novelAbuy Chapter 89 Zhao Ji's Feelings
Chapter 89 Zhao Ji's Feelings
Chapter 89 Zhao Ji's Feelings
Prince Zhao Mao was born.
As imperial uncles, Prince Duan, Zhao Ji, and Prince Jian, Zhao Si, were obliged, both publicly and privately, to prepare a generous gift to congratulate their elder brother on the birth of his son and to express their loyalty as subjects.
The two gift lists were drafted almost simultaneously at the desks of the two princely residences.
Inside Prince Jian's residence, Zhao Si looked at the gift list again and again, his brows furrowing slightly.
He was more introverted and reserved, and since he and his elder brother Zhao Xu were born of the same mother, their relationship was naturally different.
This gift needed to show closeness without being too extravagant or eye-catching, and it also required some ingenuity, which took considerable thought. He turned his gaze to Cai Jing, who stood respectfully to the side.
"Scholar Cai, what do you think of this list? Is it appropriate?"
Cai Jing took the document and quickly scanned the items, including gold, silver, jade, silk, and satin, and already had a plan in mind.
"Your Highness's filial piety and brotherly love are evident to all. These items are all of the finest quality, fully demonstrating Your Highness's respect and affection for the Emperor and the princes. However—I dare to suggest that perhaps one or two more elegant objects could be added, such as copies of children's paintings by famous calligraphers and painters of the previous dynasty, or a small jade seal with auspicious meaning. They need not be priceless; their elegance and symbolism are more important," which would better suit the Emperor's recent fondness for the princes.
The sentiment conveyed is one of gentle compassion. His Majesty, upon reading this, will surely understand the deep affection His Highness has for his brothers.
Zhao Si listened and thought it made sense.
Cai Jing was always meticulous in his work and frequently interacted with him, earning his trust.
Zhao nodded and said, "As the scholar suggested, add that copy of Li Gonglin's 'Children at Play' painting, and find a fine piece of Qingtian jade to carve a small seal with the four characters 'May you prosper and live long.' It must be exquisite."
"Your Highness is wise," Cai Jing replied with a smile.
He secretly thought that the most important thing about the gift was that it was "appropriate for his status" and "showed intimacy." As for whether it could stand out from the crowd, he didn't care.
What's more important right now is to maintain and strengthen the relationship with Jane.
In contrast, the preparations for the Prince Duan's residence were much more difficult.
Zhao Ji was overwhelmed by the list of warehouse items and the rare treasures he had collected from the market. He felt that they were either too vulgar or not unique enough, not worthy of his newborn nephew, and he was even more afraid that they would be outshone by Prince Jian.
Frustrated, he habitually slapped his thigh and said to Liang Shicheng.
"Shicheng, go! Ask Defu to come over! He's got a lot of ideas!"
Zhao Mingcheng quickly accepted the invitation and, after listening to Zhao Ji's troubles, pondered for a moment and then smiled.
"Your Highness's concerns are quite valid. Gold, silver, and jewels are certainly not lacking in the palace. If Prince Jian were to send them, they would likely be of the same kind. If Your Highness were to..."
To stand out, one must focus on "intention" and "uniqueness."
"Tell me your intentions," Zhao Ji pressed.
"Your Highness, please consider what His Majesty values most now? It is the health, intelligence, and safe growth of the princes."
"If Your Highness's gift could perfectly capture this sentiment, and be something rare outside the palace and unique to Your Highness, wouldn't that be wonderful?" Zhao Mingcheng said slowly.
"I have two suggestions. First, Your Highness is skilled in painting; why not personally paint a picture of 'Children Playing and Praying for Blessings'? It need not be elaborate, but rather simple and innocent, filled with the affection and blessings of an uncle for his nephew. This would be a unique piece painted by Your Highness yourself; such sentiment is beyond compare to gold or silver."
Zhao Ji's eyes lit up.
"Drawing? I'm good at that! What should I draw?"
"Your Highness may paint an image of Prince Mao taking his first steps, playing with butterflies and fireflies, with a background of auspicious symbols such as pine trees and cranes symbolizing longevity and abundant harvests. The inscription may read: 'Respectfully painted by Your Highness, on the occasion of Prince Mao's 100th day. May my nephew enjoy good health and long life, and may his lineage be blessed forever.'" Zhao Mingcheng suggested.
"Great idea! That's a good idea!"
Emperor Huizong became excited and paced around his study, already conceiving how to paint it.
"Secondly," Zhao Mingcheng continued, "Your Highness could find skilled craftsmen to create a set of longevity baby play bells using fine iron mixed with a small amount of gold."
