The Times Spent in Pretense

How could the yamen bailiff dare to accept the steward’s money? When he noticed her fetching it, cold sweat soaked his back. If his senior officer misunderstood him as accepting bribes, how could he stay in the yamen from then on?

Seeing that the steward did not insist on stuffing the money into his hands, and instead, looked toward the door, the yamen bailiff let out a sigh of relief. He turned and cast a glance at the door. The person standing there had come with the officials from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review. While the yamen bailiff did not know what kind of status said person held, Sir Pei, the deputy head of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review, had treated him with much courtesy. Perhaps he was a young noble who had followed along to enjoy the excitement.　　　

The capital had some rich and powerful young nobles with very strange interests and hobbies. Some liked pretending to be beggars. Some liked frequenting tea houses to tell stories. Still others liked practicing Daoism, only leaving the temples after finishing their cultivation. A wealthy person like this one, who simply liked joining in on the excitement, was already considered ordinary.

This time, the investigation had been particularly thorough and strict, that even the deputy head of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review had to appear in person. It was evident that the emperor placed much importance on the capital’s desires and mental state being healthy.

The only thing they could blame for the deputy head personally leading this investigation was the performance center’s own good luck. He was definitely going to be stricter than the others during the investigation.

“Report: The number of people matches the records.”

“Report: There are issues regarding the visas of two female dancers, one waiter, and two musicians.”

“Sir, there are illegal drugs hidden in this establishment.”

“The recorded revenue and taxes paid are unclear. There are suspicions of tax evasion.”

In just a short, short hour’s time, many problems were brought to light from the investigation on Jinling Center. There were some matters that could only be discovered under careful inspection. But today, the expert investigators—namely the Imperial Court of Judicial Review—had come in person. Of course they’d be able to determine who was fishy with a few looks.

Those able to work in the Imperial Court of Judicial Review were all skilled in a specialized area. To have Sir Pei investigate such a performance center was already wasting his talent.

Sitting down on a chair, Pei Jihuai pretended not to see the crown prince’s personal attendant wiping a stool three times before the crown prince sat down. “Young Master, there are many issues with this performance center. We humble officials are afraid that we may need to spend more time here. Your honored self is busy with your duties. Wouldn’t staying here delay your matters?”

“I’m merely here to have a look. May Deputy Head Pei continue handling the case and not worry about me.” The crown prince wore a smile. He appeared like a friendly person, yet Pei Jihuai knew that this was not a master that would accept half-hearted work from his subordinates.

Since the crown prince was unwilling to leave, Pei Jihuai did not insist on him doing so. He continued to listen to his subordinates’ reports.

“Sir, most of the staff in this performance center have already arrived. However, there is still a zither musician as well as two female dancers who live outside the premises that are unaccounted for.”

“Does that musician also live outside the premises?” asked Pei Jihuai, arching a brow.

“Reporting to Sir, the musician lives in this performance center.”

“Then why is he not present?” Pei Jihuai slammed a teacup on the table. “When the Imperial Court of Judicial Review handles a case, if someone doesn’t comply with our investigation, then they are a criminal suspect. They could only be brought into the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and slowly interrogated.”

Brought over by the yamen bailiffs, the grumbling musicians and female dancers all grew silent once they had heard those words. They were the best at discerning what people thought by body language, so one glance at Deputy Head Pei and they knew he was truly furious. Thus, no one dared to cause trouble.

The female dancers and musicians crowded together as they stood on stage, each of them with their shoulders hunched and heads bowed. They feared that they would be punished as an example to others.

“Apologies. This humble one woke up late and caused Sirs to wait a long time.” A man slowly appeared at the top of the stairs wearing a loose silk robe. His fine, black hair had yet to be bound, a smile that did not quite touch his eyes as he looked at everyone downstairs. “Why did Sirs need us to appear in person?”

“The security of the capital affects every civilian. This official has come today in order to ensure the safety of all civilians, not to deliberately make things difficult for you all.” Pei Jihuai looked at the musician who had his hair let down. Behind said musician was a petite servant. Pei Jihuai frowned.

Noticing Pei Jihuai staring at his loose hair with a frown, Yunhan smiled. “Sorry, this humble one rushed to come here and could not properly groom myself. Forgive me.”

When the steward saw their source of easy money arrive, she rushed to hint to him with her eyes the following: The identities of the people here today are not simple. You must be more careful with your words and actions, so as to avoid provoking disaster.

Yunhan paid no heed to the steward’s warning. Instead, he swept his gaze through everyone present. In the end, his gaze fell upon a man wearing a splendid brocade robe, hair bound and secured with a jade crown. However, the other party ignored his stare; he did not even lift his head.

“May the two of you take out your visas. I need to verify them.”

The little servant cast a glance at Yunhan; Yunhan nodded. Then the little servant fished out two visas, in a hurry as they handed them over to an official of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review.

When said official received the visas, he had yet to open them for a look when he said, “Steward, why do you have a girl dressing up as a servant boy?”

“What girl?” The steward fell into a daze. Noticing the official’s gaze upon the little servant of Yunhan, she at once understood. Because Yunhan often treated her as if she were air, the somewhat carefree steward turned her head and looked at the musician standing at the top of the stairs. “Yunhan, I allowed you to stay in this performance center to coax our honored guests to happiness, not to raise a little beauty by your side in a life of pleasure seeking.”

The little servant cut a flabbergasted figure. Never had they expected the officials from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review to say such words. “Sir, this little one is really male. It’s just that this little one has a feminine appearance.”

But the official from before paid no attention to her. He opened the visa. Gave it two looks. He raised his hand, ordering his men to arrest the little servant. “Whether one is male or female, I can tell with just a glance. There’s no need for your explanation. As a female, you used a male’s visa. Arrest her first, talk later.”

He had worked in the Imperial Court of Judicial Review for many years. If he couldn’t even tell the difference between a man and a woman, how could he still have the face to remain employed there?

“What? You really are a woman?” Yunhan appeared as if he had never expected his servant to be female. He looked at her in an astonished fashion, anger from being deceived flashing in his eyes.

