Huangming

Chapter 486 The Phoenix Embraces the Tide, the King Travels in Disguise

November of the second year of the Tianqi reign.

A cold wave swept down from the north, like a cold, sharp blade, cleaving through the dryness of the north.

In the usually dry and windy northern Zhili region, a rare heavy snowfall occurred.

At first, it was just a few scattered snowflakes, but in less than half an hour, it turned into a flurry of snowflakes, with cotton-like flakes swirling down and enveloping the fields, villages, and roads in a white wonderland.

The city of Beijing was also completely covered by the heavy snow.

The blue bricks of the city wall were stained white, and the glazed tile roofs were covered with thick snow, like a silver crown on the Forbidden City.

The bluestone pavement on the street is no longer visible, leaving only rows of footprints of varying depths.

The people, who usually looked worried and distressed because of the drought, now had long-lost smiles on their faces.

Even the tax collectors, who usually had stern faces, couldn't help but stop and look at the snow falling all around them as they passed by the street, letting out a soft sigh of relief.

The northern part of Zhili has been suffering from drought for half a year, and the wheat in the fields is almost withered. This heavy snow will finally ease the drought.

The officials breathed a sigh of relief.

At the morning court session, many ministers entered the Forbidden City covered in snowflakes. As soon as the session began, someone submitted a memorial:
"Your Majesty, heavy snow has fallen across Beizhili, relieving the drought. This is Heaven's blessing upon the Ming Dynasty!"

A chorus of agreement immediately filled the court. Zhu Youxiao, seated on the dragon throne, listened to the ministers' reports, a smile appearing on his face. He immediately issued an edict:

"By imperial decree, Shuntian Prefecture shall dispatch officials to inspect the snow conditions in various regions and urge the people to take advantage of the snow to store water in preparation for spring plowing next year."

Outside the palace, snow was falling heavily, but inside, it was warm and cozy, especially in the Kunning Palace, which was bustling with activity.

Today, Empress Zhang issued an imperial edict summoning ladies of the third rank and above to the Kunning Palace for an audience.

The news spread quickly throughout the mansions of nobles in the capital, and the ladies dressed up early, wearing brocade jackets and sable cloaks, braving the wind and snow to rush to the palace.

They were already used to the empress's summons and even looked forward to it.

According to the old customs of the Ming Dynasty, the Empress would usually summon the noblewomen on important festivals such as New Year's Day, Winter Solstice, and the Autumn Festival. However, since entering the palace, Empress Zhang has broken with the custom and has summoned the noblewomen to the palace for a small gathering almost every month.

What they looked forward to even more was that each time she was summoned, the Empress would bring out some novel items, which became a sensation in the capital:

Last winter, the Empress took out sweet potato seeds and taught them how to plant them. Now, many noble estates in Beizhili have planted them, and it is said that the yield is higher than that of wheat.

In early spring, the Empress introduced "perfume" and "soap." The perfume, when sprayed on the body, could leave a fragrance all day, and the soap was cleaner and more refreshing for washing hands and face than soap. It quickly became an essential item for noblewomen in the capital.

Over time, the noblewomen all looked forward to the Empress's summons, eager to see what new and interesting things she would bring this time.

soon.

The noblewomen then went to the outside of Kunning Palace.

As soon as the noblewomen stepped into the inner hall of Kunning Palace, they were astonished by the sight before them.

The palace, which was usually draped with brocade curtains, was now filled with crystal-clear objects. Sunlight streamed in through the skylight in the roof, falling on these objects and refracting colorful light, so dazzling that it was hard to open one's eyes.

"What...is this object?"

Lady Dingyuan spoke first. She was wearing a pomegranate red jacket and a gold-inlaid beaded headband. But she forgot her manners and quickly walked to an object that was taller than a person and gently touched it.

The object's smooth, cool surface clearly reflected her image, even showing the lotus pattern embroidered on her jacket—a hundred times clearer than a bronze mirror.

"This is a full-length silver glass mirror."

The palace maid standing nearby explained with a smile, her voice soft.

"Glass?"

Lady Yongkang also came over. She stared at the mirror, then looked at the small bronze mirror hanging at her waist, and couldn't help but sigh.