There are nine pieces in total, varying in size and shape, which can be modeled after ponies, auspicious beasts, etc. They are hollow and contain gold beads. When shaken, they produce clear and distinct sounds that are not harsh.
This item can be tied to swaddling clothes or bed rails. It has a pleasant sound and symbolizes longevity and the blessing of "nine blessings".
This bell is mainly made of iron, making it durable and suitable for infants. Although the material isn't particularly valuable, the Emperor and Empress will surely appreciate its ingenuity and symbolism.
Zhao Ji clapped his hands repeatedly, his face beaming with joy.
"Defu, Defu! What's going on in your head! Painting is my forte, and this bell is absolutely wonderful! It's unique, practical, and has a good meaning! It's a hundred times better than those luxury items! That's settled! I'll go and draw a draft right now, and then have the best craftsmen in the Imperial Workshop rush to make it overnight!"
Two days later, the two congratulatory gifts were delivered to the palace.
Prince Jian Zhao's gifts were generous and appropriate, including a famous painting from the tomb of a previous dynasty and a small seal made of Qingtian stone, which truly showed his refined taste.
Seeing this, Zhao Xu, who was on his sickbed, smiled on his pale face and said to the eunuch beside him.
"Thirteenth Brother is very thoughtful. This copy of 'Children at Play' is exquisite, and the seal is also elegant. He understands my taste very well."
When Zhao Ji's gift was presented, Zhao Xu had the scroll unfurled in front of his couch.
The painting depicts a chubby, adorable baby wearing a red bib, reaching out to grab a fluttering butterfly. The background is filled with verdant pines and cranes, and abundant fruits. The brushstrokes are vivid and expressive, the ink and colors are bright and clear, and the child's innocent and carefree expression is particularly striking.
Looking at the inscription again, Zhao Xu felt a warmth in his heart.
Next, another brocade box was opened, inside which were nine small and exquisite iron bells of different shapes. They were heavy in the hand, and when shaken gently, they produced a clear and melodious sound, each with its own pitch, as if they could form a tune.
"Was this painting done by... Eleventh Brother himself?"
Zhao Xu pointed at the painting, somewhat surprised.
He knew his younger brother was a skilled painter, but he didn't know he would go to such lengths for his son.
Hao Sui respectfully replied.
"Your Majesty, this painting is indeed the work of His Highness Prince Duan."
And this "Longevity Baby Play Bell" was also designed by His Highness himself, and crafted by renowned artisans from the Imperial Workshop using refined iron mixed with purple gold. The sound was repeatedly tuned, supposedly for His Highness to play with, wishing him a long and healthy life, with a clear and melodious tone.
Zhao Xu stared silently at the painting and the bell, remaining silent for a long time.
He knew that his eleventh brother was usually a bit spoiled, but the effort he put into his nephew was genuine.
The affection depicted in the painting, the ingenuity and practicality of the bell, and especially the fact that it was "hand-painted," touched his tender and loving heart more than any expensive gift.
Compared to Zhao's gift.
Zhao Ji's gift seems to be closer to the identity of an "uncle," purer, and more affectionate.
"Good—eleventh brother, you've really gone to a lot of trouble."
Zhao Xu spoke, his voice a little hoarse, but his tone was full of praise.
"I really like this painting. I'll show it to Mao'er when he's older. This bell makes a nice sound and isn't afraid of being broken, so it's perfect for Mao'er to play with. Eleventh brother—you're so thoughtful."
The news reached the ears of the two princes.
Zhao Si felt reassured upon learning of his brother's praise, believing that he had given the appropriate gift.
When Zhao Ji learned that his elder brother especially loved the painting and the bell, he was overjoyed and admired Zhao Mingcheng even more.
After delivering the gift to his nephew, Zhao Ji remembered Zhao Mingcheng's earlier reminder—to be filial to Empress Dowager Xiang.
Zhao Ji's birth mother died early, and he received much care from his stepmother, Empress Dowager Xiang, from a young age, and their relationship was already quite good.
Now that he has more money, he should be even more filial.
Moreover, Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) also had his own thoughts.
My good friend is so talented and so devoted to me. I should let the Empress Dowager get to know him. Maybe he can get some support in the future.
That day, Zhao Ji spoke directly to Zhao Mingcheng.
"Defu, come with me to the palace tomorrow to pay our respects to the Empress Dowager."
Zhao Mingcheng was slightly surprised: "Your Highness, it might be inconvenient for me to be in the Empress Dowager's palace—"
"Is there any inconvenience?" Zhao Ji interrupted him, affectionately putting his arm around his shoulder.
"The Empress Dowager treats me like her own mother, and you are my best friend. Why not take you to meet her and let her get to know the most talented young man in Bianjing?"