“Young Master, it’s because this slave likes you so much! So this slave tried to stay by your side using the identity of a servant boy. Please forgive me, Young Master.” The little servant wanted to throw off the hands of the yamen bailiffs and kneel to Yunhan to beg for forgiveness. But said yamen bailiffs today were very strong and held her down with much force, so much so that she could barely twitch.

“Sir, this is a fake visa.” The official from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review handed over the visa to Pei Jihuai.

“Yongzhou prefecture’s government office issued this visa,” said Pei Jihuai as he examined the fake visa. “In my early years, this official studied at Yongzhou prefecture’s government office. These years, this official has grown nostalgic of that place. May Young Miss describe the scenery there for me.”

The little servant stuttered as she did as told. To which Pei Jihuai tapped the table top, tone cold as he said, “Bring her to the Imperial Court of Judicial Review.”

Once they had dragged off the little servant, Pei Jihuai raised his head, gaze falling upon the musician standing upstairs who wore an indifferent expression. “Bring this musician as well.”

“Sir, is there an issue with this humble one’s visa?” Yunhan took his time descending the stairs. He saluted in a grand manner toward Pei Jihuai. “Sir, this humble one is a victim.”

Translated by Sleepchaser at https://sleepchaser.wordpress.com/ If you read it anywhere else besides Sleepchaser’s wordpress, that copy was stolen.

Although the steward of the performance center was discontent with Yunhan, she didn’t want anything to happen to her money tree. She hurried to say, “May Sir see clearly. That servant has been working at this performance center for two to three years. Yunhan arrived here three months ago. They can’t be accomplices.”

A click of the tongue. The young noble in splendid attire, who had yet to say anything until now, shot Yunhan a glance. Irritated, he said, “Whether or not there are any problems, the Imperial Court of Judicial Review will be just and fair toward him. If you had the final say in everything, then what’s the use of the yamen?”

“Noble Personage, while your words ring true, if our performance center loses our main act, we won’t be able to continue doing business,” said the steward, rushing to curry favor and smile. “Noble Personage…”

“You still want to open your doors to do business?” The young noble in splendid attire rose to his feet. “Jinling Center violated countless laws of the Great State of Jin. Before this case has been thoroughly investigated, you cannot resume business.”

The steward’s heart clenched. She turned her head, line of sight falling upon Pei Jihuai. When the official did not move to refute the young noble, an ominous feeling entered her heart. “Sir, yesterday two commandery princesses gave an order to us,” she blurted. “Her Highnesses the commandery princesses said that they would come to listen to Yunhan. If Sirs take Yunhan away and have our humble performance center close down, then when Her Highnesses the commandery princesses arrive, this humble one would not know how to appease them.”

When the young noble in splendid attire heard the two words “commandery princesses,” his gaze moved to Yunhan, the cold look in his eyes carrying the intention to be nit-picky. “The person whom the two commandery princes took a fancy to yesterday was him?”

“Yes, yes, yes.” Thinking that the young noble feared offending the commandery princesses, the steward said at once, “The two commandery princesses were quite satisfied with Yunhan. Before leaving, they paid a lot of money so that Yunhan did not need to take other customers.”

“Since the two commandery princesses have taken a fancy to him…” said the young noble in exquisite clothes, muttering to himself for a short while. Once hope sprang in the steward’s eyes, he said, “It’s even more important that he does not approach the commandery princesses as he wishes. The commandery princesses have noble identities. If this person harbors evil intentions, what if he harms them?!”

Then the young noble in gorgeous clothes turned to Pei Jihuai. “Deputy Head Pei, bring this person to the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and investigate him thoroughly.”

“Yes,” said Pei Jihua, cupping his hands in obeisance.

Yunhan looked at the young noble. His expression grew quite unsightly. He was quite proud of his own peerless appearance, but now, someone even more handsome had appeared. It caused the wildfire of envy in his heart to become a conflagration, incapable of being extinguished.

“Who are you?” Yunhan sent a firm glare at that young noble dressed to the nines, hoping he’d just disappear already.

“Just what are you even? You don’t have the qualifications to ask about our young noble’s identity,” said the young noble’s attendant, looking at Yunhan with contempt. “You’re just a lowly musician. You’ve only played a few songs for the commandery princesses, yet have the delusion of being a pheasant that transforms into a phoenix. What a joke.”

When the crown prince heard his attendant say these words, he looked up. But he did not stop him.

“This humble one has a lowly background, and dares not make invidious comparisons between Young Master and me. It’s just that Young Master has an outstanding and peerless appearance, causing this humble one to want to make acquaintances…”

“So if you want to make acquaintances, then you can make acquaintances?” The young noble’s attendant sneered. “Are you qualified? No way!

“Countless people in the world wish to be friends with our young master. You aren’t even fit to stand in line,” said the personal attendant, voice proving somewhat sharp and high-pitched. When he scolded others, it seemed even more harsh and mean. “If I were you and stood in front of a celestial immortal, I would have felt ashamed of my inferiority a long time ago, too embarrassed to lift my face.

“Such a cheap and lowly thing actually dares to look at our young master with envious eyes. Quickly move away. Don’t disgust Young Master with that ugly face.”

Everyone grew silent. Pei Jihuai glanced at that attendant, not a word escaping his lips. He had long since been aware that the crown prince had all sorts of talented people by his side. Yet, never had he imagined that the crown prince did not even lack an attendant skilled in scolding others.

If the capital city conducted a scolding competition, then this attendant of the crown prince would place in the top three.

The attendant’s words almost angered Yunhan into spitting out blood. A servant actually dared to call me ugly?

He had been a pleasure for the eyes since childhood. Caused numerous women to grow infatuated with him. How was he ugly? Yunhan almost broke character and charged at the attendant to retort. Unfortunately, he was too slow; the people of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review were faster, detaining him in a few steps.

“Why is it so cold and cheerless here today?” said a female from the other side of the door.

 

“Isn’t this performance center supposed to open at the period of Si?”

“Young Miss, something seems off today. Why are there yamen bailiffs standing guard outside?”

 

The crown prince said to his personal attendant, “Bring the young miss inside.”

The attendant lowered his head and said, “Yes.” He returned in a flash with a master and her servant. Yunhan glanced at the people who had arrived. The young lady was the Young Miss Yao who had visited yesterday.

But Young Miss Yao did not look at him. Rather, she made her way in front of the crown prince in a well-behaved manner. Curtsied. “Greetings, Young Master.”

