Red Mansion: Fuyao River and Mountain

Rongguo Mansion, West Corner Gate.

Having served as an official for many years, Jia Zheng naturally possessed considerable knowledge. The carriage was draped with bright yellow silk curtains, a gilded dome, and embroidered with a five-clawed dragon, a design reserved only for imperial carriages in the palace.

He recalled that when imperial edicts were usually delivered in the palace, they were carried in a single or double-horse carriage made of bright yellow silk, which was ridden by the imperial attendants and officials, to demonstrate the majesty and solemnity of the imperial decree.

But the imperial carriage that arrived today seemed rather unusual. Not only was it drawn by three horses to show its grandeur, but its dome was also gilded and embroidered with a five-clawed dragon.

Two squads of imperial cavalry guarded the carriage, their imposing presence almost equivalent to the emperor's personal arrival—a spectacle not typical of an ordinary summons.

Jia Zheng thought about Cong-ge'er's defense against the enemy outside the capital. He heard that he had defeated more than two thousand enemy cavalry with a small force. Although his military achievements were remarkable, it seemed that he had not yet reached the point where the emperor's entourage would personally attend.

Unexpectedly, the Emperor valued Cong-ge'er so highly; it was truly a great imperial favor. Jia Zheng, along with Bao-yu and Jia Huan, hurriedly ordered Lin Zhi-xiao to open the main gate of Rongguo Palace to welcome the imperial messenger.

Rongguo Mansion is the residence of a Duke. Its main gate is usually closed and is not opened easily. It is only opened to show solemnity when the main gate is opened for a formal wedding or to receive an imperial edict from the emperor.

When asked if Rongxi Hall had prepared an incense table for receiving the imperial edict, Lin Zhixiao replied that the Ministry of Rites had sent a messenger two quarters of an hour earlier, and all the necessary items and utensils for receiving the edict had been prepared.

Jia Zheng was relieved to hear this. He saw the carriage stop at the main gate of the West Mansion. The first person to get off was Guo Lin, the deputy chief eunuch, followed by Gu Yankui, the Minister of War.

……

Jia Zheng was also taken aback by this scene. Guo Lin had come to the mansion to deliver imperial edicts before, so he was considered a frequent visitor. For the Deputy Chief Eunuch of the Imperial Palace to deliver an imperial edict was already a very respectable matter.

Even the Minister of War, Gu Yankui, was present. He was the head of one of the six ministries. The imperial decree was delivered with such solemnity. It was as if Cong'er's military achievements had won the emperor's favor.

Having been the head of the Rongguo Mansion for half his life, Jia Zheng was a man of many experiences. Although he was quite puzzled by the scene before him, he still stepped forward to exchange pleasantries with Guo Lin and Gu Yankui.

Gu Yankui smiled and said, "Lord Jia, today I and Eunuch Guo have come with an imperial edict to deliver a decree to Marquis Jia Cong of Weiyuan. Please lead the way to the main hall to receive the imperial edict on our behalf."

Jia Zheng hurriedly said, "It is truly an honor that Lord Gu and Eunuch Guo have come together to deliver the imperial decree. Please come quickly into the main hall, Rongxi Hall."

Upon entering Rongxi Hall, they found an incense table and candles already set up. Gu Yankui took out a yellow silk scroll containing an imperial edict, unfurled it, and read aloud:

By the grace of Heaven, the Emperor decrees:

Since I ascended the throne, more than sixteen years have passed. With the unity of mind of the emperor and his ministers, and their diligent service to the nation, the world is at peace.

With cruel and wicked intentions, they plotted to seize the Han dynasty's lands and rivers, forcibly occupying cities and massacring the common people. They deserve to be condemned by both gods and men.

By imperial decree, Jia Cong, the Earl of Ziweiyuan, was appointed as the Assistant Commander of the Divine Machine Battalion in the campaign against the Mongols. He was loyal, brave, and resolute, possessed exceptional wisdom and resourcefulness, and was fearless in the face of death.

On the 20th day of the first month of the sixteenth year of Jiazhao, in the wilderness outside the capital, a few thousand brave soldiers defeated and decimated tens of thousands of elite Mongol troops, achieving a remarkable feat in the conquest of the Mongols.

The nation has renowned generals and extraordinary talents who protect the stability of the capital region. They risk their lives to fight on the front lines, enduring life-and-death battles. Their courage and decisiveness are unmatched in the three armies, and their achievements surpass those of their peers.

