Erasing Shame

By Yeyu

The son of a Han traitor who had let the Xianbei Mongols invade the borders, Jiang Shicai swears to restore his family’s honor, hoping to better the Hans’ lives through peaceful means. He believes violence is never the answer, but to gain respect, he finds himself fighting for the Xianbei.

Ten years later, an annoying but handsome playboy, Dugu Xuechi, arrives as the incompetent new military inspector of Shicai’s region. Shameless, irresponsible, and obnoxious, Xuechi tests Shicai's patience almost every second. Despite their mutual dislike, Shicai finds himself drawn to the capricious man, especially when he sees the resemblance between Xuechi and his deceased best friend. Yet Xuechi's self-destructive behavior and refusal to accept help require attention that distracts Shicai from his goal for peace--and it doesn't help that Xuechi is Shicai's strongest political opposition. Haunted by a childhood promise he never had the chance to fulfill, Shicai must choose between his feelings and his values.

• Language: English
• Publisher: DSP Publications
• Release date: Dec 2, 2014
• ISBN: 9781632164407

Book preview

Late.

PROLOGUE

THE cup crashed to the floor, shattering into pieces. What… What is the meaning of this? stammered Jiang Qing{1}, unable to believe his ears. There was no way the Kingdom of Ji’s army could have gotten to the capital of the Empire of Rong without the Jiang Family knowing—after all, they were stationed to the north of Rong’s capital city; they were supposed to be the last line of defense against their northern enemies! Father… You…. He didn’t even want to say what was on his mind.

Jiang Hongguang looked tired, old. He sighed, though his broad shoulders remained stiff. You’ll understand why when you get to my age, Qing. This is in the best interest of our family.

What about our Empire? Qing shouted, fists shaking at his sides. What about our honor? This was a disaster, a total disaster. He couldn’t believe that his father had betrayed their Empire to the Xianbei Mongols. Their family would go down in history as traitors to the Han Chinese, to be forever hated by future generations. Yet, even that was not his immediate concern; the Imperial Family would be slaughtered—there was no way his friend would survive Ji’s invasion.

Honor, Hongguang began with a raspy croak, is already lost to us. Corruption has already stripped our Empire of its honor—look at the state of Rong. Civilians are starving. Civil war has drained us. Even if we fought, we would not win the Kingdom of Ji; there would only be more death and more suffering.

But…. Qing didn’t even know what gave him the courage to argue against his father. Disbelief? Grief? But Yu would have revived our Empire once he ascended the throne! What was more, he had promised his friend he would personally help bring peace and prosperity back to their Empire.

How long would it take for him to ascend the throne? Ten years? Twenty? Hongguang inquired listlessly. "Even though he is the Taizi{2}, he is only fourteen. He still has to wait until his useless father dies or abdicates. How much longer do you want civilians to suffer?"

Never had Qing dreamed that his father would address the Emperor so disrespectfully. Yet, that didn’t excuse his father’s betrayal of their Empire—their family had helped build Rong. How could his father destroy the Jiang Family’s efforts? He couldn’t believe that his father, whom he had respected all fifteen years of his life, would tarnish the Jiang Family’s name.

Hongguang watched Qing silently. Qing, he said, placing his hand on Qing’s shoulder. It used to feel so powerful and full of strength, but now it felt frail and lifeless. I’m sorry.

It was unmanly to cry, so Qing held onto his tears. His throat felt uncomfortably tight, so he waited until he could talk properly. He took a deep breath and forced himself to think logically. After he calmed down, it was clear that his father had only done what was best at the time, even though it was not an admirable choice. You… you weren’t wrong, Father, he said slowly, fighting down his despair. I will make sure of it. I will find a way to help restore our family’s honor!

BOOK 1

People are like wind that enters vast clouds,

Love is like rain that lingers on fallen leaves.

—Zhou Bangyan Spring at Jade Tower

CHAPTER 1

WHEN Qing was six, his father brought him into the Imperial Palace for the first time. The sheer size of the massive architecture and beauty of the designs were disorienting—their own mansion paled in comparison, nowhere near this scale or splendor. The Imperial Palace represented the flourishing Empire of Rong, after all.

