The Red Mansion

Chapter 270 The Emperor is pleased, Yuan Chun receives her title.

The following day, May 24th.

In the afternoon, Yuan Yi continued practicing martial arts and training his troops. After finishing, he took a bath and changed his clothes before going to his inner study, "Lishenzhai".

At this moment, he sat behind the desk, on which lay thick, tough, and smooth blue paper. He held a wolf-hair brush, dipped it in dazzling real gold ink, and was concentrating on copying Buddhist scriptures stroke by stroke.

The room was completely silent.

At this moment, the eunuch Gu Baoan rushed in with an anxious expression, bowed before the table, and announced, "Your Highness, a distinguished guest has arrived! Prince Zhongyi has come!"

The sudden arrival of the thirteenth uncle, who was burdened with official duties and wielded immense power, surprised Yuan Yi.

Not daring to be negligent at that moment, and without even changing his clothes, Yuan Yi hurried out to personally greet them at the gate.

Upon arriving at the gate of the mansion, one indeed saw Prince Zhongyi standing with his hands behind his back, dressed in a python robe, exuding the dignified air of a nobleman.

Yuan Yi stepped forward and bowed, saying, "I was unaware of your arrival, Uncle Thirteen's presence. I am so sorry for not being able to greet you properly! Please forgive me, Uncle Thirteen."

Prince Zhongyi chuckled and gestured for him to get up, saying, "Get up, get up, there's no need for such formalities. I was just returning to the city from Changchun Garden when I passed by your residence. Remembering that you recently returned to your clan, I decided to stop by and see you, and also to see this house that His Majesty bestowed upon you."

Yuan Yi stood up, stepped aside to make way, and said respectfully, "Uncle Thirteen, I am honored that you think of me so much. Please come inside and serve me some tea, so that I may do my best to be a good host."

He immediately invited Prince Chung Yi inside for a tour.

Prince Zhongyi nodded, about to take a step, but suddenly stopped, turning his gaze to the west side of the mansion. Hearing construction noises coming from there, he asked curiously, "What is the big commotion on the west side of your mansion, what are they building?"

Yuan Yi hurriedly replied, "In response to Uncle Thirteen, I have always had the habit of practicing martial arts. Seeing that there is an open area on the west side, I thought of converting it into a training ground, so that I can practice riding and archery and foot archery here in the future. It can also be used to train the ceremonial staff, guards, soldiers and servants of the mansion, both to protect the mansion and to serve the country in the future."

Upon hearing this, Prince Zhongyi's eyes flickered slightly. He simply nodded without saying anything more, and then, guided by Yuan Yi, entered the mansion.

He walked along, his gaze seemingly casual, but in reality, he was paying close attention to everything.

Upon reaching the main hall, he looked up and saw the three large characters "Debentang" inscribed on the plaque, and asked Yuan Yi about them.

Upon reaching the inner study, he saw the plaque "Lishenzhai" hanging high, its calligraphy vigorous and its meaning profound. He asked Yuan Yi a few more questions, and after asking, a look of admiration flashed across his eyes.

He followed Yuan Yi to take a brief look around the Duke's mansion, drank half a cup of tea, and then got up to take his leave.

The following day, May 25th, was still a fine day.

In the Changchun Garden in the western suburbs, as dawn broke, the emperor and his ministers were already gathered in the Danning Residence.

At the hour of Mao (5-7 AM), Emperor Taishun, as was customary, summoned several key princes and ministers to discuss state affairs, and Prince Zhongyi was naturally among them.

By the time the morning was just past 7:00 AM, the political affairs had been discussed and the ministers had finished. Several princes and ministers bowed and took their leave, but Prince Zhongyi remained.

After everyone had left, only Emperor Taishun and Prince Zhongyi remained, a pair of emperor and minister, who were also brothers with a deep bond.

Prince Zhongyi smiled and reported to the Duke of Yuan Yi that he had happened to visit the residence of the Duke of Yuan Yi yesterday.

He emphasized the two plaques: "Yi Ge'er's residence has a main hall named 'Deben Hall' and an inner study named 'Lishen Studio,' which were named and inscribed by Yi Ge'er himself. I think these names are very appropriate and have profound meaning."

Emperor Taishun, who was reclining on the Luohan bed, sat up straight upon hearing this.

