Chapter 8, will meet under the moonlight at the Yao Terrace
The four individuals appeared to be of similar age, not resembling the imperial son and daughter, but rather like celestial beings. The Emperor accompanied Princess Yunhu, while Prince Jin was with Princess Ningguo, and the hosts gracefully walked together, passing through the Qiongtai and the pearl curtains, directly entering the seating area. Some elderly ministers in the court had already furrowed their brows in silence, as the male and female hosts separately welcomed their guests, a custom inherited from the old traditions of Northern Qi. While it was acceptable for the Emperor to treat guests in such a manner to demonstrate goodwill, how could he allow the Princess to overstep the dignity of the nation's matriarch?
The anxious Shu Fei quietly turned to Pei Fei and inquired why the eldest princess had not yet arrived. Pei Fei glanced at her with a smile and simply replied that she did not know, while secretly thinking that Shu Fei had always been close to the Empress, and today she was somewhat affected by the misfortune of the central palace. The eldest princess was currently Pei Fei's greatest support, and her visits were naturally attentive. However, thinking of the eldest princess made Pei Fei feel a subtle sense of disappointment.
Dressed in the same red attire, the princess wears a deep crimson brocade gown that flows like clouds with wide sleeves and a long hem. Adorned with peonies and a tilted hairpin, her jewelry jingles softly, complemented by a light and even makeup. A hint of a smile blossoms on her lips, resembling the gentle spring waters and the rippling autumn waves, as if she is truly laughing
Upon closer inspection, the attire is unremarkable, merely a deep crimson that is striking yet austere. Jin Xin turned her gaze and pondered for a moment, suddenly gaining some understanding, yet she could not help but recall a trivial matter—on the day the Emperor favored the court, he saw Consort Pei preparing herself and laughed, saying that her rouge was applied too heavily. The Empress, in a playful complaint, remarked that the 'blushing makeup' is currently in vogue, to which the Emperor chuckled and simply said, 'A beauty is charming even without makeup'
The queen has been placed under house arrest? Lady Pei was taken aback and was about to inquire further when the music began to play in the two corridors. All the court ladies and officials knelt down, touching their foreheads to the ground, lining up on both sides. The two hurriedly returned to their seats and knelt down, and before they could hear the announcement of the emperor's arrival, faint laughter could already be heard.
As dusk approached, after selecting for more than half an hour, I still had not chosen a satisfactory palace dress. Jin Xin pondered over her master's past preferences and picked out an apricot-colored palace dress, adorned with thousands of pearls, which was extremely luxurious and intricate. However, Concubine Pei frowned, finding it too ostentatious. Jin Xin noticed her turning to look at a palace dress made of deep red cloud-patterned brocade over smoke-colored gauze, her hand brushing against the fabric, and her expression seemed to show fondness, yet also revealed a sense of longing.
On that day, Consort Pei went to Xinyi Palace to seek an audience with the Crown Princess, but it was merely to provide an explanation for her elder brother. She had thought that by bestowing the demoted princess, who had been relegated to a lowly status, upon the Crown Princess as a maid, the Emperor had put an end to Pei Lingxian's infatuation. However, to her surprise, the Crown Princess readily agreed and even personally requested the Emperor's decree for the marriage—Princess Xingping's title had been abolished, her surname removed to avoid taboo, and she was given the name Ziyao, to be married off to the Pei family in the capacity of a maid.
"Is this really happening?" Lady Pei was greatly astonished, pondering that the Empress had always acted with caution, yet something unusual had occurred at this moment. "Could it be that Her Majesty is unwell?" The several concubines exchanged glances, seemingly hesitant to speak. Lady Pei felt even more perplexed, her delicate brows slightly furrowing as she looked towards Yu Pin beside her. The most eloquent Yu Pin was also at a loss for words at this moment, glancing around before leading Lady Pei aside.
The Tai Ping Hall rises ten zhang high, overlooking the Heavenly Gate. The steps are paved with Han jade and mica bricks, and the peaks soar into the clouds, with layers of eaves clearly visible. The windows and walls are all intricately carved from century-old sandalwood, exuding a distant fragrance. Below lies the Tai Ping Pool, a vast expanse of azure, while above, the clouds and rosy mist rise majestically. Banquets are often held in the palace at this location, with the sound of silk and bamboo floating and intertwining in the clouds, creating a distant view reminiscent of a celestial pavilion. Over time, it has come to be known as "Qiong Tai".
