Chapter 127. Endless

Chapter 127. Endless

Endless*
未央(Weiyang) means (literary) not ended; not yet over; close to the end
The Seventh Month was ablaze, and the Eight Month has not yet over.
More exhilarating than the cool autumn breeze for the imperial court and the people of Yongdu is the news of the southern pacification, with the victorious army returning to the capital.
The proud sun shines brightly in the azure sky. In front of the walls of Yongdu, the devastation left behind by last year's great battle has long disappeared without a trace. The wind blows, and the flags on the city walls flutter. In the center of the city tower, the Emperor's flag, with a red background and a depiction of the sun and moon, is planted, standing the highest. However, around it, flags of various vassals, adorned with dragon patterns and mysterious symbols, representing the Wei clan, are scattered throughout.
"Here they come," suddenly Zhou Shi said behind me. I shaded my eyes with one hand and gazed into the distance.
Sure enough, a cloud of dust rose, and a procession appeared at the end of the road. Excitement swept through those around me. As the figures of the riders became clear, drums and horns resonated from the city walls, and the victorious and joyous sounds were majestic and stirring.
Beside me, Yuying looked into the distance, unable to hold back her tears. Women around her tried to console her, some teasingly saying that if she continued crying, her makeup would be ruined, which would displease Xu Shou (her husband). Yuying nervously wiped away her tears, occasionally asking her maid if her makeup looked bad.
"Fuqin..." Ah Mi was held in Ah Yuan's arms, suddenly waving her small hand towards the city below. I followed her gaze and saw soldiers marching out in formation, pulling a carriage with five spirited horses trailing behind. The carriage had no cover, and Wei Tan, dressed in court attire, sat upright, surrounded by a ceremonial escort.
"It really is Da Sima; Xiao Nujun is truly clever," Ah Yuan said with a smile.
Ah Mi had been to the city walls many times before. She wasn't afraid of heights, noise, or the soldiers.
"Fuqin!" She was delighted by Ah Yuan's praise, suddenly shouting loudly towards Wei Tan. Ah Yuan quickly covered her mouth.
Wei Tan sat in the carriage, unmoving.
In the distance, the large banners bearing the characters '孟' (Meng) and '许' (Xu), as well as flags depicting various mythical beasts, became clearly visible. The soldiers marched in an orderly formation, their raised weapons densely packed, displaying a formidable momentum. As they approached the city, the generals in the front dismounted. Meng Zhong, Xu Shou, and Wei Ping, the military supervisors stationed a hundred miles outside the city, stepped forward to bow to Wei Tan, loudly reporting the number of returning soldiers. Wei Tan alighted from the carriage, personally helping them up, and set out wine to welcome the wind.
After the ceremony, the soldiers on both sides separated, and a carriage slowly drove out. When it reached a distance of a hundred steps, a person on the carriage dressed in a plain white robe, holding a jade seal, walked to Wei Tan, knelt down, and said, “The sinner Wang Mao has come to surrender with the jade seal, kneeling to beg for forgiveness.” Wei Tan accepted the jade seal, helped him up, and said, “Wang Gong's submission to the court is a gesture of loyalty; What crime has one committed? Please rise quickly.'"
Wang Mao, though he stood up, still bowed his head. From a distance, his expression remained humble.
”Wang Mao?' Mao Shi whispered,”Isn't he the one who carved out a territory in the Southern Mountains, self-proclaiming as the King of Lingnan?”
”That's him,” Zhou Shi nodded.
”He's surrendering to the court, but why is Da Tangxiong the one to accept his surrender?” Mao Shi asked in confusion.
”Of course, it's Da Tangxiong,” Zhou Shi sneered. “It's not like the Emperor who personally defeated him.”
Mao Shi chuckled.
Wang Mao was once the Governor of Lingnan appointed by the Late Emperor. Like many regional lords during the widespread chaos in the realm, Wang Mao seized the opportunity of the great disorder, raised his own army, and established his rule in the mountains and dense forests of Lingnan. His submission held significant meaning, as he was one of the prominent regional lords, along with the Wu Clan in Jiangdong, the Liang Clan in Jingzhou, and the Wang Clan in Lingnan. With victories and surrenders, the southern regions have once again returned to the control of the imperial court.
