Chapter 65 – Despondency

Xu Chun and Xie Yi had cuddled for a while before Xu Chun realized he had accidentally splashed water on his sleeves during their boat play, which was now soaking the fabric of Jiu Ge’s clothes. He quickly jumped up and said, “Jiu Ge, have you eaten? Sit down for a bit; I’ll go change my clothes.”

After saying that, he ran off, the sound of his wooden clogs echoing throughout the small building.

Xie Yi chuckled softly. He straightened out his clothes and took off his outer robe, revealing the gauzy robe he wore underneath. He felt rather warm seeing Xu Chun. He walked over to Xu Chun’s study where the previous assignments were still laid out on the desk. Xu Chun hadn’t been there since the day of mourning.

Xie Yi had anticipated that Xu Chun’s temperament was unpredictable and that he was very active. He had ordered Liu Fu to inform him whenever the lights in this area were lit. Indeed, Xu Chun had been cooped up in the residence and had secretly come out today.

Xu Chun changed his clothes and then ran back in his wooden clogs, barefoot. He saw Xie Yi sitting on the chaise lounge reading a book. He sat next to him and giggled, saying, “Jiu Ge, I’ve organized the rare books you gave me. Today, I checked them with He Zhuangyuan and the others. I was planning to send them to you tomorrow for your review. If you think they’re acceptable, we’ll start printing them.”

Xie Yi asked, “Oh? How did you manage to get the Zhuangyuan himself to proofread your manuscripts?”

Xu Chun replied, “Not just He Zhuangyuan. Zhang Wenzheng and Fan Mukun also came. Heh heh, they even helped me write the prefaces for the printings.”

Xie Yi asked, “All three of the top scholars visited you? Were they all here for the printing?”

Xu Chun nodded. “Almost everything is arranged. Only Fan Mukun’s collection of writings by Wending Gong is too extensive, so we’ve only compiled a poetry anthology. I’ll send it to you tomorrow for a look.”

Xie Yi said, “Alright.”

Xu Chun smelled the faint scent of sandalwood on Xie Yi and instinctively moved closer. “Jiu Ge, today I listened to the three scholars speak. They are truly knowledgeable. I envy them so much. I feel like no matter how much I read, I can never reach their level.”

Xie Yi laughed. “How old are you? Comparing yourself to them? The top three in the imperial examinations are the cream of the crop among all the scholars in the land. They naturally possess some talent. Zhang Wenzheng comes from Jiangnan, a place steeped in a thousand years of culture. The only ones who can pass the imperial exams from there are those from prominent families. Fan Mukun, on the other hand, comes from a family with a long lineage of officials. His family’s influence is unparalleled. Their extensive knowledge of history and obscure historical records is cultivated through generations of scholars in their families. It’s not something ordinary families can match.”

Xu Chun’s eyes flickered as he deliberately asked, “From what Jiu Ge is implying, have you met them?”

Xie Yi took out a fragrant pill from his pocket and stuffed it into Xu Chun’s mouth. “Mm, I’ve seen them once or twice.” He wasn’t lying. After all, it wasn’t easy for ministers to see him. Given their ranks, they indeed didn’t have the qualifications to meet the emperor.

As soon as Xu Chun opened his mouth, he felt a cool, fragrant pill dissolve in his mouth. The coolness and sweetness refreshed his senses, and even the slight discomfort in his chest became clearer. He asked, “What is this?”

Xie Yi replied, “I heard you suffered from heatstroke. This is a fragrant snow pill to relieve the heat.”

Xu Chun savored the taste, feeling a chill emanating from every pore, as if entering a snowy mountain. His entire body felt refreshed. “It’s really good. Jiu Ge, tell me about the three scholars. What are they like?”

Xie Yi carefully observed Xu Chun’s face and eyes, checking if he still showed signs of illness. “Why ask about them? They aren’t important people.”

Xu Chun said, “I’m not good at judging people. I need Jiu Ge to help me evaluate them, so I don’t make bad friends.”

Xie Yi was pleased by his flattery. After some thought, he said, “Zhang Wenzheng loves literature. He’s a dandy, not yet engaged in politics. If he continues to focus solely on writing, he won’t achieve greatness. Remember, great talent often leads to misfortune. He has had things too easy. All he does is write poems about peace and harmony, serving as a local governor, teaching and guiding the people. In short, unless he changes, he’ll remain an average scholar, neither accomplishing nor failing spectacularly. At most, he’ll be like Dong Qichang and others, becoming a connoisseur of calligraphy and painting.”