Unexpectedly, today the princess, who is unskilled in horsemanship, accompanies her. It is natural that the emperor, having been lonely since childhood and with only the princess as a relative, would show her exceptional favor. As for the rumors circulating in the palace, whether subtle, overt, or bizarre, Consort Pei detests them deeply. Those shameless servants who fabricate such filthy words to slander the emperor's virtue truly deserve death—especially for a woman, to defame the man she admires and cherishes is far more infuriating than to defame herself. However, privately, she has advised the emperor to choose a suitable husband for the princess as soon as possible, to avoid wasting her youth. Yet the emperor does not heed her advice at all, cherishing the princess in his palm as if she were a precious pearl shining on snow.
In the center of the hall, facing south, there is a nine-dragon gilded imperial table, with a phoenix-patterned jade table set to its left, facing west, which serves as the seats for the emperor and empress. The side seats are slightly lower, and there are also a qilin table and a hundred birds greeting the phoenix table arranged. In front of the hall, three layers of exquisite crystal curtains are set up to separate the banquet tables for the main officials in the inner court from those for the ministers in the outer hall. Behind the seats of the four consorts, the remaining concubines and noblewomen are arranged in order.
The majestic canopy, the elegant royal fan, and the splendid imperial procession are all gathered to welcome the arrival of the sacred carriage
The palace, both inside and outside, was in an uproar. It is important to note that the Grand Princess shared a deep bond with the Emperor; any slight movement in Xinyi Palace could influence the entire court. Conversely, the Emperor's moods and thoughts were best understood by the Grand Princess. At this time, the court was embroiled in a struggle between the elderly officials and the younger generation, with the Empress in a weakened position and the newly favored Consort Pei enjoying great favor. Thus, the Grand Princess's act of bestowing a maid at this moment carried profound implications and invited contemplation.
In terms of appearance, Consort Pei has always been self-assured, and among the six palaces, it is difficult to find anyone who can surpass her. The queen, with her almost wooden dignity, seems to exist solely to complement her beauty. Behind her, a close attendant named Jin Xin is particularly clever and charming, seizing every opportunity to flatter, claiming that the consort possesses a celestial beauty, and that when she attends the banquet at the Qiong Tai tonight, she will surely astonish the world. Reflecting on the banquet at Qiong Tai this evening, Consort Pei feels increasingly delighted, eagerly anticipating the chance to showcase her elegance before the emperor and the envoy from Northern Qi.
Although everyone has their own thoughts, the open mockery by Consort Pei is indeed shocking. She derisively referred to the Empress's virtue and filial piety as 'filial virtue,' where the difference in the order of the two characters carries a significantly different meaning. If it were merely a private slander, it would be one thing, but Consort Pei chose this moment for her cold sarcasm, leading everyone to perceive it as a blatant provocation from the Pei family towards the He family.
The imperial concubine, having regained her composure from her astonishment, noticed that the Emperor had already approached the throne. With a smile, she turned and handed over Princess Yunhu to Prince Jin. The two esteemed guests were guided by the eunuchs to take their seats at the Qilin and Hundred Birds tables. The Grand Princess slowly ascended the jade steps, her long train embroidered with phoenixes and golden branches trailing gracefully on the ground. The Emperor extended his hand towards her, personally leading her to the Fengzao jade table, where they took their seats side by side in the main position
Yesterday, Pei Lingxian entered the palace to meet the Emperor and then went to Chengshugong to see Concubine Pei. In conversation with my sister regarding this matter, it was mentioned that the Emperor is greatly angered with Duke Chen, which further intensifies his suspicion towards the He family. This is indeed a fortunate event for the Pei family.
If one does not wish for it, so be it. However, upon thinking of this worst news, it immediately threw Consort Pei into a state of great turmoil, with sweat breaking out on her palms. The Empress has never been favored; apart from the days of the new and full moons, the Emperor rarely graces her with his presence. How could she possibly seize the initiative! Seeing Consort Pei shaken and disoriented, Yu Pin's jealousy lessened somewhat, as she was pleased to see someone else in greater despair. It must be said that it is only natural for the central palace to bear offspring, and it is only a matter of time. Yu Pin sighed, "A few days ago, due to the matter of Duke Chen, the Empress has already angered the Emperor. If she were to miss the court banquet again today, I fear..." It must be said that it is only natural for the central palace to bear offspring, and it is only a matter of time. Yu Pin sighed, "A few days ago, due to the matter of Duke Chen, the Empress has already angered the Emperor. If she were to miss the court banquet again today, I fear..."
