Chapter 0003: Marriage of Social Status

Shen Zhezi roughly guessed what his father was worried about, especially feeling that it was incomprehensible to test the Wang family’s reliability with just a mere reputation, thereby avoiding unnecessary sacrifices. What was so difficult to choose? To be honest, he had no desire to gain prestige in the Eastern Jin court, particularly considering the eccentric behaviors of those scholars, which made him feel a chill just thinking about it

In contrast to the father and son who indulge in songs, dances, and women, Shen Zhen appeared somewhat unsettled. Although both belong to the Shen clan of Wuxing, they are from different branches; Shen Chong's lineage is currently the most distinguished, while Shen Zhen is relatively less prominent and does not enjoy the same detached position as Shen Chong. He came bearing the imperial edict and was naturally eager to understand what intentions Shen Chong had in summoning him back.

If there are marital ties between each other, naturally the gaps of suspicion will disappear, allowing for close cooperation and mutual convenience. However, if the Wang family does not permit it, then Shen Chong feels he should carefully consider whether the Wang family is truly worth his effort to assist at the cost of his own family's stability. Yet, this probing action carries a certain risk; if it fails and becomes known, it will undoubtedly harm his son's future reputation and subject him to ridicule from contemporaries.

He finally decided to abandon the plan to raise troops in response to Wang Dun, and he no longer wished to test the Wang family's intentions through a marriage proposal, yet there was an undeniable sense of solitude in his expression. Giving up a plan that had been in the works for many years was particularly difficult for him. However, thinking of his son's previous performance brought him great comfort from his earlier disappointment. Compared to risking his life to fight for a slim chance, he felt that raising his son to become a talented individual held greater significance for the family's rise.

Shen Chong, however, did not respond. He stood with his hands behind his back in the corridor, gazing up at the sky, remaining silent for a long time. Suddenly, he let out a long sigh, pulled over his son, who was only as tall as his ribs, and patted his shoulder, lamenting, "My son is only eight years old, yet he speaks of plans for the nation. Is this not a talent bestowed by heaven? Although I am foolish and have been indulging in the mundane for too long, I fear that the Wang family has no daughter worthy of my麟儿. Enough, from now on, I shall lie idle in my thatched cottage, only listening to the wind and rain."

This is Shen Zhezi's trump card. Although it feels somewhat strange for an eight-year-old child to be thinking about marrying a wife, once the words were spoken, Shen Zhezi was already filled with a strong sense of shame. However, this matter would surely dispel his father Shen Chong's last glimmer of hopeful fantasy regarding the Wang family of Langya.

However, the conditions offered by the court to Shen Chong for the position of the Three Dukes greatly intrigued Shen Zhen. Once Shen Chong attained the rank of Three Dukes, it would elevate the entire Shen family's status. With patience and careful management over the years, the Wuxing Shen family might very well surpass the likes of Gu, Lu, Zhu, and Zhang in one fell swoop, allowing the members of the Shen family to share in the benefits and gain their respective advantages.

Shen Chong invited Shen Zhen into the hall, while also beckoning to Shen Zhezi: "You come in as well."

Seeing that his father finally ceased to be obstinate, Shen Zhezi let out a sigh of relief. Although he was not fully versed in the political developments at the beginning of the Eastern Jin dynasty, he had a general understanding. It was better for his father to withdraw bravely from the turbulent waters, despite the numerous future troubles, than to lose his life. If they had truly followed the original historical trajectory, the only one in their family who could have survived would have been the infant Shen Jin, who would have lived a life burdened with infamy, needing to fight to the death in the Northern Expedition to cleanse his name and restore the family honor.

At this moment, Shen Chong was filled with fervor and had no distractions. His son's outstanding performance left him without any worries; even if this endeavor did not succeed, he was not afraid of having no successors. Hearing Shen Zhezi's call, he halted his steps and turned back, jokingly saying, "What further teachings do you have for me, my son? I am all ears and ready to listen."