I looked around. The Emperor had not arrived, but there were quite a few officials present. Some stood on the city walls, while others were below, as if they had just come from the court, dressed in court attire. Observing this scene, the expressions on the faces of those I could catch a glimpse of varied, each conveying a different emotion.
The courtiers in Yongdu, aside from those who entered service after the capital's relocation, were mostly veterans from Chang'an. They hailed from noble families and had experienced the upheavals, starting from the chaos of He Kui in Chang'an and the subsequent warlord conflicts. At that time, the court was fragile, and even a small group of armed ruffians could strike fear into the hearts of the fleeing ministers and high officials.
After arriving in Yongdu, I noticed that these individuals held complex views toward the military. They acknowledged the need for a strong force to safeguard the court and repel disasters. However, they harbored a certain fear regarding the foundations upon which this strength was built.
The individuals who helped establish the Wei Clan's dominance came from various backgrounds, mostly from the common people and lesser nobility. From Wei Jue to Wei Tan, they appointed individuals based on merit, and non-noble officers rose through the ranks and were ennobled solely based on their military achievements. This stood in stark contrast to the traditional practice where scholars relied on family connections to secure high-ranking positions and generous stipends. Consequently, the scholar class held a mixture of disdain, respect, and fear for the Wei Clan. However, with Wei Zhao’s refined demeanor and shared values with the scholars, it immediately became a bridge of compromise between the Wei Clan and the scholars.
Initially, Wei Jue had an ambivalent stance on the issue of his successor. Now that I think about it, it seems that this was one of the reasons. Engaged in numerous military campaigns, if he could have used his son to win over some of the scholar-class courtiers, temporarily stabilizing the rear, it would have been a worthwhile strategy. However, he probably did not anticipate that before he could resolve these complexities, he would fall seriously ill, leading to complications and future troubles.
Wei Tan is a pragmatic person. He believed that many courtiers who secure high positions through family connections are often devoid of talent, indulging in empty talk while enjoying their positions without contributing much. He felt that as long as one holds military power, the petty disputes and debates within the court are inconsequential. Therefore, he paid little attention to the words and actions of the courtiers.
However, after quelling the rebellion last year and gaining control of military and political affairs in the court, Wei Tan's perspective has evolved. Unifying the realm and governing the realm are indeed two distinct matters. Wei Tan no longer allows the court officials to act recklessly. Those in the court and military who participated in or aided Wei Zhao's rebellion are all handed over to the authorities for legal punishment. On the other hand, those who have meritorious service in defending the realm, regardless of their background, are rewarded based on their contributions. The significance of this extends far beyond merely eliminating Wei Zhao's residual influence. Numerous court officials were demoted or dismissed, and the opposition from the scholar class towards Wei Tan has significantly diminished.
After all, the scholar class has deep-rooted connections, and Wei Tan did not intend to antagonize them. Upon regaining control of the court, Wei Tan adopted a more lenient approach towards the scholar class. Even for some prominent families implicated in Wei Zhao's rebellion, Wei Tan only held accountable those directly involved, while offering appeasement to the rest. Employing a mix of rewards and punishments, even if there were individuals within the scholar class discontent with Wei Tan, without Wei Zhao, it is difficult for them to stir up trouble.
At the same time, Wei Tan continued his efforts towards reform. He filled the vacant positions in the court by promoting capable individuals. He personally examined the candidates for this year's Xiaolian.
I looked down at the city gate. While Wei Tan was dressed in court attire, the guards on both sides were fully armored, imposing figures with gleaming weapons exuding a faint aura of battle. Their spirited appearance sharply contrasted with the courtiers. I couldn't help but chuckle inwardly. Wei Tan once mentioned something about hitting the snake at seven inches. Perhaps, in his view, bringing the courtiers out into the sunlight and displaying this military presence was his way of hitting their seven inches.
In the midst of the divine ceremony, the surrender at the city gates had concluded. Wei Tan boarded his carriage, leading a massive procession of generals and soldiers into the city. Although it wasn't a market day, many commoners crowded the streets, bustling and lively, lining the roadsides as if celebrating a festival.