The customs of the Southern Qin differ from those of the Northern regions, traditionally placing great emphasis on propriety and education, where foreign officials are not permitted to meet with the imperial family. In contrast, the Northern Qi is of a different ethnicity, having established its nation through cavalry and archery. Although they have adopted the teachings of the Central Plains, their customs remain bold and straightforward, with a more open attitude towards the separation of genders. According to the etiquette of the Northern Qi, the position of the matriarch within a household is equally esteemed. When distinguished guests arrive, both the male and female hosts are required to welcome them; a banquet without the presence of the female host is considered lacking in solemnity. The emperor, being a person of genuine character, readily treats them according to their customs. When distinguished guests arrive, both the male and female hosts are required to welcome them; a banquet without the presence of the female host is considered lacking in solemnity. The emperor, being a person of genuine character, readily treats them according to their customs.
Imperial Concubine Pei gazed at her reflection in the mirror, her eyes radiating a fierce brilliance
In the Chengshu Palace, a gentle breeze brings coolness, and the fragrance of roses wafts throughout the courtyard. Consort Pei stands before a large glass mirror, gazing at her reflection, while a row of palace maids behind her hold exquisite brocade garments shimmering with various colors, waiting for her to try them on. ... The color of mist is too bright, the color of begonia is too alluring, the color of flowing clouds is too cold ... . ... Yet, Consort Pei remains unperturbed, trying on each piece one by one, each possessing its own beauty, further accentuating her snow-like skin and flower-like appearance, a natural beauty beyond compare.
Consort Pei pretended to be annoyed, lightly shaking her round fan as she took a rest in the corridor, leaning against the railing to gaze at the distant palace gardens. Consort Yu followed closely behind and whispered, "I just heard someone inquire that the Empress Dowager has closed the palace doors today, and it is not her own decision." Seeing her frown and look back, somewhat puzzled, Consort Yu lowered her voice anxiously, saying, "I heard that the Emperor has confined someone."
It is not uncommon for foreign envoys to come to offer congratulations. However, the two great powers of Southern Qin and Northern Qi have been at odds for several decades, with no communication between them, and during the reign of the Deposed Emperor, there were even conflicts. Now that the Emperor has ascended the throne and is ruling wisely, Northern Qi has also taken the initiative to mend relations, sending a prince as a special envoy to present gifts of congratulations. This should have been a good opportunity to turn conflict into harmony, yet it has unexpectedly caused a significant uproar over trivial matters.
The three prominent families of the Zhao dynasty, namely the He, Wei, and Pei families, have all served as generals for generations, establishing significant military achievements. Among the supporters of the meritorious officials, aside from the Su family, the Duke of Chen, He Jian, stands out for his remarkable contributions. Since Empress He ascended to the central palace, the power of the He family has been undeniably formidable; General Wei has long defended the southern borders, and the Wei family’s descendants have generally refrained from seeking official positions, showing no interest in the competition for merit. Remaining is the rising young Pei family, who are currently in high favor at court, with a pair of siblings who can be described as dragons and phoenixes among men—indeed, even the extremely proud Princess has taken a special interest in the Pei family.
The Northern Qi, by sending a prince as a special envoy, clearly demonstrates the high regard in which they are held. The Emperor, appreciating their sincerity, wishes to treat them with the ceremonial honors of the Nine Guests. However, the old ministers led by Duke Chen, relying on their status as subjects of the upper state, harbor disdain and oppose the ceremony of the Nine Guests, insisting instead on the treatment befitting vassals
Before the person arrived, laughter was heard first, which was the sound of a girl’s laughter, bright and clear like silver bells, exuding a refreshing joy. Consort Pei was astonished and raised her gaze, momentarily forgetting the formalities. She saw a dazzling figure in gold and red burst into view, radiating the vitality of a summer sun, so intense that it almost hurt the eyes. Judging by her attire, it was likely that the Northern Qi prince, on his mission to Southern Qin, had brought along the national treasure, the Cloud Lake Princess born of Empress Luo. It turned out that this Northern Qi princess was such a stunning beauty. Consort Pei observed her exquisite golden-red brocade palace dress, adorned with a peach-shaped golden phoenix crown from which flower hairpins hung down on all sides, a bright golden-red ensemble paired with the dazzling bright yellow, which even added a touch of warmth to the Emperor's jade-like countenance, enhancing his elegance and revealing a more gentle demeanor.
