuer and I run a theater troupe. Today, it’s an honor to meet these distinguished young masters.” He was dignified, appearing to be over forty, with an imposing manner and eloquent speech, clearly adept at socializing.

Yang Zhuer indeed had a graceful figure and a beautiful face. Though over forty, she still maintained her charm. She curtsied elegantly and said, “My husband feared revisiting old places would sadden me, so we haven’t returned to the capital for many years. We came back because we heard about the emperor’s thirtieth birthday celebration. Then we unexpectedly met Sister Chu, realizing that we somehow survived back then. That mysterious plague wasn’t accidental. My husband and I decided to leave the capital early to return to our peaceful life.”

She looked at Li Meiyai and laughed. “Don’t laugh at me, Minister Li. I now have a son and a daughter by my side. I’m terrified of death. You’re loyal and righteous, but I can’t sacrifice my husband’s years of kindness for some vague sense of righteousness, disregarding the safety of my children.”

Xu Chun observed Madam Yang’s cheerful demeanor, which was resolute in rejecting further involvement in the trouble. He was filled with admiration, thinking that indeed, extraordinary women existed within the inner chambers. Madam Yang made decisive choices, completely ignoring any past sentiments.

He noticed that Li Meiyai didn’t mention the full mouthful of morality and righteousness anymore. His expression seemed wistful. After a moment, he cupped his hands and bowed to Yang Zhuer. “Madam Yang, Empress Chu, both of you have given me a valuable lesson. I’ve learned from this. I was fixated on the past, forgetting the original intentions of following the Regent. In that regard, I feel ashamed for not living up to the Regent’s initial trust in me.”

Madam Yang, initially on guard, saw Li Meiyai’s sincere expression and felt like her punch landed on air. Her heart softened, and her expression became slightly embarrassed as she returned the bow. “If you understand our difficulties, that’s the best possible outcome.”

Li Meiyai looked ashamed. “Because of my stubbornness, I caused trouble for Empress Chu and…” He glanced at Xu Chun and apologized sincerely. “Other innocent people. This was my fault. Now, seeking answers isn’t for the Regent, but because the person behind all this might still have schemes that harm the nation and the court. Therefore, knowing some clues, I took the liberty to visit. If you don’t wish to, consider today’s gathering as a welcoming party, without discussing the past.”

Madam Yang breathed a sigh of relief and laughed. “Unfortunately, I can’t sing anymore to entertain you all. Back when the prince hosted guests, I could perform a few acts, but I can’t do that anymore.”

After speaking, she felt it was inappropriate. Although she had been a singer and entertainer for years and was accustomed to singing and entertaining in front of these nobles, she was now a married woman. Today, they were old friends, and mentioning her past service to the regent inadvertently suggested a willingness to degrade herself. Although that wasn’t her intention, she didn’t know how to respond to these high-ranking nobles and looked apologetically at her husband.

Manager Zhao smiled faintly. “Our troupe is currently performing. We can have the children present a new play we prepared called ‘The Brush of Colors.’ It will be a treat for our old friends.”

Xu Chun’s heart stirred. “So ‘The Brush of Colors’ is performed by Xiuxi Troupe? Indeed, it’s excellent. I heard even the palace is interested in inviting them.”

Yang Zhuer’s face lit up. “Where did Young Master Xu hear that?”

Xu Chun smiled. “To be honest, Madam Yang, the Qianqiu Garden is actually an asset of my maternal grandfather’s side. This year, it received an imperial summons to perform in the palace. A few days ago, the eunuch responsible for the offerings brought the script of ‘The Brush of Colors’ and asked me about it. I said I hadn’t seen it yet and planned to check it out in the next few days. It turns out it’s from Manager Zhao’s troupe. If I had known earlier, I would have recommended it yesterday. That way, Manager Zhao’s troupe could gain fame for performing in the palace and return home with a good reputation.”

Manager Zhao, observing Xu Chun’s youth, was skeptical. “Hasn’t ‘The Brush of Colors’ only been performed twice at the Qianqiu Garden? How did the palace receive the news so quickly?”

Last night, Xu Chun had read a few pages in Xie Yi’s hands. He understood that Ninth Brother had already investigated the background of the troupe leader. Indeed, Ninth Brother was meticulous and planned ahead. But on the surface, he still bluffed. “Why wouldn’t it be true? I heard from the little eunuch that the performance was about Gao Lishi removing Li Bai’s boots. He said the lyrics were extremely colorful and splendid.”

Actually, Ninth Brother said, “This playwright likes to show off his knowledge, piling up poetic phrases. Vulgar and licentious, this author is also immersed in pleasures, indulging excessively, promiscuous and later died from a debauchery-related illness. There’s no need to watch such plays.”

Ninth Brother never liked those delicate and luxurious phrases, but the play’s lyrics were indeed excellent. Xu Chun’s praise hit the mark, and Manager Zhao and his wife wore proud expressions.

He Zhiqiu understood the implications and smiled. “Indeed, the palace has frequently summoned acrobats, magicians, and theater troupes recently. I’ve heard that some martial arts troupes received rewards, as well as theater troupes. Some even had the emperor order scholars to write lyrics for them on the spot, instantly gaining fame.”