“I’ve heard of glass in the West, but I’ve never seen one so clear! Look at this mirror, it even reflects the exact position of the pearl hairpin in my hair.”

The ladies of the court gathered around, some adjusting their clothes in front of the full-length mirror, others curiously touching other objects in the hall.

The windows are fitted with stained glass, and sunlight shines through the glass, casting dappled shadows on the floor.

In the corner stood a round glass fish tank, inside which several golden-red koi swam about. Through the transparent glass, even the movement of their fins could be clearly seen.

On the table was a glass lampshade, covering the candle inside. The light from the candle shone through the glass, becoming soft and bright.

Even the wine bottles on the table were made of transparent glass, with the wine inside crystal clear, and you could see the ripples on the surface.

"These glass objects are truly exquisite!"

Lady Fengcheng reached out and touched the edge of the glass fish tank, her eyes shining.

"I've heard people say that when Zheng He sailed to the Western Ocean, he brought back some Western glass artisans, and the palace also had glass products, but they were all small, grayish items. How could they be as brightly colored, clear, and smooth as these?"

"Who says it isn't?"

Lady Dingyuan nodded, her tone full of affection.

"If I could bring this full-length mirror home, I could see myself clearly every time I do my hair and makeup. It's much more convenient than a bronze mirror."

"I just don't know if I can buy it, or how much silver it will cost."

Lady Yongkang rubbed her hands together, her eyes full of anticipation.

"Even if it's a bit expensive, I'll grit my teeth and buy one. If I could also get a glass fish tank to put in my home, it would definitely make other ladies envious."

Lady Fengcheng nodded repeatedly, like a chick pecking at rice:
"Yes, yes, yes! And those glass lampshades are so practical; they're great for keeping candles bright at night and preventing them from being blown out by the wind!"

Other noblewomen also started discussing it, some saying they wanted glass vases, some eyeing glass wine cups, and others asking the palace maids where these items were made.

The usual restraint had vanished from the inner hall, replaced by the excited chatter of the noblewomen. Even the sound of wind and snow outside seemed to be drowned out by the lively atmosphere.

"Ladies, please take a seat."

at this time.

A gentle, warm voice came from deep within the inner hall, like a warm breeze dispelling the noise inside.

The ladies of the court suddenly came to their senses and looked in the direction of the sound.

Empress Zhang Yan, dressed in a bright yellow palace gown embroidered with phoenixes and dragons, walked slowly towards them.

She had just given birth to her eldest son, Zhu Cikun, and her cheeks were slightly fuller than usual, but this added to her dignified and noble air. Her eyes and brows held both the majesty of an empress and the gentleness of a new mother. She walked out from behind the screen with a composed gait, followed by two palace maids holding whisks.

The ladies of the court were then surprised to realize that they had been impolite. They had been so engrossed in the glass objects that they had not even noticed the arrival of the Empress.

They hurriedly straightened their robes, curtsied in unison, and their voices carried a hint of fear:

"We were so busy admiring the novel objects that we failed to greet Your Majesty. We have been very impolite and beg Your Majesty's forgiveness!"

Zhang Yan walked to the head seat, slowly turned around and sat down. Upon hearing this, she smiled gently and raised her hand in a gesture of support.

"No need for formalities. These glass objects are rare and novelties. It's only natural that you like them. What's wrong with that?"

Her voice was gentle, and her gaze swept over the crowd with a reassuring quality.

"Get up, everyone, and take your seats to rest."

"Thank you, Queen!"

The ladies of the court felt as if they had been granted a general amnesty.

After everyone took their seats on the dining tables on both sides according to their rank, their eyes were drawn to the furnishings in front of them.

Each dining table was covered with scarlet brocade, and on the table was a set of crystal-clear glass wine set, the cups as thin as cicada wings, reflecting the candlelight in the hall and giving off a faint glow.

Next to the wine pot were three small cups, each filled with a different colored liquor: one cup contained amber-colored spirit, the liquid was clear, and a strong aroma could be smelled when you got close.

One glass contains a deep red Western wine with a fruity aroma.

There was also a light brown whiskey, with a warm color and a unique mellowness.