“Is this the musician you and Liuli listened to last night?” asked the crown prince, expression apathetic, extending a hand to point at Yunhan.

Young Miss Yao nodded obediently.

“Does Hua Liuli like him a lot?” The crown prince furrowed his brows a shade. In the blink of an eye, they smoothed over again.

Young Miss Yao replied, “Probably.” But then she noticed the crown prince’s countenance becoming unsightly, and she blurted, “A-actually, she doesn’t really like him. We only listened to him play. We didn’t do anything else.”

She had wanted to buy this musician when Hua Liuli wasn’t around, and anger Hua Liuli in the process. Never had she imagined that right after she stepped through the front doors, she would encounter the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and the crown prince, frightening her to the point that she was too afraid to talk recklessly.

Don’t tell me this musician committed a huge crime?　　

And so the crown prince had his attendant tell me in advance not to expose his identity?　　‌

Just as she thought this, the voice of a female rang outside. Joy suddenly filled her heart when she realized Hua Liuli had arrived. She shot a glance in secret at the officials of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and the yamen bailiffs. If we die, we die together. We’re just people who passed by this performance center, so why did the crown prince and the Imperial Court of Judicial Review catch only me?　

“Something’s off about this performance center,” said Hua Liuli, sensing something amiss with the atmosphere just as she had stepped foot through the main doors. It was too quiet. So quiet, that rather than a performance center, this place more resembled a book store.

Jiamin, whom Hua Liuli had dragged along with her, eyed the surroundings. “What’s wrong?”

To which Hua Liuli glanced at Jiamin and turned around to leave.

Before she could, someone called out, “May the two Commandery Princesses please wait.” Hua Liuli turned her head to look at the person who had come out through the doors. He seemed familiar. Doesn’t that look like the court eunuch who accompanies the crown prince?

“Commandery Princesses, His Highness the crown prince and Deputy Head Pei of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review are currently handling a case inside. Since the two commandery princesses are already here, why not enter and enjoy the show?”

“Since His Highness and Deputy Head Pei are handling a case, wouldn’t it be bad if we do that?” Then Hua Liuli said in a tactful fashion, “I think it’s better if I don’t disturb them.”

“Rest assured. His Highness is pretending to be an ordinary young noble providing assistance to Sir Pei in this case. Once the two commandery princesses enter the performance center, address His Highness as ‘young master.’” The eunuch smiled as he invited them into the lobby.

Hua Liuli felt somewhat complicated. It was her first time ever trying to look for a beauty, yet the next day, the people of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review surrounded her. So how could she wholeheartedly appreciate beauties in the future?

Clenching her teeth, Jiamin said by Hua Liuli’s ears, “If you didn’t wake me up so early in the morning to take me here, we wouldn’t have lost so much face.”

“If it weren’t for the fact that you fought over a person with me yesterday, I would not have brought you with me today,” replied Hua Liuli in a whisper. “We’re sharing weal, no?”

“Pei! This is obviously sharing woe.” Jiamin rolled her eyes.

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“May the two commandery princesses please enter.” The eunuch turned his head and caught sight of Commandery Princess Jiamin rolling her eyes at Commandery Princess Fushou. Instead of getting angry, however, Commandery Princess Fushou simply gave Jiamin a gentle and soft smile, and said, “After you, Elder Sister Jiamin.” Hua Liuli turned her body to the side, indicating for her to go first.

As Jiamin reached out to support Hua Liuli, she said by her ear, “Younger Sister is delicate. I will support you. Please go ahead.”

When the officials of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and the yamen bailiffs saw the two noble young ladies in rich attire come in together, they lowered their heads in succession. They did not dare to look the young ladies in the face.

The moment the two stepped through the doors together, the first thing they saw was the crown prince, who was sitting next to Pei Jihuai. One ought to say that as long as the crown prince was present, people would subconsciously take note of him in every case.

Good-looking people seemed to shine spontaneously, causing others to lose color and appear dull in comparison.

“Greetings, Young Master,” said Hua Liuli and Jiamin together as they let go of each other’s hands, saluting to the crown prince.

The crown prince pointed at the empty seats by the side. “Sit down before we talk.”

The moment Hua Liuli took a seat, he asked, “Commandery Princess, I heard that you truly admire a musician in this performance center?”

Although there were two commandery princesses present, in the crown prince’s eyes, there was only one.

“Which musician?” Hua Liuli raised her head and scanned the surroundings, before noticing the musician whom the people of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review currently had detained. After she had a glimpse of him in passing, she shifted her gaze to the crown prince. “What crime did he commit?”

Pei Jihuai responded, “His servant boy is actually a young lady in disguise, her visa a counterfeit. I suspect he is an accomplice in those large cases prior.” Worry had filled his heart that Hua Liuli would blame him for taking away that musician, and thus he explained the situation as gravely as possible.

“Commandery Princess, this humble one is no accomplice to evildoers. This humble one beseeches Commandery Princess to redress the injustice.” Yunhan lifted his head, revealing his good-looking eyes and bridge of his nose, expression sullen and helpless. “Noble Guest, Yunhan is merely a musician with no one to rely on. Commandery Princess, please see clearly.”

With the crown prince’s good looks present, how could Hua Liuli pay attention to Yunhan’s “handsome-male” scheme? She took out a handkerchief. Covered her mouth as she coughed lightly. “Sir Pei is the most skilled official in the Imperial Court of Judicial Review at investigating cases. With him around, whether or not you are innocent will be uncovered, so don’t worry.”

“So even you don’t believe in me?” Yunhan was beside himself, dropping his head. As though he had lost all his strength. “I thought Commandery Princess was different…”

The crown prince turned to look at Hua Liuli; Hua Liuli rushed to shake her head. I didn’t do anything to this musician.　

Translated by Sleepchaser at https://sleepchaser.wordpress.com/ If you read it anywhere else besides Sleepchaser’s wordpress, that copy was stolen.

“Sir Pei, I’ll hand this case over to you.” The crown prince rose to his feet. Said to Hua Liuli, “Commandery Princess, return with me.”

Hua Liuli said, “Alright.” Following that, she stood to catch up with him.

Jiamin was speechless.