Well, we have finally arrived, said Hongguang as he dismounted. He reached for his son and helped Qing off their horse.

Qing stared up, craning his neck painfully. He could barely see what was beyond the white stairs. Do we have to climb these stairs ourselves? he asked, hoping not.

His father gave him a sideways glance, which automatically shut him up; he knew he would only get another long lecture about their family’s pride and glorious history if he so much as uttered another word. Laughing nervously, he corrected himself, I mean, this is so exciting!

As if.

By the time they reached the front door, Qing felt like fainting. He could barely stand properly, and he was gasping for breath. Yet, as the eldest son and the heir to the Jiang Family, Qing didn’t dare show any sign of weakness in front of his father, so he forced himself to stay on his feet as his father talked to the eunuch at the door.

The Marquis of Shangping Regional has arrived! announced the eunuch’s ear-splitting voice.

Come along, Qing, said Hongguang. And behave yourself, he warned, his disapproval like frost over his voice. This is His Imperial Majesty we are meeting, not some lesser noble. What he didn’t say was that Qing was basically going to be held here as a hostage, though Qing knew this without his father’s reminder. Yet, if Qing survived, the Jiang Family’s future would continue to be bright and successful, perhaps even more so than it was now. In short, a high-risk, high-return task.

As though feeling the weight of his task on his shoulders, Qing slumped and nodded solemnly before he struggled to catch up with his father. He didn’t dare glance around, even though he was amazed by the grandeur of the building’s interior. It was made from the finest wood, the floors glossed from rigorous scrubbing. The plinths of the columns were of imported stone, resembling intricate clouds, no doubt crafted by the finest artisans. Large, bronze incense burners stood five paces apart, their solemn, extravagant carvings emphasizing the power and authority of the Imperial Family. Thin, feathery silk curtains hung down the beams, symmetrically spaced down the seemingly endless grand hall.

Still, Qing knew that all this extravagance was an illusion to the Empire’s state. Although Qing was still a child, he had overheard his father expressing his worries about unrest and corruption brewing beneath the flourishing surface.

Once they finally arrived at the end of the grand hall near the Emperor’s throne, Qing followed his father’s cue and got on his knees as Hongguang greeted the Emperor. While Qing stared at the floor, he noticed that the pair of feet beside the Emperor belonged to a child just around his age. Curiosity began to chip away at his patience as he waited for his father to finish that long, boring greeting so he could chime in with what he had rehearsed for nine straight days.

You may rise, said the Emperor at last, his voice old and raspy.

Finally. Qing’s knees were starting to hurt. He stood up straight and met the large, clear eyes of the child beside the Emperor. However, it was only a brief contact, as Qing had to greet the Taizi with his father. When Qing noticed the lady beside the Taizi, he almost thought he’d seen a celestial being—Qing had never seen someone so beautiful before. It was as though she were made out of white jade; every feature on her face was so exquisite it was surreal.

While Qing admired the woman, his father spoke up. This must be Your Imperial Majesty’s first grandson, I presume? It is an honor to meet you.

"It is an honor to meet you as well, Shangping-hou{3}, replied a young, clear voice. Upon hearing that voice, Qing tore his eyes away from the pretty lady and turned his attention to the boy beside the Emperor. Now that he’d had a better look, the boy seemed like a miniature version of the woman, who could only be his mother. I have long admired the Jiang Family’s contribution to our Empire, the boy said, awkward words when uttered by a child’s voice. I am pleased to have your son as my study mate to further strengthen the Imperial Family’s ties with the Jiang."

At this, Qing’s father laughed. No, no, the honor is ours, Hongguang chuckled as he patted Qing’s head, urging Qing to say something.

It is my honor to be your study mate, Qing said, only slightly less awkward than the Emperor’s grandson since Qing sounded more unnatural.

Who would’ve known the Taizi would interrupt the exchange with a loud yawn? How long is this going to last? I’m hungry!

Everyone’s expressions stiffened, and the Emperor looked furious. This meeting will not end until I say so, he told his son.

