Chapter 147 – Return to the Capital

At night, Sheng Changtian returned from his anti-smuggling operations and joined them. Seeing Nong Siji was also present greatly surprised him. After exchanging pleasantries, he was inevitably made to drink three cups of wine as punishment. Sheng Changtian was also an excellent conversationalist, and since he had been at sea since he was young, he had broad horizons. His addition to the feast immediately made the conversation more interesting.

When friends meet, they drink. That night, the four men drank several jars of fine wine, eventually all ending up drunk. Prince Nong and He Zhiqiu spent the night at the Director’s residence. Xu Chun still managed to laugh and call out to Donghai, “Prepare hangover remedies for all the adults.” Although his speech seemed clear, his face was flushed red, and his eyes were unfocused. In the end, he was forcibly supported back to his bedroom by Dinghai and Chunxi to sleep.

Naturally, the others were also taken care of and settled down properly. The next day, they all woke up laughing, yet felt thoroughly refreshed.

After that day, apart from official duties, Xu Chun, He Zhiqiu, Nong Siji, and Sheng Changtian spent their days sightseeing around Jinhai’s famous historical sites. They would go after smugglers when they had leads. Their days were carefree and time flew by quickly. Winter arrived before they knew it, and the first snow fell.

As the fluffy white snowflakes descended, Xu Chun changed into a snow-white fox fur cloak. He finally formally led the last batch of envoys from the Maritime Customs Office who had come to celebrate the Emperor’s birthday, and they set off with gifts for the capital in grand style.

This time, the roads were cleared of obstacles, and the tributes and envoys traveled smoothly. They soon returned to the capital.

Xu Chun went to the Four Barbarians Assembly Hall first, settling the envoys in the Four Barbarians Embassy. He then consoled Lete once again, promising to contact the powder kiln matter as soon as possible. He said goodbye to Nong Siji and took the memorial that He Zhiqiu had personally revised and polished, sealing it tightly and assuring him everything was fine. They arranged to meet the next day at the Millennial Garden for a welcoming banquet, and then he happily returned to the Duke’s Mansion.

He Zhiqiu watched Xu Chun put on his wind cap and get into the sedan chair amidst the guards. As the sedan chair disappeared in the distance, he turned around and also bid farewell to Nong Siji.

Nong Siji was completely convinced by him during these days, thanking him again. However, He Zhiqiu said, “I deliberately stayed behind to give you a few words of advice. After you submit the memorial, the Emperor should summon you. I’ll tell you some things to pay attention to when you meet the Emperor.”

Nong Siji was shocked. “What? Meet the Emperor? With the Emperor’s busy schedule and the Grand Longevity Festival, he won’t see a messenger from a vassal state like me, right?”

He became somewhat anxious, but He Zhiqiu smiled slightly. “With Prince Xu’s memorial, the Emperor should see you. If he asks about your future plans, just say you wish to follow the Fang family of Guangdong’s example and serve the country loyally. There’s no need to repeat the promises in the memorial. The Emperor is pragmatic and dislikes people bragging about things they can’t achieve. But there’s one thing…”

He stared at Nong Siji’s rather handsome face and instructed, “If the Emperor asks how you met Prince Xu, tell the truth, but don’t excessively praise Prince Xu himself. Don’t show any intention of repaying him either, and don’t mention that you hit it off with him like brothers-in-arms.”

Nong Siji said, “Understood. Rest assured, Scholar He. This is to avoid suspicion, isn’t it? To prevent accusations of fraternizing with foreign states. Prince Xu worked hard to help me submit the memorial, so naturally, I wouldn’t want to drag him down. If the Emperor thinks I only remember Prince Xu’s kindness and forget the boundless grace of the Emperor, that would be bad. Don’t worry, I won’t even mention you voluntarily. If the Emperor asks, I’ll answer truthfully. It won’t be deceiving the Emperor, but I also won’t reveal too much familiarity.”

He Zhiqiu smiled slightly. “That’s good. Go back and wait in peace. I guess you’ll be meeting the Emperor within the next couple of days.”