As Wei Tan's carriage entered, cheers erupted from the crowd. The soldiers and their horses carried an imposing presence, with banners flying high and formations in perfect order. The sight drew the attention of the onlookers, and the warriors clearing the way had to form a human barrier to maintain order.
”Da Sima, Mighty!” I heard someone shout loudly.
"'...Mighty!'" Ah Mi echoed. I smiled, seeing Wei Tan's carriage blocked from view by the sea of banners and heads behind it, and no longer paid attention.
"Is what Gongyang Gongzi said about setting off from the side gate true?" I asked Ah Yuan. Ah Yuan nodded, "It is."
I looked at the sky; it was almost time. Holding Ah Mi, I walked towards the city gates.
The weather was cool, and there were many people setting out on a journey. In front of the pavilions outside the East Gate, there were people everywhere, toasting and bidding farewell.
I peered out of the carriage window for quite a while before catching sight of Gongyang Gui's tall figure.
Dressed for the journey, he wore his family heirloom sword at his waist, looking spirited as he conversed with friends bidding him farewell. By his side, Ruochan had her hair adorned in a graceful bun, standing elegantly.
They got married in the Second Month of this year, and their new residence isn't far from the Wei residence. These days, Ruochan often visits me at the Wei residence in her capacity as the wife of a high-ranking official.
With the initial stability in the southern regions, affairs are becoming intricate. Huaiyang has long been embroiled in conflicts and are now in urgent need of someone familiar with the situation to take on the role of the governor of Yangzhou. Just as Wei Tan was hesitating over the candidate, Gongyang Gui voluntarily offered to take on the responsibility. Despite his youth, he has travelled to Huaiyang region multiple times and has a good understanding of the customs and sentiments there. The position of the governor of Yangzhou involves overseeing local affairs, and Gongyang Gui, known for his decisiveness and reliability, is an excellent choice. To my surprise, Ruochan not only had no complaints about this decision but also insisted on accompanying Gongyang Gui.
When I asked her, “Yangzhou has many beautiful women. What if he brings back a few young and charming concubines when he goes alone?” she casually replied.
Of course, this remark is partly true and partly joking, but now, seeing her standing next to Gongyang Gui, I feel she genuinely wants to accompany him.
The carriage moved forward, coming to a stop. I got out of the carriage, holding Ah Mi in my arms.
"Ruochan... Yiyi!" Ah Mi liked Ruochan and called out when she saw her. Ruochan also noticed us and smiled.
"Ah Mi is here too." She walked over and took Ah Mi into her arms.
I looked at Ruochan, then at Gongyang Gui, and said with a smile, "Fortunately, we haven't come too late."
I glanced around and asked in a low voice, “What about your brothel?”
”I've temporarily rented it to a senior disciple.”
I was puzzled, “Rented?”
”That disciple has been in the business for many years, familiar with the affairs. With it in her hands, the business won't suffer. Collecting rent and enjoying a quiet life for a couple of years isn't a bad idea,” Ruochan said, looking towards Gongyang Gui with a calm expression. “I'll collect the rent, have a peaceful time for a couple of years. It's not bad at all.'"
I thought for a moment and said, “Aren't you afraid that she might establish her own business, and in the future, you won't be able to reclaim it?”
Ruochan shrugged, “If I can't reclaim it, so be it. I'll start from scratch. No one can manage a performing business better than me.”
I wisely kept quiet. She is Ruochan, and whatever she said could be justified.
”Next time we meet, you might not be in the Wei residence,” Ruochan suddenly remarked. She had mentioned this several times before, and I knew what she was referring to. I could only smile helplessly.
"Next time we meet, make sure you bring back a little one,” I said.
Ruoyan looked at me, lips pursed, and smiled.
After exchanging parting words, Gongyang Gui and Ruochan finally boarded the carriage and set off.
I stood by the roadside, watching Ruochan's head peeking out from behind the curtain. I waved to her.
Ruochan smiled, and before long, her figure was obscured by the pedestrians and vehicles following behind.
I don't like farewells; this word always evokes nostalgic memories in my heart. Watching them go, my eyes suddenly felt a bit stinging.
A hand rested on my shoulder. I turned around, and Wei Tan looked at me with gentle eyes.
”Let's go back,” he said. I nodded, gently squeezing his hand.
