Chapter 471: Imperial Edict Bestows a Marriage Alliance

The Great Zhou Imperial Palace, Qinghe Palace.

Since the day the second branch's household manager of the Zhen family, acting on Zhen Zhen Fangqing's orders, came to the mansion to pay respects to Jia Mu, everyone in Lady Rongguo Mansion assumed Jia Cong's betrothal was imminent.

But days passed without any word from the palace, leaving Jia Mu and others puzzled—had they simply misread the signs?

Just as Jia Mu was lost in doubt, word arrived that the Old Imperial Consort Zhen was critically ill.

The Old Imperial Consort Zhen was the only surviving concubine of Emperor Emperor Hongxuan, the adoptive mother of the current Retired Emperor, the highest-ranking noblewoman in the palace, whom even the reigning Emperor Emperor Jia Zhao treated with the reverence due a royal grandmother.

She was also the highest-ranked and most honored woman among the old aristocratic families of Great Zhou, connected in varying degrees to all major clans, wielding immense influence both in court and among the people.

Thus, when news of her critical illness spread, scrolls of condolences from old aristocratic families and officials poured into the palace like snowflakes.

Noblewomen of every distinguished house also flocked to the palace to pay homage and visit, showing their respect.

On this day, Jia Mu joined the Princess of Nan'an, the Princess of Xining, the Princess of Beijing, and others in entering the palace to pay respects to the ailing Old Imperial Consort Zhen.

Jia Mu, elderly and experienced, saw the Old Imperial Consort's frail, emaciated appearance, unable even to rise from bed, and remembering her age exceeded eighty, she knew the prognosis was grim.

Jia Mu also noticed that during the entire visit, the imperial physicians of the Taiyi Academy waited outside the door.

The physicians had instructed the Old Consort's personal maid not to let her engage in lengthy conversation with visitors, lest she tire herself—everywhere, the atmosphere was one of extreme alarm, revealing the severity of her condition.

Throughout the entire visit, the Princess of Nan'an, the Princess of Xining, and even the Old Consort's own great-granddaughter, the Princess of Beijing, received only a nod from the Old Consort, and tea was served by palace maids.

Only with Jia Mu did she muster the strength to exchange a few idle words, two of which even inquired after Jia Cong.

This left Jia Mu profoundly startled; the Princesses of Nan'an and Xining both looked astonished.

Only the Princess of Beijing knew the truth, sighing inwardly—the Old Consort loved her third sister to the bone, knowing she would one day marry into the Jia family.

Thus, even in illness, she showed special warmth to Lady Jia, hoping that when her third sister entered the Jia household, she would be treated with greater respect and affection.

Jia Mu also noticed Zhen Zhen Fangqing, who had been constantly by the Old Consort's side—she had lost nearly a full circle's worth of weight since their last meeting at the Jia mansion.

…

When they left the palace, the Princesses of Nan'an and Xining both congratulated Jia Mu.

The Princess of Nan'an smiled: "Lady Jia is blessed with such an extraordinary grandson—today, the Old Consort treated you with exceptional favor; the imperial betrothal is already within sight."

The Princess of Xining also smiled: "I had only heard of the Old Consort's adopted third daughter, but never seen her—today, I was stunned. The Zhen family has raised such a beauty."

"No wonder the Old Consort loves her like a priceless treasure—this woman could easily become a royal consort; for Lady Jia to take her as a granddaughter-in-law is a matter of great honor."

Hearing the compliments from the two princesses, Jia Mu felt a certain elation.

Yet her heart was mixed with joy and worry—her plan to marry Shi Xiangyun to Jia Cong, uniting the Jia and Shi clans, had ultimately come to nothing.

Though an imperial betrothal was glorious, once the Old Imperial Consort Zhen passed, the favor would fade like cold tea—half the substance of the betrothal would vanish.

…

Ningrong Street, the Marquis's Mansion.

Lin Daiyu had rested two days; it had been a heart ailment, and with Jia Cong as her cure, she gradually recovered—Jia Mu, seeing this, was naturally pleased and relieved.

Jia Mu recalled that day, just after she had ordered Lin Daiyu and Seeing Tan Chun moved back to the Western Mansion, Lin Daiyu had suddenly fallen ill—as if the very act of moving had brought ill fortune.

She also recalled Wang Wang Xifeng's talk of offending the Flower Spirit or being haunted, and had ordered Wang Wang Xifeng to perform the rites from the Jade Box Records to worship the seasonal Flower Spirit for peace of mind.