Don't worry, the Empress Dowager is very kind. Besides, you have done a good job in your strategy and made contributions in Hehuang. The Empress Dowager already knows your name.
It's settled then!
Zhao Mingcheng knew that Zhao Ji meant well, and that this was indeed a rare opportunity to get closer to the core of the palace, so he accepted with a bow.
"In that case, I will obey. However, Your Highness, please remind me of the proper etiquette in the palace."
"Don't worry, I'm here!" Zhao Ji patted his chest to assure him.
The Bao Ci Palace, where Empress Dowager Xiang resided, was located in a quiet part of the inner palace, and Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) was a frequent visitor there.
Zhao Siyuan was not as attentive as Zhao Ji. Except for holidays, he rarely visited the Empress Dowager.
Empress Dowager Xiang had no children of her own, but she doted on Zhao Ji, who was clever, sweet-talking, and sensible. Zhao Ji often visited her, so Empress Dowager Xiang treated Zhao Ji as her own son.
The following morning, Emperor Huizong, accompanied by Zhao Mingcheng and various prepared gifts, arrived at Baoci Palace.
The gifts for the Empress Dowager were naturally different. In addition to the latest silks and nourishing medicinal herbs, Zhao Ji specially selected several simple and elegant rubbings of inscriptions on metal and stone and a set of celadon tea set from the previous dynasty's official kiln, all to please the Empress Dowager.
Of course, a few boxes of exquisite fragrance were also included.
When Empress Dowager Xiang saw Zhao Ji enter, a genuine smile appeared on her face.
"Shiyilang is here, come and sit down. Oh, you brought a guest? And who is this—"
Her gaze fell on Zhao Mingcheng, who was bowing respectfully behind Zhao Ji.
"Your subject greets Your Majesty!" Zhao Ji smiled and bowed, then stepped aside to introduce her.
"Your Majesty, this is Zhao Mingcheng, courtesy name Defu, whom I have often mentioned to you. He is the one who made great contributions in the Hehuang region and is also a skilled writer. Defu, quickly pay your respects to the Empress Dowager."
Zhao Mingcheng stepped forward, and following proper etiquette, knelt down, lifting his robe.
"Your humble servant Zhao Mingcheng, a courtier, pays his respects to Your Majesty the Empress Dowager and wishes Your Majesty good health and a long and peaceful life."
"Oh? You are Zhao Mingcheng? Please rise, no need for formalities." Empress Dowager Xiang gently raised her hand to help him up, and carefully examined him.
The young man was tall and handsome, with a heroic and composed air about him. He greeted the young man with composure and grace, showing no sign of stage fright or flattery, which immediately made me feel a sense of goodwill towards him.
"I've heard the Emperor and Eleventh Prince mention you before, saying you've done very well in the Hehuang region and are a young man of courage and insight. Meeting you today, I can see that you truly have an extraordinary presence."
"Your Majesty is too kind. I am unworthy of such praise. The minor achievements in the Hehuang region are entirely due to Your Majesty's trust and the soldiers' bravery. I have merely done my duty."
Zhao Mingcheng stood up, bowed respectfully, and spoke humbly.
Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) chimed in with a smile, his tone full of pride.
"Your Majesty, don't be fooled by his modesty. He's incredibly capable! Not only is he good at securing the country and pacifying the borders, but he's also a shrewd businessman. Look, the box of fragrant incense I gave you last time was a good product from a business he helped me with. Did you like it?"
When Ningxiang was mentioned, Empress Dowager Xiang's eyes curved into a smile, which deepened.
"That incense, I used it, and it is indeed excellent. The fragrance is elegant and unique, long-lasting, and calming to the mind. It has a different charm than the incense we usually use in the palace. So you helped Eleventh Prince prepare it? No wonder he's been so well-off lately and knows to come and show his respect to me often."
Her words were tinged with teasing, and her gaze shifted between Zhao Ji and Zhao Mingcheng.
Emperor Huizong chuckled, taking no credit whatsoever, and instead spoke highly of Zhao Mingcheng.
"Your Majesty is wise! It's all thanks to Defu! Don't you know what I'm capable of? All I know is how to spend money."
Defu has connections, ideas, and business acumen; he managed to lead his son to make the business a great success.
"I'm just a figurehead, running the shop; it's Defu who actually manages everything. He's my lucky star, and my best friend! He's loyal, righteous, and truly capable!"
Emperor Huizong's words came from the bottom of his heart and were extremely sincere.
Although Zhao Ji did not fully understand the deeper schemes and intentions behind Zhao Mingcheng's efforts to help him manage his business and consolidate his position, Zhao Ji knew that Zhao Mingcheng was good to him and willing to help him solve his problems, and that was enough.