Gongyang Gui's relatives and friends had not left yet. Wei Tan spoke with them for quite a while before finally instructing the driver to start the carriage.
”Horse... horse…” Ah Mi spotted Wei Ci's horse and eagerly leaned out of the carriage.
"Don't disturb Fuqin,” I said as I tried to lower the curtain.
Unexpectedly, Wei Tan rode over on horseback.
”Come, get on the horse,” he extended his hand.
Ah Mi joyfully opened his arms, but I quickly intervened, glaring at Wei Tan, “How can Ah Mi ride a horse?"
Wei Tan shrugged, “I'll hold her, nothing will happen.” With that, he lifted Ah Mi and cradled him in his arms.
During the journey, I sat in the carriage, watching them anxiously. However, both of them seemed very happy. One rode the horse back and forth, and the other laughed and danced gleefully.
Returning to the Wei residence, Wei Tan didn't enter but hastily headed back to the court. I knew the matter of the returning army must not have concluded yet and reminded him not to miss his meals.
His absence stretched for most of the day. To welcome the returning army, Wei Tan arranged a feast at the Bi Tai. As he hadn't returned for dinner, I assumed he would be late. After playing with Ah Mi for a while, planning to put her to sleep, a servant came to report that Wei Tan had brought an esteemed guest and requested my presence in the hall.
I was surprised and had to leave Ah Mi with her nursemaid. I quickly freshened up in front of the mirror and went out. Even before reaching the hall, I heard voices. Upon entering, I saw Wei Tan seated at the head, and the distinguished guest seated opposite him was none other than Jia Yu.
Jia Yu is my father's mentor. Two months ago, he finally returned to the Central Plains from the borderlands. Wei Tan treated him with the etiquette befitting a national scholar, offering him accommodation, land, servants, and even asked Jia Yu to oversee the reopening of the Imperial Academy.
This was an uplifting event for scholars across the realm. Since the destruction of Chang'an, the Imperial Academy had declined, and there had been no such institution in the capital. The reopening of the Imperial Academy was the wish of many, but due to the turmoil and destruction, it had been difficult to find a suitable person to lead the effort.
Upon Wei Tan's request, Jia Yu readily agreed and resumed his position as a Boshi. He personally transcribed the classics onto stone tablets, had them engraved by craftsmen, and erected them outside the Imperial Academy's gates. Jia Yu's scholarly reputation echoed throughout the land. It is said that on the day the first stone tablet was erected, over a thousand scholars came to observe.
Wei Tan held great respect for Jia Yu. Despite his busy schedule, Wei Tan often visited Jia Yu's residence. However, today marked the first time Jia Yu had come to the Wei residence.
Jia Yu was already seventy years old, his hair completely white. I had thought that at his age, especially after a long journey from the borderlands to the capital, he should be preparing for the later stages of life. Unexpectedly, he was in robust health. No matter whether he was giving lectures or receiving guests, he never showed any signs of fatigue.
"Greetings, Xiansheng." I walked up to Jia Yu, bowing respectfully.
"Furen." Jia Yu returned the gesture, his voice calm and his demeanor amiable.
"We had a delightful conversation during today's feast, and the pleasure lingers. Therefore, One has invited Xiansheng to our residence for further discussions," Wei Tan smiled as he spoke to me, "Haven't Furen recently obtained some new tea?"
"Indeed," I smiled as well, instructing Ah Yuan to fetch the tea set.
Jia Yu was known throughout the realm for his love of tea. It was said that when he travelled to the borderlands, he brought with him two carts of books and one cart of tea. Even in his escape, he managed to do so with elegance, and this tale became renowned during turbulent times.
I began to brew tea, feeling a bit awkward. Father used to refuse to drink my tea, and Jia Yu's refined taste had influenced Father. As I watched Jia Yu, an experienced tea connoisseur, attentively savor the tea, I couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy. However, Wei Tan spoke up, "Today, the Ministry of Rites presented the roster of candidates for the position of doctor. The individuals recommended by Xiansheng are all outstanding talents."
Jia Yu set down the tea cup and said, "Da Sima's praise is excessive. Unfortunately, the newly established Imperial Academy still lacks sufficient candidates for the position of Boshis."
"Oh?" Wei Tan smiled, taking the tea I handed him. He continued, "Next year's examination is approaching; Xiansheng should personally oversee and evaluate the candidates."