He is hereby appointed General Xuanwei, a fourth-rank official, and promoted to Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Army Against the Mongols. He is also promoted to Director of the Firearms Department, a fourth-rank official, and granted the honorary title of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works. This is by imperial decree.

……

After Gu Yankui finished reading the imperial edict, he handed the yellow silk scroll in his hand to Jia Zheng with both hands and said, "Lord Jia, please receive the imperial edict on my behalf. I have already sent it to the Northern Three Passes with the help of Wenjun."

When Jia Zheng saw the imperial procession summoning the emperor and saw Gu Yankui and Guo Lin together, he knew that today's imperial decree was extraordinary, but it still exceeded his expectations and shocked him greatly.

He never expected that Jia Cong's victory in the battle outside the capital would earn him such high praise from the Emperor, who not only appointed him as the Deputy Commander-in-Chief but also promoted him two ranks.

Even though Congge'er was promoted to the fourth rank, the Emperor still felt it was not enough of a reward and added the title of Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works. The Emperor's grace was boundless and deeply appreciated.
Cong-ge'er will only turn sixteen in a few months, yet he already holds such a high and prominent position. In the future, he will likely be no less than the Rongguo ancestors, and perhaps even surpass them. He is truly remarkable...

Jia Zheng received the imperial edict with trembling hands, his excitement and joy overflowing. He kept saying thank you for your great favor, thinking about the glory the Jia family would receive once the news spread.

Gu Yankui always valued Jia Cong highly, and the two had a close personal relationship. Back then, he promoted Jia Cong to the position of advisor to the commander of nine provinces, which enabled Jia Cong to make contributions in Liaodong.

He knew Jia Cong's background from childhood, was humble and kind to Jia Zheng, and had treated and protected Jia Cong well since childhood. He admired Jia Cong very much and spoke to him in a gentle and affectionate manner.

He and Guo Lin exchanged a few pleasantries with Jia Zheng before taking their leave. Jia Zheng hurriedly saw them off at the gate, and even after their carriages had gone far away, Jia Zheng was still completely bewildered.

……

Baoyu and Jia Huan followed behind Jia Zheng, but the two were very different in appearance. Jia Huan's eyes were shining, and his admiration and envy were evident in his eyes.

Baoyu, however, was pale, his brows furrowed, his face filled with sorrow and disgust. But when Jia Zheng turned around, he quickly composed himself and returned to normal.

When the imperial carriage failed to appear, Jia Zheng finally came to his senses. His joy was still lingering, but when he looked at his two sons behind him, he couldn't help but feel a sense of loss.

He said, "You have all witnessed what has happened today. A man should live like this: be diligent and hardworking, achieve great things, and bring glory to his family. Only then can he live a worthwhile life!"

Jia Huan had just witnessed the grand spectacle of the imperial edict being proclaimed. Although he did not understand the complexities of the official system, he was quite envious of Jia Cong's impressive appointment as both a general and a vice minister.

Hearing Jia Zheng's encouraging words, his face flushed red: "I will remember your words, sir. I dare not compare myself to my third brother Cong, but I will study hard and bring honor to you, sir!"

Baoyu looked at Jia Huan with a shocked expression. He never expected that his half-brother would be so shameless, spouting flattery so casually that it was utterly disgusting.

Jia Zheng laughed and said, "Well said. It is very good that you have put in such effort. Last night I tested you a few times. Although you have only been in prison for a short time, your demeanor and speech have already improved."

Jia Zheng looked at Baoyu and saw that he was pale, his eyes were wandering, his expression was uneasy, his face lacked generosity, his demeanor lacked ease, and he appeared timid.

He frowned and asked, "Baoyu, what about you?"

After hesitating for a long time, Baoyu said tremblingly, "I will study hard and bring honor to the family in the future."

He had barely finished speaking when his stomach churned violently, and he almost couldn't help but want to vomit. But with his father, Jia Zheng, in front of him, he wouldn't dare to do it even if he choked.

As the saying goes, no one knows a son better than his father. How could Jia Zheng not see Jia Huan's burning desire to learn, while Bao Yu still spoke insincerely? This only added to Jia Zheng's disappointment.

Today was a day of great joy for the family, not the time to scold his son. He simply hummed softly and went to the inner courtyard to report the good news.

……

Rongguo Mansion, Rongqing Hall.

Two quarters of an hour ago, just as Grandmother Jia had sent someone to deliver a message to Jia Zheng, Lin Zhixiao came from outside the second gate to deliver another message, saying that the Ministry of Rites had sent an official to deliver a message from the palace at the appointed time.