=====

Xu Chun and Sheng Changtian returned to the Duke’s Mansion. The carriage entered through the second gate, and upon disembarking, they saw a carriage there. A magnificent dark bay horse stood in front of the carriage. Xu Chun couldn’t help but take a few glances, unable to resist asking, “Where did our family get such a fine horse? How could we bear to use it to pull a carriage?”

Sheng Changtian said, “Isn’t this the Duke’s Mansion’s carriage? Could there be guests?”

While walking, Xu Chun replied, “We’re still in mourning. Who would visit us?” However, he was somewhat envious and reached out to touch the horse’s mane. The horse snorted and tossed its head, showing no regard for him. Xu Chun couldn’t help but laugh. Then he saw a youth emerge from behind the carriage. Despite the snowy weather, he wore only a faded blue robe. His back was straight, and he held a whip in his hand. His eyes were alert and cold, but he smiled gently when he saw Xu Chun. His eyes seemed to melt like ice. “Your Highness, be careful. This horse has a bad temper.”

Xu Chun looked at him in surprise. “Do you know me?”

The youth in blue smiled and cupped his hands in greeting, bowing deeply. “My name is Helan Jingjiang.”

Xu Chun: “…”

His face quickly heated up, and he returned the formal salute. “So you’re General Helan. I’ve heard a lot about you.” Even his ears burned hot, thinking that this General Helan probably knew all about his unsavory past. He wished he could instantly disappear in front of General Helan.

Helan Jingjiang said solemnly, “Three years ago, I failed to keep our appointment with Your Highness, but I owe a great debt of gratitude to Madam and Your Highness for repeatedly helping me redeem my freedom with silver. I’ve cherished this in my heart and haven’t had the chance to repay the kindness. Now, I’m indebted to Your Highness for investigating the case and clearing the Helan family’s name. You’ve shown me the kindness of a second parent. I dare not speak of my thanks for such a great favor, and I have nothing to offer in return. My life is at Your Highness’s disposal.”

Xu Chun’s voice was weak. “The Helan family is full of loyal martyrs. I only stumbled upon clues by chance, all unintentionally. The case was investigated and resolved by the authorities. This was heaven’s will using my hands. As for the redemption… the redemption matter was due to my mistake in recognizing someone. General Helan, you should thank the Emperor’s boundless grace…”

Helan Jingjiang had long heard of his reputation as a dissolute wastrel and thought he was merely a frivolous and ignorant youth. However, now seeing him taking no credit and being gentle and shy, it seemed he had no scheming in his heart and treated people sincerely. Helan Jingjiang was curious, thinking of Lady Sheng’s character, and felt it was fitting. Yet, he showed even greater humility on his face. “Your Highness needn’t be humble. I won’t forget Your Highness’s kindness for a day.”

Xu Chun felt even more uncomfortable, wishing someone would come to rescue him. Then he saw Lady Sheng coming out holding a girl’s hand. Seeing them engaged in conversation, she was somewhat surprised and laughed. “I heard you’d be back today, but I thought it would be in the evening. What a coincidence.”

Xu Chun and Sheng Changtian both bowed to Lady Sheng. “Mother.” “Aunt.”

Helan Jingjiang stepped forward and bowed. “My sister has been taken care of by the Duchess. I apologize for troubling Her Ladyship.”

Lady Sheng laughed. “I should thank Second Lady for her witty remarks, which have comforted my loneliness.” After saying this, she introduced the girl beside her with a smile. “This is my son, Xu Chun, and my nephew, Sheng Changtian, who is ranked third.” Then she smiled at Xu Chun and Sheng Changtian. “This is General Helan’s sister.”

The girl was similar to Helan Jingjiang, wearing a simple blue skirt with no adornments like makeup, hairpins, or earrings. However, her plain clothes couldn’t conceal her beauty; her features were captivating. She clearly had a serious and reserved personality, but she carried herself gracefully. She stepped forward and greeted them, “Greetings to Prince Xu and Third Master Sheng.”