Jia Yu smiled but didn't respond immediately.
"Furen brewed Jinling Zhanwu Qing tea?" he inquired, taking a sip of tea and looking at me.
I nodded and replied, "Indeed."
Jia Yu had a calm expression as he said, "For Jinling Zhanwu Qing, it shouldn't be brewed for too long. Start pouring the water once it's boiling to capture its fragrant and unique taste."
This old man was indeed more discerning than Father. Feeling a bit embarrassed, I humbly bowed and said, "So it is like that, Qie will keep that in mind."
Jia Yu then turned to Wei Tan and spoke slowly, "Yu has heard that this year, the candidates recommended for the imperial examination and the Xiaolian were personally assessed by Da Sima."
Wei Tan affirmed, "Indeed."
"One wonders if Da Sima has found any outstanding talents?"
Wei Tan spoke frankly, "Most of the recommended individuals from the provinces are from noble families, and the pool of truly exceptional talents is limited."
Jia Yu stroked his beard and said, "In that case, if Da Sima personally assesses candidates every year, the truly outstanding talents must be quite scarce."
Wei Tan looked at him, a faint gleam in his eyes, then gave a respectful bow, saying, "One is eager to hear Xiansheng's insightful opinions."
"Forgive Yu’s simplicity; One can only offer some superficial opinions," Jia Yu smiled and shook his head, but his expression turned serious. "The system of imperial examinations, at its height, thrived during the previous dynasty. Emperor Wen decreed that provinces recommend talented scholars and filial sons, and the Emperor personally tested them. At that time, those who held positions with salaries of a thousand bushels and above, about one or two out of ten, were promoted through the imperial examinations. However, our current dynasty's system of selecting officials from the scholarly class is not as effective as the previous dynasty's. The root cause lies in the fact that the provincial recommendations are in the hands of local authorities, and the selection is based on vague criteria, solely dependent on personal preferences. Furthermore, the selection of scholars is based solely on their family background, with no room for those from humble origins. This system has accumulated deep-seated problems. In my opinion, during the provincial recommendations, the imperial court could conduct the examinations, allowing individuals to participate whether or not they have been recommended. This way, the path to government service would be smoother, and talents would converge."
I listened quietly, his words were not lengthy, but each sentence resonated deeply within me. Undoubtedly, if these words were put into practice, it would completely overturn the old system. As for whether it's good or bad, I have no way to judge.
Turning my gaze back to Wei Tan, he held a teacup in his hand. The candlelight flickered slightly, casting a profound shadow on his face.
"Cè shì," he said slowly, as if savoring the words. After a moment, he looked at Jia Yu and continued, "Mou has heard that during the reign of the late Emperor, Xiansheng proposed the integration of scholars and commoners in the Imperial Academy."
Jia Yu smiled bitterly and replied, "The late Emperor also aimed for reform, but the resistance within the court was too strong, so the proposal was never adopted."
*****
When I returned to the courtyard, Ah Mi had already fallen asleep.
After I finished washing myself, I found Wei Tan sitting by Ah Mi's small bed with keen interest.
Approaching, I saw Ah Mi lying on the cot, sleeping soundly with a gentle smile on her lips, as if dreaming of something delightful.
Both Wei Tan and I couldn't help but suppress our laughter. After observing her for a while, I tugged at Wei Tan's sleeve. He glanced at me, covered her with a thin blanket, and we quietly walked out.
"Rest up, Fujun." I hung the clothes I would wear tomorrow on a rack and spoke to Wei Tan.
Wei Tan responded with a nod but sat down at the desk.
The room was very quiet. Wei Tan looked around, picked up a small cymbal from the couch.
"Ah Mi broke it again?" he raised an eyebrow and asked.
"En." I walked over, expressing helplessness. "She has become more and more active recently."
"Children, who isn't like this?" Wei Tan chuckled indifferently, seeming somewhat proud. He glanced at the cymbal, then, after a moment, moved the lamp forward and began repairing it slowly.
I sat beside him, my gaze falling on his profile. Lately, although he had been in Yongdu, the constant hustle and bustle had taken a toll. His sun-tanned skin now appeared even more resilient, with sharply defined eyebrows, a straight nose, and perfectly shaped lips.