Besides the drinks, the food on the table was even more novel.

A plate of popcorn was piled up like a small mountain, the golden grains of rice swelling into fluffy clumps, sprinkled with fine white sugar frosting, steaming hot and emitting a sweet aroma.

Next to it was a plate of crispy fried potato chips, as thin as cicada wings, sprinkled with fine salt.

There were also several dishes I'd never seen before, presented in an exquisite and delicate manner.

The noblewomen's eyes lit up as they watched, and they couldn't help but whisper among themselves:
"What is this golden, fluffy thing? It smells so good."

"That red wine looks rare, could it be a precious item from the West?"

"And that bright yellow mashed potatoes, with something sticky on top, I wonder what it tastes like."

Just then, Zhang Yan picked up the glass wine glass in front of her, which was filled with light red wine, and raised it in greeting.

"Today, auspicious snow has fallen across Beizhili, relieving the drought that has lasted for half a year. This is truly a blessing from Heaven for our Great Ming Dynasty, and it is an auspicious day."

"Gentlemen, you have entered the palace in this snow; please refrain from formalities and simply enjoy these fresh foods. This will make the most of this auspicious snowfall."

The ladies of the court quickly picked up their wine cups, rose, and bowed slightly to Zhang Yan.

"Your Majesty, we, your humble servants, respectfully wish you good health and happiness, and congratulate the Ming Dynasty on its bountiful harvest! We salute Your Majesty!"

After saying that, they each took a small sip of the drink in their glasses.

As soon as the wine went down his throat, a few soft noises rang out in the hall.

Lady Dingyuan had always enjoyed drinking rice wine. Today, seeing the amber-colored liquor on the table that looked mellow, she poured herself a full cup. But as soon as the liquor touched her lips, a spicy and burning sensation shot straight into her throat. It was more than ten times stronger than the rice wine she usually drank. She coughed violently, her cheeks turning bright red. She quickly covered her mouth with a handkerchief, but her eyes showed a hint of curiosity.

This strong liquor, though pungent, has a satisfying and exhilarating effect.

This wine is powerful!
Lady Yongkang chose the deep red wine. Its taste was sweet and mellow, with a subtle grape aroma. It lacked the astringency of rice wine and the harshness of strong liquor, leaving a refreshing coolness as it slid down her throat. Her eyes lit up, and she couldn't resist taking another sip, thinking to herself:

This Western liquor is surprisingly refreshing; it tastes much better than the fruit wine I keep at home.

Lady Fengcheng curiously poured herself a glass of light brown whiskey. The first sip had a smoky richness, followed by a lingering aroma that spread across her tongue. It lacked the harshness of strong liquor, yet it had more layers of flavor than wine. She had always preferred mellow spirits, and her eyes lit up as she subtly moved her glass closer to herself, clearly showing her fondness for this drink.

Other noblewomen also had their own reactions:
Some drank strong liquor, frowning but unable to resist savoring the taste.

Some drank the wine and smiled as they whispered praises to their wives beside them.

Some hesitated for a moment before taking a sip of all three wines, their faces full of curious smiles.

Zhang Yan sat in the main seat, looking at the various expressions on everyone's faces, a faint smile playing on her lips.

"Gentlemen, are the drinks and food to your liking?"

As soon as she finished speaking, Lady Deng Lan, the wife of the Marquis of Pinglu, rose from her seat. Dressed in a dark blue jacket embroidered with cloud patterns, she walked into the hall and gave a graceful bow.
"Your Majesty is joking. The food and drink in the palace are far beyond what can be described as 'to one's liking'."
It's simply a delicacy from a celestial abode!

"Take these wines for example. Compared to the rice wine and yellow wine I usually drink, they're as bland as water. Many of them are rare and unheard-of items."

As she spoke, she raised the glass of amber-colored liquor in her hand, her eyes filled with amazement.

"This wine cup alone is so clear that it reflects your fingertips, and it is even more lustrous than crystal. It is a rare treasure in the world."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yan chuckled softly, her phoenix eyes curving into a gentle smile:

"Madam Deng, you flatter me. These wines are not rare treasures that I have found; they were all specially developed by the palace workshops and the Academy of Sciences at His Majesty's behest."