Xu Chun vaguely recalled, “Dong Qichang later offended the locals and incurred the wrath of the people. His reputation was ruined, and all his calligraphy and paintings were destroyed. It seems he didn’t have a good ending.”

Xie Yi said, “Yes, Zhang Wenzheng doesn’t hold back when speaking. He often causes disputes. His behavior as a famous scholar, carefree and unconstrained, will undoubtedly lead to many enemies. If he can change and be kinder to others, it won’t end that way.”

“As for Fan Mukun, he craves fame. If he continues to pursue it relentlessly, he’ll probably stop short of reaching the highest ranks. Li Meiyai, on the other hand, although he also desires fame, puts family ties aside, taking the path of a solitary official.”

“He’s soft-hearted and easily influenced, unable to control his subordinates. However, his expertise in scholarship will allow him to write and publish books, making him a renowned Confucian scholar. His senses are highly developed, but he’s plagued by too many distractions. A family tragedy early in life left him depressed and disillusioned, which sharpened his character. If given the opportunity to gain insight into his true nature, he won’t become a great Confucian scholar but a famous monk instead.”

Xu Chun was captivated by Xie Yi’s analysis and pressed further. “What about He Zhizhou?”

Xie Yi replied, “Although He Zhizhou comes from a poor background, his memory is incredibly strong. He remembers everything he reads, and he knows criminal law inside out. Due to his humble origins, he’s well-versed in worldly affairs. After several years of training at the Dali Temple, he has the potential to become a distinguished legal expert.”

Xu Chun’s eyes widened. “So he’ll be a clean official like Di Renjie and Bao Longtu, fighting for justice and solving cases like a god?”

Xie Yi chuckled. “The line between a clean official and a ruthless one is thin. Investigating crimes and solving cases requires a clear understanding of human nature. Ordinary people can’t fathom the thoughts of villains and thieves. Officials with overly high moral standards can’t interrogate them either. You must fight fire with fire.”

Xu Chun didn’t quite understand but sensed a hint of disdain in Xie Yi’s tone toward He Zhizhou. He asked, “Does Jiu Ge mean that He Zhuangyuan’s character…has flaws?”

Xie Yi stroked his hair, thinking that Xu Chun could remember banned books in the vast sea of books in the publishing house just by casually flipping through them. He could also quickly use legal provisions to eliminate hidden dangers and divert trouble elsewhere. These tactics weren’t just minor flaws; they were ruthless and cunning. But his abilities were indeed commendable.

Nowadays, officials almost exclusively focused on Confucian classics and poetry, neglecting legal texts. They were unfamiliar with the lives of the common people and lacked political experience, relying heavily on legal experts. He Zhizhou, who struggled from the bottom, was a prodigy in this regard. With his poor background, he fought his way through the iron walls of bureaucracy. At the Dali Temple and the Ministry of Punishments, there were numerous pending cases. Within a few months of his arrival at the Dali Temple, He Zhizhou diligently handled half of them. He was indeed a sharp tool.

Xie Yi patiently explained, “Criminal law, finances, and paperwork are crucial areas that local administrators cannot ignore. Some scions of prominent families, who inherited their positions, bring along three legal experts when they arrive at their posts. Each handles one of these three areas, and they usually do quite well. However, this also breeds a group of cunning bureaucrats, making them vulnerable to manipulation by their subordinates.”

“If He Zhizhou has talent in criminal law, you, on the other hand, have natural abilities in economics. Don’t belittle yourself.”

Xu Chun suddenly remembered the wall construction project. Since Jiu Ge had approved it and allowed the capital’s governor to proceed as planned, it seemed he recognized Xu Chun’s capabilities as well?

His eyes sparkled, and he hugged Xie Yi’s arm, leaning heavily against him. “Jiu Ge, hearing you say that makes me so happy.”

Xie Yi smiled. “You come from a noble family. Your ancestors were military men, and your family has dwindled. There’s no need to compare yourself to them.”

Xu Chun muttered, “But that doesn’t necessarily mean I inherited their military prowess and became a talented general.”