Grandmother Jia smiled broadly upon hearing this. The wives of noble families who came to offer their congratulations also congratulated Grandmother Jia. Grandmother Jia then ordered Yuanyang to wait at the second gate and send back the message as soon as possible.

Before long, Yuanyang returned with a beaming smile, saying, "Grandma, you're overjoyed! A royal procession has arrived from the palace, and the procession is quite grand."

Minister of War Gu announced the imperial decree, accompanied by Deputy Chief Eunuch Guo. Third Master Cong was not only appointed Deputy Commander-in-Chief, but also promoted to the rank of Fourth-Rank Supervisor of the Ministry of War, with the additional title of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works.

Yuanyang didn't understand officialdom very well, but she had a great memory, was articulate, and had a clear, melodious voice. Although she couldn't recite the contents of the imperial edict by heart, she explained the most important points very clearly.

As soon as Yuanyang finished speaking, the room, which was filled with half of the noble ladies, fell into an eerie silence upon hearing the news. It was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

After a moment, Lady Li, the Marquis of Zhongjing, laughed and said, "Auntie is so lucky. The Jia family has produced a sixteen-year-old fourth-rank official, a dignified vice minister. Even plays don't dare to sing like that."

The Jia family ancestors were blessed with great fortune, producing such a prodigy as Cong-ge'er. He excels in both literary pursuits, achieving top honors in the imperial examinations and becoming a member of the Hanlin Academy, and in martial arts, he commands armies and is truly remarkable.

Madam Xu, the Marquis of Chengyang, laughed and said, "Grandma, I'm so jealous! How come our Liu family can't raise such a son? I really can't have such good fortune."

Last year, our family produced fifteen Hanlin scholars, and this year, sixteen high-ranking officials of the fourth rank have emerged. Who knows what joyous events will follow next year? Just thinking about it makes me realize how extraordinary Cong-ge is.”

…………

Upon hearing the news, Yingchun, Daiyu, Tanchun, and the other sisters beamed with joy. Xichun exclaimed, "Third brother is so amazing! Third brother can be a great general!"

Shi Xiangyun was also overjoyed and said, "Auntie, aren't the vice ministers of the six ministries all of the third rank? Third brother has only just been promoted to the fourth rank, how come he can already hold the title of vice minister?"

Marquis Zhongjing, Lady Li, came from an official family and had been a marquis's wife for half her life, so she naturally knew the origins of the official system. She laughed and said, "You little girl, you only know a little bit, you know one thing but not the other. The officials in the six ministries are all fifth-rank officials. Cong-ge'er was originally the fifth-rank director of the Firearms Department, but the vice ministers of each ministry are mostly third-rank officials, which is four ranks lower than the officials in their subordinate ministries."

Some vice ministers were transferred or appointed from other places, but many were promoted by the officials in their own office. When these people first became vice ministers, they were not even third-rank officials. It took them many years to rise to the top rank of third-rank vice minister.

Therefore, Cong-ge'er rose to the rank of fourth-grade official and received the Emperor's favor and high regard, so it was natural that he could hold the title of Vice Minister. However, given Cong-ge'er's abilities, becoming a full-fledged Vice Minister would not have been difficult for him.

Marquis Xu of Chengyang laughed and said, "We are all from families of military merit, and we have heard a lot about military achievements and titles. Now the news in the city is that Congge'er defeated two thousand Mongol Tartars with a small force."

This was indeed an outstanding military achievement. Congge'er said it was a natural-born general, and that was no exaggeration. It was only natural that he was granted the title of Fourth-Rank Xuanwu General and appointed as the Deputy Commander-in-Chief.

However, it was a rare honor for a civil official to be promoted two ranks from the fifth rank and also receive the title of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works. It should be noted that the promotion of civil officials was a long and arduous process that required decades of hard work.

Madam, Cong-ge'er is outstanding in both literary and martial arts, which is naturally excellent. But what is rare is that the Emperor favors him so much, showing him such great favor and support.

Your maid just came in to say that the Emperor has arrived in the palace with a royal carriage and horses. This is equivalent to the Emperor's personal visit, and the Minister of War has also summoned him. This is an extremely prestigious occasion.

This favor and patronage bestowed upon Jian by the Emperor is far more precious than talent and ability; it is truly a stroke of luck that is priceless. Even if Cong-ge'er were to be ennobled as a marquis or duke in the future, such a position would still be within reach.

