Section 4
Wang Fang looked at Jin Lan and sighed softly, saying: "Among the women I know, you are the only one who can understand these things. It is a pity that you are a woman; otherwise, how could that Park Yeon-seong compare to you in any way?" The Park Yeon-seong she mentioned was one of the first group of "envoys to Song" from Goryeo, essentially a foreign student, a tribute student of the Baishuitan Academy. In the fifteenth year of Xining, he participated in the provincial examination and ranked fifth, and in the palace examination, he achieved third place in the first class, becoming the top scholar. The emperor specially appointed him as the Secretary Supervisor and the Editor of the Imperial Library, bringing him great honor at the time. His poetry, songs, and essays were praised even by Su Zizhan. However, Jin Lan did not like this person. The Goryeo envoy had once tried to persuade this young man, who took pride in being a Goryeo student, to return home to serve in the government, but after the envoy left, he was blocked from even speaking and later could not even enter the door. This time, when Jin Zhi and Wang Yao came to Bianjing, the Goryeo embassy hosted a banquet for all the envoys to Song, but he was the only one absent. Jin Lan also knew that Park Yeon-seong had his own difficulties—his father and brothers supported King Sun and were killed in this struggle for the throne. However, what Jin Lan could not understand was that if he could not forgive his own country, why could he easily forgive the Song Dynasty, which was also involved in the power struggle within Goryeo, and shamelessly consider himself a Song person? Among the Goryeo students, there were not a few in similar situations; in the first group of envoys to Song, they accounted for almost half. Yet, to this day, all the first group of foreign students have returned to Goryeo except for him, among whom were those who had even passed the imperial examinations in the Song Dynasty.
"Sister-in-law." Jin Lan, upon seeing Wang Fang, quickly adjusted her attire and said, "How could I dare to trouble you, sister-in-law"
She had long heard from Wen that her sister-in-law, Wang Fang, came from a prestigious family, being the daughter of a prime minister. She was proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, and prose, and even in historical texts and political commentary, she was no less capable than her male counterparts. Had she been born a son, positions among the nobility would have been within her grasp, making her a remarkable woman. However, she was particularly lacking in needlework and culinary skills, finding it even more difficult than wielding a spear, and the meals she prepared were akin to poison. After marrying into the Sang family, initially, there were no issues, but as time passed, although her mother-in-law was very easy to get along with, the numerous relatives and friends of the Sang family inevitably led to some gossip. This particular lady of the Sang family was inherently competitive and could not tolerate the idle talk of others. Thus, she vowed to learn needlework, specifically seeking out Princess Qinghe to draw a sample for her. Several times, when Wen saw her return, she could only laugh so hard that she could not speak coherently. At that time, Jinlan was still unwilling to believe it, always thinking that everyone had two hands and that it could not be as exaggerated as Wen said. Moreover, she had always greatly admired Wang Fang's talents and abilities, so how could such trivial needlework pose a challenge to a talented woman like her? This time, however, she was witnessing Wang Fang's needlework for the first time. She could hardly imagine that a perfectly good "Pair of Wings Flying Together" could be embroidered to look like a pot of overcooked noodles. Even if Zhang Fei were called in, he would likely do a better job at embroidery.
However, her fate did not change as a result; such a rebellious act made it impossible for her to find peace within the palace. Although her biological mother, Consort Miao, had established a good relationship by supporting the then Emperor Yingzong, the conflict with Empress Dowager Cao made her position even more awkward. During the lifetime of Emperor Renzong, Empress Dowager Cao had already publicly expressed sympathy for the prince consort. After Emperor Renzong's death, she lost her greatest support. Moreover, Empress Dowager Gao could not accept such behavior that was inconsistent with moral and ceremonial laws. Ultimately, the Grand Princess of Chu was forced to remarry, and soon after, she died in despair, merely eight years after her divorce.
At that time, the steward indeed received a benefit of twenty wen for every guan of copper coins. Although he knew in his heart that this Goryeo lady was shrewd, he dared not admit it. He merely bent over and replied, "I was foolish and did not think of it at the time. In the past month or two, I have heard everywhere about the situation in Shaanxi. This month, in Bianjing, one needs one thousand fifty wen in paper money to exchange for one guan of copper coins, and it seems to be rising... When buying things outside, the price in paper money is different from the price in coins. The rent collected from the fields in the manor, apart from the grain, is all paid in paper money by the clients. However, if the servants at home still receive their monthly wages in paper money as before, many families will not be able to get by. Nowadays, regardless of what it is, everything has increased by two to three times compared to last year. If this continues with the paper money and copper coins..."
From various rumors, Jinlan sensed that the jest of the virtuous consort and the comparisons made by the people in the palace were not without basis. At the very least, she could discern that the emperor harbored considerable sympathy for the plight of Princess Zhuangxia. This Nineteenth Lady, from a young age, had evidently become another Princess Zhuangxia. This county princess was not only equally passionate and sincere but also equally filial. The astonishing and unconventional deeds she performed surpassed those of Princess Zhuangxia, yet she had never strayed from the path of propriety—this indeed meant she possessed the strengths of Princess Zhuangxia without her weaknesses. If it is said that the emperor and empress held a deeper affection for her, Jinlan believed this to be highly probable—within the Song royal family, there were countless Princess Qinghe, but there was only one Princess Roujia!
