Volume 1 Chapter 20: Wu Tianyi, Heir to the Prince of Zhennan

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Song Jiayin thought to herself that the Empress Dowager must have summoned her to introduce her to the heir of the Prince of Zhen Nan, Wu Tianyi. It was said that Wu Tianyi had been staying in Nanjing for quite some time. Indeed, there is no kindness or gentleness in this world without reason. Sending her to pacify the Prince of Zhen Nan—she wondered if this tactic would even work. If Wu Tianyi was willing to accept a political marriage with her, wouldn’t that prove how casually this matter was being handled? Suddenly, Song Jiayin felt that this was not about appeasement at all; it felt more like an attempt to provoke rebellion. Ha… Ultimately, these were not matters for an outsider like her to worry about.

Upon arriving at the Cian Palace, the Empress Dowager immediately grasped Song Jiayin’s hands tightly, examining her with concern. “It’s been several days now; why haven’t you put on some weight, Jia Jia? Are you dissatisfied with the food or accommodation?” she asked. Smiling, Song Jiayin replied, “No, Your Majesty, everything is quite good.” The Empress Dowager continued, “Did you visit the Virtuous Consort’s palace today?” Obediently, Song Jiayin nodded, “Yes, Your Majesty. The Virtuous Consort has been very kind to me.” The Empress Dowager then asked, “Are you prepared for tonight’s celebration banquet?” Song Jiayin thought to herself that there was nothing much to prepare; if she had to go, then so be it. Some things cannot be avoided simply by wishing them away.

Suddenly, the Empress Dowager changed her tone. “That boy Su Lingfeng probably thought you would never return, and your father thought the same. At that time, I knew you liked him very much. When you went to the Jin Kingdom, you cried so bitterly—not just out of fear, but because you were reluctant to part, wasn’t it?” Song Jiayin lowered her head, quietly reflecting on the Empress Dowager’s meaning. Perhaps she was reminding her that Su Lingfeng was now betrothed to Song Yueyi, and she should no longer dwell on him. Song Jiayin shook her head lightly and said calmly, “Back then, I simply did not want to marry for political alliance. There was no other reason. Now, looking at the heir and the princess, they truly are a perfect match—a talented gentleman and a beautiful lady, born for each other.” “On the way here just now, the heir asked me to bring a hairpin for Princess Yue. Their relationship is so good, and that puts my mind at ease. Your Majesty, please rest assured—I have no such feelings anymore.” The Empress Dowager seemed to realize that Song Jiayin had misunderstood her, sighing softly, “Ah, that’s good. That’s better for you.” Song Jiayin smiled faintly and continued to massage the Empress Dowager’s legs. “Just being by your side is enough to make me content.”

Worried that the large gathering that night might disrupt her appetite, the Empress Dowager brought Song Jiayin some tea cakes. She also said that tonight’s banquet was grand and had ordered that Song Jiayin be carefully dressed. Song Jiayin let them arrange everything as they wished—whether elaborate makeup or simple elegance, it was all at the Empress Dowager’s discretion.

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Nanny Su Ying said with concern, “The princess is far too thin; heavy makeup isn’t suitable.” Tears glimmered in the Empress Dowager’s eyes. “Dress her however is fitting.” Su Ying comforted, “A few months of proper care will improve the princess’s health. Her features are very fine, very much like the Emperor…” Like the Emperor? A flicker of doubt passed through Song Jiayin’s heart. Was this a veiled insult? After all, she was the product of a secret liaison between her mother and a palace guard—how could she resemble the Emperor? Yet the Empress Dowager did not stop Su Ying, “Yes, you’re right. Jia Jia does resemble the Emperor.” Suddenly, Su Ying remembered something and interrupted, “Your Majesty, I noticed this pearl earring suits the princess well. What do you think?” The Empress Dowager nodded, “Jia Jia’s complexion is naturally fair; pearl earrings do complement her.” Song Jiayin rose to thank them and followed the Empress Dowager to the palace banquet, where her seat had long been assigned.

The Empress Dowager and Emperor, accompanied by the Empress and numerous concubines, sat at the head of the hall. Crown Prince Song Lin sat at the lower east side. At the round table below them were Song Jing, Princess Yueyi, Second Prince Song Mian, Third Prince Song Xiang, Fifth Prince Song Zhen, and Song Jiayin. Opposite them sat several nobles—marquises, heirs, dukes, and counts. Further below were the important court ministers.

After the Emperor received the homage and bows from the assembly, he offered a few polite remarks before inviting everyone to dine and drink freely. Song Jiayin happened to be seated between Song Jing and Song Zhen, but due to previous events, she had not spoken a word to either. Others were equally cold. The atmosphere was unpleasant and awkward beyond measure. She wished she could leave at that moment, but all eyes were upon her; there was nowhere to hide.

The Emperor ordered Crown Prince Song Lin to offer the formal toasts—three cups in total. Song Jiayin only took small sips from each. Nobody paid much attention; many only lightly sampled their drinks. The Empress, sitting nearby, instructed, “Jing’er, take good care of your sister.” Song Jing understood the Empress’s intent. Since yesterday’s trouble had implicated Song Jiayin, he felt somewhat guilty. Raising his cup, he said to Song Jiayin, “Jia Jia, congratulations on your return. How about a drink with your elder brother?” This was an act of reconciliation and apology. Everyone thought this was proper; the Empress was pleased, the Empress Dowager delighted, and the Emperor nodded in approval.

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Song Jiayin looked at the cup with some worry. If she did not drink, it would insult Song Jing. Resigned, she lifted the cup, and Song Jing drained his at once. Song Jiayin only gently set her cup down. Her fingers were slightly deformed, making her hold unstable, and some wine spilled. Song Jing did not understand; it was only fruit wine, yet Song Jiayin refused to drink. He refrained from causing a scene, given the number of witnesses present. The Empress reminded, “Tonight is a celebration banquet; the soldiers and the Great Zhou Court are the true focus. Jia Jia does not like to drink; that is fine.” Yet Song Jing retorted, “Back then, she loved this fruit wine the most. I specially brought it for her, but she wouldn’t even take a sip. She’s putting on airs here, nose up and eyes down!” The Emperor’s expression darkened immediately. “Jia Jia, don’t be childish. Don’t you know what day it is today?” Song Jiayin remained silent, offering no explanation. The Empress said gently, “It’s normal for Jia Jia to feel upset. This matter will take time. Today is such a joyous occasion…” The Empress Dowager agreed, “The Empress is right. Let us not quarrel over a cup of wine.”

Suddenly, a figure leapt up from the opposite table and swiftly came to Song Jiayin’s side. He raised the untouched cup and drank it in one gulp. “This heir drinks in place of the princess. How is that?” Everyone turned to look at the newcomer. Who else but Wu Tianyi, the heir of the Prince of Zhen Nan? Song Jiayin was clearly surprised, unable to utter a word. Years had passed since they last met; Wu Tianyi had grown taller, and his handsome features could only be described as dignified and striking. With a faint, enigmatic smile, he said, “Prince Qin, if that is not enough, this heir can drink three more cups.”