At the same time, a confidential letter regarding the attempted assassination of Lin Huizhi found its way onto the Emperor's desk.
Emperor Changlong read the letter with a serious expression and remained silent. The eunuch serving him kept his head down, afraid of displeasing the Emperor.
The room fell into a deathly silence, with no one daring to break it.
Just then, footsteps could be heard approaching from outside the hall, light and brisk.
"Father Emperor," a voice called out, instantly putting the palace attendants at ease.
The young man who entered was dressed in luxurious garments, tall and handsome, with extraordinary looks. His presence seemed to illuminate the entire grand hall.
The palace attendants all bowed respectfully, "Greetings to Your Highness, the Crown Prince."
The Crown Prince walked up to the Emperor, looking somewhat lazy. He greeted Emperor Changlong with a nod, "Has someone in the court angered Your Majesty again?"
"No one can provoke as much trouble as you," Emperor Changlong remarked with disdain, placing the confidential letter aside and looking up at the Crown Prince, "Did you go to the establishment with your Eldest Brother yesterday?"
"Eldest Brother insisted on toasting Erchen1The term "Erchen" (儿臣) was commonly used by princes in ancient China when addressing themselves in the presence of their father, the Emperor. "Erchen" translates to "Your Son" or "Your Child" and was a humble and respectful way for the prince to refer to himself. It signified the prince's acknowledgment of his filial relationship to the Emperor and his subordinate position within the imperial family. in front of everyone. Erchen couldn't possibly let him lose face," the Crown Prince lazily took a seat on a chair, "If rumors of discord between us were to spread, it would only cause Your Majesty distress, wouldn't it?"
Emperor Changlong looked at his son, unimpressed by his lack of enthusiasm. He wanted to reprimand him, but hesitated and instead said, "Lin Huizhi encountered an assassination attempt at the Huanghuai relay station."
The Crown Prince observed Emperor Changlong, waiting for him to continue speaking.
"Fortunately, the situation took an unexpected turn, and he managed to escape unharmed."
"Oh," the Crown Prince lowered his eyelids, seemingly somewhat disappointed.
"From the way you look, it seems like you're still quite disappointed?" Emperor Changlong remarked.
"He always exaggerates his praises for Eldest Brother in front of Your Majesty and constantly points out Erchen's flaws. He even wants to drag Erchen down from the position of the Crown Prince and give Erchen's position to Eldest Brother," the Crown Prince slowly spoke, "As Father Emperor knows, Erchen may have no other flaws, but Erchen does hold grudges."
"If he truly dies, the trouble will be yours," Emperor Changlong sighed, "The entire court knows that you don't favor Lin Huizhi. If his death is suspicious, even if no one dares to say it, they will surely suspect you."
The Crown Prince chuckled lightly. He enjoyed the discomfort of those who disliked him but dared not speak up.
In his position, even if he did nothing, countless people would find fault with him.
Seeing his demeanor, Emperor Changlong knew that his son relied on his support and had never considered these issues, "You, oh you…"
As the father and son were conversing, a eunuch entered to seek permission and informed them that Consort Xian wished to see them.
Emperor Changlong had been considering marriage for his eldest son and allowed Consort Xian to enter. As she entered, he casually closed the confidential letter on the table.
"Your Majesty, greetings," Consort Xian, who was nearing forty but still had a striking appearance, bowed gracefully to Emperor Changlong, with a kind smile directed towards the Crown Prince.
Unfortunately, the Crown Prince did not sense her warmth. He merely arched his hand and leaned back in his chair, unmoving.
Consort Xian: "..."
This Crown Prince truly lacked tact. When she is discussing matters with His Majesty, anyone who understands the rules and is considerate would automatically take leave. But he, look at him -- not only does he not leave, he even set himself in a comfortable posture to sit in. Does he really not regard her highly?!
Noticing the earnest gaze of Consort Xian, the Crown Prince's eyelids flickered. But is he the kind of person who is good at understanding others?
No, he is not.
So he not only chose a comfortable sitting position but also had a palace servant bring him a cup of hot tea, wearing a smile that seemed to say: You can chat with His Majesty at your leisure; I just want to join in the fun.