It is indeed the ancestral law to prevent the chancellor from holding office for too long, to avoid the formation of factions and personal interests, which can become deeply entangled. After the emperor ascended the throne, he no longer allowed Han Qi to serve as chancellor. Could it really be because he belonged to the so-called 'old party'? Then what about Zeng Gongliang, which party does he belong to?" Wang Fang's gaze shifted, revealing a hint of excitement. "Han Qi is a cunning old fox; after being dismissed from his chancellorship, he returned to his hometown to seek land and property, living a life of luxury. Occasionally, he submits a few memorials to demonstrate his loyalty to the emperor and concern for the country. This is why the Han family continues to enjoy the emperor's favor, which has not ceased to this day. He and Shi Ziming truly deserve to be called father-in-law and son-in-law; in recent years, the methods of Shi Yue have been remarkably similar to his. He shuts his doors to guests, does not engage in teaching, nor does he write books. He either disperses his retainers or recommends them for official positions, leaving only Pan Zhaolin, who spends his days wandering in Bianjing, enjoying the scenery, discussing Buddhism, and expounding on scriptures. Although he occasionally purchases land and houses, he absolutely refrains from engaging in activities such as keeping courtesans, and he frequently submits secret memorials to the emperor to show that he harbors no resentment. I truly do not know where he learned these skills—so-called 'the abnormal is the demonic'; if he tries to learn from others to sully himself, he might end up drawing a dog instead of a tiger. The emperor is a wise ruler...
Wang Fang looked at Jin Lan and said with a cold smile: "Just now you were laughing at me, yet you are also a fool. What use is it to guard the entrance? It is more useful to make arrangements with the various offices. Your husband returned to the capital last night, and the Emperor personally issued the orders. Your cousin is imprisoned at the Censorate. Along with him, there are two military officials who have not even been involved with the Imperial Guard, and they were directly sent to the prison of the Central Secretariat..."
Jin Lan sensed a hint of dissatisfaction in her tone and could not help but explain for Shi Yue: "National military affairs are of utmost importance and must be kept confidential. Moreover, there are laws and regulations to follow in this matter..."
Why doesn't Shi Ziming know?" Wang Fang lightly hummed and said, "Conspiracy and intrigue are his forte, but in my opinion, he is most likely planning something significant!
However, even after doing all this, for the astute and experienced Jin Lan, it is ultimately impossible to deceive herself. She cannot fool herself—Tang Kang's promotion had been regarded by the officials of Bianjing as a harbinger of Shi Yue's resurgence, and everyone believed that the emperor might once again favor Shi Yue. Understanding this does not require any political insight; one only needs to count the number of carriages in front of Shuxue Street to see it clearly. Yet, Shi Yue's resurgence will certainly pose a threat to Lü Huiqing. Lü Huiqing will not overlook any opportunity that can be exploited, especially since this time Tang Kang has practically poked a hole in the sky!
However, Jin Lan could not reveal these inner feelings and merely said lightly: "I dare not compare myself, nor do I wish to. In this life, being able to support my husband and raise children, living peacefully day by day, is already a blessing." Her words were half true and half false. Wen had already given birth to a son and a daughter for Tang Kang, while she had none. She could not remain indifferent. Yet, a rift had formed between husband and wife, and how could it be easily mended? This time, when Tang Kang encountered difficulties, she was anxious and restless, unable to sit still, only wishing for Tang Kang's safety; she would not hesitate to sacrifice herself in his place. A woman as calm and rational as she was naturally understood her own feelings. However, her other side was still entangled with her own country and family. Although sometimes she would naively think that since Wang Yun had successfully ascended to the throne, she could be liberated, she ultimately knew that this was impossible. She had already become too deeply involved. For her, supporting her husband and raising children, living peacefully day by day, was an extremely luxurious matter. She could not even afford to feel jealousy as a woman; if it were not for the guilt in her heart, how could she willingly share the man she loved with another woman?
Did you not know at that time? Jin Lan snorted but did not pursue the matter further; she was already shocked by this news. Although she did not understand the study of currency, the exchange of banknotes for copper coins was supposed to be one-to-one. While there would actually be a small handling fee of a few thousandths, it was negligible. However, the fact that in Shaanxi Road, one string of copper coins could be exchanged for over 1,100 wen in banknotes was alarming. Connecting this to what Wang Fang mentioned last night, even she, being somewhat slow-witted, realized that there was a significant problem with the currency system in Shaanxi.
Although it is said that manipulating the imperial guards to suppress a rebellion is against the law, it is ultimately for the sake of the court, and the officials should not hold it against me, right
Several years ago, the Sang family moved from Panlou Street to the vicinity of Xianyi Fang. This area is not like the commercial district of Panlou Street; Xianyi Fang, like Dong Taishi Alley, is inhabited entirely by the royal relatives and high-ranking officials of the Song Dynasty. The fourth brother of the current emperor, Zhao Yan, has his residence in District 1 of Xianyi Fang. Opposite the Fourth Wangfu, construction is also in full swing, as the government is building a palace for the Yong Wang Zhao Hao. As Jin Lan passed through District 1 of Xianyi Fang in a carriage, she caught a glimpse of the future Yong Wangfu through the carriage window, a faint cold smile flickering at the corner of her mouth.
