Chapter 26
Aisin Gioro Hongli, the current Emperor of the Qing Dynasty, known by his reign title as Emperor Qianlong, was seventeen years old. He had ascended the throne five years ago, upon the death of his father, Emperor Yongzheng. A diligent and compassionate ruler, he often disguised himself as a commoner and ventured outside the palace to observe the lives of his people firsthand.
Today, as he was making his rounds, he remembered that the Prime Minister had summoned all the officials to his mansion to discuss the jiangshi problem. He decided to drop by and listen in, wanting to observe their behavior when they thought he wasn’t present. He knew that in his presence, as the Emperor, they would never reveal their true selves. This was an opportunity to assess their competence.
The Prime Minister, of course, was aware of his presence, but the other officials were not. Hongli was deeply disappointed by their performance. These so-called esteemed officials, behind his back, were nothing but whiners and complainers, lacking any initiative or practical solutions. They were even less capable than Li Xinjun, a mere commoner.
This incident left him with a favorable impression of Li Xinjun, and he decided to meet her. He was surprised to discover that she was a young woman around his age. It was rare to find a woman, especially one so young, with such insight and intelligence. His admiration for her grew.
Furthermore, at the First Teahouse, he had observed Li Xinjun’s lively, charming, and straightforward demeanor, further solidifying his appreciation for her. He wanted to befriend her on equal terms, as ordinary people, so he decided to conceal his identity. He didn’t want his status as Emperor to intimidate her and prevent her from being her true self around him.
Upon returning to the Forbidden City, Hongli entered his imperial study and saw the mountain of memorials piled on his desk. He sighed and sat down on his throne, beginning to sift through them. At seventeen, he should have been carefree, exploring the world and experiencing its wonders. Instead, as Emperor, he was burdened with daily court sessions, listening to the endless droning of aging officials, and then returning to his study to review memorials.
Although not yet married, numerous officials had presented their daughters as potential consorts. These young women, all from prominent families, were well-educated, accomplished in the arts, and beautiful, but none had captured Hongli’s attention.
They all sought his favor solely because of his status as Emperor. Even if they didn’t genuinely like him, they would never reveal it, their only desire being to become his Empress or a high-ranking concubine, thereby elevating their family’s status and influence.
He had never met anyone like Li Xinjun, a young woman with independent thoughts and the courage to be herself. She was special. He wanted to get to know her better and even considered the possibility of making her his Empress one day.
His thoughts preoccupied with Li Xinjun, Hongli, for the first time since becoming Emperor, couldn’t focus on his work. He summoned Xiaofuzi, his personal attendant, who was waiting outside his study.
“Xiaofuzi, what do you think of Li Xinjun?”
“Your Majesty, I think Miss Li Xinjun is a good person. She is straightforward and has a cheerful and lively personality,” Xiaofuzi replied honestly.
“Yes, I agree. It’s a shame you didn’t see her unrestrained and gluttonous side. You would have liked her even more.” Hongli smiled, remembering Li Xinjun’s excitement over the Eight Treasures Duck.
“It seems Your Majesty has a favorable impression of Miss Li Xinjun.”
“She is truly remarkable. I want to get to know her better. I feel a connection with her.”
“Perhaps Your Majesty should visit her again tomorrow?”
“That’s exactly what I was thinking. After the morning court session tomorrow, we’ll go to the Grand General’s Mansion. Prepare some of the finest Pu’er tea as a gift for Grand General Duoluo. And have the imperial kitchen prepare some exquisite pastries for Miss Li Xinjun. I’m sure she’ll enjoy them.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“You are dismissed.”
Having made his decision to visit Li Xinjun, Hongli felt a sense of relief and was finally able to focus on his work. He diligently reviewed the memorials, wanting to clear his schedule for tomorrow’s visit. He worked tirelessly until nightfall, finally finishing all the documents. He then retired to his chambers, his heart filled with anticipation for the next day.
The following morning, after the court session, Hongli changed into casual clothes and left the palace with Xiaofuzi. They arrived at the Grand General’s Mansion and instructed the guards to inform Grand General Duoluo of their arrival. They were soon invited inside.
Hongli was led to the seat of honor in the guest hall. Grand General Duoluo entered and knelt before him, bowing deeply.