As she spoke, she gestured for the palace maids to move several wine jars into the hall, then got up and walked to the table, picking up a wine ladle to demonstrate and introduce the wine to everyone.

"This bright red and clear jar is wine, called 'Sauvignon Blanc'."

She scooped out a spoonful and poured it into a clear glass. The wine shimmered like a ruby ​​in the light. "This wine is made from grapes introduced from the Western Regions. Upon opening, it releases a rich aroma of fruit and grass. It has a crisp acidity and a refreshing taste, making it perfect for invigorating and cutting through greasiness."

As she spoke, she pointed to another jar of amber-colored wine:

"This is brandy made using a method from the West. It requires three distillations and long aging in cellars to become a finished product."

She poured a glass; the wine clung to the glass, its aroma rich and mellow.

"You'll know once you taste it closely that it has the sweetness of grapes, along with the aroma of vanilla and nuts, a smooth and creamy texture, and a long-lasting aftertaste."

Finally, she pointed to a jar of strong liquor, as clear as crystal:

"This jar contains whiskey, which is made using the Western method of fermenting and distilling grains. It has an extremely high alcohol content, several times stronger than the rice wine we usually drink."

She looked at everyone, her tone carrying a hint of reminder.

"If you are not a good drinker, just take a small sip and stop. Never overindulge."

As Zhang Yan introduced them, the palace maids held wine cups and poured wine for the ladies of the court in turn.

Everyone took small sips to taste it.

When you drink "Sauvignon Blanc", you feel a refreshing sweet and sour taste, and the fruity aroma explodes on your tongue, making you squint your eyes.

Those who taste brandy are captivated by its rich and complex aroma, savoring its mellow flavor on their lips and teeth.

Those who dare to try whisky are mostly people who can drink a few glasses on a regular day. When they first taste it, they feel a fiery sensation burning their throats and their cheeks turning red. But after swallowing, a warm current flows through their whole body, and the aftertaste has a hint of the roasted aroma of grains, which makes the ladies who love whisky excited.

Lady Fengcheng, unable to contain her eagerness, rose and bowed, asking:
"Your Majesty, if I may be so bold as to ask, are these crystal-clear glass objects and exquisite wines available in the palace today available outside the palace?"
"If I could bring this 'Longing for You' and the glass wine cup back to the manor, I would certainly have a great deal of face when entertaining guests in the future."

Her words struck a chord with everyone, and the ladies put down their wine cups, their eyes filled with anticipation as they looked at Zhang Yan.

Lady Yongkang also chimed in:

"Yes, Your Majesty, we can't take our eyes off these wonderful things. Even if they're a bit expensive, we'd still like to buy some to take back with us."

I just don't know the price. If it's too expensive, I'm afraid our monthly allowance won't be enough to cover it.

Seeing everyone's anxious expressions, Zhang Yan's smile deepened. She slowly sat back in the main seat and said softly:

"Rest assured, everyone, these items are all available for sale in the 'No. 1 Building of the Heavenly Court' in the capital."

His Majesty said these are all beneficial items for the people, reasonably priced, and will certainly not put you in a difficult position. With your means, you can certainly afford them.”

"Building No. 1, the highest-level building?"

The crowd repeated the name in hushed tones, their eyes instantly lighting up.

Although they had never heard of this name before, since it was mentioned by the Empress herself and it was a place that sold the same items as those in the palace, it must be the right one.

In an instant, the atmosphere inside the hall became even more lively, with the ladies of the court discussing in twos and threes what they wanted to buy.

Some wanted a full-length glass mirror, some were eyeing brandy and whiskey, and some even wanted to bring home a glass fish tank as well.

As the banquet ended, the heavy snow outside the palace continued, but it did nothing to deter the ladies of the court.

As soon as they left the Forbidden City, they all ordered their drivers to turn their horses around and head in the direction Zhang Yan had indicated.

The carriage sped across the snow, the curtains fluttering in the wind, but the ladies inside felt no chill, only anticipation for the new and exciting items they were about to receive.

This "No. 1 Building" is located on Zhengyangmen Street, the most bustling street in Beijing. A gilded plaque hangs above the vermilion gate, with the five large characters "No. 1 Building" written in a vigorous and powerful style, clearly inscribed by the emperor himself.