Xie Yi laughed. “Speaking of military talent, your cousins are handsome and brave, deep and resolute. They have the makings of excellent generals.”

Xu Chun felt a twinge of jealousy, rubbing Xie Yi’s robe sleeve. He asked Xie Yi, “From what Jiu Ge is implying, have you met my cousins?”

Xie Yi replied, “Fang Zixing hosted them for a few days. Since you weren’t around, I didn’t bother to socialize with them. I caught a glimpse of them from afar. They all looked heroic and impressive, young heroes.”

Xu Chun didn’t realize that the phrase “deep and resolute” actually referred to Sheng Changzhou. He was worried that delving deeper into this topic would remind him of Fang Zixing. He didn’t want to accidentally reveal his secret, so he quickly changed the subject.

“By the way, what about Prince Shun’s heir, Xie Fei? What does Jiu Ge think of him?” Xu Chun found it fascinating how Jiu Ge’s evaluations of people hit the mark. “Today, I heard Zhang Wenzheng praise him as a dragon among snakes and a phoenix among chickens, highly favored by the emperor and entrusted with various tasks.”

Xie Yi, however, asked, “Why are you bringing up Xie Fei again? Did he visit the Duke Jingguo’s mansion today as well?”

Xu Chun chuckled. “Yeah, he said he took advantage of the day off. He went to find He Zhuangyuan first, then came here. Next, he went to see Fan Mukun to go fishing but ended up here again. So, he spent the whole afternoon with me. Today, he even wrote a poem and painted a picture for me.”

Xie Yi chuckled.

Xu Chun shook his arm. “Tell me, Jiu Ge.”

Xie Yi said, “Ambitious but lacking in talent, famous but lacking in wisdom, with decent integrity. He associates with celebrities and enjoys painting and calligraphy, but it’s all for the sake of power. Letting him indulge in tea-tasting, meeting friends, and appreciating paintings is a waste of time. If he wants to do something, it’s better to entrust him with detailed tasks, so he doesn’t squander his country’s resources in vain.”

Xu Chun had gained some understanding of Jiu Ge’s temperament as an emperor over the past few days. Now, he understood that Xie Yi was annoyed that Xie Fei wasted time chasing fame and eating the country’s salary. Since Xie Fei wanted to work, Jiu Ge assigned him trivial tasks related to the imperial clan and the Guanglu Temple. Indeed, Xie Fei was more than willing to accept these tasks, showing them off everywhere. Xu Chun couldn’t help covering his mouth and laughing quietly. Jiu Ge was truly mischievous. But he was also magnanimous. If it were another royal family in the past, they would have been suspicious of the imperial clan’s pursuit of fame. Only Jiu Ge didn’t mind at all. He simply put them to work, setting up a web of fame and profit, waiting for everyone to eagerly vie for the emperor’s favor, unaware that they were all falling into Jiu Ge’s trap and doing his bidding.

Xie Yi looked down at Xu Chun’s smile and felt pleased. “What are you laughing about?”

Xu Chun said, “Jiu Ge doesn’t seem to demand perfection in people’s character.” Clearly, Xie Yi didn’t think much of He Zhizhou’s character. He had suddenly demoted He Zhizhou that day, and his impression of him remained negative. There must have been a reason. Xu Chun wondered what incident involving He Zhuangyuan had landed in Jiu Ge’s hands. Now, He Zhizhou was walking on eggshells, but Jiu Ge had placed him at the Dali Temple, giving him a chance to correct his ways and serve. He Zhizhou, having been stripped of his title as Zhuangyuan right after winning it, was given a glimmer of hope and could only fight for survival. He worked tirelessly—indeed, Jiu Ge was skilled at controlling people. Was this the art of an emperor?

Xie Yi said, “When water is too clear, there are no fish. To deal with the cunning ruffians and wealthy gentry in the regions, capable officials are needed. As you’ve said, honest officials don’t receive any benefits, and their subordinates don’t help them with their work. If we demand perfection, perhaps we’d have to arrest all the officials in the court, and few would be innocent. Throughout history, how many upright and capable officials have there been? In the past, emperors flayed the skin of corrupt officials and stuffed it with grass, executing countless officials, but they couldn’t stop corruption. It seems only an emperor with divine insight can put an end to it.”

