During the change of seasons every year, the Palace Department would provide the appropriate clothing and accessories to the consorts and concubines in the imperial harem, but there were quotas for these items. Those with some status in the palace would not rely on these limited provisions to make a living.
Emperor Changlong was not stingy. During this time, he would also give many pieces of jewelry as rewards to the consorts and concubines. The vast territory of Great Jin and its fertile land attracted many small countries to seek affiliation with Great Jin, and they would offer various tributes, including jewelry.
Among this year's jewelry, there were a few pieces that Consort Xian favored. She eagerly hoped that His Majesty would reward her with these items. However, days passed and she received nothing. Unable to wait any longer, she finally couldn't restrain herself and sent someone to inquire with the Chief Eunuch, Zhao Sancai.
"About those pieces of jewelry," Zhao Sancai smiled at the palace maid from the Lincui Palace, "The Crown Prince liked them a few days ago, so His Majesty allowed him to take them. May I ask why Consort Xian suddenly asked about such a trivial matter?"
The smile on the palace maid's face froze. Those items were kept in His Majesty's private treasury, and it was His Majesty's decision on whom to give them to. She quickly shook her head and said, "So that's how it is. Consort Xian was worried that those good items would lose their luster if left in the treasury without being used. It's great that the Crown Prince liked them."
Back at the Lincui Palace, the palace maid recounted the incident to Consort Xian.
"Why would the Crown Prince, as a man, need those accessories?" Consort Xian asked.
"Nubi heard that the Crown Prince intends to... accumulate wealth for his future bride," the palace maid replied.
"He is the Crown Prince, His Majesty has always favored him. Why would he need to accumulate wealth?" Consort Xian's face turned pale with anger. There was a small country known for its craftsmanship in making hairpins and accessories, Consort Xian particularly liked the jewelry that this small country offered as tribute. Yet the Crown Prince took away all the good items, clearly intentionally causing trouble for her.
"Your Highness, although the accessories you liked were taken by the Crown Prince, there is no need for you to be angry. Because the Crown Prince also took away the ones that were liked by the other consorts as well," the palace maid quickly added.
"Should Bengong thank him then for not showing favoritism?" Consort Xian asked the maid with a stern face.
"N-No, Nubi didn't mean that."
Consort Xian sneered. The Crown Prince hadn't even settled on a Crown Princess, yet His Majesty was already thinking of accumulating wealth for his marriage. Her son, the Eldest Imperial Prince, had already decided on a marriage with a young lady from the Lin family. Why wouldn't His Majesty provide some financial support for them?
Feeling dissatisfied, Consort Xian summoned a eunuch to bring Ying Wang into the palace, "How are things going with that girl from the Lin family?" she asked.
"How else could it be?" Ying Wang picked up a teacup and took a sip, speaking in a casual tone, "She wants to become Ying Wangfei, and I, as Ying Wang, need to marry a Wangfei. It's just a perfect match."
"Nonsense," Consort Xian couldn't help but speak up when she heard her son's indifferent tone, "Lin Wan is Lin Zhou's daughter. Lin Zhou has always been upright and incorruptible. How could his daughter be someone who desires wealth and status?"
Ying Wang didn't argue with Consort Xian and nodded, "Mother is right."
Seeing his indifferent attitude, Consort Xian continued, "Lin Wan is outstanding in both appearance and talent. Most importantly, she is the cousin of the Fourth Prince. Marrying her would bring the influence of the Fourth Prince to our side. For you, it is a hundred benefits and no harm."
Ying Wang kept his head down without speaking.
Consort Xian wanted to ask if he still had that girl from the Hua family, who would collapse at the slightest wind, in his mind. But she knew she shouldn't say such words, so she held back her anger and remained silent.
"Mother, I still need to go to the horse ranch this afternoon. If you have no other matters, I will take my leave," Ying Wang stood up, bowed to Consort Xian, and prepared to leave.
"Wait," Consort Xian took out a thin cloak from the room, "The weather has started to warm up these past two days, those thick cloaks are uncomfortable to wear. I made a cloak for you. Give it a try."
"Thank you, Mother," Ying Wang's eyes softened as he put on the cloak, "Leave the needlework to others; Mother shouldn't tire yourself."
"I know," Consort Xian helped Ying Wang tidy his clothes and praised, "My son was born noble and extraordinary. He is truly His Majesty's child."
Hearing the praise from his birth mother, Ying Wang suddenly felt confident in himself that he was hundreds of times more handsome than his other brothers.
Mothers couldn't help but have a biased gaze when looking at their own children.
After receiving a whole box of jewelry and accessories, Hua Liuli received another box of gifts from the Eastern Palace just two days later.
She opened the box and looked at the various jewelry inside, took a deep breath, and asked the attendants from the Eastern Palace, "How is His Royal Highness doing lately?"
"Thank you for Junzhu's concern. His Royal Highness has been doing well."
If everything was normal, why would they send her so many good things? The gold and silver jewelry she moved from Prince A'Wa's camp back then weren't as dazzling.
"I understand His Royal Highness's goodwill, but these things..."
"Please rest assured, Junzhu. His Royal Highness said before we came that these things are of no use to him. If you don't accept them, these precious jewels will only gather dust. The Flower Festival is approaching, and Junzhu, who is beautiful and charming, should not be without jewelry that matches you."
"Please thank His Royal Highness on my behalf," Upon further thought, since Prince A'Wa could bring so much gold and silver jewelry with him when he went out to war, perhaps these things might really be insignificant to the Crown Prince as the second most noble man in Great Jin.
"As long as Junzhu likes them," after the palace attendants finished delivering the gifts, without even taking a sip of tea, they hastily left.