This lowly official also apologizes for his insolence of being too stale, Hongguang interceded in order to resolve the tension.

You have done no wrong, Hongguang, the Emperor said, but his voice had lightened a little.

With a few more polite exchanges, the Emperor told Qing to play with his grandson in another room while the adults talked. Qing could only despair. He knew he was far from safe, since his future now lay in the hands of the Emperor’s grandson, and he was never going to be able to act freely as long as he stayed in the palace. Worse, he was already starting to itch from being too formal. Why did he have to suffer this torture? He wanted to run around and play with his own friends and servants, not to be someone’s study mate in name and servant in truth! Who knew what kind of evil child was behind that formal mask?

Qing had to find a way to even the odds, or he’d go crazy.

With that in mind, Qing followed the Emperor’s grandson out of the hall with a happy smile plastered on his face.

As soon as they entered the new room, the Emperor’s grandson turned around and stared at Qing as though Qing were some kind of rare animal. His large eyes were bright and watery, curious and intrigued. Being stared at like that was uncomfortable, but Qing kept his smile in place. So… my name is Qing, Jiang Qing. Pleased to meet you.

The Emperor’s grandson examined Qing for a while before he said somewhat distantly, "My name is Lan Yu{4}. His tone instantly killed the friendly mood Qing had tried to establish. I look forward to studying with you," Yu added.

What was Yu thinking, acting all formal even now? What was the catch? Same here, Qing said as he examined the Emperor’s grandson. By the way, is the lady beside the Taizi your mother? he couldn’t help but ask. She’s very pretty. Qing’s own mother died giving birth to his younger brother, so he personally didn’t have much memory of her. He wished he also had a beautiful mother.

Yes, said Yu, his tone even more distant than before. Thank you.

Awkward silence ensued, and Qing looked around the spacious room. Eunuchs and guards stood around dutifully, but he could not help but think that they were watching his every move. And he had a feeling that his comment about Yu’s mother had probably not been the best thing to say. So, do you want to play games? he asked, breaking the uncomfortable stillness.

Yu’s eyes lit up. "What sort of games? Xiangqi{5}? Weiqi{6}?"

Upon hearing the boring games, Qing almost lost his smile. It wasn’t as though he didn’t know how to play the board games, but they weren’t exactly what he had in mind. But now he thought better of it, perhaps the game of chasing each other that Qing had originally wanted to play was not suitable for the Emperor’s grandson. Who knew what the Emperor would think if he were to walk in on them?

"Let’s play xiangqi," Qing decided to say. One of the six palace eunuchs standing around the room soon put out a board and set the circular, ivory pieces in front of them. Qing would have taken the pieces marked with black characters, but at Yu’s command, the eunuch gave him the red pieces instead. Well, this wasn’t by Qing’s own choice to go first, so he wasn’t being rude if he won, right?

I have never played with a child my age before, Yu said, smiling a little.

Qing tried to maintain his smile. What was the child implying? Arrogant snob! He moved his soldier piece, and Yu moved his cannon piece. Qing’s brow twitched. If Yu was the aggressive type, he sure had a lot of confidence. Yet, what could Qing expect from the Emperor’s grandson? The child was in charge here. However, a few moves into the match, Qing found himself unable to control the game as he usually did. Yu’s gameplay seemed recklessly aggressive, but all his pieces were backed by other pieces, so Qing was forced into taking defensive actions. Even though Qing was better at defense and trickery, Yu was the toughest opponent he had ever faced. For that, Yu deserved some respect.

The Emperor has arrived! announced the eunuch outside the door.

Qing straightened his back and turned to greet the Emperor; he could see his father’s shoes behind the Emperor’s robes.

"Playing xiangqi, eh?" the wizened man said as he patted Yu’s head.

Yes, Exalted Grandfather, Yu replied dutifully.

The Emperor chuckled and examined the progress. Well, carry on, you two, he said.

Qing wanted to wail in despair. How was he going to carry on if the Emperor was here? And he was really getting tired of acting so formally! Now he was going to have to lose on purpose… not as though he had been winning before, but he definitely couldn’t win now. Qing caught his father’s gaze and Hongguang’s nod confirmed the action he should take. With three increasingly sloppy moves, he lost.