Consort Xian took a deep breath and turned to Emperor Changlong, saying, "Your Majesty, Chenqie2In ancient China, the term "chenqie" (臣妾) was used by women, particularly consorts or concubines, to refer to themselves when speaking to the emperor. It is a humble and self-deprecating way of addressing oneself, emphasizing subservience and inferiority to the emperor. "Chenqie" can be translated as "your servant" or "your humble concubine" and is used to show respect and humility towards the emperor's authority. It reflects the hierarchical structure and etiquette observed in the imperial court during that time. came today to discuss Hao’er's marriage. Hao’er, this child, is always diligent and focused on self-improvement, but he neglects his own marriage. As elders, we can only worry about it more."
"He is already twenty-one this year, and indeed, the marriage matter cannot be further delayed," Emperor Changlong nodded. "Minghao is skilled in martial arts and enjoys military strategy. How about finding a Wangfei 3"Wángfēi" (王妃)- refers to Princess Consort, the main wife of a Prince. who shares his interests?"
"Your Majesty, what do you mean?" Consort Xian showed no signs of joy on her face.
"The Grand General has a beloved daughter, who is outstanding in appearance and is of marriageable age. She would be a suitable match for Minghao. If you have no objections, Zhen4In ancient China, the term "zhen" (朕) was used by the emperor to refer to himself in the first person. It was a unique pronoun reserved exclusively for the emperor and denoted his supreme status and authority. The term "zhen" was used to signify the imperial presence and to differentiate the emperor from ordinary individuals. It can be translated as "I" or "we" in English, but it carries a specific regal connotation. Using "zhen" allowed the emperor to assert his sovereignty and establish his role as the ruler of the empire. will propose this marriage to the Grand General."
Upon hearing this, Consort Xian's heart trembled. Indeed, Emperor Changlong had such thoughts. Given the Grand General's current status, marrying his daughter would be a good thing, but...
In history, how many renowned generals have been suspected by their emperors? Especially someone like Hua Yingting, who could easily become implicated in a catastrophe. Emperor Changlong was in his prime and undoubtedly had reservations about the Hua family. Otherwise, why would he want a daughter of the Hua family to become a Wangfei?
Marrying the Hua family's daughter would only bring temporary glory. In the long run, it would be disadvantageous. Once Emperor Changlong becomes increasingly dissatisfied with the Hua family, he would also develop a deep aversion towards the son who married the Hua family's daughter.
The familial affection in the Imperial household was so cold and thin.
"Your Majesty, the daughter of the Hua family is undoubtedly an exceptional choice," Consort Xian said with a forced smile, "However, Hao’er's temperament is too rigid. If he marries a daughter from a military family, Chenqie is afraid they will clash in the future. It would be better to choose a woman who is knowledgeable, reasonable, and gentle. Their personalities can complement each other, resulting in a harmonious union."
Upon hearing Consort Xian's rejection, Emperor Changlong glanced deeply at her, making her feel uneasy. Only then did he retract his gaze and calmly said, "In that case, I will follow your wishes..."
"Father Emperor, Erchen won't further disturb your conversation with Consort Xian. Erchen will take leave," the Crown Prince yawned as he lazily stood up. After bowing to the Emperor, he prepared to leave.
"Wait," Emperor Changlong called out to him, "It's cold outside. Put on Zhen's cloak before you go."
The Chief Eunuch held the cloak and personally helped the Crown Prince put it on before seeing him out of the hall.
"Your Highness, take care," Zhao Sancai, the Chief Eunuch, watched the Crown Prince walk away. Only after the Crown Prince's carriage was no longer visible did he brush off the snow from his body and change into a clean pair of shoes before returning to the inner hall to attend to his duties.
After Consort Xian left, Emperor Changlong asked Zhao Sancai, "Did the Crown Prince mention any needs or wants before he left?"
Shaking his head, Zhao Sancai replied, "Before His Highness left, he only expressed to take good care of His Majesty and did not mention anything else."
"Yesterday, Zhen bestowed many gifts upon Ying Wang5Wang, in this case, translates to Prince of First Rank on the establishment of his mansion..." Emperor Changlong contemplated for a while, "Ying Wang has some things that the Crown Prince doesn't have. Wouldn't it be seen as favoritism?"
"Go to Zhen's private vault and pick some things that the Crown Prince would like, and dispatch them to him," Emperor Changlong thought for a moment, "Also, select a few of the imperial horses that were recently presented as a tribute and send them to the Eastern Palace6The Crown Prince's estate."