Upon learning of this, Hua Yingting and Wei Mingyue didn't express any opinions and simply let Hua Liuli handle the jewelry herself. If she married in the future, she could use them as dowry. If she didn't want to marry, she could wear them herself for fun.
Hua Liuli got up early the next day and took a carriage to Wenqu Star Temple on the outskirts of the capital.
When she arrived, she found a long queue outside Wenqu Star Temple. Some scholars even brought books and water bags to secure a good spot.
Hua Liuli began to reflect on herself, realizing that compared to these devout scholars, she seemed lacking in sincerity.
As soon as she got off the carriage, she saw someone holding a sign that read "Five taels of silver to skip the queue" and couldn't help but whisper to Yuan Yi, who was supporting her, "Is there such a thing?"
"In the capital, many things can be flexible," Yuan Yi whispered, "But many scholars believe that queuing shows more sincerity. Besides, five taels of silver is too expensive, so few people would pay to skip the queue."
Hua Liuli glanced at the long line and then at the sign offering to skip the queue, without hesitation, she said, "Give the silver."
The people at Wenqu Star Temple knew that a wealthy person had arrived when they saw Hua Liuli stepping out of the carriage. After Yuan Yi paid the money, they enthusiastically led the Junzhu and her entourage into the temple.
Inside the temple, the temple attendant personally greeted them and led Hua Liuli forward to light incense and make a wish.
"Junzhu, the Spring Examination will begin the day after tomorrow. We can recite scriptures and pray for the candidates on the day of the examination, wishing them a favor from the Wenqu Star for outstanding performance."
"Oh?"
"However, when seeking the favor of the star deity, offerings are necessary. If Junzhu is interested, you only need to offer eighteen taels of silver as tribute to the Wenqu Star. The temple will be moved by Junzhu's sincerity and will willing to pray for your friends and family on that day."
Hua Liuli took out eighteen taels of silver and also bought some prayer lamps and prayer brushes. As she turned to leave, she came face to face with a girl wearing a lake-green dress.
She had a vague impression of this girl. She seemed to always follow behind Jiamin Junzhu. She was from the Yao family, what was her name again?
"Junzhu," Miss Yao walked over and greeted Hua Liuli with a curtsy. Her gaze fell on the prayer brush in Hua Liuli's hand and she smiled somewhat strangely, "Is Junzhu praying for Third Young Master Hua with this?"
Hua Liuli gave Miss Yao a gentle smile, "Is Miss Yao also here to pray for her family?"
"My Eldest Brother ranked among the top candidates in the Autumn Imperial Examination in the capital. This time, he is sure to be listed on the gold list," Miss Yao paused for a moment, "I heard that Qinghan Prefecture has harsh conditions and very few students. Third Young Master Hua, as the top scorer in the provincial examination of Qinghan, should also achieve fame on the gold list and bring glory to your family."
"But learning is not achieved in a day, last-minute efforts are self-deception," Miss Yao said with a gentle smile, "Junzhu, it would be best not to put too much faith in these things."
"Miss Yao makes a valid point, but I am not making last-minute efforts, I am embracing the favor of the Wenqu Star. What if the star deity sees my loyalty to the Hua family and is willing to bless my Third Brother?" Hua Liuli covered her lips and chuckled softly, "Miss Yao doesn't believe in these things, why did you come here?"
"You..." Miss Yao glared at Hua Liuli and turned around to leave in anger.
"Temple attendant, Miss Yao seems upset. Let me pay for her prayer on her behalf," Hua Liuli smiled warmly, "I wish Yao family's young gentleman great success and fame on the list."
"You are truly benevolent, Junzhu."
Miss Yao was so angry that she almost spat blood. She turned her head and saw Hua Liuli still looking with a gentle and kind smile.
Clearly, the other party hadn't said anything offensive, but at this moment, Miss Yao felt like she had already lost, though she wasn't clear about where she had lost.
"These girls in the capital are so adorable, even when they're angry," Hua Liuli said with a smile as she sat in the carriage, "Jiamin Junzhu and her friends are really fun."
"Junzhu, please restrain yourself. I'm afraid someone will corner you and curse at you." Yuan Yi smiled bitterly.
"If they dare to curse, I dare to faint," Hua Liuli lazily leaned against the carriage wall, "I have a weak constitution and can't handle being provoked."
Yuan Yi: "..."
On the day of the imperial examination, the Hua family woke up early. Hua Yingting draped a robe over Hua Changkong, "Your father has fought on the battlefield many times, encountering countless evil spirits and bad luck. By putting this robe on you, it can keep you away from misfortune."
"Right," Wei Mingyue tied up Hua Changkong's hair, "Mother is the most powerful female general in Great Jin. Having her do your hair is equivalent to receiving divine blessings."
Hua Changkong: "..."
His mother's narcissistic tendencies were beyond redemption.
"Third brother, don't pressure yourself," Hua Liuli handed Hua Changkong a bag containing exam materials, "In our family, we have two Marquises and a Junzhu. Even if you don't achieve a high rank in the exam, we can still take good care of you."
If he didn't study well, he would have to rely on them for a living?!
For a moment, Hua Changkong didn't know whether to be relaxed or nervous.
After the four of them left the house, Hua Liuli took out a small flag the size of a palm from her sleeve and inserted it into the carriage.
"Daughter, when did you make a small flag for the Hua family?" Hua Yingting looked at the swaying flag in the morning breeze with confusion, "What's the use of putting this thing here?"
"It symbolizes a victorious start," Hua Liuliu patted the horse pulling the carriage, "Horse, oh horse, you must bless my Third Brother to succeed."
"That makes sense. Our obedient daughter is really clever."