……

The women from the maternal relatives present were all wives of military merit, and naturally they all had some knowledge. Each of them weighed the weight of the reward, and Lady Xu, the wife of Marquis Chengyang, was just speaking their minds.

News spread at yesterday's morning court that, at the behest of their patriarchs, they all went to visit and offer their congratulations, all because of the phrase "Jian is on the Emperor's side." This is also a tactic used by powerful families to gauge the political climate and assess the situation.

Grandmother Jia laughed and said, "I really didn't expect that Cong-ge'er would be favored by the Emperor. What a blessing this is! He is so fortunate today because of the Emperor's great grace. It is his duty to fight for the country."

Don't talk about bestowing titles and honors upon him again. He's still young and inexperienced. Be careful not to ruin his life. He should be content with his current rank and status.

I hope the imperial court will quell the remnants of the Mongols soon, and he will return in triumph soon. Then the world will be at peace, everyone can be happy, and he can stay at home for a few years, saving him from causing trouble everywhere.

He's not young anymore, and Baoyu is almost ready to have children. The important thing for him is to fulfill his filial duties, marry and have children soon, so that the family line can continue.

Upon hearing these words from Grandmother Jia, the noblewomen of various families offered their flattery and agreement. However, those with daughters of marriageable age couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement upon hearing the words "marry and have children."

Upon hearing Jia Mu's words, Lady Xu, the Marquis of Chengyang, felt a pang of regret. She had thought that since Jia Cong was not at home, she hadn't bothered to think about it and hadn't brought her third daughter along.

Besides, the girl hadn't seen anything interesting and wasn't really interested. Unexpectedly, the old lady kept bringing up the matter and wanted to bring her precious daughter along so that she could show off and get some attention in front of the old lady.

Marquis Xu of Chengyang felt she had made a mistake, and the wives of noble families felt the same way. However, no one noticed that Grandmother Jia, seemingly chatting, was unintentionally glancing at Shi Xiangyun.

……

Footsteps suddenly sounded outside the hall, quick and efficient. The curtain was lifted and a person entered, with a beautiful face, gorgeous clothes, and dazzling embroidery. It was Wang Xifeng.

She greeted and exchanged pleasantries with the wives of the maternal relatives with a smile, displaying her tact and thoughtfulness in all aspects of life. Then she said to Grandmother Jia, "Grandmother, the Second Master has sent word that he is already in the outer courtyard."

For fear of disturbing the ladies of noble families, they will not enter the inner courtyard to pay their respects for the time being. The Second Master said that there will definitely be visitors today, and he will be entertaining them with Baoyu and Huan'er. He asked the Old Madam not to worry.

There is one matter that your granddaughter-in-law is unsure about: Cong's brother has rendered meritorious service and been granted an official title. Such a joyous occasion for the family is a great one. Should both households make proper arrangements to celebrate? I would appreciate it if the old lady could make the decision.

When Grandmother Jia heard this, she thought about it. She was a person of high status and dignity, and according to her own wishes, she would naturally hold a grand celebration. Such an honorable event would be known to everyone, which would be truly satisfying.

However, after Jia Cong went to war, the family had already reduced the banquets and entertainment during the Lantern Festival to keep a low profile in accordance with the national war. Now, to hold such a grand celebration is a case of being respectful before but arrogant afterward.

She glanced at Yingchun and said, "Second Sister, you are Cong-ge'er's elder sister and now you are in charge of the East Mansion. You also understand your brother's thoughts best. What do you think is the right thing to do about this?"

Yingchun said, "Grandma, in my opinion, since we are still in the midst of a national war, there is no need to be too extravagant. If guests come to visit, we will simply be polite."

There's no need for fanfare or commotion. My brother Cong is currently away on campaign, dealing with all sorts of dangerous and dangerous matters. Let's keep things quiet and help him accumulate some good fortune.

When Congdi returns in triumph, both families will plan a celebration, inviting relatives and friends to gather. Wouldn't that be more convenient and smoother, and we can also keep the old lady company in her joy?

……

Madam Xu, the Marquis of Chengyang, laughed and said, "Old Madam, I've long heard that you're the best at raising daughters. Look at all your granddaughters, each one is outstanding, it's dazzling to behold."

I heard that Miss Yingchun is the eldest, and she has learned your wisdom and thoughtfulness perfectly. She is still so young, yet she is not only knowledgeable in her speech and actions, but also very sensible.

Although Cong-ge is still in mourning and cannot start a family for the time being, his elder sister manages the household affairs so thoughtfully and appropriately. It is evident that the old lady is blessed, as her grandchildren are all outstanding.