"Yes," Zhao Sancai smiled and withdrew.
As the Crown Prince left the Chenyang Palace, he encountered his Eldest Brother, Ying Wang. The Crown Prince, who was sitting in a carriage, lazily nodded his head in greeting.
Ying Wang got off his horse with a stern face and returned the greeting.
The Crown Prince, being the heir to the throne, displayed a level of etiquette that the other Princes couldn't match.
"I wonder where the Crown Prince is coming from?" Ying Wang asked with a half-smiling face.
The Crown Prince raised an eyebrow and casually adjusted his sleeve, "I went to sit with Father Emperor for a while."
Ying Wang forced a smile and suddenly said, "Yesterday, the Crown Prince took a liking to the steeds at my residence. I should have graciously offered them, but those horses were bestowed by Father Emperor, so I couldn't easily give them away to others."
"Oh?" The Crown Prince drawled, "If you hadn't mentioned it, I would have forgotten."
He raised an eyebrow and looked at the expression on Ying Wang's face, "No matter, I actually prefer horses with a purer color. The tails of your horses are a bit mixed. If it were really sent to the Eastern Palace, it would be overshadowed by the other superior horses."
Ying Wang took a deep breath, reminding himself not to get angry, "Crown Prince, the horses bestowed by Father Emperor are exceptional steeds from a thousand miles away. What does it matter if there are a few strands of mixed-colored hair on their tails?"
The Crown Prince's gaze fell upon the face of Ying Wang, and after a moment, he said calmly, "Perhaps it's because I judge both people and horses based on their appearances."
Ying Wang: "..."
When the Crown Prince mentioned judging people by their appearances, he stared at Ying Wang's face. Despicable Crown Prince, what did he mean by that?!
Within two days, many officials in the capital city learned about the Emperor giving several tribute horses to the Crown Prince. It caused a lot of discussion and sympathy. Among the Imperial Princes, the Emperor was most fond of the Crown Prince.
After all, the Crown Prince had been raised by the Emperor himself, and their relationship was different from that of the other Princes.
When the Crown Prince was young, he was weak and frail. A knowledgeable person had said that the Crown Prince had a peculiar fate, ordinary people wouldn't be able to raise him. The Emperor thought that if ordinary people couldn't raise him, as the true dragon, the Emperor, he naturally wasn't an ordinary person, so he decided to personally raise him.
Coincidentally, after the Crown Prince was brought to the Emperor's palace, he quickly grew healthier and was able to eat, run, and jump. His physical health improved significantly.
It was because of this that the Crown Prince lived in the Chenyang Palace under the Emperor's care until the age of twelve, before moving to the Eastern Palace.
History proved that the previous Crown Princes who had received such favoritism from the Emperors were ultimately exiled to a cold and harsh place by the Emperors who had loved them, and they couldn't return to the capital until their death.
One wondered if the fate of this Crown Prince would turn out better?
When the Hua siblings arrived in the capital city, it was already half a month later. As soon as they entered the city gates, they heard the sound of horses' hooves, occasionally accompanied by the screams of passersby.
Hua Liuli lifted the curtain of the carriage and looked outside. Several well-dressed young nobles were riding on horseback, paying no attention to the terrified onlookers.
These young nobles, full of spirit, were galloping on the street, about to go to a restaurant for a drink, but they were intercepted by several armored soldiers.
"Who do you think you are, daring to block the way of this Young Master?"
"Gentlemen, according to the laws of Great Jin, riding horses in the busy streets is prohibited. Our Young Miss is delicate and can't withstand being startled. She is now almost fainting from the sound of your horses' hooves. You should give us an explanation." The soldiers' eyes were intense, gripping their sword hilts, indicating that they wouldn't let them go without a clear explanation.
"What?" The young nobles looked at the horse carriage, which was still dozens of steps away from them. Frightened? Almost fainting?
Were they intentionally picking a fight?
Before they could voice their doubts, a commotion came from the carriage. Several maidservants were running back and forth, seemingly discussing something about "medicine", "young miss", and "physician".
Could it be that the Young Lady was genuinely frightened to the point of falling ill?
In the capital city, which family's Young Lady was so delicate and frail?
If something really happened, would they be beaten to death when they returned home?