Hua Changkong, sitting in the carriage, remained silent.
He had a bunch of family members who never prayed or worshipped before, but now they sought gods and buddhas at the last minute. He felt helpless yet moved by their willingness to sacrifice principles for family.
No one could bear to destroy this kind of family affection.
The family accompanied Hua Changkong to the vicinity of the Imperial Academy. Hua Changkong looked at his family and said, "Father, Mother, Little Sister, I'm going in."
"En," Hua Liuli nodded. "No matter what, Third Brother is the best Third Brother."
Upon hearing this, Hua Changkong smiled and reached out to pat Hua Liuli's head, "Little sister is also the best little sister."
He bowed to his family, turned around, and walked towards the entrance of the Imperial Academy.
After Hua Changkong was confirmed by the gatekeeper to not have any cheating materials, the smiles on the faces of the three members of the Hua family disappeared.
"Father, Mother, I'm a bit nervous," Hua Liuli whispered, "I heard that there are candidates who go crazy halfway through the examination."
"Your Third Brother has been practicing martial arts since childhood, our family also didn't force him to achieve academic success. He shouldn't encounter such things," Hua Yingting said, somewhat unsure, as he turned to Wei Mingyue, "Wife, don't you think so?"
"En," Wei Mingyue nodded with a stern expression, appearing the calmest among the three. However, her clenched fist, unbeknownst to herself, betrayed her.
Outside the examination hall, it was crowded with people seeing off the candidates. The Prefect of Jingzhao was afraid of conflicts in the large crowd, so he sent arranged for a lot of yamen constables to guard the area. He was also worried that the yamen constables of Jingzhao Prefecture wouldn't be able to handle the crowd, so he borrowed some personnel from the Ministry of Justice.
To borrow personnel from the Ministry of Justice, the Prefect of Jingzhao squatted in front of the Minister of Justice's estate for three days. Zhang Shuo had been reluctant to cooperate until a few days ago when he accidentally dropped his hat and his bald head was seen by the Prefect. The Prefect's gaze was filled with pity, so Zhang Shuo unexpectedly agreed to his request.
The Spring Examination was held every three years, the candidates who came from all over the country were famous scholars in their local areas. The Prefect of Jingzhao didn't dare to be careless, so he and the yamen constables have been patrolling here since before dawn.
The first day they came to patrol, they saw Hua Yingting guarding outside the Imperial Academy.
The second day they came to patrol, they saw Hua Yingting carrying a small stool and sitting outside the Imperial Academy.
The third day they came to patrol, Hua Yingting came again, this time bringing food.
Cao Jinbo, the Minister of Revenue, encountered Hua Yingting several times and couldn't help but wonder why Hua Yingting had so much free time and was guarding the gate of the examination hall every day.
Upon further consideration, although Hua Yingting still retained the title of Grand General, he no longer had control over the military power in the capital and the surrounding counties. Being the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor was also just an honorary title. Unless summoned by the Emperor, he didn't need to attend court meetings on normal days.
With this in mind, Cao Jinbo's mood suddenly became complicated. A general who had achieved great military exploits could only idle away his time like those idle nobles in the capital?
He was about to approach Hua Yingting for a chat when he saw the curtain of the carriage next to Hua Yingting move and a fair and delicate hand lifted the curtain.
A young girl came out of the carriage. It was Fushou Junzhu. Cao Jinbo remembered his good friend Huizhi mentioning the Hua family's young girl several times in his recent letters. He said she was stubborn yet kind-hearted and a good girl.
After hesitating for a moment, he decided to approach and said, "Greetings to Grand General, Junzhu."
"What Grand General? Now that I've retired, you can just call me Old Hua," Hua Yingting stood up from the stool, handed the things in his hand to the servant, and introduced Hua Liuli, "Liuli, this is Cao Jinbo, the Minister of Revenue."
Looking at Hua Yingting's handsome face, Cao Jinbo, who was a few years older than him, felt a bit complicated. Hua Yingting referred to himself as an old man, so what was he?
"Minister Cao," Hua Liuli greeted politely.
"I wouldn't dare to accept the Junzhu's courtesy," Cao Jinbo hurriedly returned the greeting. Although Hua Liuli was younger, she held a title bestowed by the Emperor, while he, as a minister, held a different significance from a Junzhu.
"She's just a child, what's wrong with receiving her courtesy," Hua Yingting pointed at the closed gate of the Imperial Academy, "Minister Cao, what brings you here?"
Cao Jinbo chuckled. He had been patrolling here every day for the past three days, but Hua Yingting hadn't noticed at all? After explaining the reason, he couldn't help but take a few more glances at Hua Liuli.
The little girl was not talkative but well-mannered, without a hint of the arrogance of a Junzhu. How could Huizhi say that she was stubborn yet soft-hearted? She was clearly a likable and somewhat shy little girl.
After exchanging pleasantries with Hua Yingting, Cao Jinbo walked a distance away when his friend, who was on good terms with him, pulled him into a corner and whispered, "Why were you talking to Hua Yingting for so long at the entrance of the Imperial Academy?"
"What's wrong with that?" Cao Jinbo countered.
"Naturally, it's not right," his friend said, "Do you know that His Majesty originally intended to marry the Hua family's daughter to Ying Wang, but in the end, Ying Wang is betrothed to the daughter of the Lin family?"
Cao Jinbo frowned.
"His Majesty has long harbored suspicions about the Hua family. You talking and laughing with Hua Yingting at the entrance of the Imperial Academy, in full view of everyone, isn't it giving others an opportunity?" his friend worriedly said, "When His Majesty settles accounts with the Hua family, someone will surely use today's incident to accuse you."