While the Emperor laughed and praised his own grandson, Qing snuck a glance at Yu and found the child glaring at him. Qing shrank back a little, though he kept his smile plastered to his face. What was Yu so angry about, anyway? He should be pleased with his victory! It was a fun game, he said weakly. You were really good, Highness. He dreaded the next time they were alone, feeling he was going to suffer for his withdrawal.

As he had feared, the first thing Yu did when the Emperor left was to accuse him: You lost on purpose!

No kidding. Of course Qing would have to lose! Who in their right mind would dent the pride of the Emperor’s favorite grandson in front of the Emperor? No doubt this was an excuse to find a way to torture Qing. He wondered if there was any way to turn the tables, yet his young mind could not give him any ideas. I… I didn’t, he stammered, deciding to give up on his original plan to gain the upper hand. The only way to go was to lower Yu’s defenses by taking a passive stance. Hm. Qing wondered if his servants had thought the same thing when they were dealing with him. He was only sure that his closest servant, Zhao Wenjie, was honest and true with him. I got nervous when His Imperial Majesty arrived, and… and really wanted to win all of a sudden….

Yu gave Qing a long, thorough look. Well, you’re not nervous anymore, are you? Another game! He motioned for the eunuchs to reset the pieces.

That was all? Qing stared at Yu, unable to believe what had happened. He had expected some sort of punishment, but maybe Yu wasn’t as bad as he had assumed.

They tied on the second game. When they did, Yu laughed, and with that laughter, Qing’s plans to manipulate the Emperor’s grandson flew out the window. Even though they weren’t truly equals, Yu would treat him as one—that much Qing was sure of.

LIFE in the Palace was not easy. It did not take long for Qing to understand this, especially five days after his father left for home. Although it was Qing’s responsibility to become closer to Yu, half a month had already passed by and yet he felt as if he was hitting a solid wall.

Silence occupied the room when the two practiced writing, and Qing’s eyelids were already heavy from boredom. He had always prided himself in being able to write many characters, which was amazing when compared to many children his age, but Yu could already write the Thousand Character Classic{7} out of memory without error. Merely being able to comprehend the materials that Yu was currently assigned to study was already difficult enough for Qing. Not to mention, he hated how their teacher always narrowed his eyes whenever Qing could not recognize a character. He had never felt stupid in his life before, and he hated how sour the feeling tasted.

Worse, there simply was no privacy. Eunuchs waited on standby everywhere, watching everything. Yu never laughed at him, but Qing always felt that the eunuchs talked about how poorly he compared to Yu behind his back.

Qing shook his head and tried to focus. He didn’t want to make his family look bad. He had to memorize this chapter before the next day. When he heard footsteps, he jumped a little—was it the Emperor? However, when he looked up, he saw an unfamiliar man.

"This nephew greets Qiwu-wang{8}," said Yu, his shoulders stiff and his back straight. Qing immediately took the cue and greeted the visitor as well.

The middle-aged man laughed and walked toward Yu while he stroked his beard, completely ignoring Qing. "How many times do I have to tell you to just call me san-shu{9}? I’m your uncle, not a stranger," he chuckled, patting Yu’s head.

Qing immediately decided that he did not like the man. Were all members of the Imperial Family this annoying?

"Yes, san-shu," said Yu with a polite smile.

It’s wonderful to know that my nephew is still studying very hard as usual, continued Yu’s uncle as he eyed the material before Yu. "Our Great Empire’s future is in your hands, Yu-er{10}. I hear His Imperial Majesty just gave you the title of Pingling-wang. Pingling is said to be an auspicious region according to fortune-tellers, with fifty thousand taxpayers, no less. Congratulations!"

"Thank you, san-shu, Yu said. I will do my best not to disappoint you."

The smile on Qiwu-wang’s face stiffened, and Qing noticed his fists tightening. That is good to know. Which reminds me—I’ve just paid your father a visit. I see my brother is still… enjoying life. The last words were particularly strained. Has he started to… involve himself in politics yet?