At the same time, a confidential letter regarding the attempted assassination of Lin Huizhi found its way onto the Emperor's desk.
Emperor Changlong read the letter with a serious expression and remained silent. The eunuch serving him kept his head down, afraid of displeasing the Emperor.
The room fell into a deathly silence, with no one daring to break it.
Just then, footsteps could be heard approaching from outside the hall, light and brisk.
"Father Emperor," a voice called out, instantly putting the palace attendants at ease.
The young man who entered was dressed in luxurious garments, tall and handsome, with extraordinary looks. His presence seemed to illuminate the entire grand hall.
The palace attendants all bowed respectfully, "Greetings to Your Highness, the Crown Prince."
The Crown Prince walked up to the Emperor, looking somewhat lazy. He greeted Emperor Changlong with a nod, "Has someone in the court angered Your Majesty again?"
"No one can provoke as much trouble as you," Emperor Changlong remarked with disdain, placing the confidential letter aside and looking up at the Crown Prince, "Did you go to the establishment with your Eldest Brother yesterday?"
"Eldest Brother insisted on toasting Erchen1The term "Erchen" (儿臣) was commonly used by princes in ancient China when addressing themselves in the presence of their father, the Emperor. "Erchen" translates to "Your Son" or "Your Child" and was a humble and respectful way for the prince to refer to himself. It signified the prince's acknowledgment of his filial relationship to the Emperor and his subordinate position within the imperial family. in front of everyone. Erchen couldn't possibly let him lose face," the Crown Prince lazily took a seat on a chair, "If rumors of discord between us were to spread, it would only cause Your Majesty distress, wouldn't it?"
Emperor Changlong looked at his son, unimpressed by his lack of enthusiasm. He wanted to reprimand him, but hesitated and instead said, "Lin Huizhi encountered an assassination attempt at the Huanghuai relay station."
The Crown Prince observed Emperor Changlong, waiting for him to continue speaking.
"Fortunately, the situation took an unexpected turn, and he managed to escape unharmed."
"Oh," the Crown Prince lowered his eyelids, seemingly somewhat disappointed.
"From the way you look, it seems like you're still quite disappointed?" Emperor Changlong remarked.
"He always exaggerates his praises for Eldest Brother in front of Your Majesty and constantly points out Erchen's flaws. He even wants to drag Erchen down from the position of the Crown Prince and give Erchen's position to Eldest Brother," the Crown Prince slowly spoke, "As Father Emperor knows, Erchen may have no other flaws, but Erchen does hold grudges."
"If he truly dies, the trouble will be yours," Emperor Changlong sighed, "The entire court knows that you don't favor Lin Huizhi. If his death is suspicious, even if no one dares to say it, they will surely suspect you."
The Crown Prince chuckled lightly. He enjoyed the discomfort of those who disliked him but dared not speak up.
In his position, even if he did nothing, countless people would find fault with him.
Seeing his demeanor, Emperor Changlong knew that his son relied on his support and had never considered these issues, "You, oh you…"
As the father and son were conversing, a eunuch entered to seek permission and informed them that Consort Xian wished to see them.
Emperor Changlong had been considering marriage for his eldest son and allowed Consort Xian to enter. As she entered, he casually closed the confidential letter on the table.
"Your Majesty, greetings," Consort Xian, who was nearing forty but still had a striking appearance, bowed gracefully to Emperor Changlong, with a kind smile directed towards the Crown Prince.
Unfortunately, the Crown Prince did not sense her warmth. He merely arched his hand and leaned back in his chair, unmoving.
Consort Xian: "..."
This Crown Prince truly lacked tact. When she is discussing matters with His Majesty, anyone who understands the rules and is considerate would automatically take leave. But he, look at him -- not only does he not leave, he even set himself in a comfortable posture to sit in. Does he really not regard her highly?!
Noticing the earnest gaze of Consort Xian, the Crown Prince's eyelids flickered. But is he the kind of person who is good at understanding others?
No, he is not.
So he not only chose a comfortable sitting position but also had a palace servant bring him a cup of hot tea, wearing a smile that seemed to say: You can chat with His Majesty at your leisure; I just want to join in the fun.