Emperor Taishun was naturally very familiar with the terms "virtue as the foundation" and "establishing oneself," both of which originated directly from the Classic of Filial Piety, a supreme Confucian classic. He had always governed the country with "filial piety," and seeing these two phrases was like scratching an itch.

These two names seem to be silently declaring that this newly returned fourth prince is not concerned with external honors, but with how to become a filial son who can bring glory to his family.

Emperor Taishun felt a surge of satisfaction. This was exactly what he had hoped for in Yuan Yi: talent and filial piety.

The name "Lishenzhai" is like a silent reciprocal dialogue, with the subtext being: "Father, your son studies diligently here to cultivate his character and virtue, and all his future achievements will be to glorify the kindness and glory of your father and ancestors." Isn't this a clever and profound expression of "filial piety"?

Emperor Taishun couldn't help but show a pleased expression: "This boy has a deep understanding of the essence of the Classic of Filial Piety and can apply it to his daily life, hanging it by his side to encourage himself. It is clear that he has truly put his heart and soul into it and is not a superficial person."

Seeing Emperor Taishun's satisfaction, Prince Zhongyi took the opportunity to mention Yuan Yi's reconstruction of the drill ground, praising him: "Although Yi-ge'er has returned to the clan and become a Duke, he has not neglected his studies in literature and martial arts. From what I can see, he intends to hone his horsemanship and archery skills to perfection, so that he can be ready to serve the court at any time. Such hard work is truly commendable."

Upon hearing this, Emperor Taishun's expression of satisfaction deepened. Cultivating both literary and martial skills, while remaining true to one's roots, was also his expectation for his fourth son, Yuan Yi.

Prince Zhongyi asked with a smile, "It has been eight days since Yi-ge'er was conferred the title of Duke. I wonder if His Majesty has any plans in mind regarding when to arrange for him to enter the court and assume any position, so that he can serve the country and share His Majesty's burdens?"

Emperor Taishun pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "This matter is not urgent."

He stroked his beard, as if deep in thought.

Before Yuan Yi returned to his clan, all his official duties were as an imperial envoy, without any fixed responsibilities.

Now, to arrange a suitable position for him in the court, it is necessary to weigh the political situation and also to ensure that it is in line with his status as a prince and duke.

Emperor Taishun, as the father, had not yet thought things through completely, and therefore was unwilling to make a hasty decision.

……

……

Jia She, the heir to the Rongguo Mansion title, caused a murder case and was stripped of his title and arrested. Fortunately, this matter did not affect the investiture of Yuan Chun.

Yuan-chun's investiture as the wife of a duke would not be easily influenced by her maternal family. Moreover, this matter had already been approved by Emperor Taishun before the Jia She case came to light; the emperor's word is law, and there is no reason to change it easily.

May 25th was an auspicious day, and the heavens were also on its side. The sun shone brightly in the capital city, and a gentle breeze blew, making it a hot and sunny day.

This day marked the grand ceremony on which Yuan Chun was bestowed the title of Lady of the Duke of the County.

The investiture ceremony was held at Yuan Yi's residence, the Duke of the County.

The entire mansion had already been swept and cleaned, and everything was neatly arranged, awaiting the Emperor's favor.

Just after Chen Shi (7-9 AM), an official from the Ministry of Rites and an official from the Imperial Clan Court, dressed in brocade court robes and with solemn expressions, served as the principal and deputy envoys for the investiture ceremony, leading a grand procession carrying a pavilion adorned with colorful jewels. Inside the pavilion were the imperial edicts and official robes. The procession marched out of the imperial city with great pomp and circumstance, heading straight for the Duke of Ningrong's residence on Ningrong Street.

The main gate of the Duke's mansion was wide open, and a red felt carpet was laid out along the middle path.

Yuan Yi, dressed in the dark blue robes of a duke, led his officials and guards to kneel and greet them at the main gate. When the envoy's procession arrived at the gate, the chief envoy, holding a gilded bronze staff symbolizing the emperor's mission, entered first, followed by the imperial edict and colorful pavilion. They passed through the central gate, through the courtyard, and into the hall that had been prepared beforehand.

The hall was decorated solemnly, with a large sandalwood incense table decorated with dragon patterns, upon which sat a gilded incense burner, from which wisps of smoke curled. A slightly lower table was also set up, known as the "section table."