Father rarely talks to me about adult business, said Yu.

Ha! laughed Qiwu-wang. I bet he doesn’t participate in any business other than self-entertainment. He’s rather good at composing music, however. He’d make a better musician than politician, don’t you think?

Yu remained expressionless.

Laughing heartily, Qiwu-wang patted Yu’s head again. What’s with that expression? I’m only jesting. Of course I did not mean it. I respect His Imperial Majesty’s decision. So, don’t tell His Imperial Majesty I said this, all right? It’s just a friendly conversation between you and me.

"Of course, san-shu," said Yu methodically.

Wonderful. As expected of my favorite nephew, eh? said Qiwu-wang. He turned to leave the room. Well, work hard. I’d hate to be disappointed!

"Good-bye, san-shu."

Qing let out a sigh of relief once the man had left. Well, now he knew that, compared to others, Yu was actually not so distant around him. Was it because Qing was his age? Before he could make any remarks about Qiwu-wang, he was interrupted by a eunuch who scuttled into the room with a basket.

Your Highness, reported the eunuch—he looked only about fifteen. Your revered mother sends a few snacks for you from the Taizi’s harem.

Yu nodded. And you are?

This unworthy servant is called Lin Zhewei—just newly accepted to work in the harem, Highness.

And did my mother personally hand you this basket, or did a palace maiden do so? said Yu.

Zhewei scratched his head. Ah, I think one of her handmaidens passed the basket onto me. Her surname is Guo.

I see. Thank you, Lin Zhewei. Please send Maiden Guo my appreciation. You are dismissed, said Yu. He stood up and met Qing’s gaze. "Qing, let’s go play a game of weiqi while we eat the snacks."

All right, said Qing, relieved that he could finally take a break from studying and the watch of eunuchs. After all, Yu had ordered the eunuchs to give him privacy when he played board games with Qing so that Qing did not have to hold back.

Qing’s stomach grumbled loudly when he saw that Yu’s mother had prepared tofu pudding. But there was only one bowl. He hated being a mere study mate; he had thought that Yu’s mother would also prepare his share. He sighed, wishing he had a mother who would personally make desserts for him as well.

Bring another bowl, said Yu, and Qing had never felt more like hugging his study mate.

After the board and game pieces were prepared for the two, the eunuchs excused themselves. Yu did not seem interested in eating the pudding, but Qing couldn’t start eating before Yu.

Are you going to eat the pudding? Qing finally asked after a moment of silence.

No. And don’t eat it, either, said Yu, still staring pensively at the dessert.

What? Then why ask for another bowl? Qing wanted to ask. He was really hungry right now, and it was torture to have food in front of him.

It is not like my mother to send me food through a eunuch, much less through another palace maiden, Yu explained. Not to mention through a newly hired eunuch.

So?

This dessert is unsafe, Yu concluded.

Have you ever talked to your mother about this? Qing asked, feeling weary all of a sudden. Just watching Yu was tiring. He had initially assumed that Yu would have an easy, fun life as the Emperor’s favorite grandson, but it seemed that was not the case.

No. If I did, I’d just give her more problems. She has enough to worry about. Yu paused and stirred the pudding absently. Who is this from? One of my father’s concubines or my grandfather’s? he mused softly. Then, he sighed and let go of the spoon.

Why not just tell His Imperial Majesty? It seemed like the quickest way to put an end to all the tiresome plotting.

And what happens after I lose that protection? Yu asked in return. "I cannot rely on my grandfather’s favoritism—that is weak, and my enemies will see that weakness. They will think I am easy to defeat. If I don’t rely on myself, I will be easy to defeat."

Was Yu really five years old? No wonder the Emperor liked him so much. Well…, Qing said, feeling a bit sorry for someone with no joy in his life, You can rely on me, if you want. As soon as he said it, he felt like a complete idiot. Who was he, but a mere child with less power than Yu?