Consort Xian took a deep breath and turned to Emperor Changlong, saying, "Your Majesty, Chenqie2In ancient China, the term "chenqie" (臣妾) was used by women, particularly consorts or concubines, to refer to themselves when speaking to the emperor. It is a humble and self-deprecating way of addressing oneself, emphasizing subservience and inferiority to the emperor. "Chenqie" can be translated as "your servant" or "your humble concubine" and is used to show respect and humility towards the emperor's authority. It reflects the hierarchical structure and etiquette observed in the imperial court during that time. came today to discuss Hao’er's marriage. Hao’er, this child, is always diligent and focused on self-improvement, but he neglects his own marriage. As elders, we can only worry about it more."
"He is already twenty-one this year, and indeed, the marriage matter cannot be further delayed," Emperor Changlong nodded. "Minghao is skilled in martial arts and enjoys military strategy. How about finding a Wangfei 3"Wángfēi" (王妃)- refers to Princess Consort, the main wife of a Prince. who shares his interests?"
"Your Majesty, what do you mean?" Consort Xian showed no signs of joy on her face.
"The Grand General has a beloved daughter, who is outstanding in appearance and is of marriageable age. She would be a suitable match for Minghao. If you have no objections, Zhen4In ancient China, the term "zhen" (朕) was used by the emperor to refer to himself in the first person. It was a unique pronoun reserved exclusively for the emperor and denoted his supreme status and authority. The term "zhen" was used to signify the imperial presence and to differentiate the emperor from ordinary individuals. It can be translated as "I" or "we" in English, but it carries a specific regal connotation. Using "zhen" allowed the emperor to assert his sovereignty and establish his role as the ruler of the empire. will propose this marriage to the Grand General."
Upon hearing this, Consort Xian's heart trembled. Indeed, Emperor Changlong had such thoughts. Given the Grand General's current status, marrying his daughter would be a good thing, but...
In history, how many renowned generals have been suspected by their emperors? Especially someone like Hua Yingting, who could easily become implicated in a catastrophe. Emperor Changlong was in his prime and undoubtedly had reservations about the Hua family. Otherwise, why would he want a daughter of the Hua family to become a Wangfei?
Marrying the Hua family's daughter would only bring temporary glory. In the long run, it would be disadvantageous. Once Emperor Changlong becomes increasingly dissatisfied with the Hua family, he would also develop a deep aversion towards the son who married the Hua family's daughter.
The familial affection in the Imperial household was so cold and thin.
"Your Majesty, the daughter of the Hua family is undoubtedly an exceptional choice," Consort Xian said with a forced smile, "However, Hao’er's temperament is too rigid. If he marries a daughter from a military family, Chenqie is afraid they will clash in the future. It would be better to choose a woman who is knowledgeable, reasonable, and gentle. Their personalities can complement each other, resulting in a harmonious union."
Upon hearing Consort Xian's rejection, Emperor Changlong glanced deeply at her, making her feel uneasy. Only then did he retract his gaze and calmly said, "In that case, I will follow your wishes..."
"Father Emperor, Erchen won't further disturb your conversation with Consort Xian. Erchen will take leave," the Crown Prince yawned as he lazily stood up. After bowing to the Emperor, he prepared to leave.
"Wait," Emperor Changlong called out to him, "It's cold outside. Put on Zhen's cloak before you go."
The Chief Eunuch held the cloak and personally helped the Crown Prince put it on before seeing him out of the hall.
"Your Highness, take care," Zhao Sancai, the Chief Eunuch, watched the Crown Prince walk away. Only after the Crown Prince's carriage was no longer visible did he brush off the snow from his body and change into a clean pair of shoes before returning to the inner hall to attend to his duties.
After Consort Xian left, Emperor Changlong asked Zhao Sancai, "Did the Crown Prince mention any needs or wants before he left?"
Shaking his head, Zhao Sancai replied, "Before His Highness left, he only expressed to take good care of His Majesty and did not mention anything else."
"Yesterday, Zhen bestowed many gifts upon Ying Wang5Wang, in this case, translates to Prince of First Rank on the establishment of his mansion..." Emperor Changlong contemplated for a while, "Ying Wang has some things that the Crown Prince doesn't have. Wouldn't it be seen as favoritism?"
"Go to Zhen's private vault and pick some things that the Crown Prince would like, and dispatch them to him," Emperor Changlong thought for a moment, "Also, select a few of the imperial horses that were recently presented as a tribute and send them to the Eastern Palace6The Crown Prince's estate."