Jia Mu, old and superstitious, seeing Lin Daiyu's condition greatly improved, dared not raise the subject again, fearing any hasty move might trigger another clash of fortune—she decided to wait until this period passed.

Besides, once the imperial betrothal was announced, moving the two granddaughters back to the Western Mansion would be no great matter—only a narrow alley separated the two mansions, a matter of less than an hour's time.

…

With Jia Mu no longer mentioning the move, Jia Cong and Seeing Yingchun were only too glad; the sisters continued to interact as before.

Only by invoking the pretext of inviting the Master of Goodness to recite sutras and exorcise evil spirits did Jia Mu agree to let Lin Daiyu remain in the Eastern Mansion—this matter must be fully resolved before she could properly answer Jia Mu's concerns…

That night in Lin Daiyu's chamber, Jia Cong spoke plainly, calming her heart; they exchanged tender words, stirring Lin Daiyu's deep affection, her devotion deepening further.

As Jia Cong had said, if the palace insisted on the betrothal, there was nothing he could do to stop it.

Could he, for her sake, become a rebel against imperial decree, destroying his future—or even his life? Lin Daiyu would rather die herself than see him suffer such a fate.

And that day, Jia Cong had opened his heart to her, swearing he would never abandon her; though Lin Daiyu still harbored quiet fears, they were enough to steady her spirit.

In her emotions, having endured such twists and turns—retreating one step, advancing two, the path turning again—her character had grown a thread of resilience; her former melancholy and stubbornness had lessened, replaced by a quiet openness.

Her mind was sharp and perceptive; she could feel the sincerity in Jia Cong's heart. Whether or not the palace granted the betrothal, her third brother would treat her with care—if the world offered no perfect solution, this was enough.

Jia Cong visited her daily, speaking with her; their interactions now carried a sweeter, more intuitive harmony, as if they had grown even closer than before.

In matters of love, trials and tribulations may sever old bonds, turning lovers into strangers—but they may also forge truth through fire, revealing deeper sincerity.

…

Since giving Liu Liu Shizhen the blueprint for the rear-loading musket, sufficient for the Ministry of Works' arms workshop to tinker with for half a year, Jia Cong had reduced his visits to the workshop.

Most of his time was spent at the mansion, either accompanying Lin Daiyu in her chamber, visiting Seeing Yingchun and Seeing Tan Chun, or studying the classics and examination essays.

Seeing Tan Chun's visits to Jia Cong's courtyard suddenly increased; she came daily to ask about books and practice calligraphy, and when he reviewed his spring examination lessons, she often sat quietly beside him with a book in hand.

As if time were precious, to be split into two days.

…

Jia Cong also heard from Seeing Tan Chun that Xue Baochai had suddenly taken ill, as if her old ailment had flared up during the autumn-winter transition, and she was taking only her customary Cold Fragrance Pills.

But illness fades like a thread—she had not left Lixiang Garden for several days. On this day, Jia Cong and Seeing Tan Chun went to visit; Xue Baochai said she was not seriously ill, merely needing time to recover.

When Jia Cong visited, Xue Baochai's clear, luminous eyes often gazed at him absentmindedly, as if she had many words she could not speak.

As Jia Cong and Seeing Tan Chun left, Jin Jin Chuan specially escorted them out of Lixiang Garden, as if she had something to say, yet could not speak it.

Seeing Tan Chun knew Jia Cong had saved Jin Jin Chuan; they shared some history. Seeing Jin Jin Chuan's demeanor, she was certain she wished to speak to her third brother—so she made an excuse and left first.

Jin Jin Chuan, seeing only Jia Cong remained, said: "Third Master, when the lady returned from the Eastern Mansion that day, I attended her personally. That night, I heard her weep quietly for a long time before falling asleep."

"Afterward, she ordered me not to speak of it. Normally, I shouldn't pry—but her nature is steady; she has never acted like that before."

"I'm uneasy. I believe something happened to her in the Eastern Mansion. Third Master, you're wise—you must know the reason."

Jia Cong calculated the dates—that was the very day Lin Daiyu had suddenly fallen ill. He was not entirely unaware of how Xue Baochai felt toward him.

But now, with the imperial betrothal looming and Jia She's smuggling of muskets as a looming disaster, troubles piled thickly on all sides—he dared not stir more trouble, lest he bring grief to others and himself.

He understood why Jin Jin Chuan spoke to him—she acted out of loyalty to Xue Baochai.

He merely said: "Young ladies often have private worries—they pass with time. Take good care of your mistress, Baojie. I'll visit again in a few days."

…

Beneath the bright autumn sun, Jin Jin Chuan stared blankly at Jia Cong's retreating figure, sighing inwardly—she had said all she could. A man as sharp as Third Master could not miss her meaning.