Although Grandmother Jia found Yingchun's words reasonable, she was somewhat disappointed that she could not offer any praise. However, she was very pleased with Xu Shi's flattering words, even though she was humble on the surface.

Although Madam Xu spoke in a polite manner, many noblewomen present couldn't help but stare at Yingchun, admiring her beauty, elegance, and outstanding appearance.

In these families, every unmarried woman harbored the desire for a son-in-law, but Jia Cong was simply too conspicuous. Which wealthy family wouldn't be eyeing such a marriage alliance?

It was clearly a case of too many wolves and too little meat; how could this golden nugget possibly fall into their hands? But Jia Cong was too important, while his own sister was different and not as conspicuous as him.

There are rumors among the ladies of the capital that the two siblings are very close. Jia Cong has his elder sister manage all the family affairs, and she is even closer to him than his grandmother.

Jia Cong's marriage was difficult to manipulate, but marrying his sister would be much easier. Any family that could marry this eldest daughter would be forming a proper marriage alliance with the Earl of Weiyuan.

I've only heard that this girl has very high standards. Both the Duke of Qi's and Duke of Xiu's families had expressed interest in marrying her, but Yingchun was reportedly unwilling to do so, and the matter eventually came to nothing...

Many housewives with unmarried sons were stirred by Xu's words, and their minds began to wander. They felt that this matter was truly worth handling and would make plans after returning home.

……

Rongguo Mansion, Lixiangyuan.

Since Xue Pan's incident, Baochai and Aunt Xue have been avoiding going out much due to taboos. Grandmother Jia asked Wang Xifeng to visit him more often and fulfill the proper kinship obligations.

Yingchun and her sisters often come to talk, so Pear Fragrance Courtyard is not as deserted as before, but it has become more gloomy and somber. Starting yesterday afternoon, it has become even more deserted.

Baochai chatted with her mother in the main room, casually holding some needles and thread to pass the time. Aunt Xue said, "I heard that Cong-ge'er has made another meritorious contribution in battle, and the mansion started to make a fuss yesterday afternoon."

Before Baochai could speak, hurried footsteps came from the corridor outside. The maid Jin Chuan rushed in, her pretty face slightly flushed, her eyes beaming with joy, and she looked even more attractive.

He said, "Miss, you asked me to inquire about the news. It's quite lively at Rongqing Hall. News has come from the outer courtyard that the palace has just sent a summons, and it's all very good news."

The Third Prince was appointed Deputy Commander-in-Chief and promoted to the fourth rank. The Emperor also bestowed upon him the title of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works. Everyone said that a sixteen-year-old becoming a fourth-rank official was unprecedented in the Great Zhou Dynasty.

Upon hearing this, Baochai, who had been frowning for many days, instantly broke into a radiant smile, appearing exceptionally beautiful and charming. However, the smile faded away in a short while.

Aunt Xue was also shocked when she heard this, and said, "I've seen too much of this in the past few years. I knew that whenever Cong-ge went out, he would definitely come back with some glory and honor."

Then, as if realizing something, she said, "Bao'er, Cong'er has made a great contribution and received such a high reward. Do you think the palace will consider his reputation and let your brother off lightly?"

Baochai smiled bitterly and said, "Mother, what kind of logic is this? Brother Cong's meritorious service and reward have nothing to do with my brother's affairs. The two families are not related, so who would give him this face?"

"Mom, what you said doesn't fit at all. Don't bring it up in front of others in the future, or it will make them feel awkward. But since Uncle is involved in Feng Yuan's case, there might be some room for maneuver."

Aunt Xue sighed, "Now I regret it too. Although I knew Cong-ge was outstanding, I never thought he would reach this level. He is so young, yet he has already become a vice minister."

You sisters have lived together in the household for several years, so it was only natural that you became familiar and close to each other. Otherwise, your brother would not have been in such a desperate situation when he encountered trouble.

"It's all my fault for delaying this. Once we've calmed down, I'll talk to the old lady and try to get her to say something. If it's a destined marriage, then I'll put your mind at ease."

Upon hearing this, Baochai's heart skipped a beat, her pretty face flushed red, then slowly faded to pale.

She said, "Mom, please don't do anything reckless. What time is it now? How can you talk about such things? Please give your daughter some face. I don't want him to look down on me."

"Don't panic, Mother. Judging by the journey, Second Uncle must have received the letter and is probably heading north soon. He will definitely find a way to save Brother..." (End of Chapter)