Manager Zhao and Yang Zhuer believed them and hurriedly laughed. “We didn’t realize Young Master Xu had such connections. We didn’t recognize Mount Tai when we saw it. Please recommend us to those eunuchs when you have time.”

Xu Chun quickly smiled. “Of course, of course.” Soon, the stage was set, and the actress portraying the imperial concubine was gorgeously dressed. Her voice was clear and resonant, truly performing with excellence.

He Zhiqiu also picked up chopsticks, swaying his head and repeating the play’s lyrics, savoring them carefully, and praised, “Indeed, wonderful lyrics! The literary elegance lingers on the lips. Wonderful lyrics, wonderful lyrics!”

Chu Wei also smiled. “What a beautiful voice. It captures seven-tenths of Sister Zhu’er’s grace back then. Unfortunately, it’s still lacking a bit of finesse.”

Yang Zhuer basked in the compliment. “When I went to the prince’s manor, I was at my peak. This child was taught by me, but only for three or four years. Her skills aren’t fully developed yet. In a few years, she’ll be a leading actress.”

The atmosphere eased. Manager Zhao and Yang Zhuer, originally humble, felt nervous before meeting the former chief officer of the prince’s manor, Li Meiyai. More importantly, they knew Li Meiyai had entered the cabinet and was a high-ranking official they couldn’t afford to offend. Later, when they saw Li Meiyai bringing in two nobles with refined manners, they became increasingly uneasy. Eventually, they steeled their resolve and revealed their refusal.

But now, seeing Li Meiyai’s softer attitude, unlike his previous stubbornness, and seeing that the two young masters did not look down on their status, were knowledgeable about opera, and spoke kindly, they were moved and felt a hint of guilt.

Yang Zhuer voluntarily brought up the conversation from before, addressing Chu Wei. “Actually, when we went to the imperial mausoleum, we weren’t allowed to participate in the memorial activities. We weren’t even permitted inside. We were only allowed to camp outside. When the prince went to the mausoleum to fast, we could only wander around the mountain. What could we have seen? I suspect it was the prince himself who caused trouble. As his concubines, we were likely caught in the crossfire.”

Chu Wei smiled at Li Meiyai. “Didn’t I tell Minister Li the same thing? Afterward, I repeatedly pondered whether we had encountered any strange visitors back then, leading to our peril. But recalling, besides the prince’s close subordinates, only Prince Yu visited. But Prince Yu, who presided over the sacrifices in Ji Prefecture for many years, wasn’t peculiar. It wasn’t worth killing for that reason.”

Xu Chun asked, “Prince Yu?”

Li Meiyai turned to explain to Xu Chun, “Prince Yu is the current imperial family’s genealogical head, in charge of imperial sacrifices and ancestral temples. He’s of the same generation as the current emperor’s great-uncle. He’s quite elderly. Previously, he was enfeoffed in Ji Prefecture, where the imperial mausoleum is located. He supervised the construction of the previous emperor’s tomb and holds the highest rank among the imperial clan. He’s highly respected. After the abolition of the feudal states, Prince Yu also followed the imperial decree and entered the capital. Now, he resides idly in the capital, already in his seventies.”

Xu Chun asked, “Does Prince Yu…have any sons?”

Apart from Manager Zhao, who was unaware, everyone else looked at Xu Chun, clearly understanding the meaning behind his question.

He Zhiqiu said, “Prince Yu doesn’t have any sons. Princess Consort Yu is unwell and has only one daughter, granted the title of Princess Anping. Her husband is Du Shaohui, the son of the governor of Ji Prefecture. They have two sons and have lived in Ji Prefecture with her husband.”

Xu Chun realized that it was because of his lack of sons that no one suspected he would rebel. Being the genealogical prince, it was normal for him to discuss major temple sacrifices with the regent who went to preside over them back then. There was no need to kill to cover it up.

Li Meiyai said, “After entering the court, I kept an eye on Prince Yu. He is indeed kind and virtuous, known as a benevolent prince. Especially Princess Consort Yu, who enjoys a great reputation in the imperial clan. She often provides alms and relief to the poor and has high prestige.”

“A few years ago, the emperor mentioned considering Prince Yu’s line without heirs and Princess Anping’s marriage far away, leaving no one to serve him in his old age. He requested that Prince Yu choose a son from the imperial clan to adopt, but he never selected anyone, saying his health was poor and he couldn’t bear to take someone else’s child.”

In his heart, Xu Chun thought, Ninth Brother said that if he remained steadfast, the other side wouldn’t dare to act. They were waiting, waiting for what? When the regent suddenly passed away, if the empress dowager really intended to support a member of the imperial clan, wouldn’t she need the support of the old prince in charge of genealogy? Now, Ninth Brother has no sons…a few days ago, I heard Ninth Brother invited the sons and grandsons of the princes into the palace, rumors suggesting selecting an heir from the imperial clan.

Although the final decision was naturally Ninth Brother’s, this genealogical old prince, with such high prestige, surely had some power in determining the scope of potential candidates…was he really completely innocent?