Why was she even here? To show proof on how biased the Ji family was? She, his younger cousin from the female line, didn’t even exist in the crown prince’s heart, huh?

“Commandery Princess…” Yunhan looked at Jiamin in a sorrowful manner, as though she were his final hope.

What a pity that Jiamin was too preoccupied with scolding the Ji family’s partialness in her thoughts, and totally missed Yunhan’s gaze. It wasn’t until the yamen bailiffs dragged him away that she rose to her feet with an apathetic countenance. “Sorry for disturbing your investigation. I’ll leave first.”

As the saying went, one degree of biao equaled 30,000 li of separation. She could understand this. Could accept this.

So why did he just have to treat Hua Liuli so well?!

Did he know what hid beneath Hua Liuli’s weak and delicate appearance?! Everyone was blind.

“Fortunately, that musician did not harm you,” said the crown prince to Hua Liuli, the latter riding a horse in a slow trot. “If he approached you and seized the opportunity to assassinate you, wouldn’t you be in terrible danger?”

“Many thanks for the reminder, Your Highness. This official’s daughter will definitely be more careful next time.” Hua Liuli turned to look in Jinling Center’s direction, gaze bright.

“There’ll be a next time?” The crown prince frowned.

“W-what’s wrong?” asked Hua Liuli. She sensed that he wasn’t too happy.

“The people outside have unclear intentions. Commandery Princess has a noble identity, and should not allow villains to have an opportunity to exploit you.” A pause, before the crown prince forced himself to say, “If Commandery Princess is fond of listening to the zither and watching dance performances, the palace raised many musicians and female dancers. I can bring you to watch them.”

“The identities of the palace’s musicians are different. How could this official’s daughter put a hand on them…”

The crown prince whipped his head to face her. “What did you say? His expression was tranquil to the point of terrifying.

In a daze Hua Liuli stared at the somewhat unfamiliar crown prince. For some reason, her confidence decreased. She turned her head, looking him in the face. “This official’s daughter has a weak body and cannot be married. If this official’s daughter does, it would harm that respectable young noble’s family. That’s why, this official’s daughter hopes to raise two to three handsome male companions, enjoy some happiness, then wait for death.”

“Is it that Commandery Princess thinks you are unsuitable to marry, or that you do not want to marry those people?”

“Which man in the world doesn’t want to take a perfect woman as his wife? Which woman in the world doesn’t want to marry a perfect man as her husband?” Hua Liuli slightly lowered her eyes. Changed the hand that was holding the reins. “It’s just that the body of this official’s daughter doesn’t allow it. So this official’s daughter doesn’t want to give problems to other people.”

“If there is someone in the world who does not disdain your weak body, would Commandery Princess marry him?”

Laughter spilled from Hua Liuli’s lips. The picture of puzzlement as she looked at the crown prince. “Your Highness, why have you suddenly asked such a question?”

Could it be that the woman he liked had passed away due to her weak body, causing him to be deeply moved like so?

When she realized this, Hua Liuli said, “Your Highness, this official’s daughter knows clearly if this official’s daughter takes a fancy to someone, it would just bring him suffering. It’s better if he forgets me and hates me than if we become involved.”

Not!

If she were that sicky young lady, she wouldn’t have any misgivings. Even if they couldn’t be together, she would make it so the crown prince understood her feelings. At the very least, she wouldn’t hold any regrets right before she died.

For a violent person who held grudges like her, it’s a good thing not to be a person whom she took a fancy to. If someone became the object of her affections, then they would have a lifetime of grievances.

“I understand,” said the crown prince, a smile on his lips. “Liuli, if you ever start liking someone, you must let me know.”

“Your Highness wants to help this official’s daughter take possession of him?”

This caused him to laugh lightly. He did not say a word.

“How could this official’s daughter allow Your Highness to do such a thing?” blurted Hua Liuli, thinking he had agreed tacitly to help her. “Seizing a good man isn’t a good thing to do. This official’s daughter doesn’t care if my reputation is affected, but Your Highness’ reputation is another story.”

“If it can make Liuli happy, then it’s something you can do.” A light sigh escaped the crown prince’s lips. “In any case, my reputation isn’t too good to begin with.”

“That was all because of nonsensical rumors from other people.” When Hua Liuli recalled those slanderous rumors about him, indignance filled her heart. “Your Highness is clearly a talented and handsome crown prince.”

When his ears caught those words, the crown prince turned his head to her, a light smile tugging on his lips.

Captivated by his beautiful smile, Hua Liuli felt a hint of regret spring up within her. How nice would it be if he wasn’t the crown prince?　　

If he weren’t the crown prince, even if she had to spend an unimaginable fortune to obtain him, such a stunningly handsome man, and raise him well in her villa, she would do it. He would become her most favored male pet.

What a pity. What a pity.　　

After the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and office of the capital governor issued the crackdown, in a short three months, the capital’s style changed to an immense degree. In the red-light districts, there were no longer men and women in exposing attire trying to lure in customers on the street. The price of alcohol in the performance centers tanked. However, despite the low prices, the people who dared to spend money at places like this proved few.

Some outsiders who had just arrived at the capital felt deeply moved. The civilians in the capital were truly different from those of other places. With the knowledge that the spring exam was upon them, places where people could spend money for entertainment grew calm. All in order to not affect the performance of the exam candidates. It was to the point that one could not even see thieves. Even if one were not careful and dropped money to the ground, there would be someone who returned said money to the owner.

There was even a foreign merchant who specially wrote travel notes regarding this. And these notes read the following: The Great State of Jin is a prosperous, graceful, beautiful, and fine country. Where even if someone drops something, no one would pick it up for themselves.

Emperor Changlong noticed that his favorite son had been strange these past two days. Sometimes, when he gave him a peerlessly boring memorial to annotate, his son would still stare at it in a daze.

One the day that the spring exam just ended, Emperor Changlong could not help but ask, “Yuansu, why have you been so absent-minded for the past two days?”

“Imperial Father, Son-Official suddenly realized that Son-Official is a beast.” The crown prince raised his head to look at Emperor Changlong. Without any shame, he said, “Son-Official needs your help with a certain matter.”

The moment Emperor Changlong heard these words, he grew pale from fright. “What is it? Did you forcibly seize a woman from outside?!”