Hearing this, Cao Jinbo felt a bit uneasy. The Hua family had been faithfully fulfilling their duties in guarding Great Jin for these years. Even when General Wei was carrying a baby in her womb, she led troops to the border. Now that the war had ended and no one dared to defy Great Jin's authority, the Hua family's position had become awkward.
A hero's life shouldn't be like this.
He turned his head to look at Hua Yingting waiting at the entrance of the Imperial Academy. He saw Hua Yingting's daughter holding a plate of freshly cut fruit and offering it to her father. This simple and affectionate scene made him feel a tinge of sadness.
"But I only seek... a clear conscience," Cao Jinbo said, "Thank you for reminding me, my friend. I understand."
"It's good that you understand," his friend sighed, "The Hua family... their glory may not last for many more years."
The Spring Examination had not yet ended, several candidates who had fainted were being carried out and hurriedly taken away for treatment by the attending physicians. Hua Liuli felt restless watching this and decided to step out for some fresh air.
Outside, there were many food stalls with various flavors mingling together, creating a lively atmosphere of smoke and fire. A few fake Taoists were sitting on the street corner, pretending to tell fortunes for the anxious family members that were accompanying the candidates.
Walking through the bustling alley, Hua Liuli encountered the girl from the Yao family again. The girl was holding a talisman that she had just obtained from the Taoist.
She claimed not to believe in praying to gods and Buddha, but she was quite active in seeking talismans privately.
Their eyes met in mid-air, with the steam from the street food swirling around, creating an indescribable awkward atmosphere.
At that moment, the girl from the Yao family couldn't see the sky, the ground, or the passing figures. She only saw a faint smile on Hua Liuli's face.
The girl felt that she was being mocked.
Her face flushed red, feeling extremely embarrassed.
"Are you alright?" Another person came out from behind her. Upon hearing the voice, Miss Yao's expression improved slightly.
"I'm fine, Young Lady Lin," Miss Yao smiled at Lin Wan and secretly hid the talisman in her sleeve. She looked up and bowed to Hua Liuli, "Greetings, Fushou Junzhu."
Only then did Lin Wan notice Hua Liuli standing opposite them and slightly bent her knees, "Greetings, Junzhu."
"You don't need to be so formal, both of you," Hua Liuli pretended not to notice the embarrassment of Miss Yao, "Are you two also seeking talismans for your older brothers at home?"
"Yes," Lin Wan didn't know what had happened between Miss Yao and Hua Liuli, so she spoke, "Someone said that the Taoist on Dong Street is very effective, so Miss Yao and I went together to get talismans."
"Oh..." Hua Liuli smiled at Miss Yao, deliberately drawing out her words, "Then I wish both of your older brothers good results."
"Thank you, Junzhu," Lin Wan's smile faded from her face. When she saw Hua Liuli, she was reminded of the awkward situation she had been in on the night of the Lantern Festival.
It wasn't Hua Liuli's fault, she knew it very well, but even so, she couldn't dispel the feeling of embarrassment in her heart.
Perhaps some people were just not meant to get along.
"Little girl," a sedan chair stopped not far from the three of them. The window of the sedan chair opened, revealing the handsome face of the Crown Prince, "There are all kinds of people here, from different backgrounds. Why are you here?"
"Your Royal Highness," Hua Liuli saw the Crown Prince and her lips curved upwards, "Father and I are accompanying Third Brother outside the Imperial Academy. When I saw several candidates being carried out, I felt anxious and uncomfortable. So I came out for a walk."
The Crown Prince stepped out of the sedan chair. He saw that she only had two maids with her and said, "The Spring Examination will not end for a few more days. Waiting here every day is not meaningful. How about Benwang take you around the capital city to pass the time?"
He ordered his attendants to bring two horses and handed the reins of his own white horse to Hua Liuli, "The weather has warmed up recently. Riding a horse for a while should have no impact on your health, Junzhu."
Hua Liuli looked at the beautiful white horse, her fondness was almost uncontrollable, "En. It won't have any impact."
Yuan Yi, who was following behind her, raised an eyebrow. Seeing Junzhu happily patting the horse's head, she lowered her eyelids.
As Hua Liuli was about to mount the horse, Yuan Yi reached out and supported her, "Junzhu, please be careful."
Hua Liuli coughed lightly, covering her chest, "You don't need to worry. Riding in the city is not allowed anyway, so it'll be fine to ride for a while."
Yuan Yi stepped back, "Yes."
Miss Yao saw the Crown Prince and Hua Liuli riding away on horses, without even sparing a glance at them. She couldn't help but whisper, "Jiamin Junzhu was right. Most of these seemingly delicate women are actually fox spirits in disguise."
Lin Wan forced a smile at the corner of her mouth.
The Crown Prince, knowing full well that she was the future Ying Wangfei, his Eldest Sister-In-Law, treated her with such indifference. Wasn't it just because he relied on the Emperor's favoritism and didn't regard Ying Wang highly?
Lin Wan clenched her fists and lowered her eyelids, concealing the ambition hidden deep in her eyes.
"Young Lady Lin, look quickly. That's Ying Wang..." Miss Yao had just finished speaking when she saw Ying Wang riding a horse and chasing after the direction in which the Crown Prince and Hua Liuli had just left.
As he raced past them, it stirred up clouds of dust.
Miss Yao looked at the disappearing figure of the Crown Prince and then at Lin Wan beside her. She silently covered her mouth.
Why couldn't she change her habit of being a blabbermouth?!
Krish728
Author's Note:
The Crown Prince: Benwang is a man of principles, such as showing no favoritism when seeking revenge on women of the imperial harem.
Miss Yao: I have a talent for running my mouth. It's my specialty.