Shen Chong's face showed a hint of doubt as he turned to look at Shen Zhezi. Seeing his son slightly nod, he felt another wave of astonishment within. For an eight-year-old child like Shen Zhezi to be able to perceive subtle signs and discern Shen Zhen's intentions, is this the kind of wisdom and insight that a child can possess? It is simply intelligence bordering on the supernatural

Shen Chong, however, did not rush to express his opinion. Instead, he summoned several singing and dancing girls to perform gracefully in the hall. The soft Wu dialect songs were melodious and full of charm. Shen Zhezi sat on the left side of his father, and it was his first time witnessing the entertainment of this era. He couldn't help but steal a few glances, feeling somewhat guilty, and furtively looked at his father. Yet, Shen Chong did not pay attention to him; his fingers tapped rhythmically on the edge of the table, accompanying the music.

Shen Zhezi stepped forward and said earnestly, "Since father has made an agreement with General Wang regarding this matter, life and death have become one. I, the son, am being presumptuous and would like to ask father to seek a lady from the Wang family for me as a suitable match"

Shen Zhezi is well aware that her father is not only a financial tycoon engaged in copper mining and coin minting, but also a leading entertainment magnate in the Sanwu region. In the villa estate located in Qianxi, he maintains a large number of singers, dancers, and musicians, whose quantity and quality are unparalleled in the Wu region, to the extent that many of the later Jiangnan entertainers can trace their origins back to this place. With such a fabulously wealthy father as her backing, Shen Zhezi's high-profile journey through time is truly well-deserved.

In truth, from his own heart, Shen Zhen did not wish for Shen Chong to raise an army and revolt, just as he had done two years prior when he advanced straight into Jiankang City. His current position as a low-ranking official was still a result of the residual influence from Shen Chong's rebellion back then. The group of expatriates in Jiankang City were nothing but a bunch of lowly individuals who needed to be dealt with; without showing them a bit of strength, they would not understand just how powerful the Shen family of Wuxing truly was

Shen Chong dismissed the dancers and then said to Shen Zhen: "Please convey to the court on my behalf, although I am unworthy, I am still a minister of Jin under the influence of the royal virtue. In the past, I rose by aligning myself with General Wang's great achievements, and my intentions to rectify the chaos were sincere and unwavering. It is unexpected that the court has misunderstood me to this extent, offering heavy rewards and sweet words to entice me. This is a failure of both the ruler and the minister to uphold their proper roles. Since the way is not being followed, I shall adhere to the teachings of Confucius and his disciple Zi Lu"

Fifth brother, please understand that I indeed have the intention to transfer; I kindly ask you to convey this to the officials in the court.

One of the most prominent characteristics of the gentry class is the practice of marriage within one's social rank, where intermarriage between the gentry and commoners is strictly prohibited. This was particularly enforced among the expatriate clans during the transition between the Eastern Jin and the Southern Dynasties, as these clans utilized intermarriage to create a completely closed circle, maintaining connections, sharing benefits, and ensuring their political superiority, while completely excluding the gentry of Jiangdong. As the leader of the expatriate clans, the Wang family of Langya would not allow even a prestigious family like the Gu family of Jiangdong to marry one of their daughters, let alone a family of lower status such as the Shen family of Wuxing.

Thus, Shen Zhen felt very conflicted, his thoughts entangled even more than those of Shen Chong, the person involved. The beautiful women danced gracefully in front of him, yet he remained oblivious, appearing as if he were sitting on pins and needles, frequently glancing at Shen Chong, who occupied the main seat

Regarding the shameless behavior of the old man, who brazenly flaunts his public solicitation of a minor, Shen Zhezi is filled with disdain, yet he soon finds himself comfortably appreciating the song and dance. To be honest, compared to the vibrant performances of later generations, which feature stunning visuals and elaborate stages, the current dance seems somewhat lacking in flair. However, in terms of visual appeal, it is several times stronger. The music is enchanting and luxurious, while the dance moves are alluring and captivating, exuding a sense of restrained elegance and charm.

Shen Zhezi spoke clearly and walked in front of his father, his expression becoming even more serious: "Moreover, with this marriage contract, both parties can be at ease and will not let each other down. If one wishes to pursue a high position, how can one not be willing to part with a daughter?"

However, Shen Chong did not delve deeply into the matter. Occasionally, he turned to Shen Zhen, smiling as he commented on the merits and flaws of the songs and dances. After nearly half an hour, he picked up the iron ruyi beside him and tapped the table, summoning a soldier attendant to whisper a few instructions.