How could the yamen bailiff dare to accept the steward’s money? When he noticed her fetching it, cold sweat soaked his back. If his senior officer misunderstood him as accepting bribes, how could he stay in the yamen from then on?

Seeing that the steward did not insist on stuffing the money into his hands, and instead, looked toward the door, the yamen bailiff let out a sigh of relief. He turned and cast a glance at the door. The person standing there had come with the officials from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review. While the yamen bailiff did not know what kind of status said person held, Sir Pei, the deputy head of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review, had treated him with much courtesy. Perhaps he was a young noble who had followed along to enjoy the excitement.　　　

The capital had some rich and powerful young nobles with very strange interests and hobbies. Some liked pretending to be beggars. Some liked frequenting tea houses to tell stories. Still others liked practicing Daoism, only leaving the temples after finishing their cultivation. A wealthy person like this one, who simply liked joining in on the excitement, was already considered ordinary.

This time, the investigation had been particularly thorough and strict, that even the deputy head of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review had to appear in person. It was evident that the emperor placed much importance on the capital’s desires and mental state being healthy.

The only thing they could blame for the deputy head personally leading this investigation was the performance center’s own good luck. He was definitely going to be stricter than the others during the investigation.

“Report: The number of people matches the records.”

“Report: There are issues regarding the visas of two female dancers, one waiter, and two musicians.”

“Sir, there are illegal drugs hidden in this establishment.”

“The recorded revenue and taxes paid are unclear. There are suspicions of tax evasion.”

In just a short, short hour’s time, many problems were brought to light from the investigation on Jinling Center. There were some matters that could only be discovered under careful inspection. But today, the expert investigators—namely the Imperial Court of Judicial Review—had come in person. Of course they’d be able to determine who was fishy with a few looks.

Those able to work in the Imperial Court of Judicial Review were all skilled in a specialized area. To have Sir Pei investigate such a performance center was already wasting his talent.

Sitting down on a chair, Pei Jihuai pretended not to see the crown prince’s personal attendant wiping a stool three times before the crown prince sat down. “Young Master, there are many issues with this performance center. We humble officials are afraid that we may need to spend more time here. Your honored self is busy with your duties. Wouldn’t staying here delay your matters?”

“I’m merely here to have a look. May Deputy Head Pei continue handling the case and not worry about me.” The crown prince wore a smile. He appeared like a friendly person, yet Pei Jihuai knew that this was not a master that would accept half-hearted work from his subordinates.

Since the crown prince was unwilling to leave, Pei Jihuai did not insist on him doing so. He continued to listen to his subordinates’ reports.

“Sir, most of the staff in this performance center have already arrived. However, there is still a zither musician as well as two female dancers who live outside the premises that are unaccounted for.”

“Does that musician also live outside the premises?” asked Pei Jihuai, arching a brow.

“Reporting to Sir, the musician lives in this performance center.”

“Then why is he not present?” Pei Jihuai slammed a teacup on the table. “When the Imperial Court of Judicial Review handles a case, if someone doesn’t comply with our investigation, then they are a criminal suspect. They could only be brought into the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and slowly interrogated.”

Brought over by the yamen bailiffs, the grumbling musicians and female dancers all grew silent once they had heard those words. They were the best at discerning what people thought by body language, so one glance at Deputy Head Pei and they knew he was truly furious. Thus, no one dared to cause trouble.

The female dancers and musicians crowded together as they stood on stage, each of them with their shoulders hunched and heads bowed. They feared that they would be punished as an example to others.

“Apologies. This humble one woke up late and caused Sirs to wait a long time.” A man slowly appeared at the top of the stairs wearing a loose silk robe. His fine, black hair had yet to be bound, a smile that did not quite touch his eyes as he looked at everyone downstairs. “Why did Sirs need us to appear in person?”

“The security of the capital affects every civilian. This official has come today in order to ensure the safety of all civilians, not to deliberately make things difficult for you all.” Pei Jihuai looked at the musician who had his hair let down. Behind said musician was a petite servant. Pei Jihuai frowned.

Noticing Pei Jihuai staring at his loose hair with a frown, Yunhan smiled. “Sorry, this humble one rushed to come here and could not properly groom myself. Forgive me.”

When the steward saw their source of easy money arrive, she rushed to hint to him with her eyes the following: The identities of the people here today are not simple. You must be more careful with your words and actions, so as to avoid provoking disaster.

Yunhan paid no heed to the steward’s warning. Instead, he swept his gaze through everyone present. In the end, his gaze fell upon a man wearing a splendid brocade robe, hair bound and secured with a jade crown. However, the other party ignored his stare; he did not even lift his head.

“May the two of you take out your visas. I need to verify them.”

The little servant cast a glance at Yunhan; Yunhan nodded. Then the little servant fished out two visas, in a hurry as they handed them over to an official of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review.

When said official received the visas, he had yet to open them for a look when he said, “Steward, why do you have a girl dressing up as a servant boy?”

“What girl?” The steward fell into a daze. Noticing the official’s gaze upon the little servant of Yunhan, she at once understood. Because Yunhan often treated her as if she were air, the somewhat carefree steward turned her head and looked at the musician standing at the top of the stairs. “Yunhan, I allowed you to stay in this performance center to coax our honored guests to happiness, not to raise a little beauty by your side in a life of pleasure seeking.”

The little servant cut a flabbergasted figure. Never had they expected the officials from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review to say such words. “Sir, this little one is really male. It’s just that this little one has a feminine appearance.”

But the official from before paid no attention to her. He opened the visa. Gave it two looks. He raised his hand, ordering his men to arrest the little servant. “Whether one is male or female, I can tell with just a glance. There’s no need for your explanation. As a female, you used a male’s visa. Arrest her first, talk later.”

He had worked in the Imperial Court of Judicial Review for many years. If he couldn’t even tell the difference between a man and a woman, how could he still have the face to remain employed there?

“What? You really are a woman?” Yunhan appeared as if he had never expected his servant to be female. He looked at her in an astonished fashion, anger from being deceived flashing in his eyes.

“Young Master, it’s because this slave likes you so much! So this slave tried to stay by your side using the identity of a servant boy. Please forgive me, Young Master.” The little servant wanted to throw off the hands of the yamen bailiffs and kneel to Yunhan to beg for forgiveness. But said yamen bailiffs today were very strong and held her down with much force, so much so that she could barely twitch.