During the change of seasons every year, the Palace Department would provide the appropriate clothing and accessories to the consorts and concubines in the imperial harem, but there were quotas for these items. Those with some status in the palace would not rely on these limited provisions to make a living.
Emperor Changlong was not stingy. During this time, he would also give many pieces of jewelry as rewards to the consorts and concubines. The vast territory of Great Jin and its fertile land attracted many small countries to seek affiliation with Great Jin, and they would offer various tributes, including jewelry.
Among this year's jewelry, there were a few pieces that Consort Xian favored. She eagerly hoped that His Majesty would reward her with these items. However, days passed and she received nothing. Unable to wait any longer, she finally couldn't restrain herself and sent someone to inquire with the Chief Eunuch, Zhao Sancai.
"About those pieces of jewelry," Zhao Sancai smiled at the palace maid from the Lincui Palace, "The Crown Prince liked them a few days ago, so His Majesty allowed him to take them. May I ask why Consort Xian suddenly asked about such a trivial matter?"
The smile on the palace maid's face froze. Those items were kept in His Majesty's private treasury, and it was His Majesty's decision on whom to give them to. She quickly shook her head and said, "So that's how it is. Consort Xian was worried that those good items would lose their luster if left in the treasury without being used. It's great that the Crown Prince liked them."
Back at the Lincui Palace, the palace maid recounted the incident to Consort Xian.
"Why would the Crown Prince, as a man, need those accessories?" Consort Xian asked.
"Nubi heard that the Crown Prince intends to... accumulate wealth for his future bride," the palace maid replied.
"He is the Crown Prince, His Majesty has always favored him. Why would he need to accumulate wealth?" Consort Xian's face turned pale with anger. There was a small country known for its craftsmanship in making hairpins and accessories, Consort Xian particularly liked the jewelry that this small country offered as tribute. Yet the Crown Prince took away all the good items, clearly intentionally causing trouble for her.
"Your Highness, although the accessories you liked were taken by the Crown Prince, there is no need for you to be angry. Because the Crown Prince also took away the ones that were liked by the other consorts as well," the palace maid quickly added.
"Should Bengong thank him then for not showing favoritism?" Consort Xian asked the maid with a stern face.
"N-No, Nubi didn't mean that."
Consort Xian sneered. The Crown Prince hadn't even settled on a Crown Princess, yet His Majesty was already thinking of accumulating wealth for his marriage. Her son, the Eldest Imperial Prince, had already decided on a marriage with a young lady from the Lin family. Why wouldn't His Majesty provide some financial support for them?
Feeling dissatisfied, Consort Xian summoned a eunuch to bring Ying Wang into the palace, "How are things going with that girl from the Lin family?" she asked.
"How else could it be?" Ying Wang picked up a teacup and took a sip, speaking in a casual tone, "She wants to become Ying Wangfei, and I, as Ying Wang, need to marry a Wangfei. It's just a perfect match."
"Nonsense," Consort Xian couldn't help but speak up when she heard her son's indifferent tone, "Lin Wan is Lin Zhou's daughter. Lin Zhou has always been upright and incorruptible. How could his daughter be someone who desires wealth and status?"
Ying Wang didn't argue with Consort Xian and nodded, "Mother is right."
Seeing his indifferent attitude, Consort Xian continued, "Lin Wan is outstanding in both appearance and talent. Most importantly, she is the cousin of the Fourth Prince. Marrying her would bring the influence of the Fourth Prince to our side. For you, it is a hundred benefits and no harm."
Ying Wang kept his head down without speaking.
Consort Xian wanted to ask if he still had that girl from the Hua family, who would collapse at the slightest wind, in his mind. But she knew she shouldn't say such words, so she held back her anger and remained silent.
"Mother, I still need to go to the horse ranch this afternoon. If you have no other matters, I will take my leave," Ying Wang stood up, bowed to Consort Xian, and prepared to leave.
"Wait," Consort Xian took out a thin cloak from the room, "The weather has started to warm up these past two days, those thick cloaks are uncomfortable to wear. I made a cloak for you. Give it a try."
"Thank you, Mother," Ying Wang's eyes softened as he put on the cloak, "Leave the needlework to others; Mother shouldn't tire yourself."
"I know," Consort Xian helped Ying Wang tidy his clothes and praised, "My son was born noble and extraordinary. He is truly His Majesty's child."
Hearing the praise from his birth mother, Ying Wang suddenly felt confident in himself that he was hundreds of times more handsome than his other brothers.
Mothers couldn't help but have a biased gaze when looking at their own children.
After receiving a whole box of jewelry and accessories, Hua Liuli received another box of gifts from the Eastern Palace just two days later.
She opened the box and looked at the various jewelry inside, took a deep breath, and asked the attendants from the Eastern Palace, "How is His Royal Highness doing lately?"
"Thank you for Junzhu's concern. His Royal Highness has been doing well."
If everything was normal, why would they send her so many good things? The gold and silver jewelry she moved from Prince A'Wa's camp back then weren't as dazzling.
"I understand His Royal Highness's goodwill, but these things..."
"Please rest assured, Junzhu. His Royal Highness said before we came that these things are of no use to him. If you don't accept them, these precious jewels will only gather dust. The Flower Festival is approaching, and Junzhu, who is beautiful and charming, should not be without jewelry that matches you."
"Please thank His Royal Highness on my behalf," Upon further thought, since Prince A'Wa could bring so much gold and silver jewelry with him when he went out to war, perhaps these things might really be insignificant to the Crown Prince as the second most noble man in Great Jin.
"As long as Junzhu likes them," after the palace attendants finished delivering the gifts, without even taking a sip of tea, they hastily left.