The calligraphy of my sister-in-law is truly comparable to that of my uncle. Jin Lan casually remarked, and the more she thought about it, the more she felt the resemblance. Shi Yue had practiced calligraphy for over ten years, yet it seemed that he could only write a horizontal and vertical line that resembled chopsticks rather than earthworms. She had once seen Shi Yue secretly practicing tracing characters—Shi Yue, who had long given up on his own calligraphy, suddenly made a complete turnaround for the sake of his "father's" image. During the years of neglect, he had increasingly felt the resemblance, and after a period of intense practice, he had once again dedicated time to calligraphy. However, the calligraphy of the esteemed Scholar Shi was undoubtedly slightly inferior when compared to that of the young Shi Rui, who had practiced for less than a year.
Wang Fang then realized and chuckled, saying: "Returning to the main topic. What makes Lü Jifu able to serve as Chancellor for nine years alone? If we say there is no one in the court, can’t Feng Jing and Sima Guang serve as Chancellor? If we say he has great achievements and has worked hard, can he compare to King Zhao of Han? His contributions are not as great as Zhao Pu's, his demeanor is not as refined as Wang Dan's, and his popularity is not as high as Han Qi's, yet he sits in the position of Chancellor more securely than anyone else. Is this not a strange matter?"
Is there still no news from the official?" As the hour hand of the pearl clock in the room inevitably pointed to 5 o'clock, the dull sound of the clock rang out, and Jinlan couldn't help but turn her head to ask for the third time.
Jin Lanshu was aware of her insights, but this time the trouble caused by Tang Kang was extraordinary. She merely looked at Wang Fang with half-belief and half-doubt, pursing her lips, waiting for her to explain
Wang Fang seemed to know what Jin Lan was thinking. She glanced at Jin Lan again and sighed: "The officials and scholars, apart from Shi Ziming, all underestimate the southwestern barbarians... Originally, I would not have known about these matters—surely you have heard that since the court launched a large-scale campaign against Xia, Shi Yue submitted a memorial requesting news control. The court dispatched personnel to various newspapers, prohibiting any reports related to the war, including the prices of rice and cloth in different regions, without prior permission. When the southwestern conflict broke out, Lü Jifu continued this policy as usual. Therefore, any reports related to the war were dictated by the two courts, and the newspapers simply published what they were told. The three major newspapers had not sent anyone to Yizhou Road to see for themselves what was actually happening there? ... Originally, I would not have known about these matters—surely you have heard that since the court launched a large-scale campaign against Xia, Shi Yue submitted a memorial requesting news control. The court dispatched personnel to various newspapers, prohibiting any reports related to the war, including the prices of rice and cloth in different regions, without prior permission. When the southwestern conflict broke out, Lü Jifu continued this policy as usual. Therefore, any reports related to the war were dictated by the two courts, and the newspapers simply published what they were told. The three major newspapers had not sent anyone to Yizhou Road to see for themselves what was actually happening there? ..."
Wang Fang smiled as he helped Jin Lan up, taking her hand and walking towards the inner room while saying, "Lan'er, Princess Roujia has returned."
This person came to Beijing, but it was only a month ago. Wang Fang said lightly, yet a hint of a mocking smile flickered at the corners of his mouth. Whether Wei Tang has ulterior motives is something outsiders cannot know. However, they at the "Qin Report" dare not report it, yet they want "Bianjing News" to take the lead, and their intentions may not be so pure. What he does not know is that Lü Jifu's followers are guarding every printing house of "Bianjing News" day and night. Even if the outsider is not afraid of offending the powerful, he is still powerless. Originally, the outsider intended to send that person to meet Sima Junshi, but he feared causing trouble for the "Qin Report" and took advantage of our unpreparedness to flee back to Shaanxi overnight. What he does not know is that Lü Jifu's followers are guarding every printing house of "Bianjing News" day and night. Even if the outsider is not afraid of offending the powerful, he is still powerless. Originally, the outsider intended to send that person to meet Sima Junshi, but he feared causing trouble for the "Qin Report" and took advantage of our unpreparedness to flee back to Shaanxi overnight.
A Minister of Personnel has served for ten years; whether he forms factions or not, whether he engages in private interests or not, he is still implicated. Wang Fang seems somewhat fearful that the world is in chaos. The structure of the two courts has been maintained for nearly ten years. The old are aging, and the dead are dying; change is inevitable. The Privy Council, the Ministry of Personnel, the Ministry of War, the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Justice, and even the Ministry of Rites and the Ministry of Revenue, along with important offices such as the Imperial Guard Office, the Grand Treasury Office, and the Supreme Court, will all see personnel changes in the coming years. Otherwise, the Emperor will not find peace of mind. This is beyond doubt. Originally, Lü Huaiqing could have served as Chancellor for a few more stable years, and the Emperor could have waited until the situation in the southwest stabilized before taking action. However... Wang Fang involuntarily leaned forward, looking at Jinlan, lowering his voice, and said, "Do you know that a great storm is approaching? The Emperor has no choice but to act early and change personnel; Lü Huaiqing's position as Chancellor is now as precarious as a fragile egg!"