“Bai Juyi wrote in a poem: ‘To test a jade, you must burn it for three days; to discern a tree’s quality, you must wait seven years. When Duke Zhou was fearful of rumors, Wang Mang was humble before usurping the throne. Had they died early, who would have known their true nature?'” Even after death, one’s reputation might not be settled, as history books are often embellished and altered. Some people are heroes in times of turmoil but villains in times of peace. How many wise emperors have turned into tyrants in their old age? Who dares say they won’t change in their lifetime? It’s unnecessary to be too demanding of others. Just place them in suitable positions and let them do their jobs.

Xu Chun held his hand and whispered, “Jiu Ge once said that a lifelong friend is enough.”

Xie Yi laughed. “That’s exactly what I meant. You and I are the ones who share a life-long bond, growing old together. There’s no need to worry about those irrelevant people.”

Xu Chun was taken aback. He didn’t expect Jiu Ge to casually utter such heart-stirring words, making him appear frivolous and casual. A lifelong commitment was no easy feat.

Xie Yi noticed Xu Chun’s expression and chuckled. “What’s wrong? Are you still uncomfortable?”

Xu Chun said, “No, I was wondering, Jiu Ge, how do you see me?”

Without hesitation, Xie Yi replied, “Didn’t I say it before? You’re born with beauty and virtue, pure and wise, generous with a sense of justice, possessing economic talent and the ability of a prime minister. If you undergo some trials and tribulations and have someone guide and support you, you’ll surely become a fine chancellor and virtuous minister.”

Xu Chun looked at him, his gaze uncertain. “Jiu Ge, you said this before.”

Xie Yi asked, “Hmm? What’s the difference?” He slowly stroked Xu Chun’s brows. “What are you troubled about? I’m here for you.”

Xu Chun leaned into his embrace, not wanting Xie Yi to see his expression, but his words remained light. “But after Jiu Ge and I were intimate that day, Jiu Ge agreed that I wouldn’t enter the court.”

Xie Yi wrapped his arm around him. “Mm, since you don’t wish to, it’s fine not to enter the court. The words ‘trial and tribulation’ sound simple, but they conceal countless hardships and pain. Why should you endure such suffering? Even I feel reluctant.”

“You made a valid point. Fame and fortune are like a furnace. Even lifelong friends may draw their swords against each other. It’s like riding a horse near a cliff; one must always rein in the reins. I often reflect on myself and still feel that I have a hundred desires and a thousand calculations, making me ugly. How much more so for you?”

“It’s better for you to live freely every day, idly wandering and doing whatever you like. If you want to do business, do business; if you want to go boating, go boating. If you can live like this, I’ll be happy too.”

Xu Chun felt a chill in his heart. He thought to himself, as expected, Jiu Ge had painstakingly nurtured him in the past, hoping he would become talented and useful, treating him like a strict teacher. Now, he loved and pampered him, complying with his wishes, but he didn’t want to teach him the hardships anymore.

However, Jiu Ge’s path was fraught with difficulties. He was always afraid of turning into a tyrant from a wise emperor. He talked about a hundred desires and a thousand calculations… It revealed how much he pondered daily.

With the vast expanse of the empire under his rule, countless decisions rested on his shoulders alone. Others saw him as decisive and wise, illuminating the world with his sagacity, knowing all without leaving his palace. But how could they know that he burned at both ends like a candle, working tirelessly day and night, handling every detail, accumulating fatigue and distress, and suffering from a deep melancholy.

Despite the abundance of resources and the admiration of the people, Jiu Ge strived to govern effectively. He utilized everyone, indicating that no one could assist him. He could only place them in suitable positions as best he could, but he refused to use Xu Chun.

Because Xu Chun hadn’t undergone trials and tribulations, he would never amount to anything. Jiu Ge didn’t even think highly of the three scholars, who were considered exceptional talents. If Xu Chun continued to live a carefree and pampered life, shielded from hardship and adversity, how could he keep up with Jiu Ge? Xu Chun wondered what verdict Jiu Ge would pass on him in the future. Would he be labeled a parasitic noble or a hollow shell?

He couldn’t resist hugging Xie Yi tightly. Xie Yi finally couldn’t help but laugh. “You’re still in mourning. Don’t tempt me. It’s hot enough. We’ve stuck together all night, and it’s still not enough?”