Upon learning of this, Hua Yingting and Wei Mingyue didn't express any opinions and simply let Hua Liuli handle the jewelry herself. If she married in the future, she could use them as dowry. If she didn't want to marry, she could wear them herself for fun.
Hua Liuli got up early the next day and took a carriage to Wenqu Star Temple on the outskirts of the capital.
When she arrived, she found a long queue outside Wenqu Star Temple. Some scholars even brought books and water bags to secure a good spot.
Hua Liuli began to reflect on herself, realizing that compared to these devout scholars, she seemed lacking in sincerity.
As soon as she got off the carriage, she saw someone holding a sign that read "Five taels of silver to skip the queue" and couldn't help but whisper to Yuan Yi, who was supporting her, "Is there such a thing?"
"In the capital, many things can be flexible," Yuan Yi whispered, "But many scholars believe that queuing shows more sincerity. Besides, five taels of silver is too expensive, so few people would pay to skip the queue."
Hua Liuli glanced at the long line and then at the sign offering to skip the queue, without hesitation, she said, "Give the silver."
The people at Wenqu Star Temple knew that a wealthy person had arrived when they saw Hua Liuli stepping out of the carriage. After Yuan Yi paid the money, they enthusiastically led the Junzhu and her entourage into the temple.
Inside the temple, the temple attendant personally greeted them and led Hua Liuli forward to light incense and make a wish.
"Junzhu, the Spring Examination will begin the day after tomorrow. We can recite scriptures and pray for the candidates on the day of the examination, wishing them a favor from the Wenqu Star for outstanding performance."
"Oh?"
"However, when seeking the favor of the star deity, offerings are necessary. If Junzhu is interested, you only need to offer eighteen taels of silver as tribute to the Wenqu Star. The temple will be moved by Junzhu's sincerity and will willing to pray for your friends and family on that day."
Hua Liuli took out eighteen taels of silver and also bought some prayer lamps and prayer brushes. As she turned to leave, she came face to face with a girl wearing a lake-green dress.
She had a vague impression of this girl. She seemed to always follow behind Jiamin Junzhu. She was from the Yao family, what was her name again?
"Junzhu," Miss Yao walked over and greeted Hua Liuli with a curtsy. Her gaze fell on the prayer brush in Hua Liuli's hand and she smiled somewhat strangely, "Is Junzhu praying for Third Young Master Hua with this?"
Hua Liuli gave Miss Yao a gentle smile, "Is Miss Yao also here to pray for her family?"
"My Eldest Brother ranked among the top candidates in the Autumn Imperial Examination in the capital. This time, he is sure to be listed on the gold list," Miss Yao paused for a moment, "I heard that Qinghan Prefecture has harsh conditions and very few students. Third Young Master Hua, as the top scorer in the provincial examination of Qinghan, should also achieve fame on the gold list and bring glory to your family."
"But learning is not achieved in a day, last-minute efforts are self-deception," Miss Yao said with a gentle smile, "Junzhu, it would be best not to put too much faith in these things."
"Miss Yao makes a valid point, but I am not making last-minute efforts, I am embracing the favor of the Wenqu Star. What if the star deity sees my loyalty to the Hua family and is willing to bless my Third Brother?" Hua Liuli covered her lips and chuckled softly, "Miss Yao doesn't believe in these things, why did you come here?"
"You..." Miss Yao glared at Hua Liuli and turned around to leave in anger.
"Temple attendant, Miss Yao seems upset. Let me pay for her prayer on her behalf," Hua Liuli smiled warmly, "I wish Yao family's young gentleman great success and fame on the list."
"You are truly benevolent, Junzhu."
Miss Yao was so angry that she almost spat blood. She turned her head and saw Hua Liuli still looking with a gentle and kind smile.
Clearly, the other party hadn't said anything offensive, but at this moment, Miss Yao felt like she had already lost, though she wasn't clear about where she had lost.
"These girls in the capital are so adorable, even when they're angry," Hua Liuli said with a smile as she sat in the carriage, "Jiamin Junzhu and her friends are really fun."
"Junzhu, please restrain yourself. I'm afraid someone will corner you and curse at you." Yuan Yi smiled bitterly.
"If they dare to curse, I dare to faint," Hua Liuli lazily leaned against the carriage wall, "I have a weak constitution and can't handle being provoked."
Yuan Yi: "..."
On the day of the imperial examination, the Hua family woke up early. Hua Yingting draped a robe over Hua Changkong, "Your father has fought on the battlefield many times, encountering countless evil spirits and bad luck. By putting this robe on you, it can keep you away from misfortune."
"Right," Wei Mingyue tied up Hua Changkong's hair, "Mother is the most powerful female general in Great Jin. Having her do your hair is equivalent to receiving divine blessings."
Hua Changkong: "..."
His mother's narcissistic tendencies were beyond redemption.
"Third brother, don't pressure yourself," Hua Liuli handed Hua Changkong a bag containing exam materials, "In our family, we have two Marquises and a Junzhu. Even if you don't achieve a high rank in the exam, we can still take good care of you."
If he didn't study well, he would have to rely on them for a living?!
For a moment, Hua Changkong didn't know whether to be relaxed or nervous.
After the four of them left the house, Hua Liuli took out a small flag the size of a palm from her sleeve and inserted it into the carriage.
"Daughter, when did you make a small flag for the Hua family?" Hua Yingting looked at the swaying flag in the morning breeze with confusion, "What's the use of putting this thing here?"
"It symbolizes a victorious start," Hua Liuliu patted the horse pulling the carriage, "Horse, oh horse, you must bless my Third Brother to succeed."
"That makes sense. Our obedient daughter is really clever."