Indeed, there has been an excessive issuance of the jiao notes. But why has there been an excessive issuance of jiao notes? If it were not for the serious troubles caused by the southwestern tribes, the mere presence of troops in the northwest would not have led to such a situation. Wang Fang shook his head and said: "The prices of goods in Bianjing have been soaring for quite some time. The court has issued jiao notes without backing to cover military expenses. On one hand, the court uses jiao notes to purchase goods from the people, while on the other hand, prices are rising, and the people cannot buy the same goods with the same amount of jiao notes, inevitably leading to widespread complaints. The jiao notes were advocated by Lü Jifu, and the Jiao Note Bureau is managed by the Lü brothers—originally, the situation in Yizhou and the living conditions of the Yizhou people were unknown and perhaps unimportant to the people of Bianjing and the scholars, but now that even Bianjing is experiencing soaring prices, they are feeling the pain directly. On one hand, the court uses jiao notes to purchase goods from the people, while on the other hand, prices are rising, and the people cannot buy the same goods with the same amount of jiao notes, inevitably leading to widespread complaints. The jiao notes were advocated by Lü Jifu, and the Jiao Note Bureau is managed by the Lü brothers—originally, the situation in Yizhou and the living conditions of the Yizhou people were unknown and perhaps unimportant to the people of Bianjing and the scholars, but now that even Bianjing is experiencing soaring prices, they are feeling the pain directly. Although the prices in Bianjing are high, they are still bearable; despite the dissatisfaction, they cannot do anything to the people of Fujian. This resentment can only accumulate day by day. However, the situation in the southwest has reached such a point... Although the prices in Bianjing are high, they are still bearable; despite the dissatisfaction, they cannot do anything to the people of Fujian. This resentment can only accumulate day by day. However, the situation in the southwest has reached such a point... The rebellion of the southwestern tribes was also instigated by Lü Huaiqing! The imperial troops, unwilling to go to the southwest, have even resorted to mutiny! Do you think Lü Huaiqing is not like someone sitting on a bed of fire right now? If you say that Shi Yue and Sima Guang are indifferent, I absolutely do not believe it!
Those traitorous soldiers should also be executed according to the law
"Finish what you have to say in one go." Jin Lan was already growing impatient.
What is most thought-provoking, however, is the current emperor's attitude towards his aunt. Although he holds the title of emperor, he could not prevent her from being forced into a remarriage, leading to her tragic death. Yet, after her passing, when the officials discussed her posthumous title, the emperor intervened and personally bestowed the title of "Zhuang Xiao" upon her, posthumously elevating her to the status of Grand Princess of the State of Qin. Strangely enough, as if he could not quell his resentment otherwise, the emperor actually demoted the unfortunate prince consort to Chenzhou under the charge of "disrespecting the sovereign," and he has yet to recover from this disgrace. It is important to note that the prevailing public opinion at the time was that "the blame for the discord lay entirely with the princess." In truth, both the prince consort and the princess were victims of an unfortunate marriage.
It is acceptable for the servants to change the payment to cash; how much should each person's monthly salary be increased? Bring me a proposal. Go tell Tang Shouyi that I will use this property as collateral for his money shop; how many coins can I exchange for it? Take the banknotes to the money shop, and exchange the same amount back to me as you did on that day. He has indeed made progress, conducting business right at his own home!" Jin Lan dropped this remark and no longer paid any attention to the steward, leaving with several maidservants.
Jin Lan quickly expressed her gratitude, and the two began to chat about trivial matters. Before long, they arrived at the courtyard where Wang Fang resided. Since Jin Lan was a familiar guest, Wang Fang pretended to be busy with needlework and sent all the maids and servants away. Seeing her feigning seriousness while stitching a needle here and threading a line there on an embroidered screen, Jin Lan couldn't help but laugh and ask, "Cousin, what are you embroidering?"
Jin Lan listened to her speak earnestly, and could not help but walk over with a sense of half-belief. She picked up the embroidered screen and saw that on this small screen, there were lines running east and west, a red line, a black line, a green line, all pieced together in some unknown way, vaguely resembling a pattern. However, no matter how carefully she looked, she ultimately could not understand what Wang Fang had embroidered. She quietly examined it from all angles for a while, feeling perplexed, when suddenly she noticed a colored picture pressed down on a small table beside her. A glance revealed it to be a picture of two birds flying side by side. She turned her head and looked again at the embroidered screen in her hand, and suddenly burst into loud laughter, one hand pointing at the pattern and the other at the screen, laughing so hard that she nearly lost her breath. The maids outside, unaware of what had happened, quietly approached to sneak a look. Upon seeing the embroidered screen in Jin Lan's hand, they all covered their mouths and laughed heartily.
"Aren't you already safe and prosperous enough?" Wang Fang, however, found it difficult to understand her feelings and laughed, "Once my cousin gets through this hurdle, I believe he will be able to settle in Bianjing for a few years. You and your husband will be reunited, have a few children, and then you can focus on being a good wife and raising them."
However, such days are no longer long-lasting. Wang Fang said with a hint of glee.
Wang Fang, seeing her teasing, laughed as he tossed the embroidered screen onto the couch, yet unwilling to be outdone, he said earnestly: "What I have embroidered is a ghost-catching picture, which has the divine effect of warding off evil and protecting the house"
Ah? This news truly surprised Jinlan. Since the death of Empress Dowager Cao, Roujia has been melancholic. Starting from the thirteenth year of Xining, she has repeatedly submitted memorials, requesting to go to Gong County to guard the tomb for three years in order to fulfill her filial duty—this is unprecedented since the founding of the Song Dynasty and is also not in accordance with the rites and laws. However, like previous dynasties, the Song Dynasty governs the world with filial piety. Although the emperor secretly cherishes this sister and has repeatedly tried to keep her in the palace, even asking the empress and Princess Qinghe to comfort her, unfortunately, Roujia's will is very firm. The emperor had no choice but to reluctantly grant her request. By the fourteenth year of Xining, Roujia left Jingyuan Manor and headed to Gong County. From then on, news of her in Bianjing became scarce. Jinlan is a very perceptive person. Earlier, when she entered the palace to meet Consort Wang, they casually chatted about Princess Roujia. Consort Wang even joked that whether it was the late Empress Dowager Cao or the emperor and empress, their affection for Roujia actually surpassed that for Princess Qinghe—people in the palace all say that this Nineteenth Lady's temperament is very much like that of the late Grand Princess of Chu, who passed away in the third year of Xining.