“Sir, this is a fake visa.” The official from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review handed over the visa to Pei Jihuai.

“Yongzhou prefecture’s government office issued this visa,” said Pei Jihuai as he examined the fake visa. “In my early years, this official studied at Yongzhou prefecture’s government office. These years, this official has grown nostalgic of that place. May Young Miss describe the scenery there for me.”

The little servant stuttered as she did as told. To which Pei Jihuai tapped the table top, tone cold as he said, “Bring her to the Imperial Court of Judicial Review.”

Once they had dragged off the little servant, Pei Jihuai raised his head, gaze falling upon the musician standing upstairs who wore an indifferent expression. “Bring this musician as well.”

“Sir, is there an issue with this humble one’s visa?” Yunhan took his time descending the stairs. He saluted in a grand manner toward Pei Jihuai. “Sir, this humble one is a victim.”

Translated by Sleepchaser at https://sleepchaser.wordpress.com/ If you read it anywhere else besides Sleepchaser’s wordpress, that copy was stolen.

Although the steward of the performance center was discontent with Yunhan, she didn’t want anything to happen to her money tree. She hurried to say, “May Sir see clearly. That servant has been working at this performance center for two to three years. Yunhan arrived here three months ago. They can’t be accomplices.”

A click of the tongue. The young noble in splendid attire, who had yet to say anything until now, shot Yunhan a glance. Irritated, he said, “Whether or not there are any problems, the Imperial Court of Judicial Review will be just and fair toward him. If you had the final say in everything, then what’s the use of the yamen?”

“Noble Personage, while your words ring true, if our performance center loses our main act, we won’t be able to continue doing business,” said the steward, rushing to curry favor and smile. “Noble Personage…”

“You still want to open your doors to do business?” The young noble in splendid attire rose to his feet. “Jinling Center violated countless laws of the Great State of Jin. Before this case has been thoroughly investigated, you cannot resume business.”

The steward’s heart clenched. She turned her head, line of sight falling upon Pei Jihuai. When the official did not move to refute the young noble, an ominous feeling entered her heart. “Sir, yesterday two commandery princesses gave an order to us,” she blurted. “Her Highnesses the commandery princesses said that they would come to listen to Yunhan. If Sirs take Yunhan away and have our humble performance center close down, then when Her Highnesses the commandery princesses arrive, this humble one would not know how to appease them.”

When the young noble in splendid attire heard the two words “commandery princesses,” his gaze moved to Yunhan, the cold look in his eyes carrying the intention to be nit-picky. “The person whom the two commandery princes took a fancy to yesterday was him?”

“Yes, yes, yes.” Thinking that the young noble feared offending the commandery princesses, the steward said at once, “The two commandery princesses were quite satisfied with Yunhan. Before leaving, they paid a lot of money so that Yunhan did not need to take other customers.”

“Since the two commandery princesses have taken a fancy to him…” said the young noble in exquisite clothes, muttering to himself for a short while. Once hope sprang in the steward’s eyes, he said, “It’s even more important that he does not approach the commandery princesses as he wishes. The commandery princesses have noble identities. If this person harbors evil intentions, what if he harms them?!”

Then the young noble in gorgeous clothes turned to Pei Jihuai. “Deputy Head Pei, bring this person to the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and investigate him thoroughly.”

“Yes,” said Pei Jihua, cupping his hands in obeisance.

Yunhan looked at the young noble. His expression grew quite unsightly. He was quite proud of his own peerless appearance, but now, someone even more handsome had appeared. It caused the wildfire of envy in his heart to become a conflagration, incapable of being extinguished.

“Who are you?” Yunhan sent a firm glare at that young noble dressed to the nines, hoping he’d just disappear already.

“Just what are you even? You don’t have the qualifications to ask about our young noble’s identity,” said the young noble’s attendant, looking at Yunhan with contempt. “You’re just a lowly musician. You’ve only played a few songs for the commandery princesses, yet have the delusion of being a pheasant that transforms into a phoenix. What a joke.”

When the crown prince heard his attendant say these words, he looked up. But he did not stop him.

“This humble one has a lowly background, and dares not make invidious comparisons between Young Master and me. It’s just that Young Master has an outstanding and peerless appearance, causing this humble one to want to make acquaintances…”

“So if you want to make acquaintances, then you can make acquaintances?” The young noble’s attendant sneered. “Are you qualified? No way!

“Countless people in the world wish to be friends with our young master. You aren’t even fit to stand in line,” said the personal attendant, voice proving somewhat sharp and high-pitched. When he scolded others, it seemed even more harsh and mean. “If I were you and stood in front of a celestial immortal, I would have felt ashamed of my inferiority a long time ago, too embarrassed to lift my face.

“Such a cheap and lowly thing actually dares to look at our young master with envious eyes. Quickly move away. Don’t disgust Young Master with that ugly face.”

Everyone grew silent. Pei Jihuai glanced at that attendant, not a word escaping his lips. He had long since been aware that the crown prince had all sorts of talented people by his side. Yet, never had he imagined that the crown prince did not even lack an attendant skilled in scolding others.

If the capital city conducted a scolding competition, then this attendant of the crown prince would place in the top three.

The attendant’s words almost angered Yunhan into spitting out blood. A servant actually dared to call me ugly?

He had been a pleasure for the eyes since childhood. Caused numerous women to grow infatuated with him. How was he ugly? Yunhan almost broke character and charged at the attendant to retort. Unfortunately, he was too slow; the people of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review were faster, detaining him in a few steps.

“Why is it so cold and cheerless here today?” said a female from the other side of the door.

 

“Isn’t this performance center supposed to open at the period of Si?”

“Young Miss, something seems off today. Why are there yamen bailiffs standing guard outside?”

 

The crown prince said to his personal attendant, “Bring the young miss inside.”

The attendant lowered his head and said, “Yes.” He returned in a flash with a master and her servant. Yunhan glanced at the people who had arrived. The young lady was the Young Miss Yao who had visited yesterday.

But Young Miss Yao did not look at him. Rather, she made her way in front of the crown prince in a well-behaved manner. Curtsied. “Greetings, Young Master.”