Hua Changkong, sitting in the carriage, remained silent.
He had a bunch of family members who never prayed or worshipped before, but now they sought gods and buddhas at the last minute. He felt helpless yet moved by their willingness to sacrifice principles for family.
No one could bear to destroy this kind of family affection.
The family accompanied Hua Changkong to the vicinity of the Imperial Academy. Hua Changkong looked at his family and said, "Father, Mother, Little Sister, I'm going in."
"En," Hua Liuli nodded. "No matter what, Third Brother is the best Third Brother."
Upon hearing this, Hua Changkong smiled and reached out to pat Hua Liuli's head, "Little sister is also the best little sister."
He bowed to his family, turned around, and walked towards the entrance of the Imperial Academy.
After Hua Changkong was confirmed by the gatekeeper to not have any cheating materials, the smiles on the faces of the three members of the Hua family disappeared.
"Father, Mother, I'm a bit nervous," Hua Liuli whispered, "I heard that there are candidates who go crazy halfway through the examination."
"Your Third Brother has been practicing martial arts since childhood, our family also didn't force him to achieve academic success. He shouldn't encounter such things," Hua Yingting said, somewhat unsure, as he turned to Wei Mingyue, "Wife, don't you think so?"
"En," Wei Mingyue nodded with a stern expression, appearing the calmest among the three. However, her clenched fist, unbeknownst to herself, betrayed her.
Outside the examination hall, it was crowded with people seeing off the candidates. The Prefect of Jingzhao was afraid of conflicts in the large crowd, so he sent arranged for a lot of yamen constables to guard the area. He was also worried that the yamen constables of Jingzhao Prefecture wouldn't be able to handle the crowd, so he borrowed some personnel from the Ministry of Justice.
To borrow personnel from the Ministry of Justice, the Prefect of Jingzhao squatted in front of the Minister of Justice's estate for three days. Zhang Shuo had been reluctant to cooperate until a few days ago when he accidentally dropped his hat and his bald head was seen by the Prefect. The Prefect's gaze was filled with pity, so Zhang Shuo unexpectedly agreed to his request.
The Spring Examination was held every three years, the candidates who came from all over the country were famous scholars in their local areas. The Prefect of Jingzhao didn't dare to be careless, so he and the yamen constables have been patrolling here since before dawn.
The first day they came to patrol, they saw Hua Yingting guarding outside the Imperial Academy.
The second day they came to patrol, they saw Hua Yingting carrying a small stool and sitting outside the Imperial Academy.
The third day they came to patrol, Hua Yingting came again, this time bringing food.
Cao Jinbo, the Minister of Revenue, encountered Hua Yingting several times and couldn't help but wonder why Hua Yingting had so much free time and was guarding the gate of the examination hall every day.
Upon further consideration, although Hua Yingting still retained the title of Grand General, he no longer had control over the military power in the capital and the surrounding counties. Being the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor was also just an honorary title. Unless summoned by the Emperor, he didn't need to attend court meetings on normal days.
With this in mind, Cao Jinbo's mood suddenly became complicated. A general who had achieved great military exploits could only idle away his time like those idle nobles in the capital?
He was about to approach Hua Yingting for a chat when he saw the curtain of the carriage next to Hua Yingting move and a fair and delicate hand lifted the curtain.
A young girl came out of the carriage. It was Fushou Junzhu. Cao Jinbo remembered his good friend Huizhi mentioning the Hua family's young girl several times in his recent letters. He said she was stubborn yet kind-hearted and a good girl.
After hesitating for a moment, he decided to approach and said, "Greetings to Grand General, Junzhu."
"What Grand General? Now that I've retired, you can just call me Old Hua," Hua Yingting stood up from the stool, handed the things in his hand to the servant, and introduced Hua Liuli, "Liuli, this is Cao Jinbo, the Minister of Revenue."
Looking at Hua Yingting's handsome face, Cao Jinbo, who was a few years older than him, felt a bit complicated. Hua Yingting referred to himself as an old man, so what was he?
"Minister Cao," Hua Liuli greeted politely.
"I wouldn't dare to accept the Junzhu's courtesy," Cao Jinbo hurriedly returned the greeting. Although Hua Liuli was younger, she held a title bestowed by the Emperor, while he, as a minister, held a different significance from a Junzhu.
"She's just a child, what's wrong with receiving her courtesy," Hua Yingting pointed at the closed gate of the Imperial Academy, "Minister Cao, what brings you here?"
Cao Jinbo chuckled. He had been patrolling here every day for the past three days, but Hua Yingting hadn't noticed at all? After explaining the reason, he couldn't help but take a few more glances at Hua Liuli.
The little girl was not talkative but well-mannered, without a hint of the arrogance of a Junzhu. How could Huizhi say that she was stubborn yet soft-hearted? She was clearly a likable and somewhat shy little girl.
After exchanging pleasantries with Hua Yingting, Cao Jinbo walked a distance away when his friend, who was on good terms with him, pulled him into a corner and whispered, "Why were you talking to Hua Yingting for so long at the entrance of the Imperial Academy?"
"What's wrong with that?" Cao Jinbo countered.
"Naturally, it's not right," his friend said, "Do you know that His Majesty originally intended to marry the Hua family's daughter to Ying Wang, but in the end, Ying Wang is betrothed to the daughter of the Lin family?"
Cao Jinbo frowned.
"His Majesty has long harbored suspicions about the Hua family. You talking and laughing with Hua Yingting at the entrance of the Imperial Academy, in full view of everyone, isn't it giving others an opportunity?" his friend worriedly said, "When His Majesty settles accounts with the Hua family, someone will surely use today's incident to accuse you."