Wang Fang was made to blush by her laughter. She was also aware that her embroidery skills were somewhat embarrassing, so she took out the embroidered screen she had hidden behind her and looked at it again, laughing as she said: "Laugh, laugh! It would be better to laugh to death at you, this Goryeo maid." Seeing that Jin Lan had laughed enough, she pretended to be angry, straightened her face, and said: "Do we still need to discuss serious matters? Are you still going to take care of your family’s Kang Lang? If not, I can also be at ease."
The steward murmured: "At that time, I also did not know. However, later I heard that in Shaanxi, one could exchange a string of coins for one thousand one hundred and sixty cash notes. The money shops in Bianjing were all trying to find ways to transport copper coins to Shaanxi to collect cash notes..."
The carriage swiftly passed through the first district of Xianyi Fang, winding through the streets and alleys. After running for nearly half an hour, it finally stopped in front of the Sang residence. The housekeeper of the Sang family, upon seeing Jinlan's carriage, had already rushed inside to report, while also welcoming the carriage through the side gate into the estate. As Jinlan disembarked at the main gate, Wang Fang had already brought people to personally greet her.
Jinlan was thoroughly shaken, "Are the southwestern barbarians really that formidable?" she silently questioned in her heart. Perhaps the Song Dynasty, this empire, is far more fragile than she had imagined. However, if Wang Fang's analysis is indeed correct, then the situation in the court is bound to undergo significant changes, which, for Tang Kang, would at least not be a bad thing
He will be fine," Wang Fang said confidently with a smile. "Once you hear my explanation, you will know that this time is destined to be nothing more than a false alarm.
This great storm is a disaster for some, but for my cousin, it is a blessing from heaven
This ... ...
Jin Lan found it increasingly amusing, holding her belly and pointing at the drawing paper, she laughed and said: "This... this is... this is... drawn by Princess Qinghe..."
His Royal Highness the Prince of Yong has evidently taken this into account. Empress Dowager Gao and the Empress will certainly uphold the order of precedence among the princes. If the sixth prince, Zhao Yong, has not yet been selected for his studies, and the seventh prince is allowed to begin his education first, this precedent will incite the ambitions of the other princes, leading to endless troubles in the future. Since the princes are still young, there is no fear of delays, and thus this matter can be suppressed for now. Meanwhile, His Royal Highness the Prince of Yong is pleased to see that the later the princes begin their studies, the better.
The maid shook her head and replied softly, "Not yet." After saying this, she slightly raised her head, glanced at Jin Lan, bit her lower lip gently, and comforted, "Madam, perhaps there will be news by tomorrow."
What he said may not necessarily be trustworthy
"With so many young gentlemen among the officials in the court, surely one can find a suitable husband, right?" Jin Lan said with a faint smile, as she seemed somewhat distracted by these matters.
Whenever Jin Lan mentioned Shi Yue, she would inevitably mock him with sarcasm until she was satisfied. However, she was Shi Yue's sister-in-law, which made her position awkward, and she hurriedly blushed and called out, "Cousin-in-law..."
This is not the case... the butler said with a苦 face: "However, a few months ago, Tang Shouyi from the money shop came over, saying there was a big business deal and needed to circulate some copper coins. He exchanged the cash for copper coins and took away all the more than 8,000 guan of copper coins that had been accumulated in the residence. This matter was originally reported to the madam..."
Madam," the steward saw Jinlan and quickly bowed, reporting, "The accountant just mentioned that the household expenses for this month..." Before he could finish his sentence, he noticed Jinlan's face darkening, which frightened him into silence. He knew very well that given the significant events occurring in the household, it was indeed inappropriate to trouble the Madam with trivial matters. However, with the sky falling, the Tang family, comprising nearly a hundred people, could not simply stop eating or require no money. Moreover, Madam Wen was not in charge of affairs, leaving him no choice but to approach Jinlan for guidance. He understood that it was not right to bother the Madam with such minor issues during such a critical time, yet the reality was that the large household could not go on without food or funds, and since Madam Wen was not managing the affairs, he had to muster the courage to consult Jinlan.
Jin Lan glanced at him and suddenly asked, "Has Tang Shouyi fallen so low as to come to our residence to exchange money?"
It is said that this princess was clever and intelligent from a young age, playful and adorable, and throughout her life, she was very filial to her parents. Although she often displayed an arrogant demeanor, she was a person of deep feelings and sincerity. Thus, even more than ten years after her passing, stories about this princess continue to circulate in the boudoirs of Bianjing—ranging from her mischievous deeds during her youth, to her heartfelt plea to the heavens to exchange her life for her father's safety; from her extraordinarily grand ceremony of being conferred as a princess, to her luxurious and extravagant wedding. Even rumors persist that she wanted to divorce her husband because she had fallen in love with a court eunuch. Many girls in Bianjing, although they outwardly dismiss the actions of this princess, cannot help but perk up their ears upon hearing the words 'Princess of Chu' or 'Princess Zhuangxiao.' This Princess of Chu has indeed become a legend in the boudoirs.