“Is this the musician you and Liuli listened to last night?” asked the crown prince, expression apathetic, extending a hand to point at Yunhan.

Young Miss Yao nodded obediently.

“Does Hua Liuli like him a lot?” The crown prince furrowed his brows a shade. In the blink of an eye, they smoothed over again.

Young Miss Yao replied, “Probably.” But then she noticed the crown prince’s countenance becoming unsightly, and she blurted, “A-actually, she doesn’t really like him. We only listened to him play. We didn’t do anything else.”

She had wanted to buy this musician when Hua Liuli wasn’t around, and anger Hua Liuli in the process. Never had she imagined that right after she stepped through the front doors, she would encounter the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and the crown prince, frightening her to the point that she was too afraid to talk recklessly.

Don’t tell me this musician committed a huge crime?　　

And so the crown prince had his attendant tell me in advance not to expose his identity?　　‌

Just as she thought this, the voice of a female rang outside. Joy suddenly filled her heart when she realized Hua Liuli had arrived. She shot a glance in secret at the officials of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and the yamen bailiffs. If we die, we die together. We’re just people who passed by this performance center, so why did the crown prince and the Imperial Court of Judicial Review catch only me?　

“Something’s off about this performance center,” said Hua Liuli, sensing something amiss with the atmosphere just as she had stepped foot through the main doors. It was too quiet. So quiet, that rather than a performance center, this place more resembled a book store.

Jiamin, whom Hua Liuli had dragged along with her, eyed the surroundings. “What’s wrong?”

To which Hua Liuli glanced at Jiamin and turned around to leave.

Before she could, someone called out, “May the two Commandery Princesses please wait.” Hua Liuli turned her head to look at the person who had come out through the doors. He seemed familiar. Doesn’t that look like the court eunuch who accompanies the crown prince?

“Commandery Princesses, His Highness the crown prince and Deputy Head Pei of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review are currently handling a case inside. Since the two commandery princesses are already here, why not enter and enjoy the show?”

“Since His Highness and Deputy Head Pei are handling a case, wouldn’t it be bad if we do that?” Then Hua Liuli said in a tactful fashion, “I think it’s better if I don’t disturb them.”

“Rest assured. His Highness is pretending to be an ordinary young noble providing assistance to Sir Pei in this case. Once the two commandery princesses enter the performance center, address His Highness as ‘young master.’” The eunuch smiled as he invited them into the lobby.

Hua Liuli felt somewhat complicated. It was her first time ever trying to look for a beauty, yet the next day, the people of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review surrounded her. So how could she wholeheartedly appreciate beauties in the future?

Clenching her teeth, Jiamin said by Hua Liuli’s ears, “If you didn’t wake me up so early in the morning to take me here, we wouldn’t have lost so much face.”

“If it weren’t for the fact that you fought over a person with me yesterday, I would not have brought you with me today,” replied Hua Liuli in a whisper. “We’re sharing weal, no?”

“Pei! This is obviously sharing woe.” Jiamin rolled her eyes.

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“May the two commandery princesses please enter.” The eunuch turned his head and caught sight of Commandery Princess Jiamin rolling her eyes at Commandery Princess Fushou. Instead of getting angry, however, Commandery Princess Fushou simply gave Jiamin a gentle and soft smile, and said, “After you, Elder Sister Jiamin.” Hua Liuli turned her body to the side, indicating for her to go first.

As Jiamin reached out to support Hua Liuli, she said by her ear, “Younger Sister is delicate. I will support you. Please go ahead.”

When the officials of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and the yamen bailiffs saw the two noble young ladies in rich attire come in together, they lowered their heads in succession. They did not dare to look the young ladies in the face.

The moment the two stepped through the doors together, the first thing they saw was the crown prince, who was sitting next to Pei Jihuai. One ought to say that as long as the crown prince was present, people would subconsciously take note of him in every case.

Good-looking people seemed to shine spontaneously, causing others to lose color and appear dull in comparison.

“Greetings, Young Master,” said Hua Liuli and Jiamin together as they let go of each other’s hands, saluting to the crown prince.

The crown prince pointed at the empty seats by the side. “Sit down before we talk.”

The moment Hua Liuli took a seat, he asked, “Commandery Princess, I heard that you truly admire a musician in this performance center?”

Although there were two commandery princesses present, in the crown prince’s eyes, there was only one.

“Which musician?” Hua Liuli raised her head and scanned the surroundings, before noticing the musician whom the people of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review currently had detained. After she had a glimpse of him in passing, she shifted her gaze to the crown prince. “What crime did he commit?”

Pei Jihuai responded, “His servant boy is actually a young lady in disguise, her visa a counterfeit. I suspect he is an accomplice in those large cases prior.” Worry had filled his heart that Hua Liuli would blame him for taking away that musician, and thus he explained the situation as gravely as possible.

“Commandery Princess, this humble one is no accomplice to evildoers. This humble one beseeches Commandery Princess to redress the injustice.” Yunhan lifted his head, revealing his good-looking eyes and bridge of his nose, expression sullen and helpless. “Noble Guest, Yunhan is merely a musician with no one to rely on. Commandery Princess, please see clearly.”

With the crown prince’s good looks present, how could Hua Liuli pay attention to Yunhan’s “handsome-male” scheme? She took out a handkerchief. Covered her mouth as she coughed lightly. “Sir Pei is the most skilled official in the Imperial Court of Judicial Review at investigating cases. With him around, whether or not you are innocent will be uncovered, so don’t worry.”

“So even you don’t believe in me?” Yunhan was beside himself, dropping his head. As though he had lost all his strength. “I thought Commandery Princess was different…”

The crown prince turned to look at Hua Liuli; Hua Liuli rushed to shake her head. I didn’t do anything to this musician.　

Translated by Sleepchaser at https://sleepchaser.wordpress.com/ If you read it anywhere else besides Sleepchaser’s wordpress, that copy was stolen.

“Sir Pei, I’ll hand this case over to you.” The crown prince rose to his feet. Said to Hua Liuli, “Commandery Princess, return with me.”

Hua Liuli said, “Alright.” Following that, she stood to catch up with him.

Jiamin was speechless.