However, Yu looked up from the bowl and examined Qing with a strange expression, and it was not that of belittlement or ridicule. He seemed more curious, if anything, and it made Qing feel a bit more confident in his claim. Uh, I know you still don’t trust me entirely, but I’m really here to be your friend, he explained. Of course, to be honest, I do hope that you will support the Jiang in return as well, but there is no harm in having each other’s backs, is there?

Yu nodded slowly. But… I thought we were already friends. You sound like you don’t agree.

Qing grinned. Well, first of all, you need to loosen up a bit.

IT’S not fair, complained Yu, his milky cheeks colored with pink frustration—Qing had to admit, he loved frustrating Yu just to see this expression. How could you do that to Xiujuan? You know she’s scared of bugs!

It had been two years since Qing had entered the Imperial Palace to be Yu’s study mate. Despite his initial formality and distance, Yu was just as playful and mischievous as Qing—he just needed some encouragement, which Qing happily provided. To everyone’s distress, the two were constantly on the prowl to play pranks on the guards, eunuchs, and palace maidens. Most of all, they plotted against each other, constantly trying to outsmart each other. However, Yu lacked determination in following through with his plans, and that softness often cost him.

What’s the difference? Qing asked, smiling innocently. I just tricked her into messing your plans up, nothing harmful.

The corners of Yu’s lips twitched. By putting a bug down her neck? Worse, she thought it was I who did it! he argued, though that wasn’t really his point. The point was that he had lost their bet, and Qing knew that Yu hated losing.

What, you have a crush on her? Qing teased, deciding to keep his analysis to himself. He was still dealing with the Emperor’s grandson, after all—he hadn’t forgotten his place. Aren’t you a little too young for her?

Yu’s blush spread farther, which was pretty funny. What are you—?

A cough sounded behind them. You two, break time is over, said their Confucianism teacher, Cai Mengpei, the most revered scholar in the Empire. Go back to the study room.

Yu shot Qing an angry glare and stomped after their teacher.

As usual, Yu was able to recite and interpret their homework without any effort. Normally, children their age shouldn’t have started on the Analects yet, much less be halfway through it.

Hey, Qing said while their teacher left to deal with an important matter in the Imperial Chancellery, shouldn’t you compliment me for being able to keep up with you? Does that mean I’m a genius too?

This is the twelfth time you’ve asked me that question this year, Qing, Yu growled.

Still angry about Xiujuan? Qing chuckled. I didn’t know you liked her that much.

Oho, I never said that, Yu said, now returning the smile. I didn’t know you were so into her. If you want her attention so much, you should’ve just told me—even though you’re also too young for her.

The two stared at each other, laughing mockingly, until a female voice interrupted them. I didn’t know that my brother’s son liked to pass his time laughing like a lunatic.

Yu’s smile disappeared immediately. Revered Aunt! he gasped, though he quickly retrieved his signature polite, distant smile.

The legendary ice queen had returned! Losing his smile as well, Qing turned around and straightened his back, staring at the princess’s feet. "This untalented one greets Wuheng-gongzhu{11}," he said.

Hn, the Princess of Wuheng snorted softly, her beautiful features unmoving. She glanced at the book on the desk and then looked into Yu’s eyes. What should be done in order to secure the submission of the people?

"Advance the upright and set aside the crooked, then the people will submit. Advance the crooked and set aside the upright, then the people will not submit{12}," Yu answered.

What did Confucius tell Zi Xia about governing? she continued, expressionless.

"Do not be desirous to have things done quickly; do not look at small advantages. Desire to have things done quickly prevents their being done thoroughly. Looking at small advantages prevents great affairs from being accomplished{13}," Yu recited without skipping a beat.

What is a similar quote in the Chapter of Wei Ling Gong?

Yu smiled. "Specious words upsets virtue, and lack of forbearance in small matters upsets great plans{14}."

Qianhan narrowed her eyes. "Just being able to memorize the Analects is useless," she said coldly. Then she turned around and left the room, her handmaidens following after her.

After the princess left, Yu let out a long breath. She never fails to scare me, he said.