Wang Fang looked at Jin Lan in surprise and said with a half-smile, "If it does not meet the county lord's wishes, it will not do, as a lesson from the past..." Rou Jia was somewhat aware of Shi Yue's feelings.
Jinlan had never seen the beloved daughter of Emperor Renzong, yet she had heard many tales about her—this princess was audacious to the point of being unruly, a stark contrast among the gentle and virtuous princesses of the Song Dynasty. However, her fate could not escape the curse of being a Song Dynasty princess, ending up as tragic as many other princesses of that era.
In fact, if we speak of strange matters, there is nothing particularly surprising about it. His ability to remain in power for nine years is merely due to the Emperor's inability to take action. During these nine years, how many events has the court experienced? Changes in official positions, the abolition of prefectures and counties, military reorganization... not to mention the campaigns in the east and west, it is truly countless. The political situation has finally achieved a delicate balance; as long as no major mistakes occur, at this moment, the Emperor surely prefers to avoid additional troubles. With wars ongoing outside, how can the internal political situation afford to be unstable? It is said in the palace that the Empress Dowager has repeatedly told the Emperor that Sima Guang's position should not be below that of Lü Huaiqing. The Emperor has also stated that Sima Guang could serve as a Left Minister, yet Sima Guang remains unmoved in his position as Minister of Revenue, which is even subordinate to the Ministers of Personnel and Military. Can it be that Sima Guang cannot become the Minister of Personnel? In my view, the Emperor fears that if Sima Guang's position changes, whether as Minister of Personnel or as Right Minister, gaining control over personnel matters would disrupt the stability of the court. The Emperor is indeed a wise ruler; in the tenth year of Xining, he elevated Lü Huaiqing to Left Minister under the pretext of issuing paper currency, stripping him of the power to independently manage personnel. Consequently, important personnel matters must be decided by the Council of State, while the Ministry of Personnel is entrusted to the more moderate Feng Jing, with the so-called 'Stone Party' mediating between the new and old factions, allowing them to barely coexist peacefully. Otherwise, regardless of which faction controls personnel matters, if one claims that they will not engage in a life-and-death struggle, I would certainly not believe it.
Wang Fang lightly hummed but did not refute. After a pause, he continued, "However, last year, Wei Tang from the 'Qin Report' sent two individuals to Yizhou Road, and they bribed the officers of the Imperial Guard, accompanying the army deep into the heart of the southwestern barbarians. Although 'Qin Report' did not publish any reports upon their return, Wei Tang wrote a letter to her husband, which was personally delivered to Bianjing by one of them."
However, Jin Lan and Wang Fang went to Jingyuan Manor but found nothing. Rou Jia and Qing He were summoned to the palace early in the morning by the Empress Dowager. Jin Lan originally intended to wait for Rou Jia to return at Jingyuan Manor with Wang Fang, but she did not wait long before a family member came to lead her to the Shi residence, saying that Madam Shi requested her presence. Jin Lan did not dare to delay and hurriedly asked Wang Fang to apologize to Rou Jia and Qing He on her behalf before heading to the Shi residence. After all the back and forth, she arrived at the Shi residence just around noon. As she reached the door, she saw A Wang already waiting there. She knew that although A Wang was just a maid in the Shi residence, it was one of the few noble families in the Song Dynasty that treated their servants with great equality. She had heard that Madam Shi even allowed A Wang to choose her own husband! However, for some reason, A Wang seemed to have never found her ideal partner, instead pouring her enthusiasm into Yi Yuan—Shi Yue, for the sake of his daughter, spent a considerable sum to purchase a small estate named "Yi Yuan" in the southern part of Bianjing to serve as a school; Zi Er used her connections to persuade many noble young ladies and even invited retired palace maids to teach at Yi Yuan, covering subjects such as needlework, etiquette, music, chess, calligraphy, painting, and even arithmetic and natural philosophy, attracting daughters of over ten court officials to study there, including the current Emperor's most favored Princess Shu Shou, who often came to Yi Yuan to learn. A Wang taught zither and foreign languages at Yi Yuan. As Jin Lan walked with A Wang towards the back courtyard, she smiled and said, "I wonder what my sister-in-law has summoned me for?" A Wang replied with a smile, "It is actually that the gentleman wants to see the county lord, probably regarding the matter of the second young master. However, two guests came to see the gentleman this morning, and he has been talking with them for several hours..."
Upon hearing about Tang Kang, Jin Lan immediately stopped laughing and said anxiously: "Sister-in-law, you don't know, I am truly worried to death. Up to this point, I have yet to see anyone return to the capital..."
Apart from the Southwestern Barbarians, Jin Lan was even more unaware of what Wang Fang meant by "the Great Storm".
Ah? Upon hearing this news, Jin Lan's face instantly turned pale, "This... even the Shi family is unaware of the truth... the Emperor's will..."
Wang Fang was made to blush by her laughter, feeling embarrassed as he quickly walked over, snatched it away, and hid it behind his back, while muttering, "You are not a good person either. How could I help you like this!"