Xu Chun and Sheng Changtian returned the greetings. “Miss Helan.”

Lady Sheng said, “I’m bored all day. Today, Lady Helan was kind enough to help me design a pavilion and garden for me. I’m grateful to Second Lady for keeping me company. But now it’s snowing. I was going to arrange a carriage to send you off, but unexpectedly, General Helan came to pick you up in person. It’s fortunate we ran into these two children returning from Jinhai. Since it’s such a coincidence, why don’t you stay for a meal? It’ll allow Xu Chun and General Helan to consult each other more.”

Helan Jingjiang stepped forward and smiled. “Lady, it would be inappropriate to refuse with Your Highness’s return. But considering Your Highness must be weary from traveling and wants to reunite with Lady to enjoy family happiness, we outsiders dare not disturb you. Let’s wait until tomorrow. I’ll hold a banquet to welcome Your Highness.”

Lady Sheng laughed. “He’s younger than you. You should be his elder brother. There’s no need to be so polite. Treat him like a younger brother and instruct him as you would. If he makes any mistakes, please correct him, General Helan.”

Helan Jingjiang smiled. “Lady is too modest. Brother Chun is already an official, and I hear his reputation is excellent. He was just promoted. I see Brother Chun as sincere, kind, and righteous. Instead, I should learn from Brother Chun.”

Lady Sheng’s smile widened as Helan Jingjiang praised her son. She exchanged a few more polite words before sending Lady Helan to the carriage. She had someone bring over a steaming hot food box. “It’s cold. This is the jujube cake I personally steamed. Take it back and try it.”

Lady Helan thanked her, and Helan Jingjiang bowed repeatedly. Then he mounted the horse and drove away from the second gate himself.

Xu Chun let out a long sigh of relief, feeling relaxed. He walked up and linked arms with his mother, saying, “Mother, aren’t you happy to see me back? Why do you want someone to scold me right away?”

Lady Sheng couldn’t help missing her son. Seeing him come over to act spoiled, she naturally smiled. “You’ve just become an official. Helan’s family has been generals for generations, so they have many connections in the military. Now that his family has been rehabilitated, countless people want to associate with him but can’t find a way. If your mother hadn’t relied on a bit of old friendship, how could she have gotten the opportunity to connect with him? You don’t know that the Helan family excels in both literature and martial arts. Both Helan brother and sister are extremely talented and full of strategy and tactics. They should be your mentors and friends.”

Xu Chun’s scalp tingled slightly, remembering how he mistook the Emperor for Helan Jingjiang and tried to ingratiate himself by offering to redeem him. He awkwardly smiled. “I understand, Mother. I know you’re doing this for my own good.”

Sheng Changtian laughed. “I agree. General Helan indeed has an astonishing presence. Standing there, it’s like he commands thousands of troops. Even though he dresses simply, no one dares to underestimate him.”

Lady Sheng said, “Isn’t that true? Changtian, you should also associate with them more. I heard you received commendation for suppressing bandits this time and will be promoted?” She was very pleased, truly cherishing this nephew and now even more gratified knowing he had a bright future ahead.

Sheng Changtian replied, “Yes, according to military merit, I should be given a position as a ninth-rank junior commander. And what about Uncle? I should go pay my respects when I arrive.”

Lady Sheng said, “That’s already excellent.” She ordered the servants to lead Sheng Changtian to the guest quarters, smiling at him. “Your uncle is fasting. He’ll be back tonight. Why don’t you rest and change first?”

Sheng Changtian knew they surely had private matters to discuss and only smiled, not mentioning it further.

However, Xu Chun asked Lady Sheng with a laugh, “Rarely does Father take the initiative to fast?”

Lady Sheng said, “He was severely reprimanded by the Emperor’s decree and has been much more obedient since then. Previously, there was a scholar in our household named Liu Shou’an or something. He contracted a venereal disease and his whole body rotted. He cried out for many days at home without passing away. Your father remembered their past friendship and went to see him once. When he returned, he was scared and sighed for a long time. That’s when he started fasting and reciting Buddha.”