In front of one's elders, it's only natural to speak well of one's good brother; it's a brother's duty.
Empress Dowager Xiang listened and nodded slightly, her gaze towards Zhao Mingcheng showing even more appreciation.
Having lived in the inner palace for so long, she naturally possessed a keen understanding of people and affairs.
Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) was simple-minded and sentimental. For Zhao Mingcheng to be so open and honest with him and praise him so highly, he must have some extraordinary qualities and genuinely care for Emperor Huizong.
This improved her impression of Zhao Mingcheng even more.
"Mingcheng, it is Shiyilang's good fortune to have a friend like you," Empress Dowager Xiang said gently to Zhao Mingcheng.
"He's impulsive, so keep an eye on him. You young people should encourage each other and do more serious things. If this business is done properly and without violating regulations, it's good to have some income. Just don't put the cart before the horse and go astray."
"Your Majesty's teachings are etched in my mind," Zhao Mingcheng replied respectfully, then added.
"His Highness Prince Duan is exceptionally intelligent and has reached a state of perfection in calligraphy and painting, which is a testament to the elegance of the imperial family."
Moreover, His Highness is extremely filial and always keeps the Emperor and the Empress Dowager in his heart.
Your Highness has often said that the Empress Dowager's love surpasses even that of one's own children. Your Highness has been fortunate to receive her care and guidance, which has enabled you to be so benevolent, filial, and intelligent. It is my honor to be able to serve Your Highness at her side.
These words not only praised Zhao Ji's talent but also highlighted his "filial piety," attributing it to the Empress Dowager's teachings—a very fitting statement.
People care most about what they lack most.
Empress Dowager Xiang had no children, so filial piety was her top priority.
Emperor Huizong's kindness and filial piety towards her were a great comfort to her in her later years.
Hearing Zhao Mingcheng say this, he felt even more pleased, and his smile became even more kind.
"You child, you have a sweet tongue just like Shiyilang, and you know how to make me happy." Empress Dowager Xiang smiled and Zhao Mingcheng nodded. "You are a sensible person. In the future, you should spend more time with Shiyilang and give him advice on everything. If there is anything he does wrong, you can also tell me."
"Your Highness is kind and treats me with sincerity. I can only do my best to repay Your Highness's kindness and live up to the Empress Dowager's expectations," Zhao Mingcheng replied flawlessly.
The atmosphere inside the hall was harmonious.
At this moment, Zhao Ji suddenly sniffed and asked.
"Your Majesty, what incense is being burned in your palace today? It seems different from usual. Besides the fragrant incense, there's also a very delicate floral scent, as if it's wafting from the garden at the back?"
Empress Dowager Xiang smiled and said, "You have such a keen sense of smell. It's from the late-blooming osmanthus and daphne trees in the small garden behind that the fragrance has drifted in on the breeze. I also find it pleasant; it's fresher and more natural than incense."
"Really?" Zhao Ji became interested. "Your Majesty, I love these flowers and plants the most. May I have the honor of visiting your garden? Defu also knows a bit about gardening; may he go and take a look as well?"
Empress Dowager Xiang was in a good mood, so naturally she agreed without hesitation.
"Go on, go on, it's right behind. Be careful not to damage those treasures."
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Zhao Ji happily got up and led Zhao Mingcheng toward the side gate leading from the back hall to the small garden.
The small garden behind Baoci Palace is not large, but it is exquisitely arranged with winding paths and uniquely shaped rocks. Even in late autumn, many hardy flowers and trees are still in bloom, adding a touch of greenery and vibrant color.
The fragrance of osmanthus and daphne became even more intense and unique in the cool air.
The two strolled along the pebble path, with Zhao Ji pointing and commenting on the flowers and trees in the garden.
Just as he reached a cluster of golden-edged daphne in full bloom, he suddenly saw a man dressed in a blue eunuch's robe, around thirty years old...
A fair-skinned eunuch with bright eyes was carefully trimming the stray parts of the flower branches with small silver scissors, his movements quite skilled.
When the eunuch saw Zhao Ji and Zhao Mingcheng approaching, he quickly put down the silver scissors, stepped aside, bowed, and spoke in a high-pitched but clear voice.
"This servant, Yang Jian, greets Your Highness, Prince Duan. May Your Highness be well."
Although Yang Jian kept his head down, his eyes quickly swept over Zhao Mingcheng, who was standing next to Zhao Ji.
"Yang Jian, right?" Zhao Ji nodded casually. "You took care of these flowers? Not bad, they smell nice and look beautiful too."
"Thank you for your praise, Your Highness. This servant knows a little about the habits of flowers and plants. I am grateful that the Empress Dowager has allowed me to take care of this garden."
Yang Jian answered respectfully.
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