This may be due to the excessive issuance of banknotes. Jin Lan is not completely ignorant, but for someone of her status, the prices in Bianjing are truly not something she needs to concern herself with
Jinlan harbored no fondness for the Prince of Yong. The Song people calculate a man's age using the traditional method, and in the 17th year of Xining, the Prince of Yan'an was already 9 years old, while His Highness the Duke of Xin was 8. From the Emperor, the Empress Dowager, the Empress, to the ministers of the court, everyone began to arrange for these two princes to select tutors. However, the Prince of Yan'an—who was, in fact, the de facto crown prince of the Song Dynasty—was unfortunately frail and sickly, making it difficult for him to attend school, thus causing delays in the decision. The Empress had originally planned to select a tutor for the Duke of Xin first, but just as Jinlan and others were excitedly planning to find a good teacher for the Duke of Xin, the Prince of Yong submitted a memorial, stating something about "the order of seniority and juniority," resulting in the matter being left unresolved.
"What this person has said is by no means fabricated." Wang Fang resolutely denied Jin Lan's suspicions, "According to him, the situation in the Southwest has indeed reached a shocking level. He stated that he had personally followed the Imperial Army to quell the disturbances. Although the various tribes in the Southwest have many grievances and cannot unite, which has prevented a major disaster, the seeds of rebellion have been sown, with dozens of large-scale and hundreds of smaller ones, creating an alarming momentum. The tribal soldiers move freely among the mountains; when the government troops win, they cannot pursue, and when they lose, they cannot retreat, putting them in a very passive position. He mentioned that he had personally followed the Imperial Army to quell the disturbances. Although the various tribes in the Southwest have many grievances and cannot unite, which has prevented a major disaster, the seeds of rebellion have been sown, with dozens of large-scale and hundreds of smaller ones, creating an alarming momentum. The tribal soldiers move freely among the mountains; when the government troops win, they cannot pursue, and when they lose, they cannot retreat, putting them in a very passive position. If there are military officers who are rigid and unable to adapt, the excellent armor of the Imperial Army becomes a burden. As a result, the government troops suffer defeat in every battle, leading to low morale. Many soldiers are unaccustomed to the local conditions, and diseases spread within the army, while both medical care and medicine are insufficient, further diminishing combat effectiveness. Many soldiers are unaccustomed to the local conditions, and diseases spread within the army, while both medical care and medicine are insufficient, further diminishing combat effectiveness. In addition, the supply of food and provisions is a major issue, often leading to supplies not reaching the front lines—transporting goods through the mountains is difficult, and the Southwest tribes plunder the supply routes, causing constant flight among the laborers. Even in the heart of Yizhou, without military escorts, bandits will rob the grain, and there are even cases where the laborers transporting grain collude with the bandits... Furthermore, there are incompetent generals who exhaust the entire army, either allowing military provisions to rot in one province while another province has no grain in store, forcing the soldiers to endure hunger. On the other hand, the government is desperately buying and forcibly requisitioning food and supplies, leaving the common people in dire straits and leading to a surge in banditry... These matters are by no means something Wei Tang could fabricate; he would not dare to fabricate! I have heard rumors that the price of rice on the Yizhou route has increased two to three times within a few months. I also inquired about the grain prices in nearby regions, including Shaanxi, western Jing, as well as Hedong and Hebei, where grain prices remain high. Even in Bianjing, prices have risen significantly... I also inquired about the grain prices in nearby regions, including Shaanxi, western Jing, as well as Hedong and Hebei, where grain prices remain high. Even in Bianjing, prices have risen significantly...
Disappointment once again occupied Jinlan's heart. She remained silent for a moment, then suddenly stood up and said: "Go to the Sang residence"
Upon thinking of this, Jin Lan felt a surge of joy in her heart. The friendship between Rou Jia and Zi Er was even more significant above the Qing River—this county princess dared to speak what others would not, and to do what others would not dare to do. If she could gain her assistance... Jin Lan secretly calculated her own interests, completely forgetting that in every story involving this county princess, there often lay the misfortunes of another person or several others.
I hope he can safely get through this ordeal, Jin Lan sighed softly
I wouldn't know; you might as well ask the county lord yourself. " Wang Fan smiled as he changed the subject, "Tomorrow we will go to Jingyuan Manor together. Do not blame me for taking the liberty; I have already prepared your gifts in advance.
Does the county lord have someone they are fond of? Which family's young master is it? Jin Lan immediately detected the underlying meaning.
"What is the big deal?" Jin Lan was taken aback
The intentions of Prince Yong are clear to Jinlan. This is because, unlike others, the Prince of Yan'an and the Duke of Xin were personally raised by the Empress in the palace, thus their chances of inheriting the throne are naturally higher than those of the other princes. If the Prince of Yan'an remains safe and sound, in terms of seniority and bloodline, he will naturally have no opportunity compared to the Duke of Xin. Moreover, neither Consort Wang nor Jinlan would dare to harbor such ambitions. However, if anything were to happen to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, among the remaining princes, the Duke of Xin is the oldest and was also raised by the Empress. Although he is at a disadvantage in terms of bloodline, it is not impossible that one day the court officials, in order to prevent the situation of a younger brother succeeding an older brother, might support the older Duke of Xin. After all, the so-called 'bloodline' is determined by the paternal line rather than the maternal line. While the Duke of Xin's Goryeo bloodline may attract the derision of being 'barbarians,' he is nonetheless the biological son of the Emperor of the Song Dynasty. Furthermore, his mother, being a Goryeo princess, is the most noble among the mothers of all the princes! Although everyone currently believes that the Duke of Xin has no chance, Jinlan believes that the affairs of the world are ever-changing.