Yet his words were all propriety and evasion—he clearly wished to avoid entanglement. Her heartfelt feelings were wasted.

Since Jia Cong had rescued her from the well, she had never forgotten him. But their status was too unequal—such feelings were forbidden in a great household, so she kept them buried within.

After coming to Xue Baochai's chamber, Xue Baochai treated her with unusual warmth, even surpassing Ying'er, who had been with her since childhood—her clothing and adornments were always near.

As time passed, Jin Jin Chuan realized the truth: Xue Baochai treated her thus not because she was especially worthy,

But because she had been saved by Third Master, entrusted to her by him—her connection to him was the hidden reason for Xue Baochai's special regard.

Xue Baochai's secret devotion was unknown to others, but Jin Jin Chuan, as the one who witnessed it, could not fail to understand.

When she had thrown herself into the well, on the brink of death, Jia Cong had arrived to save her. Beneath the rippling water, she had seen his radiant, peerless face—and from that moment, a heart demon took root, unforgettable day or night.

To honor that foolish devotion within her, and to repay Xue Baochai's kindness, she had broken her usual silence to speak to Jia Cong—but he had shown no reaction, leaving her deeply disappointed.

…

Jia Cong returned to the Eastern Mansion; Jin Jin Chuan's words lingered in his mind for a long while, but he ultimately set them aside.

His greatest worry now was not the imperial betrothal—this was beyond his control, and worrying over it was useless; it was not a matter of life or death.

His true concern was Jia She's smuggling of muskets. Yesterday, Ai Li had come to the Marquis's Mansion, delivering a swift-feather message from Jin Ling's Xinchun Trading House.

The letter stated that the Jinling Embroidered Uniform Guard had made a major breakthrough in investigating the illegal musket workshop, identifying the origin of the two wooden crates seized—both had been shipped from Jia She's Deng Hongchun Leather Goods Shop.

The facts matched Jia Cong's suspicions exactly: Jia She was involved in the theft and smuggling of muskets from Liaodong, and now inextricably linked to the illegal arms workshop in Jinling.

Whether it was smuggling muskets or involvement in illegal arms production, both were crimes tantamount to treason—stripping Jia She of his title and imposing heavy punishment was inevitable.

Jia She's disgrace would strike Lady Rongguo Mansion with immense force—perhaps even leading to the loss of the title and confiscation of property; the final outcome was unpredictable.

As Jia She's own son, though already enfeoffed and established in his own mansion, Jia Cong could hardly escape all consequences.

Moreover, Qu Qu Hongxiu's letter mentioned that the message had been delivered to Xinchun's Jinling headquarters by someone hiding their identity, using a beggar as a courier.

That meant the news had spread within the Jinling Guard—someone had received it and warned Jia Cong, though he did not know who had sent it.

But under these circumstances, if he had received the message, others must have too.

The Embroidered Uniform Guard had likely already sent word to their superiors in the capital; yet Xinchun's swift-feather messages traveled far faster than ordinary courier horses. Calculating the distance, within days the news of Jia She's involvement in musket smuggling would reach the Embroidered Uniform Guard Command in the capital—then the affair would explode! This matter had deeply troubled Jia Cong, occupying most of his thoughts, leaving him little energy to dwell on Jin Jin Chuan's words.

…

The Capital, Anfeng Ward.

Since noon, the sun had vanished; the sky was dark, thick with clouds.

The streets and alleys of the ward were bustling, filled with teahouses, taverns, and brothels; crowds thronged, noisy and lively.

The gloomy weather, as if a storm were imminent, had not dampened the ward's vitality.

Those entering and leaving were not only commoners and merchants, but also many court officials, gathered in small groups to enjoy themselves.

Thus, it was commonplace to see figures dressed in refined elegance, bearing noble bearing.

In an unassuming little tavern along the street, two men sat across from each other, sipping wine on the second-floor private room.

One was the Zhao Shopkeeper, who had brought a cart of herbs into the city that day; the other was a man dressed in luxurious robes, with a clear, upright face.

"Lord Liu, you summoned me urgently—what urgent matter?"

Lord Liu said: "Our informant in the Jinling Embroidered Uniform Guard has sent word: after thorough investigation, they have confirmed the two wooden crates from the workshop originated from Jia She's Deng Hongchun Leather Goods Shop."

"Captain Ge Zhi of the Thousand-Household has dispatched his trusted Company Commander Liu Hai, carrying official documents and evidence, already en route to the capital to submit the report."