Xu Chun merely looked up at Xie Yi, his eyes brimming with tears. “Jiu Ge, let me help you.”

Xie Yi stroked his head. “There’s no need. I heard you were sick, so I came to see you. That’s not why I’m here.”

Xu Chun felt a little embarrassed. “Would Jiu Ge think I’m disrespectful?” But in his heart, he thought, I’ve wronged Jiu Ge.

Xie Yi said, “Let emotions arise but restrain them within the bounds of propriety. As the older one, I cannot corrupt you.” He lifted Xu Chun’s chin and leaned down to kiss him. They kissed passionately on the couch, their hearts stirring.

Xu Chun’s eyes were red at the corners, as if filled with tears. Xie Yi thought to himself that if he continued, he would act like a beast. He decided it was best to leave after ensuring Xu Chun was alright.

Xu Chun clung tightly to Xie Yi. “Then, Jiu Ge, spend the night with me.”

Xie Yi said, “This is quite a dilemma for me. In the past, Lady Virtue in the arms of Lu Xiaohui must not have possessed the beauty and wisdom of you. Therefore, she wasn’t tempted.”

Xu Chun’s ears turned slightly red. “Jiu Ge, it’s been too long since I’ve seen you. I can’t bear to part with Jiu Ge.”

Xie Yi sighed. “I’ll come see you in a few days.” His demeanor was extremely gentle.

Xu Chun remained silent, but the reluctance in his face was evident. Xie Yi had no choice but to say, “I’ll stay until you fall asleep, then I’ll leave.”

Xu Chun suddenly remembered something. He undid his shirt and showed Xie Yi the armlet. “Jiu Ge, this is what you gave me. I also have something to return to you.”

He fetched a bundle and untied it, smiling all the while. “I specifically chose the best pearls for Jiu Ge. The craftsmen worked on it for several months. Now that it’s hot, wearing it close to the skin feels refreshing.”

Xie Yi looked at the dazzling pearl robe Xu Chun presented and chuckled. “Thank you for your effort.”

Xu Chun grinned. “The armlet is like Jiu Ge holding my arm every day. When Jiu Ge wears this pearl robe, it’s like…” His face flushed, and he didn’t continue. Xie Yi knew he was shy and didn’t refuse. He accepted it and instructed Liu Shun to store it properly.

After they washed up, Xie Yi accompanied Xu Chun in bed. Outside the window, the bamboo shadows swayed gently, and all was quiet. Xu Chun snuggled tightly against him, closing his eyes to sleep peacefully, looking adorable.

Xie Yi gently touched Xu Chun’s armlet, feeling a sense of stability and contentment growing in his heart. It was as if the pure and natural youth in his arms had a thread connecting to his soul. But he didn’t feel restrained; he only felt safe and warm.

Born as an emperor, he had contemplated the consequences of not being an emperor. The conclusion was that not being an emperor would result in death. But now, he suddenly felt weary. He was already tired of dealing with tigers and wolves, of how fame and profit drove people to behave like beasts. If he could let go easily, he would love to sail the five lakes and four seas with his beloved.

Leaving the world was easier than entering it. “Evaluating the moon and wind is easy; going to the mountains and forests is light. Life is always burdensome; it’s better to have nothing to worry about.” If…he could choose a mature adult from the imperial clan, shed his identity like a cicada shedding its shell, rid himself of the burden of fame and profit, resign from the lofty halls of government, and leave with Xu Chun, sailing away on a small boat, drifting far from the hustle and bustle of the world. The sea and the moon, the river and the clouds, would all belong to them. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?

A fleeting desire in his heart grew stronger. He gently kissed the youth’s lips, and before he knew it, he fell into a peaceful sleep, unlike his previous struggles with insomnia.

When Xie Yi fell asleep, Xu Chun opened his eyes again. His eyes were deep and filled with longing as he gazed repeatedly at Xie Yi. He sighed deeply. Jiu Ge, Jiu Ge. The soul-stirring sorrow comes only from parting.

The next morning, when Xu Chun woke up, Xie Yi had already left. Although he knew that Jiu Ge had likely rushed back to attend court after staying with him, he felt somewhat apologetic. But he didn’t regret keeping Jiu Ge overnight.