Don’t take what she says too seriously, Qing said. She just hates you because—he lowered his voice—she hates your grandmother, and, no offense, with good reason. Being the daughter of a concubine, the Princess of Wuheng was unable to really have any power, as the Empress was a jealous woman who hated any descendant who wasn’t related to her and consequently suppressed them. It was also one of the reasons the current Emperor had made Yu’s father the Taizi, as he was the Empress’s only son. Worse, despite being the Emperor’s most beautiful and able daughter, the princess was unable to conceive children, which made her the laughingstock of the gossip mill. In short, she was just a bitter, mean lady.

No, she was right, Yu said as he picked up his red sandalwood ink brush. "Being able to memorize the Analects is useless unless one keeps the teachings in mind in practice. Aunt Qianhan is just reminding me not to get ahead of myself."

It took Qing a few blinks to respond. Argh, why did you have to say that and seem mature? That is so out of character for you!

Yu smirked. "Has it not occurred to you that it’s because I am mature?"

Qing rolled his eyes. I take back what I said. You’re just an arrogant, boring brat! he said with a smile.

Who says I’m boring? Yu demanded, his cheeks reddening a little.

You don’t even have the guts to confess to Xiujuan, and you’re the Emperor’s grandson! Qing argued.

Not this again! Yu growled. Stop accusing me of your own cowardice!

"Oh? Cowardice? You call me a coward? You can’t even pull off a real prank!"

You—

A cough interrupted them. Children, said Mengpei, his voice strained. Don’t tell me you haven’t made any progress while I was away.

Both Qing and Yu laughed awkwardly, and their teacher’s expression darkened. "Both of you will be copying the Chapter of Studying{15} twenty times!"

What? the two wailed in despair.

Before they could start, however, a eunuch scrambled into the room. Your Highness! he gasped, his voice full of urgency. His Imperial Majesty requests your presence, it cannot wait!

Immediately, Yu’s pink face turned sheet-white. Judging from the tone of the eunuch, this wasn’t good news at all. The Emperor had been weakened by old age and heart problems, so this could only mean one thing.

Qing could only frown, because he was powerless, so pathetically powerless. As in all the times Yu had been in danger, Qing could only call for help.

Yet who could help stop death?

That day, the Emperor passed away. Yu’s father became the Emperor, and Yu was made the Taizi, even though his mother wasn’t the Empress. As the final decision was announced by the Head Eunuch, many gazes fell on Yu, but Yu remained expressionless throughout the announcement, as though he did not feel any pressure. Yu was always like this. Qing had no idea how Yu could be so childish and full of vulnerabilities when the two were alone, and so emotionless and impassive in public. It was as though the Yu in private and the Yu in public were two different people. Qing would probably never understand what it was like to be in Yu’s place, even though he knew why Yu acted that way.

Looking at Yu’s small shoulders, Qing once again strengthened his desire to be Yu’s strongest supporter when he grew up.

WITH a blink of an eye, another three years had gone by. Just a year earlier, Yu’s last protection, the Empress Dowager, had passed away.

Despite being surrounded by lavish wealth, Qing could still sense the impending doom of Rong from information alone. The previous Emperor, although an adequate ruler, had started to slack off on his duties more than fifteen years ago, and the new Emperor only knew how to entertain himself in a lavish and wasteful manner while the Empress and her relatives wreaked chaos in the Court{16}. Corruption already ran deep in the government, where officials were broken into two opposing factions that viciously fought each other, stripping the government of any efficiency. What was more, unrest raged outside the palace walls. Qing’s father had just put down a civil war led by one of Yu’s uncles, and although Hongguang had been victorious, peace seemed like a distant ideal.

As usual, with the help of an unwilling eunuch, Yu had dragged Qing along with him to sneak into the hall where the morning assemblies were held.

"Even though we won the war against Qiwu-wang for now, many men were lost in the process, an official was saying. I propose that we bring in more barbarians from the Northern Kingdom of Ji, lend them some land to farm and tax them heavily to replenish our treasury."

Yes, yes, do that, Yu’s father said eagerly, most likely only concerned about how a shrinking treasury would affect his lavish expenditures.

"But I hear that Dongyue-wang’s army includes some of the barbarians that immigrated to our Empire, argued another. Is it really a good idea to let so many barbarians into our borders? They have not sworn loyalty to Your Imperial Majesty and they are too different from us. Their presence might be an element of instability."