"Yes," Zhao Sancai smiled and withdrew.
As the Crown Prince left the Chenyang Palace, he encountered his Eldest Brother, Ying Wang. The Crown Prince, who was sitting in a carriage, lazily nodded his head in greeting.
Ying Wang got off his horse with a stern face and returned the greeting.
The Crown Prince, being the heir to the throne, displayed a level of etiquette that the other Princes couldn't match.
"I wonder where the Crown Prince is coming from?" Ying Wang asked with a half-smiling face.
The Crown Prince raised an eyebrow and casually adjusted his sleeve, "I went to sit with Father Emperor for a while."
Ying Wang forced a smile and suddenly said, "Yesterday, the Crown Prince took a liking to the steeds at my residence. I should have graciously offered them, but those horses were bestowed by Father Emperor, so I couldn't easily give them away to others."
"Oh?" The Crown Prince drawled, "If you hadn't mentioned it, I would have forgotten."
He raised an eyebrow and looked at the expression on Ying Wang's face, "No matter, I actually prefer horses with a purer color. The tails of your horses are a bit mixed. If it were really sent to the Eastern Palace, it would be overshadowed by the other superior horses."
Ying Wang took a deep breath, reminding himself not to get angry, "Crown Prince, the horses bestowed by Father Emperor are exceptional steeds from a thousand miles away. What does it matter if there are a few strands of mixed-colored hair on their tails?"
The Crown Prince's gaze fell upon the face of Ying Wang, and after a moment, he said calmly, "Perhaps it's because I judge both people and horses based on their appearances."
Ying Wang: "..."
When the Crown Prince mentioned judging people by their appearances, he stared at Ying Wang's face. Despicable Crown Prince, what did he mean by that?!
Within two days, many officials in the capital city learned about the Emperor giving several tribute horses to the Crown Prince. It caused a lot of discussion and sympathy. Among the Imperial Princes, the Emperor was most fond of the Crown Prince.
After all, the Crown Prince had been raised by the Emperor himself, and their relationship was different from that of the other Princes.
When the Crown Prince was young, he was weak and frail. A knowledgeable person had said that the Crown Prince had a peculiar fate, ordinary people wouldn't be able to raise him. The Emperor thought that if ordinary people couldn't raise him, as the true dragon, the Emperor, he naturally wasn't an ordinary person, so he decided to personally raise him.
Coincidentally, after the Crown Prince was brought to the Emperor's palace, he quickly grew healthier and was able to eat, run, and jump. His physical health improved significantly.
It was because of this that the Crown Prince lived in the Chenyang Palace under the Emperor's care until the age of twelve, before moving to the Eastern Palace.
History proved that the previous Crown Princes who had received such favoritism from the Emperors were ultimately exiled to a cold and harsh place by the Emperors who had loved them, and they couldn't return to the capital until their death.
One wondered if the fate of this Crown Prince would turn out better?
When the Hua siblings arrived in the capital city, it was already half a month later. As soon as they entered the city gates, they heard the sound of horses' hooves, occasionally accompanied by the screams of passersby.
Hua Liuli lifted the curtain of the carriage and looked outside. Several well-dressed young nobles were riding on horseback, paying no attention to the terrified onlookers.
These young nobles, full of spirit, were galloping on the street, about to go to a restaurant for a drink, but they were intercepted by several armored soldiers.
"Who do you think you are, daring to block the way of this Young Master?"
"Gentlemen, according to the laws of Great Jin, riding horses in the busy streets is prohibited. Our Young Miss is delicate and can't withstand being startled. She is now almost fainting from the sound of your horses' hooves. You should give us an explanation." The soldiers' eyes were intense, gripping their sword hilts, indicating that they wouldn't let them go without a clear explanation.
"What?" The young nobles looked at the horse carriage, which was still dozens of steps away from them. Frightened? Almost fainting?
Were they intentionally picking a fight?
Before they could voice their doubts, a commotion came from the carriage. Several maidservants were running back and forth, seemingly discussing something about "medicine", "young miss", and "physician".
Could it be that the Young Lady was genuinely frightened to the point of falling ill?
In the capital city, which family's Young Lady was so delicate and frail?
If something really happened, would they be beaten to death when they returned home?