The chief envoy respectfully placed the imperial edict on the altar, and the deputy envoy then took out the sandalwood box containing the imperial edict from the pavilion and placed it in the center of the altar.

The auspicious hour has arrived, and the jade pendants tinkle softly.

Guided by the ladies-in-waiting of the inner court, Yuan Chun slowly walked into the hall, dressed in the auspicious robes befitting a prince's wife, exuding elegance and grace.

Upon arriving in the hall, she respectfully knelt before the incense table, head bowed, to listen to the instructions.

The chief envoy approached the incense table, bowed slightly, and solemnly presented the imperial edict with both hands, slowly unfolding it. The deputy envoy stood behind him.

The envoy then recited the words aloud, his voice loud and clear, each word distinct, echoing in the quiet hall:

"By the grace of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: A woman of virtuous character and refined manners, skilled in domestic affairs. With graceful bearing and modest virtue, she is truly capable of assisting in the administration of the household; with fragrant blossoms, she has long been known for her virtuous conduct as a wife to her husband. Therefore, you, Lady Jia, wife of the Duke of Yuan Yi, are of gentle and virtuous nature, and prudent in your conduct. Your gentle and graceful bearing sets a good example for the household; your virtuous character shines brightly within the women's quarters, demonstrating your unwavering devotion. Therefore, you are hereby conferred the title of Lady of the Duke of Yuan Yi. This decree is hereby bestowed upon you. Alas! You are granted this honor, may your virtue and grace be further enhanced within the confines of your home; may this glory be forever recorded in history. May you respectfully accept this favor and not disgrace your husband. Respectfully obey!"

After the announcement, the envoy presented the imperial edict scroll to Yuan Chun with both hands. Yuan Chun respectfully replied, "I will obey Your Majesty's command," and raised both hands above her head to receive the weighty imperial grace. She then placed it back on the incense table.

Yuan Chun straightened her clothes and faced the imperial edict on the incense table, a scroll representing supreme glory, and performed the grand ceremony of "six respectful bows, three kneelings, and three prostrations." The "six respectful bows" consisted of six extremely reverent prostrations, each time with the robes drawn back and the body bent, displaying impeccable decorum; the "three kneelings and three prostrations" were three instances of kneeling and kowtowing, each movement perfectly in accordance with propriety, exuding unparalleled solemnity. This ceremony was a demonstration of her gratitude and submission to the emperor's grace.

After the investiture ceremony, Yuan Yi bowed deeply to the two envoys again to express his gratitude, and personally escorted them out of the mansion with their imperial credentials. The ceremonial procession continued to depart in a majestic and imposing manner until it disappeared at the end of Ningrong Street.

After seeing the angel off, Yuan Yi returned to the main hall.

Holding the imperial edict, Yuan Chun faced her husband and bowed deeply. This bow was not merely a gesture of respect between husband and wife, but also a declaration that her status was now officially established; she was now the rightful and officially bestowed title of Lady of the Duke by the imperial court!
Yuan Yi accepted the greeting, smiled and nodded, and personally helped Yuan Chun up.

Subsequently, the mansion did not hold a grand celebration, but only a simple one.

Yuan Chun sat upright, accepting the congratulations from everyone in the household.

Looking at the scene before her, she thought of the recent desolation of the Jia family and couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. However, she maintained a dignified and calm smile, concealing her myriad thoughts beneath the solemnity of her magnificent clothes and crown.

……

……

After the celebrations at the mansion for bestowing the title of Lady of the Duke of the County concluded and the congratulatory guests dispersed, the mansion returned to tranquility.

However, the lingering influence and glory of the Emperor's boundless grace still subtly flowed within this deep mansion.

Xue Baochai and Jing Qing, the two concubines, returned to their respective courtyards, but neither of them was at peace.

Let's start with Xue Baochai, who returned to her own courtyard. The room was filled with books, and on the table under the window were writing brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones, creating a very elegant atmosphere.

As soon as she sat down at the table, Ying'er brought her a freshly brewed cup of fragrant tea, her face still showing excitement, and she said in a low voice with a smile, "Did you see that, Auntie? Today, Madam was truly majestic and glorious!"

Xue Baochai took the teacup, remained silent, and gently stirred the floating leaves with the covered bowl.