Hearing this, Cao Jinbo felt a bit uneasy. The Hua family had been faithfully fulfilling their duties in guarding Great Jin for these years. Even when General Wei was carrying a baby in her womb, she led troops to the border. Now that the war had ended and no one dared to defy Great Jin's authority, the Hua family's position had become awkward.
A hero's life shouldn't be like this.
He turned his head to look at Hua Yingting waiting at the entrance of the Imperial Academy. He saw Hua Yingting's daughter holding a plate of freshly cut fruit and offering it to her father. This simple and affectionate scene made him feel a tinge of sadness.
"But I only seek... a clear conscience," Cao Jinbo said, "Thank you for reminding me, my friend. I understand."
"It's good that you understand," his friend sighed, "The Hua family... their glory may not last for many more years."
The Spring Examination had not yet ended, several candidates who had fainted were being carried out and hurriedly taken away for treatment by the attending physicians. Hua Liuli felt restless watching this and decided to step out for some fresh air.
Outside, there were many food stalls with various flavors mingling together, creating a lively atmosphere of smoke and fire. A few fake Taoists were sitting on the street corner, pretending to tell fortunes for the anxious family members that were accompanying the candidates.
Walking through the bustling alley, Hua Liuli encountered the girl from the Yao family again. The girl was holding a talisman that she had just obtained from the Taoist.
She claimed not to believe in praying to gods and Buddha, but she was quite active in seeking talismans privately.
Their eyes met in mid-air, with the steam from the street food swirling around, creating an indescribable awkward atmosphere.
At that moment, the girl from the Yao family couldn't see the sky, the ground, or the passing figures. She only saw a faint smile on Hua Liuli's face.
The girl felt that she was being mocked.
Her face flushed red, feeling extremely embarrassed.
"Are you alright?" Another person came out from behind her. Upon hearing the voice, Miss Yao's expression improved slightly.
"I'm fine, Young Lady Lin," Miss Yao smiled at Lin Wan and secretly hid the talisman in her sleeve. She looked up and bowed to Hua Liuli, "Greetings, Fushou Junzhu."
Only then did Lin Wan notice Hua Liuli standing opposite them and slightly bent her knees, "Greetings, Junzhu."
"You don't need to be so formal, both of you," Hua Liuli pretended not to notice the embarrassment of Miss Yao, "Are you two also seeking talismans for your older brothers at home?"
"Yes," Lin Wan didn't know what had happened between Miss Yao and Hua Liuli, so she spoke, "Someone said that the Taoist on Dong Street is very effective, so Miss Yao and I went together to get talismans."
"Oh..." Hua Liuli smiled at Miss Yao, deliberately drawing out her words, "Then I wish both of your older brothers good results."
"Thank you, Junzhu," Lin Wan's smile faded from her face. When she saw Hua Liuli, she was reminded of the awkward situation she had been in on the night of the Lantern Festival.
It wasn't Hua Liuli's fault, she knew it very well, but even so, she couldn't dispel the feeling of embarrassment in her heart.
Perhaps some people were just not meant to get along.
"Little girl," a sedan chair stopped not far from the three of them. The window of the sedan chair opened, revealing the handsome face of the Crown Prince, "There are all kinds of people here, from different backgrounds. Why are you here?"
"Your Royal Highness," Hua Liuli saw the Crown Prince and her lips curved upwards, "Father and I are accompanying Third Brother outside the Imperial Academy. When I saw several candidates being carried out, I felt anxious and uncomfortable. So I came out for a walk."
The Crown Prince stepped out of the sedan chair. He saw that she only had two maids with her and said, "The Spring Examination will not end for a few more days. Waiting here every day is not meaningful. How about Benwang take you around the capital city to pass the time?"
He ordered his attendants to bring two horses and handed the reins of his own white horse to Hua Liuli, "The weather has warmed up recently. Riding a horse for a while should have no impact on your health, Junzhu."
Hua Liuli looked at the beautiful white horse, her fondness was almost uncontrollable, "En. It won't have any impact."
Yuan Yi, who was following behind her, raised an eyebrow. Seeing Junzhu happily patting the horse's head, she lowered her eyelids.
As Hua Liuli was about to mount the horse, Yuan Yi reached out and supported her, "Junzhu, please be careful."
Hua Liuli coughed lightly, covering her chest, "You don't need to worry. Riding in the city is not allowed anyway, so it'll be fine to ride for a while."
Yuan Yi stepped back, "Yes."
Miss Yao saw the Crown Prince and Hua Liuli riding away on horses, without even sparing a glance at them. She couldn't help but whisper, "Jiamin Junzhu was right. Most of these seemingly delicate women are actually fox spirits in disguise."
Lin Wan forced a smile at the corner of her mouth.
The Crown Prince, knowing full well that she was the future Ying Wangfei, his Eldest Sister-In-Law, treated her with such indifference. Wasn't it just because he relied on the Emperor's favoritism and didn't regard Ying Wang highly?
Lin Wan clenched her fists and lowered her eyelids, concealing the ambition hidden deep in her eyes.
"Young Lady Lin, look quickly. That's Ying Wang..." Miss Yao had just finished speaking when she saw Ying Wang riding a horse and chasing after the direction in which the Crown Prince and Hua Liuli had just left.
As he raced past them, it stirred up clouds of dust.
Miss Yao looked at the disappearing figure of the Crown Prince and then at Lin Wan beside her. She silently covered her mouth.
Why couldn't she change her habit of being a blabbermouth?!
Krish728
Author's Note:
The Crown Prince: Benwang is a man of principles, such as showing no favoritism when seeking revenge on women of the imperial harem.
Miss Yao: I have a talent for running my mouth. It's my specialty.