Xu Chun couldn’t help but chuckle. Lady Sheng looked at his expression and asked, “How did you find the Helan siblings today?”

Xu Chun replied, “They’re both excellent. I was wondering, Mother, how did you get to know them? I heard there was some sort of favor involved?”

Lady Sheng said, “What favor? It was just a small act of kindness. They were in the entertainment industry at the time. I occasionally went out on business and happened to encounter his sister being harassed by a customer. I pitied her situation and helped her out. She knelt down and begged me, saying her brother was seriously ill and needed money. I gave her some silver from my purse, not expecting repayment. Unexpectedly, after a period, they came to our door to express their gratitude. Later, they repaid the money in full. I was quite surprised by their integrity. However, they couldn’t escape their entertainer status, so I privately asked some friends to look after them. Actually, I didn’t help much. Sometimes, having money can solve many troubles, but to talk about gratitude, it doesn’t really amount to much.”

Xu Chun said, “I see.”

Lady Sheng laughed. “Not to mention your grand gesture of ten thousand taels to redeem them from their entertainer status.”

Xu Chun blushed. Lady Sheng didn’t know about the incident involving the mistaken identity of the Emperor, only laughing. “Previously, the imperial title was bestowed by the Emperor’s boundless grace, but it was largely due to General Helan’s mediation. After his rehabilitation this time, he sent back the gifts I had given him, saying he had already received deep kindness from our family and dared not greedily seek more benefits. But wasn’t the ten thousand taels of silver he had already handed over to the Ministry of Works donated in exchange for the imperial title? I only told him it wasn’t his accomplishment. I admire Lady Helan’s character, so I often invite her to the mansion for company. Unfortunately, her life has been full of hardships, and she said she doesn’t want to marry for the rest of her life…”

Xu Chun suddenly raised his gaze and said, “Mother, if you like her, you could adopt her as a goddaughter.”

Lady Sheng was taken aback, looking at Xu Chun. She realized her subtle intentions had been seen through by her son. Her face flushed slightly, and she explained softly, “If she remains unmarried for life, I thought that if it’s just for superficial honor, it would give her stability… You’ve been unwed for too long, and it’s too conspicuous. There will always be matchmakers coming to propose marriage. Your father is a confused man…”

Xu Chun said, “Mother, the Emperor’s harem is empty, and he can still remain steadfast. I will never betray him.”

Lady Sheng was embarrassed by his firm refusal and fell silent.

Xu Chun realized he had spoken too harshly and hurriedly explained earnestly, “Mother, you have done them a favor. Making such a request might seem like you’re using their gratitude to demand repayment. Lady Helan said she doesn’t want to marry for life, but mostly because she’s been drifting in life and once fell into the entertainment industry. In the high-ranking noble families of the capital, it’s difficult to arrange a marriage for her. Mother thinks being a prince’s wife, and in the future, a duchess, is a position of unlimited honor and stability. But isn’t it also taking advantage of someone’s vulnerability? I think she’s still young, and there’s still a long time ahead. Who knows if Second Lady won’t meet someone who loves and respects her, not caring about her past, and marry, have children, and live a loving life together? That’s better than being an empty, prestigious duchess of the Duke’s Mansion.”

Lady Sheng was struck by his words, her nose suddenly stinging, and her eyes reddened.

Xu Chun realized he had spoken out of turn again and hurriedly hugged his mother. “Mother, I know you’re doing this for my sake. I didn’t mean to offend you. I misspoke, Mother. Please don’t hold it against me. I… I didn’t mean it.”

Lady Sheng patted his shoulder. “Mother has seen many things and wouldn’t be bothered by you. My son is kind and righteous, and I’m delighted.”

She suppressed her heartache and said softly, “Knowing you have your own plans is enough.”

Xu Chun finally felt relieved and chuckled. “I’ll go change my clothes first. I’ll come back later to chat with Mother.”