Even though she was usually dignified and composed, never showing her emotions, her heart was now like a stone thrown into a lake, causing ripples. The solemnity of the investiture ceremony, Yuan Chun's elegance and nobility, and even the awe and envy in the eyes of everyone in the mansion, all lingered in her mind.

She knew all too well the weight of the title "Lady of a Duke," which represented a status and position bestowed by the imperial court, far beyond ordinary wealth and honor. The envy in her heart lingered like silkworms spinning silk, secretly binding her and impossible to shake off.

Seeing Xue Baochai remain silent, Ying'er assumed she was moved and leaned even closer, lowering her voice further but becoming increasingly excited: "With our Fourth Master's literary and martial talents, coupled with His Majesty's favor and patronage, being enfeoffed as a prince is just around the corner! At that time, he will surely appoint a concubine. Auntie has a good temperament, and Fourth Master has always valued her; this position as a concubine will definitely be Auntie's!"

Upon hearing this, Xue Baochai's expression suddenly hardened. She quickly put down her teacup and whispered, "Shut up! How can you say such nonsense? What will people think if they hear this?"

Her sharp gaze swept out the window, as if afraid someone might be eavesdropping.

Ying'er shrank back in fright, stuck out her tongue, and said awkwardly, "Don't be angry, Auntie. I'm not stupid. I know what's important. I'm just saying this to you quietly in this room. I wouldn't dare to go outside and spread it around."

Seeing that she knew she was wrong, Xue Baochai's expression softened slightly, but she didn't say anything more. She just lowered her eyes and stared at the tea leaves floating in the cup, her heart churning with turmoil.

Ying'er's words surely touched upon the deepest thoughts in her heart.

The position of "concubine" also came with an imperial decree and official robes, which were recorded in the rites and the register. What a glorious and honorable position!

Xue Baochai was also a proud and arrogant person; how could she be completely indifferent?
only……

She thought to herself: Although the Fourth Prince currently only has me and Consort Jing in his household, and his affection for me is indeed different from the others, he is still young and has a bright future. It's only natural that the household will be filled with beautiful women in the future, and new concubines will emerge one after another. My title as the "first concubine" may not be a long-term advantage. If I want to establish a firm foothold in this household, and even have a chance to become a secondary consort in the future, ultimately... ultimately I will still have to rely on having children to solidify my foundation. Thinking of this, she couldn't help but gently stroke her lower abdomen, and anxiety and anticipation quietly rose within her.

Meanwhile, another concubine, Jingqing, returned to her residence. Although she tried to remain calm, the excitement and anticipation in her eyes could not be concealed.

While helping her change her clothes, her maids Hongxia and Lüyi couldn't help but chatter amongst themselves.

Hongxia, quick to speak, laughed first: "Madam is in the limelight today! It's clear that the future of this household is bright! With a character and appearance like our aunt, she may very well have a great future!"

Lüyi chimed in, "Exactly! I've heard that even princes have concubines in their residences. If our Fourth Master were to be enfeoffed as a prince someday, and if Auntie could be made a concubine, that would truly be a great honor!"

Jing Qing's heart raced as she listened, but she scolded, "You're all becoming more and more unruly! How can you make up such important things? Shut up!"

Hongxia and Lüyi exchanged a smile, then stopped talking and went to pack their things.

Jing Qing sat down alone in front of the mirror, gazing at her youthful and beautiful face, but her heart was filled with turmoil.

A concubine? Who wouldn't want that? However...

A dark cloud quietly settled over her heart. She thought to herself: With my current lowly status, my father's exile after his crime, and the decline of my family, I have no one to rely on. In this noble and prestigious Duke's mansion, where lineage is paramount, how easy is it for me to stand out? Unless I can give birth to a son for the Fourth Prince as soon as possible, thus gaining status through my son, and also... if my father, far away in a harsh land, can one day have his name cleared, only then will I truly have confidence in the mansion.

Thinking of this, she couldn't help but sigh softly, and her beautiful face in the mirror was tinged with a touch of melancholy and longing.

In two courtyards, two beautiful women, both were stirred by the same subtle thoughts about their future, favor, and status because of Yuan Chun's investiture ceremony.

Within the inner quarters of this Duke's mansion, turmoil has begun...

(End of this chapter)