The Empress Dowager and the Sage are once again concerned about the marriage of the county princess..." As Wang Fang walked, he chatted idly with Jin Lan.
Ah?! Jin Lan couldn't help but exclaim softly; she instinctively sensed that there was more to this than met the eye
This grand princess of the Chu state, like most princesses, unfortunately found herself betrothed to a husband she could not possibly like. Even more unfortunate was her refusal to accept this fate. Within just a few years, the relationship between the couple deteriorated rapidly, culminating in a dramatic scene where she knocked on the palace gates at night, demanding to separate from her husband. According to the laws of the Song Dynasty, opening the palace gates at night was a very serious matter. Moreover, this princess often indulged in drinking and merriment with the palace attendants and failed to manage her relationship with her mother-in-law, which had already drawn attention. Consequently, she faced numerous accusations from the officials, leading to public outcry, and she was ultimately demoted to the title of Princess of Yiguo. However, she paid no heed to this and was determined to divorce her husband, even if it meant death. The emperor, left with no choice, had to send someone to plead with her husband's family, saying, "For ordinary people, wealth and nobility do not necessarily require a son-in-law to serve the master." He subtly requested the husband's family to annul the marriage contract. This can be regarded as one of the most shocking events in the history of the grand princess of Chu and indeed all princesses of the Song Dynasty, as she was only twenty-five years old at the time.
"Sister-in-law said that the situation in the court is about to change significantly?" Jin Lan asked tentatively
Having learned much of the inside story from Wang Fang and also inquiring about Tang Kang's whereabouts, Jin Lan finally returned home and had a peaceful night's sleep. The next day, upon waking, she found Wang Fang's luxurious carriage waiting at her doorstep. Hearing the servant's report, she remembered that she was to accompany Wang Fang to Jingyuan Manor to visit Rou Jia, and she hurriedly got ready. She instructed someone to entertain Wang Fang while she quickly groomed herself and applied a light touch of makeup. However, she noticed the butler hesitating with a troubled expression, lingering outside the door. She furrowed her brow and walked to the door to ask, "Is there something wrong?"
The current affection and trust shown by this "virtuous king" is truly lamentable. In the past, the court struggles witnessed by Jinlan were either as blatant and bloody as those in the Liao state, where fathers and sons, brothers and siblings viewed each other as enemies, and would not rest until they had killed each other, leaving rivers of blood; or, like in Goryeo, although they seemed to be irreconcilable, as long as no overt threats were posed, they would at most "only" force the princes to become monks. However, the way the Song Dynasty conducts itself with such warmth and subtlety is indeed astonishing to Jinlan. She is quite aware of the underlying circumstances; since Wang Anshi became the chancellor, the finances of the Song Dynasty have gradually become more regulated. After the reform of the official system, especially to cope with the war against the Western Xia, financial power was further decentralized, being held by the Ministry of Revenue and the Grand Secretariat, while the wealth directly controlled by the emperor has diminished. The current emperor is indeed a wise and virtuous ruler; to alleviate the expenses of the national treasury, he has repeatedly cut down on palace expenditures. At present, at least two or three palaces in the imperial compound are in disrepair, and he is reluctant to spend money—yet, to build a royal residence for his younger brother, the emperor generously disbursed over 200,000 strings of cash. This sum of over 200,000 strings of copper coins serves not only to demonstrate to the world the affection among the royal brothers and the emperor's emphasis on sibling bonds, but its true purpose is singular: to ensure that His Royal Highness, the Prince of Yong, resides a bit farther from the palace. This is evidently not just the emperor's idea alone, as the usually meticulous Minister of Revenue, Sima Guang, surprisingly did not oppose it.
Regarding the various justifications for Wen's weaving provided by Tang Kang, Jin Lan could only silently smile bitterly. She was unwilling to add unnecessary pressure to her, as a distinguished young lady like Wen had already done well enough. However, Jin Lan could find no reason to comfort herself—since ancient times, for those in high positions, the form of doing things has been equally important, if not more so, than the content of the work itself.
Between the Eastern Capital and the Western Capital of the Great Song, in addition to the waterways of the Bian River and the Luo River, there are also the densely shaded official roads connecting them, making transportation quite convenient. However, convenience can sometimes become a source of trouble. Jin Lan is well aware that the last letter from Tang Kang was sent back by a special messenger before he even arrived in Luoyang. Since dispatching that servant to report back, no further correspondence has arrived. Whether from the Shi family or the Wen family, the Tang family or the Sang family, not a single person knows which route he took after arriving in Luoyang. She estimates that Tang Kang should have reached Bianjing in the past few days, so she had no choice but to resort to a foolish method, sending people to take turns day and night to guard every road and every ferry. Although she knows that this is of little use, for the sake of her family, doing nothing at all would be truly unsettling.
You did not come all this way just to tell me about something that happened a few months ago, did you
Indeed. The subordinates wish to change the monthly payment to copper coins, but if the treasury exchanges the banknotes for copper coins at the money shop, the loss would be substantial. I, being of lower status, do not dare to make a decision on my own and would like to ask the lady for guidance
"Is the household supply insufficient?" Jin Lan asked coldly
In recent days, she has been troubled and anxious, and although she tries to force a smile, it only makes her suffer more. Unexpectedly, in front of Wang Fang, all the pent-up feelings of anxiety, anger, and worry that she has been holding in for days have been completely released.