It is said that she has caught a chill, however, the Lady of the Red Book has just entered. Yu Pin's voice was soft and gentle, casting a subtle glance towards the direction of the palace. Pei Fei's heart trembled violently, feeling as if a piece of broken ice had been forcefully stuffed into her chest! The palace has a dedicated Red Book, which records the matters of the consorts' entry into the emperor's presence, their pregnancies, and childbirth. Although it is common for the Lady of the Red Book to move between the various palaces, today seems particularly unusual... Could it be that there is indeed good news from the central palace? Otherwise, how could the Empress dare to neglect the overall situation and leave the other consorts waiting here?
This morning, I went to Xinyi Palace, intending to invite the Crown Princess to accompany me to Qiongtai. However, I learned that the Crown Princess had left the palace early with the Emperor to meet the envoy from Northern Qi at the Upper Garden for horse trials. This time, Prince Jin of Northern Qi brought three precious treasures to present to the Emperor of Southern Qin: the first is an ancient famous sword, the second is a divine steed from the Wuhuan tribe, and the third is said to be a diplomatic letter for trade and alliance. Consort Pei showed no interest in the diplomatic letter, but she heard that the Wuhuan divine steed is rare in the world. A total of four horses were presented this time, two males and two females, with one each in black, white, purple, and deep red. Coming from a military family, Consort Pei has always prided herself on her equestrian skills and eagerly wished to demonstrate her abilities in the Upper Garden. Despite her persistent pleas, the Emperor did not grant her request.
Even though Consort Pei launched an attack, everyone turned pale with fear, yet the Empress Dowager remained completely unmoved.
This decree severely undermined the dignity of Duke Chen, infuriating him to the extent that he submitted a memorial the following day, claiming illness and requesting to be excused from court attendance
No one has ever seen a smile like that of the Princess Chang, resembling the first breeze of morning, dispersing the wispy layers of clouds, revealing a sky as clear as a wash of blue. From that light and gentle atmosphere, a refreshing coolness emerges—yet this smile is only bestowed upon the one beside her. That person is none other than the Prince Jin of Northern Qi, who is said to be on par with the renowned Wen Zhao and to share the charm of the Wang of Chang. It is often said that he has a lifelong passion for appreciating beauty, and he proudly calls himself "a person who never tires of food and color."
This pair was already strikingly remarkable, yet the two individuals following them captivated everyone's attention even more.
With exquisite skill, she is adorned in an instant. As Consort Pei gazes into the mirror once more, she finds her interest utterly diminished
The time of destiny is auspicious, the mysterious bird is in the sky, sooner or later, there will come a day when this Chengshugong can no longer confine her
"What is there to fear?" Lady Pei smiled lightly, her teeth glimmering, and said coldly, "The bond between the Emperor and Empress is profound; such trivial matters are not worthy of anyone's gossip." Those around her turned pale upon hearing this, and Consort Yu no longer dared to interject. Lady Pei continued to smile and said, "However, the Empress's reputation for virtue and filial piety should henceforth be changed to 'Filial and Virtuous.' Filial piety precedes virtue, and virtue serves as the support for filial piety."
The concubine Pei let out a barely audible sigh, feeling somewhat disheartened. Jin Xin, with a clever smile, remarked, "This crimson attire is unlikely to match the empress's grandeur and elegance." Upon hearing this, the concubine Pei merely smiled and chose the palace gown adorned with embroidered pearls, instructing Jin Xin to assist her with her makeup.
In a moment of turmoil, thoughts swirled in Pei Fei's mind, leaving her feeling listless. As she observed that the appointed time was approaching, all the officials and their families had already taken their seats, yet there was still no sign of the Emperor and the envoy from Beiqi. When she turned around, she noticed Yu Pin coming over from the next seat, her expression troubled, as if she had something to say.
The founding emperor of this dynasty was born into a family of generals, thus establishing the tradition of valuing military prowess over literary accomplishments. Throughout the generations, the prestige of military families has continued to rise. During the reign of the deposed emperor, the Shen family still stood as the foremost among the Confucian scholars, but now only Shen Jue remains, increasingly unable to uphold the stature of the civil officials. Looking across the entire court, one can only see the splendor of the three major military families.