Father, what is there left to consider? The ancestors of the Wang family endured hardships to seek carp, sacrificing themselves for their parents. Now, the son is willing to tarnish himself to pave the way, allowing you to seek good fortune and avoid misfortune, so that our forebears do not have the exclusive honor.

At that moment, Shen Zhen, who had previously left in a bullock cart, returned to the manor, striding forward with a hint of joy on his face. From a distance, he called out, "Sir Ju has invited me back, has he changed his mind?" Sir Ju refers to Shen Chong's courtesy name.

Shen Zhen served as a court official in the Jiankang court. Due to his kinship with Shen Chong, he was sent by imperial command to persuade Shen Chong to surrender. The emperor was willing to offer high positions such as the Three Dukes, which indicates his apprehension towards Shen Chong. Initially, Shen Zhen was rejected and felt dejected, preparing to return to report back. However, unexpectedly, there was a turn of events, and he was naturally overjoyed. If he could successfully complete his mission and pacify Shen Chong, whether the court would grant Shen Chong the position of Minister of Works remained uncertain, but at the very least, he himself would have achieved a significant accomplishment.

Shen Zhen was puzzled by the meaning, and upon seeing Shen Chong gesture for him to open it, he finally reached out to remove the lid of the box. Inside the wooden box lay various seals of different sizes, which turned out to be Shen Chong's own official seals. His expression changed, and with a slight tremor in his voice, he asked: "What does this mean, Sir?"

Not long after the attendants withdrew, two boxes were brought back and placed on the table in front of Shen Zhen under Shen Chong's indication

If he had thought of this method to test the Wang family's attitude earlier, Shen Chong might have tried it without hesitation. However, now that he has witnessed his son being mature for his age, with thoughts and insights even deeper than his own, Shen Chong does not want his son to bear the stigma of being "absurd," thus he hesitates.

Upon hearing this, Shen Chong furrowed his brows tightly and paced back and forth in the corridor with his hands behind his back. Shen Zhezi's proposal truly resonated with him, especially the notion of "each finding peace in their own way." Wang Dun intended to plot a rebellion, and among the various factions in Wu, he regarded himself as Wang Dun's most formidable support. Previously, there had even been grandiose talk of dividing territories to win him over, which indicated that there was still mutual suspicion. Now, he sought no land grant, but merely wished for a Wang family daughter to be his daughter-in-law, which was an exceedingly appropriate request.

Upon entering the hall, they each took their seats at the table. Before the maid could serve the tea, Shen Zhen, with a face full of joy, said: "If the scholar can find his way back from the wrong path and return to the court, the position of Minister of Works can soon be attained. This is an honor and a status that our entire Shen family has never experienced before"

Indeed, upon hearing this request, Shen Chong displayed a bemused expression: "The Wang family is of high status and also a diaspora; it is truly unreasonable to expect this of Que'er... If you seek a good match, we in Jiangdong have gentle ladies aplenty. Even if it is from the Gu family, as long as you, Que'er, are fond of her, I can arrange for you to take her as your wife."

Shen Zhezi naturally understood that in the current social environment, his thoughts were utterly impossible to realize. In fact, if they were to spread, he would immediately become the laughingstock of everyone. However, it was precisely because it was impossible that he brought it up. To be honest, he had no interest whatsoever in the daughters of noble families. These families were not without individuals addicted to drugs, and it was uncertain what impact this might have on their descendants. Even if he were to marry, Shen Zhezi hoped to choose from commoner families as much as possible, to avoid bringing misfortune upon his descendants and regretting it too late.

Extraordinary individuals undertake extraordinary deeds. Since General Wang desires to attain high status through his ministerial position and transform his family into a nation, how can he be constrained by narrow-minded views? It is not an unprecedented matter for a man of humble origins to marry a daughter of the imperial family; there are precedents from both the previous and recent dynasties. What is so shocking about this?

Even if Shen Chong's uprising fails, only this faction will suffer, and the court would not dare to recklessly expand the scope of the crackdown. Just as General Wang raises troops outside, Minister Wang remains firmly in the center. In terms of blood relations, the connection between Wang Dun and Wang Dao is much closer than that between Shen Zhen and Shen Chong