Why was she even here? To show proof on how biased the Ji family was? She, his younger cousin from the female line, didn’t even exist in the crown prince’s heart, huh?

“Commandery Princess…” Yunhan looked at Jiamin in a sorrowful manner, as though she were his final hope.

What a pity that Jiamin was too preoccupied with scolding the Ji family’s partialness in her thoughts, and totally missed Yunhan’s gaze. It wasn’t until the yamen bailiffs dragged him away that she rose to her feet with an apathetic countenance. “Sorry for disturbing your investigation. I’ll leave first.”

As the saying went, one degree of biao equaled 30,000 li of separation. She could understand this. Could accept this.

So why did he just have to treat Hua Liuli so well?!

Did he know what hid beneath Hua Liuli’s weak and delicate appearance?! Everyone was blind.

“Fortunately, that musician did not harm you,” said the crown prince to Hua Liuli, the latter riding a horse in a slow trot. “If he approached you and seized the opportunity to assassinate you, wouldn’t you be in terrible danger?”

“Many thanks for the reminder, Your Highness. This official’s daughter will definitely be more careful next time.” Hua Liuli turned to look in Jinling Center’s direction, gaze bright.

“There’ll be a next time?” The crown prince frowned.

“W-what’s wrong?” asked Hua Liuli. She sensed that he wasn’t too happy.

“The people outside have unclear intentions. Commandery Princess has a noble identity, and should not allow villains to have an opportunity to exploit you.” A pause, before the crown prince forced himself to say, “If Commandery Princess is fond of listening to the zither and watching dance performances, the palace raised many musicians and female dancers. I can bring you to watch them.”

“The identities of the palace’s musicians are different. How could this official’s daughter put a hand on them…”

The crown prince whipped his head to face her. “What did you say? His expression was tranquil to the point of terrifying.

In a daze Hua Liuli stared at the somewhat unfamiliar crown prince. For some reason, her confidence decreased. She turned her head, looking him in the face. “This official’s daughter has a weak body and cannot be married. If this official’s daughter does, it would harm that respectable young noble’s family. That’s why, this official’s daughter hopes to raise two to three handsome male companions, enjoy some happiness, then wait for death.”

“Is it that Commandery Princess thinks you are unsuitable to marry, or that you do not want to marry those people?”

“Which man in the world doesn’t want to take a perfect woman as his wife? Which woman in the world doesn’t want to marry a perfect man as her husband?” Hua Liuli slightly lowered her eyes. Changed the hand that was holding the reins. “It’s just that the body of this official’s daughter doesn’t allow it. So this official’s daughter doesn’t want to give problems to other people.”

“If there is someone in the world who does not disdain your weak body, would Commandery Princess marry him?”

Laughter spilled from Hua Liuli’s lips. The picture of puzzlement as she looked at the crown prince. “Your Highness, why have you suddenly asked such a question?”

Could it be that the woman he liked had passed away due to her weak body, causing him to be deeply moved like so?

When she realized this, Hua Liuli said, “Your Highness, this official’s daughter knows clearly if this official’s daughter takes a fancy to someone, it would just bring him suffering. It’s better if he forgets me and hates me than if we become involved.”

Not!

If she were that sicky young lady, she wouldn’t have any misgivings. Even if they couldn’t be together, she would make it so the crown prince understood her feelings. At the very least, she wouldn’t hold any regrets right before she died.

For a violent person who held grudges like her, it’s a good thing not to be a person whom she took a fancy to. If someone became the object of her affections, then they would have a lifetime of grievances.

“I understand,” said the crown prince, a smile on his lips. “Liuli, if you ever start liking someone, you must let me know.”

“Your Highness wants to help this official’s daughter take possession of him?”

This caused him to laugh lightly. He did not say a word.

“How could this official’s daughter allow Your Highness to do such a thing?” blurted Hua Liuli, thinking he had agreed tacitly to help her. “Seizing a good man isn’t a good thing to do. This official’s daughter doesn’t care if my reputation is affected, but Your Highness’ reputation is another story.”

“If it can make Liuli happy, then it’s something you can do.” A light sigh escaped the crown prince’s lips. “In any case, my reputation isn’t too good to begin with.”

“That was all because of nonsensical rumors from other people.” When Hua Liuli recalled those slanderous rumors about him, indignance filled her heart. “Your Highness is clearly a talented and handsome crown prince.”

When his ears caught those words, the crown prince turned his head to her, a light smile tugging on his lips.

Captivated by his beautiful smile, Hua Liuli felt a hint of regret spring up within her. How nice would it be if he wasn’t the crown prince?　　

If he weren’t the crown prince, even if she had to spend an unimaginable fortune to obtain him, such a stunningly handsome man, and raise him well in her villa, she would do it. He would become her most favored male pet.

What a pity. What a pity.　　

After the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and office of the capital governor issued the crackdown, in a short three months, the capital’s style changed to an immense degree. In the red-light districts, there were no longer men and women in exposing attire trying to lure in customers on the street. The price of alcohol in the performance centers tanked. However, despite the low prices, the people who dared to spend money at places like this proved few.

Some outsiders who had just arrived at the capital felt deeply moved. The civilians in the capital were truly different from those of other places. With the knowledge that the spring exam was upon them, places where people could spend money for entertainment grew calm. All in order to not affect the performance of the exam candidates. It was to the point that one could not even see thieves. Even if one were not careful and dropped money to the ground, there would be someone who returned said money to the owner.

There was even a foreign merchant who specially wrote travel notes regarding this. And these notes read the following: The Great State of Jin is a prosperous, graceful, beautiful, and fine country. Where even if someone drops something, no one would pick it up for themselves.

Emperor Changlong noticed that his favorite son had been strange these past two days. Sometimes, when he gave him a peerlessly boring memorial to annotate, his son would still stare at it in a daze.

One the day that the spring exam just ended, Emperor Changlong could not help but ask, “Yuansu, why have you been so absent-minded for the past two days?”

“Imperial Father, Son-Official suddenly realized that Son-Official is a beast.” The crown prince raised his head to look at Emperor Changlong. Without any shame, he said, “Son-Official needs your help with a certain matter.”

The moment Emperor Changlong heard these words, he grew pale from fright. “What is it? Did you forcibly seize a woman from outside?!”