The building has three floors. The first floor sells glassware and alcoholic beverages, the second floor sells perfumes, soaps and other items that were once popular in the capital, and the third floor sells custom-made items for noble families.

The shop assistants were all capable people selected by the Imperial Household Department. When they saw a group of elegantly dressed noblewomen enter, they immediately stepped forward to greet them respectfully.

The ladies of high society flocked into the store, instantly captivated by the dazzling array of goods:

A tall, full-length glass mirror stood in the corner, and various glass wine glasses, vases, and fish tanks were displayed on the table. The wine rack was filled with wine jars labeled "Sauvignon Blanc," "Brandy," and "Whiskey," each exactly the same as those in the Kunning Palace.

How much does this glass vase cost?

Lady Dingyuan pointed to a glass vase with a lotus scroll pattern and asked.

The shop assistant replied with a smile, "Madam, this vase costs fifty taels of silver."

"Fifty taels?"

A hint of surprise flashed in Lady Dingyuan's eyes.

She had expected it to cost at least a hundred taels, but it was surprisingly cheap.

Lady Fengcheng hurriedly asked, "Where is that jar of 'Chang Xiang Si'?"

"Madam, wines are graded. A jar of 'Sauvignon Blanc' costs twenty taels. If you want more, we can offer a slight discount."

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing the price.

These items mostly cost between ten and one hundred taels of silver, which was only half a month's allowance for these noblewomen, and they could easily afford it.

The store was bustling with activity for a time:
Some noblewomen ordered two full-length glass mirrors on the spot, some bought three jars of brandy in one go, and some even bought glass lampshades and wine glasses in bulk. The shop assistants were so busy that their feet barely touched the ground, and the abacus at the cashier's counter was clattering away.

Unbeknownst to anyone, in a private room on the second floor, an official dressed in a brocade robe with python patterns was looking down at the scene through a screen, a smile playing on his lips.

This official was none other than the Grand Steward of the Imperial Household Department. He looked at the ever-increasing sales figures and understood the situation perfectly.

With these noblewomen personally promoting their wares, it wouldn't be long before glassware and Western liquors became popular throughout the capital and even spread across the country.

The revenue from Building No. 1 will flow continuously into the Imperial Household Department, becoming an important source of funds for His Majesty to replenish the Imperial Treasury and support the Academy of Sciences in developing new products.

dusk.

The golden glow of the setting sun gradually faded.

Forbidden City.

At this time of day, the palace and its surroundings would have long since fallen silent, with only the faint sound of the armor of the imperial guards on patrol echoing along the long street.

But today was different; the sound of rapid hoofbeats suddenly shattered the tranquility.

Outside the Donghua Gate of the Forbidden City, a gilded ebony carriage suddenly drove out and headed out of the city.

The carriage was wide and covered with a heavy, dark brocade curtain, the corners of which were embroidered with subtle cloud patterns. Although there were no obvious royal insignia, it exuded understated luxury.

Around the carriage, a dozen or so guards dressed in black military uniforms rode up to protect it. Each of them had a sword at their waist, and their figures were as upright as pine trees with broad shoulders and thick backs. They were the carefully selected captains of the Embroidered Uniform Guard from the capital garrison.

Their eyes were sharp as eagles, scanning the area along the way. The hilts of the swords at their waists gleamed coldly in the twilight. Each spur of their horses was perfectly synchronized, forming a tight protective circle. Anyone who saw them knew that the people in the carriage were no ordinary people.

The carriage sped along, passing the lanterns that gradually lit up along the street, passing through Zhengyang Gate, and heading straight for the outer city.

Seeing this spectacle, pedestrians in the market quickly made way, whispering among themselves, only catching glimpses of the carriage disappearing into the dust.

Before long, the carriage slowly came to a stop in front of an impressive mansion.

This mansion boasts grand, vermilion gates and a gilded plaque above the entrance, bearing the four large characters "Da Ming Bank".

At this moment, the area in front of the bank was bustling with noise, a stark contrast to the gradually quieting streets around it.