He returned to the Duke Guogong’s residence, using the excuse that he had something to give his cousins. He first sought out his uncle and two cousins, frankly stating that he was bored with mourning in the capital and wanted to accompany the ships back to Minzhou to visit his maternal grandfather. In his heart, he had already decided to go only to Minzhou at first. Once there, he would propose sailing out to sea. His maternal grandfather had always indulged him. With a bit of effort, he believed his grandfather would agree.

Sheng Tongyu was quite surprised but didn’t say much. After all, getting to know his nephew better was always beneficial. He personally spoke to Lady Sheng about it. Lady Sheng was already heartbroken over her son’s suffering from the summer heat. She suspected that his illness was due to the suffocating atmosphere in the capital. Now that her son wanted to travel, she readily agreed. Naturally, she told outsiders that he was still in mourning at home but used Sheng Yulin’s name to maintain anonymity.

Sheng Tongyu instructed everyone below to refer to him as Fourth Young Master and not to publicize it. After discreetly arranging everything, Xu Chun chose a date to leave the capital.

Meanwhile, on that day, Fang Zixing returned from running errands outside. He received gifts delivered by Liu Shun. Upon opening them, he found precious white medicine and felt grateful. He also saw a note that read: My two cousins are grateful for your thoughtful hospitality. On the fourteenth, they have prepared a vegetarian banquet at Qianqiu Workshop to thank Brother Fang. No outsiders will be present. If you don’t mind our inauspicious state, we hope Brother Fang will honor us with your presence.

He was somewhat surprised but remembered that Prince Xu wasn’t like anyone else. He decided to go on that day.

On that day, Qianqiu Workshop was closed for business, and only Fang Zixing was welcomed. He was puzzled until Xu Chun appeared, grinning and bowing. “Brother Fang, I’m in mourning at home, and my inauspicious state hasn’t deterred you. Thank you for entertaining my two cousins. My cousins are about to leave the capital, and they’ve asked me to express their gratitude to Brother Fang.”

Fang Zixing wasn’t adept at socializing and awkwardly replied, “This was arranged by Ninth Highness. You should thank him.”

Xu Chun smiled. “Of course, I’ve thanked Jiu Ge, but I can’t just thank Jiu Ge and neglect Brother Fang.” While saying this, he personally poured Fang Zixing a cup of vegetarian wine and offered a toast. “I’ve always been taken care of by Brother Fang. Now, I have a favor to ask. Please drink this cup of wine, and then I’ll explain.”

Fang Zixing was surprised. “Whatever you need, just tell Ninth Highness. He’ll definitely grant it. Why are you asking me?”

Xu Chun grinned and kept offering the wine to Fang Zixing, who drank it. Then, Xu Chun said, “I know Brother Fang accompanies Jiu Ge, but Jiu Ge is stubborn. He never tells me about certain matters. You know, I have two businesses under my control: Qianqiu Workshop and Xianyun Workshop, including the Young Bird Fengtang printing shop. I won’t hide it from you; the profits from these two businesses are considered excellent, ranking among the best in the capital.”

Fang Zixing nodded. “I know that too.”

Xu Chun continued, “You see, I’m in mourning now, so I can’t take care of many things. I know Jiu Ge is busy with significant matters and might sometimes be short of funds. I want to introduce the managers of these businesses to Brother Fang. If Brother Fang encounters any difficulties in your daily life and needs money urgently, you can instruct my two managers. Or if there are any mundane matters you don’t want to handle yourself, you can also instruct them. They can arrange everything. I admire Brother Fang’s righteousness and generosity. I know Jiu Ge is somewhat aloof and will likely refuse, so I’m asking you, Brother Fang, to please accept this offer.”

Without waiting for Fang Zixing’s response, Xu Chun summoned Luo Yuzhou and Qing Qian, who bowed to Fang Zixing.

Fang Zixing was at a loss and stood up to return the bow. Xu Chun added, “Also, Doctor Zhou has been practicing medicine at the clinic. If Jiu Ge encounters situations like the previous one and urgently needs medical treatment, Brother Fang can also order them to find Doctor Zhou at any time. He’ll always be available.”

“In summary, these two managers will treat Brother Fang as they would treat me. I only hope that Brother Fang won’t decline this offer.”