When foreign envoys come to pay their respects, it is customary for the designated officials to host a banquet. However, this time, the status of the Northern Qi prince is different, and the current emperor places particular importance on it. Yet, if a state banquet were to be held with grand arrangements, it would not align with the proper etiquette. Since an exception has already been made to allow the empress and concubines to attend, the emperor simply decided to name it a family banquet and set up a palace feast at the Qiong Terrace. The attendees at the banquet were all royal relatives and high-ranking officials, who arrived at the Taiping Hall starting from the shen hour to wait. As the music began, the officials entered the banquet; the inner court ladies and various concubines arrived first at the central palace to pay their respects, proceeding together with the empress. At the you hour, elegant music played, and the inner court members entered the banquet.
To say there is no jealousy would not be entirely accurate; yet to claim there is jealousy would also be unreasonable. One simply feels that the position of the one in the highest authority is more difficult than anyone else's. On one side, there is the queen's narrow-mindedness, and on the other, the slander from the masses. Even the princess does not show enough understanding. Within the entire palace, there is no one who is as devoted to the emperor as she is.
Concubine Pei was unwilling to wait early alongside the other concubines, and only made her way to the central palace just as the hour of You was approaching. Upon reaching the palace gate, she saw the female officials of the central palace blocking the steps, with precious canopies and feather fans below, and attendants gathered like clouds. The heads of the various palaces were densely waiting in front of the hall, whispering to one another. Upon seeing Concubine Pei arrive, several of those who usually had a good relationship with her seemed to see a savior, hurriedly coming forward to pay their respects, each displaying anxious expressions, with a hint of discontent. It turned out that the Empress had yet to make an appearance, only allowing the female officials at the front of the hall to block the entrance, neither permitting anyone to pay their respects nor providing any news. As the auspicious time approached, if they were to miss the proper etiquette before the Emperor, it was feared that no one would be able to bear the consequences.
On the day of Pei Lingxian's audience to express gratitude, both the Emperor and the Grand Princess bestowed generous gifts. Subsequently, Consort Pei presented treasures to Xinyi Palace, all of which were graciously accepted by the Grand Princess. From this point on, the Emperor's visits to Chengshu Palace became increasingly frequent, to the extent that it could be considered a special favor.
The rumors of discord between the Emperor and the Empress are no longer a secret within the palace. On one hand, Duke Chen claims to be ill and does not attend court, while on the other hand, the Emperor insists on proceeding, disregarding the Empress's dignity caught in between, making her the subject of ridicule among the six palaces. Today, the Emperor hosted a banquet, anticipating that Duke Chen would not attend due to his illness, but unexpectedly, at this moment, the Empress also exhibited signs of discomfort. Whether it is genuine good news or feigned discomfort, it has undeniably embarrassed the Emperor, aligning her with Duke Chen and his daughter.
This matter was originally meant to be pondered over by the ceremonial officials, but due to a small issue escalating into a major conflict, it ultimately led to a dispute between two factions that reached the imperial court, inciting the Emperor's wrath. Duke Chen boldly admonished in court, and contrary to his usual receptiveness to counsel, the Emperor not only insisted on establishing the Nine Guests Ceremony but also made an exception to revive the ritual of offering sacrifices in the suburbs, ordering the Minister of State, Shen Jue, to go to the outskirts of the capital to welcome him. After the court meeting, a banquet was held at the Qiong Terrace, with the Empress leading the various consorts to personally attend the banquet.
In the midst of the stalemate, someone finally arrived from the Tai Ping Hall to deliver a message. However, it was neither an imperial edict nor any mention of the Empress Dowager; it simply stated that the time was drawing near and that Eunuch Wang was urging the ladies to set out. The group exchanged glances, for Eunuch Wang was a person close to the Emperor, and his message subtly hinted at the underlying situation—while the Empress appeared to be confident, the Emperor seemed intent on putting the Empress Dowager in a difficult position. It seemed that the banquet at the Qiong Tai Palace tonight would not have a female host in attendance.
Imperial Concubine Pei entered directly into the first seat, right next to the Phoenix and Bird Table, and it seemed only natural for her to sit beside the Grand Princess. The illusory Phoenix and Zao Jade Table set before them made the other concubines feel somewhat uneasy, while a faint smile appeared at the corner of Pei's lips. Today’s grand occasion was notably lacking the Empress, and it remains to be seen how the Emperor would manage to save face in front of the foreign envoys.