Suddenly, I found it funny. How could I have thought him unattractive when we first got married?
"Longing for something?" he asked.
I paused for a moment. Before I could reply, he reached out and pulled me onto his lap.
"Furen has been looking at Weifu," his lips brushed against my neck as he spoke softly.
I chuckled, not denying it.
Rising and falling breaths, sweet sentiments flowed between us as we nestled together. However, it was just that much; I didn't let him go further. Wei Tan has been very busy lately, and he might have to go out early tomorrow. It wasn't the night for it.
After a tender moment, I quietly leaned against Wei Tan's chest, his arms embracing me as he continued repairing Ah Mi's little cymbal.
"Is Fujun really intent on changing the imperial examinations system?" After a moment, I asked softly.
"En?" Wei Tao glanced at me, "Does Furen have objections?"
"Not objections." I thought for a moment and said, "Just feel that most courtiers won't agree."
Wei Tan smiled and said slowly, "If Zhangren were still here, I'm afraid he wouldn't agree either."
I was stunned.
Wei Tan stopped his hands and looked at me. "When it comes to interests, if my family were still courtiers, One wouldn't agree either. During the late Emperor's reign, the aristocracy overshadowed imperial authority, so the late Emperor had the intention but lacked the power. Now that everything is changing, with many reforms pending, it's the right time for transformation. The old system's chronic issues hinder the new policies. If we don't change it now, it will be even more difficult in the future."
I looked at Wei Tan, feeling a subtle collision in my heart.
"Fujun..." My voice was uncertain. "Fujun has the intention to seek the power (the throne)?" Wei Tan looked at me, not answering, but reached for a long scroll on the table.
I was surprised, watching as he slowly unfolded a large map before me. It was a city map, about five or six feet in size, depicting streets, city walls, palaces, and more in clear detail. However, in the upper right corner, the words "Chang'an" made my gaze freeze.
"This is..." I turned to Wei Tan.
"Chang'an should be rebuilt," Wei Tao said, his lips curved into a smile. "However, the treasury is tight at the moment. To complete this, it will take at least ten years."
I opened my mouth but didn't know what to say, then looked back at the city map. I searched northward, and before long, I found the location of the Fu Mansion. Unexpectedly, that small area was left blank, devoid of any markings.
"The rebuilding is for streets, government offices, and palaces. The private residences will still belong to their original owners," Wei Tan seemed to sense my confusion, gently stroking my hair, "The Fu Mansion still has you, and decisions regarding it will be made by you."
Looking at Wei Tan , a sudden surge of emotion overwhelmed me, and my vision blurred for a moment.
"Why are you crying again?" Wei Tan helplessly wiped away the tears from the corner of my eyes with his fingers, then looked at me earnestly, "Ah Jin, the reconstruction of Chang'an has long been our shared wish. But why build Chang'an? Ensure lasting peace, to welcome visitors from all directions, and only then can Chang'an flourish. This is a responsibility I can bear, so why should I leave it to others?"
I nodded, taking a deep breath, "En."
"What does 'En' mean?" Wei Tan seemed dissatisfied, gently pinching my chin with his fingers, "Planning to dig up the hidden gold in the side chamber and run away with Li Shang's money?"
I held onto his fingers and blinked, "Fujun once said that if Qie stays or leaves, it's all up to me."
"That was said in the past, One didn't know any better back then, so I'm taking it back," Wei Tan had a rogue look.
"Oh?" I looked into his eyes and whispered, "Business should be fair, if Fujun doesn't allow Qie to leave, how will Fujun compensate?"
"Chang'an," Wei Tan immediately said.
I pinched his arm, "Not enough."
"Add a plum vase."
"That's already mine."
"Buy another one for you."
I laughed and scolded him, then playfully grabbed the ticklish part around his waist. Wei Tan smiled, caught my hand, and turned to press me down.
The candlelight flickered, Wei Tan's eyes were close and profound, his breath brushed against my nose.
"What does Furen want?" he asked in a husky voice.
I looked at him, smiled, and whispered, "What do you think?"
Those deep, bright eyes soon approached me with warm breath, intertwining with the soft candlelight, turning the room into a sweet embrace.
The End