"Fortunately, our informant left Jinling a day before Liu Hai, so we were able to deliver the news ahead of time. Our people also discovered Liu Hai is moving slowly—he won't reach the capital for several more days."

"That gives us time to clean up the aftermath…"

"Since the workshop was uncovered, you've taken many measures in Jinling to conceal your tracks—we thought it flawless. Yet those two crates ultimately betrayed you. Truly, no defense is foolproof."

Zhao the Shopkeeper's expression turned grave as he heard the man's words. "My lord, Jia She holds the title of First-Class General and is the heir of Lady Rongguo Jia Clan—his status is no small matter. This affair is likely very troublesome."

The Liu Lord asked: "Where is Sun Sun Shaozu, the man who originally handled the delivery to Jia She? If Jia She is captured, and Sun Sun Shaozu implicates him, the matter will spiral out of control."

Zhao the Shopkeeper gave a sinister smile. "My lord, rest assured—no one can find Sun Sun Shaozu now. He won't ruin our plans."

The Liu Lord said: "The matter of Jia She must be handled with extreme caution."

Though the Lady Rongguo Duke has passed away, Lady Rongguo Jia Clan still has countless disciples and old associates in court and military ranks—do not underestimate them. Their standing among the Four Kings and Eight Dukes remains pivotal."

When the future tide turns, Lady Rongguo Jia Clan's alignment will still greatly influence the old aristocratic factions and sway public sentiment."

That is why the higher-ups had Sun Sun Shaozu connect with Jia She to transport the goods from Liaodong—to leave a mark, a handle, for future use! Moreover, the higher-ups hold great regard for Jia Cong of the Jia Clan, the Marquis of Lord Lord Weiyuan, believing him to be deeply strategic and equally accomplished in civil and military affairs."

He is not only a legitimate bloodline of the Four Kings and Eight Dukes, but also uniquely favored and promoted by the current emperor—a rarity among the younger generation of the Four Kings and Eight Dukes."

If such a man can be won over, he will prove immensely useful in the future."

But if Jia She's affair comes to light, given the emperor's estrangement from the Four Kings and Eight Dukes, Lady Rongguo Jia Clan will surely be stripped of its title and punished—perhaps even face confiscation of property."

Jia Cong, as Jia She's own son, will inevitably be implicated, and may lose the emperor's favor entirely, rendering him worthless for the future—which the higher-ups cannot allow."

Therefore, for the sake of safety, I have received explicit orders on how this matter must be handled…"

The Liu Lord glanced at the thick curtain at the entrance of the private chamber, yet still lowered his voice further."

The heavy clouds that had brooded over the sky for so long suddenly churned; brilliant lightning pierced the heavens with a thunderous, earth-shattering roar."

A torrential downpour, after only the briefest of warnings, poured from the heavens; the dense, noisy rain drowned out the conversation between the two men in the chamber…"

…

The imperial palace of Great Zhou, Qinghegong."

In the bedchamber of Grand Dowager Zhen, a faint medicinal bitterness lingered. The old dowager lay reclining on her bed, covered with a soft silk quilt of pale white, her back propped by thick, plush pillows."

Besides the serving maids and palace maids, stood Zhen Zhen Fangqing, dressed in court attire, graceful and elegant."

On a brocaded stool before the bed sat an elderly man clad in a nine-dragon imperial robe—the retired emperor, Emperor Yong'an."

The old dowager weakly waved her hand; her personal maid and several palace maids silently withdrew from the chamber."

The dowager then said to Zhen Zhen Fangqing beside her: "Zhen Fangqing, you too, leave. Let no one disturb us. I wish to speak with His Majesty."

Zhen Zhen Fangqing's gaze flickered slightly; she bowed to Emperor Yong'an, then stepped out, instructing the palace attendants to gently close the heavy door behind her, and stood respectfully outside, awaiting orders."

Inside the chamber, Emperor Yong'an stepped forward and gently adjusted the quilt over the old dowager with his fingers."

As the supreme retired emperor, to others he was a stern, inscrutable sovereign."

But before Grand Dowager Zhen, he revealed this rare gesture of filial tenderness."

The old dowager's gaze softened. "My lord, I have been away from Jin Ling for over sixty years. All my elders and siblings have passed. Few among the younger generation of the Zhen family have I even met."

Even the current head of the household, my nephew's wife, I have never laid eyes upon. Only Zhen Fangqing has been raised under my care since childhood—I have treated her as my own daughter."

Of all living beings, besides you, my lord, she is the one I hold dearest."

When Empress Xiao Yuan passed away, I was blessed with such fortune—the late emperor entrusted me with your upbringing. That was the greatest honor of my life."