“Your humble servant, Duoluo, greets Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!”
“Rise, Grand General. There’s no need for such formalities outside the palace. I don’t want anyone to know my identity.”
“As you command, Your Majesty.”
“Grand General, I came here today to catch up with you and brought some of the finest Pu’er tea for you to enjoy. I know you are a connoisseur of tea. Xiaofuzi, present the tea cake.”
Xiaofuzi presented the tea cake to Grand General Duoluo with both hands. The general immediately instructed his servants to prepare a pot of tea. A short while later, a maid returned with a steaming pot of tea, placing it on the table.
“Is Miss Xinjun at home? I also brought some pastries from the imperial kitchen. I’m sure she’ll enjoy them. Perhaps we could invite her to join us?”
“The girl is practicing her martial arts in the backyard. I’ll go get her.”
“Practicing martial arts? There’s no need to disturb her. I would like to observe her, if I may.”
“Of course, Your Majesty. I’ll take you there.” Grand General Duoluo stood up to escort Hongli.
“There’s no need to trouble yourself, Grand General. Enjoy your tea. I’ll go by myself.”
Hongli walked towards the backyard, following the sound of clashing swords. He found Li Xinjun practicing, her movements graceful and fluid. She spun in the air, her sword creating a whirlwind of leaves and petals. As she landed, she turned and saw Hongli, a smile gracing her lips.
Hongli’s heart skipped a beat. He picked up a sword from a nearby stone table and lunged at Li Xinjun, catching her off guard. She recovered quickly, blocking his attack with her Japanese sword. She twirled and, with a flick of her wrist, disarmed him. She then pointed her sword at his throat.
Hongli smiled, deflecting her sword and stepping closer, closing the distance between them. He attempted to grab her neck, but she caught his hand and twisted it, her sword still at his throat. Hongli surrendered.
“You win, Miss Xinjun. Your skills are impressive. I concede defeat.”
“Hee hee hee, I didn’t know Brother Hongli liked to sneak attack people.” Li Xinjun lowered her sword and released him.
“I couldn’t resist testing your skills, Miss Xinjun. Please don’t be offended.”
“Not at all. I’m always happy to spar. By the way, Brother Hongli, what brings you here?”
“I brought some pastries and Pu’er tea for you and Grand General Duoluo. Would you like to join us?”
“Of course! I never say no to food!”
Li Xinjun’s eyes lit up at the mention of pastries. She sheathed her sword and excitedly dragged Hongli towards the guest hall. Hongli, enjoying the feel of her hand on his arm, followed her with a smile, his heart warming towards her.
Li Xinjun pulled Hongli into the guest hall and saw Grand General Duoluo sitting alone, sipping his tea. She let go of Hongli’s arm, grabbed a pastry from the table, and took a bite. She nodded approvingly, giving a thumbs-up.
“Mmm, delicious! Come and try some, Brother Hongli!”
“Haha, I’m glad you like them. Eat more.” Hongli sat down at the table.
“Slow down, child! No one’s going to steal it from you! Have some manners!” Grand General Duoluo scolded.
“But it’s so good! And there are no outsiders here. Why do I need manners?” Li Xinjun ignored him and continued to devour the pastries.
“Your Brother Hongli is a guest. Have some respect!”
“Brother Hongli wouldn’t criticize me like you do, right, Brother Hongli?” Li Xinjun looked at Hongli with a charming smile.
“Haha, no, no, Miss Xinjun is perfectly delightful. I wouldn’t criticize her.”
“See, Grandfather? You’re the only one who always criticizes me.”
“I don’t have time for this. Hey, don’t eat them all! Leave some for me!” Grand General Duoluo, seeing that Li Xinjun was about to finish the pastries, quickly grabbed one for himself.
After finishing the pastries, Li Xinjun licked her fingers contentedly. As she stood up to leave, Hongli called out to her.
“Miss Xinjun, are you free today?”
“Yes, why?”
“I have some free time and was wondering if you would like to go out and explore the city with me. Would you be willing to accompany me?”
“Hmm… Sure, but the city is still under curfew. How will we get out?”
“Don’t worry, I have a pass. It won’t be a problem.”
“Alright! I’ve been feeling a bit cooped up lately anyway. I’d love to explore the city with you.”
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