The carriage curtain was gently lifted by the guards, and a foot wearing a cloud-patterned brocade boot landed first on the bluestone steps. Then, a young man dressed in a moon-white brocade robe stepped down.

He was about twelve or thirteen years old, with a handsome face and a noble air about him that was unique to royalty.

This person is none other than Zhu Youjian, the Prince of Xin, who is the younger brother of the current Ming Emperor Zhu Youxiao.

Zhu Youjian glanced at the bustling bank in front of him, a hint of curiosity flashing in his eyes. He then stepped forward, discreetly blending into the crowd and entering the bank lobby.

As soon as you enter, you are greeted by a cacophony of voices.

On the left, several merchants dressed in silk robes were holding heavy silver ingots, checking the amounts with the accountant, and preparing to deposit them.

In the corner on the right, a couple dressed in plain clothes were whispering with the steward, trying to borrow some money to help with spring planting.

Some people, holding yellowed bank drafts, lined up at the redemption window, chatting with those around them about the convenience of the bank.

On the octagonal table in the main hall, there were writing brushes, inkstones, and several accountants were engrossed in writing, the abacus beads clattering, their voices mingling with the sounds of conversation and the clinking of silver ingots, creating a bustling and lively scene.

"It's actually a bit more lively than I expected."

Zhu Youjian pondered to himself, a faint smile playing on his lips, and muttered to himself.

His figure had barely lingered in the crowd for a moment when the bank manager quickly came to greet him.

The steward was around forty years old, wearing a blue long robe and a small hat. He had sharp eyes and, having dealt with all sorts of people over the years, he recognized the young man in front of him at a glance.

The steward's heart skipped a beat. He quickly stepped forward, bowed deeply, and whispered:

"Your Highness, I was unaware of your arrival and have failed to greet you properly. Please forgive me."

"no."

Zhu Youjian raised his hand to stop him, his voice gentle, a slight smile playing on his lips.

"I have come incognito today to investigate the true situation of the bank. There is no need to make a fuss, so as not to disturb others."

"Yes, yes, I understand, I understand."

The manager nodded hurriedly in agreement, not daring to be negligent in the slightest, and stepped aside to lead the way.

"Your Highness, this way please. There are private rooms on the second floor, which are quieter and perfect for reporting back to Your Highness."

Zhu Youjian nodded and followed the steward through the main hall and up the wooden stairs.

Upon arriving at the private room on the second floor, the steward personally served hot tea. After Zhu Youjian settled into the pearwood chair, the steward stood by with his hands at his sides, waiting to be questioned.

Zhu Youjian picked up his teacup, took a small sip, and glanced at the bustling scene outside the window. He then turned to the steward and asked directly:

"I just looked downstairs and the banks seem to be doing brisk business. It looks like this pilot program is having some success."

He paused, then changed the subject, his tone tinged with curiosity.

"I ask you, since the bank opened more than a month ago, how much silver has it collected in total?"

Upon hearing this, the manager's expression turned serious, displaying a professional composure, and he replied with a cupped hand:

"Your Highness, in the past month or so, the bank has taken in over three million taels of deposits. However..."

He paused slightly, a hint of helplessness in his voice.

"The initial target was ten million taels, but we are still nearly seven million taels short of the target, which is indeed below expectations."

More than three million taels?
Zhu Youjian paused slightly in his teacup, his brows furrowing instantly.

The capital city is located under the emperor's nose, a gathering place for merchants and officials, and should theoretically have ample funds. However, after a month of operation, the bank only attracted a little over three million taels of deposits.

This amount seems substantial, but compared to the wealth of the capital city, it's a drop in the ocean. Clearly, most people are still taking a wait-and-see approach and are hesitant to deposit their savings into this emerging bank.

"So, this bank pilot program is going to fail?"

Zhu Youjian's voice deepened, and the worry between his brows grew even stronger.

This trip outside the palace was at the special request of his elder brother, Zhu Youxiao, to see the effectiveness of the new policy pilot program and to plan for its future implementation.

Unexpectedly, the very first stop on this journey of exploration turned out to be a bank that had to go out of business.

Wouldn't it be difficult to implement the new policies of the Emperor?
What should we do?

(End of this chapter)