These past years, you have withdrawn into the inner palace, living in quiet solitude, yet I understand your heart remains heavy, your grief unrelenting."

I do not have long left. There are words I have long held within me. Even if they offend you, even if they displease you, I must speak them now."

Emperor Yong'an smiled. "Grand Dowager, do not speak such words. Old age brings illness—it is natural. With the imperial physicians attending you, rest and nourish yourself longer."

I came today only to speak with you. Say whatever you wish. There is no need for restraint."

The old dowager's expression softened, as if recalling something distant. After a long pause, she said: "Among your sons, Prince Wu was extraordinary—brilliant in both civil and martial arts, unmatched in the imperial clan."

You favored him deeply, seeing him as your heir. He was deeply affectionate, and showed me great filial devotion."

While other princes called me Grand Dowager, he alone, true to his heart and unafraid of protocol, always called me 'Imperial Grandmother.'"

Yet who could have foreseen what came later? I, like you, loved him dearly! Even now, when I recall it, I cannot bear the pain!"

…

At these words, the old dowager burst into tears; Emperor Yong'an's eyes filled with tears, his body trembling slightly, as if struggling to suppress his inner anguish."

"If only he had been an ordinary prince, he would still be serving you today."

These past years, you have favored brilliant young talents. Others may not understand, but I know your heart—you are trying to mend what was lost…"

The old dowager's words pierced Emperor Yong'an's defenses, unveiling the most hidden, tender corner of his soul."

His face, once grim and sorrowful, slowly relaxed. His eyes half-closed, and a look of release, of peace, settled upon his features."

The old dowager continued: "Take that boy from the Jia family—years ago, when you received his calligraphy, you treasured it endlessly."

Later, when you heard of his achievements in Liaodong, you often told me: 'This boy is a rare talent, both scholarly and martial.'"

When the late emperor granted him a hereditary title for his Liaodong exploits, it was only because you had the Empress Dowager bestow gifts upon Jia Cong, and sent envoys to the Jia household to request his brushwork—had you not guided the situation so skillfully, how could he have earned such a hereditary honor?"

Though you showed no outward sign, your heartfelt admiration for talent is deeply moving. You see in Jia Cong a familiar shadow—and that is why you treat him thus."

The day I saw Jia Cong in the palace, his bearing and grace reminded me of the past. Though old, my heart is not dimmed—I see clearly…"

The old dowager glanced at Emperor Yong'an. Though his face betrayed no emotion, his eyes shimmered with turmoil."

"The reason you have delayed granting the marriage is that you fear Jia Cong will lose his future if he marries Zhen Fangqing."

But His Majesty has compassion for talent, and Heaven has its own decrees of fate, life, and death."

This boy has already secured a hereditary noble title—his wealth and glory are assured for life. If marriage to Zhen Fangqing means he is set aside, living a quiet, peaceful life…"

Compared to Prince Wu's fate, it may well be a blessing…"

The old dowager's final words struck Emperor Yong'an like a blow to his weakest point. He looked at the frail woman on the bed who had raised him—her face filled with sorrow, her eyes dimming, her spirit fading."

His heart ached with grief. He had endured this pain once, over a decade ago. He never thought he would have to bear it again."

Though not his birth mother, their decades of mother-son bond could not be mere illusion."

Moreover, the old dowager's words were wise, mature, and not without reason…"

Emperor Yong'an trembled inwardly. Gazing at the dying dowager, his voice thick with sorrow: "Long ago, I had no choice—for the sake of our ancestral empire, I forged a wound that pierces my heart."

These past years, you have spent every day hoping I would let go of my regrets. I understand your heart, Grand Dowager. I will fulfill your wish—I shall issue the decree of marriage, as an auspicious omen for your recovery."

His voice trembled as he called out: "Old Ouyang Bin, enter!"

The chief eunuch, Old Ouyang Bin, hurried in, opening the door and stepping quickly into the chamber."

Emperor Yong'an said solemnly: "Issue my edict: Order the Ministry of Rites to draft immediately the marriage decree. Marry Jia Cong to Zhen Zhen Fangqing. Select an auspicious day, and proclaim the decree to both the Jia and Zhen households!"

Upon hearing the decree, the old dowager's dim eyes flickered with light—but soon faded again."

Slowly, she moved her dry, cold hand and gently grasped Emperor Yong'an's large palm. "My lord, let go of the past. Ease your heart. Nurture your imperial health. May you live in peace, year after year."

I shall no longer be able to accompany you always. I thank you… for your great grace…" (End of Chapter)