Our Empire is so much better than that barbaric country, so they should be grateful that we’re giving them such great opportunity! the Emperor replied.

While we’re still on the subject of war, spoke up the Duke of Xu, the Empress’s brother, "perhaps it is a good idea not to deploy Shangping-hou anymore? He has dared to request men from the Central Army! At this rate, we’ll be giving him too much power."

Qing held his breath. They were talking about his father! This was bad. The Emperor almost always listened to every suggestion Liu Kuang made, since he personally did not care about politics.

But he has a high chance of victory, someone said. This civil war is far from over. We’ve only defeated two of the six rebelling lords.

And who knows what is Jiang Hongguang’s ultimate goal, why he listens to the Court? If we let him command our Central Army, there is no telling of the consequences!

"Such discussions will only harm Shangping-hou’s loyalty to us, said an old, wizened voice. We should wait and observe. I agree that we should not let him lead the Central Army, but it would not be a good idea to make him subordinate to the General of the Central Army, either. Perhaps we should give him special privileges."

Thankfully, the Emperor took the old man’s suggestion, but Qing was still shaken from the fact that his father had been subjected to such doubts.

Wait, Yu said when the assembly ended. Let’s follow Liu Kuang.

Your Highness, protested Jiancheng, the eunuch Yu had forced to help him, this is not a good idea!

I need to know what is on his mind, Yu insisted. What if Qing’s father is in danger?

Qing stared at Yu, unable to describe how warm and thankful he felt.

You should worry more about yourself, Highness! implored Jiancheng. If you are caught… Please, at least just send this one to spy, if you must.

No, if you are discovered, Liu Kuang will have you killed, Yu said. He can’t do anything about me, at least not in the open. And in the dark, he is already trying to get me killed, so me spying on him won’t make any difference.

Even though Qing was grateful, he still had common sense. It’s still too dangerous, he said, agreeing with Jiancheng. If he happens to talk about such confidential subjects, you can bet that the discussion will take place somewhere surrounded by his supporters. If you follow him there, who knows what he can do? Don’t be rash, Yu. He’s already trying to convince your father to name another Taizi. Don’t give him the ammunition he needs.

But I have to do something! Yu growled, his usual logic nowhere to be found.

Like escape? Qing wanted to say, but in the end, he decided it wasn’t an appropriate time to joke. What are you planning to do? he asked instead.

Of course I’m planning to bring stability back to this Empire if my father is not going to do it! The first thing I have to do is to find a way to get rid of Liu Kuang. He is the greatest threat right now. Then I’m going to get rid of all the corrupt officials when I have the power to! Yu answered, his voice shaking with anger. I suspect there is more to bringing those Xianbei in from the Kingdom of Ji, as the profit for those officials must be ludicrous. They must be overtaxing the Xianbei and reaping the benefits for themselves, but they’re just making this Empire even more unstable! The Xianbei are people too. They’re not idiots, and if we’re taxing them, we should treat them as humans and our equals—this way, they will be encouraged to blend in with our society, which will prevent any needless friction.

Qing didn’t know what else he could say. He also wanted to do something, but they were just children. No one would listen to them right now—they had no power or authority. Not even Yu had much power; how could Qing hope to have any, when his support was to the distant north of this city? His own father was too busy fighting civil wars and fending off invasions to participate in politics, though his opinions held a lot of weight in the Court. Qing’s uncle rarely visited the Imperial Palace either, preferring to govern the Jiang Family’s own land.

Qing, Yu said after a while, strangely serious. Will you help me?

Hm? Qing’s attention was pulled back to reality.

Yu lowered his eyes, which were a little watery. Then, he looked up, determination shining brightly in them. I know… I know you’re going back to Shangping next year, but, we’re still friends, right?

Qing laughed, though this situation was too awkward for him to laugh naturally. Sometimes, Yu gave him butterflies in his stomach, especially when his gaze was filled with pleading. Of course I am, you idiot. I’m your best friend, right?

A smile formed on Yu’s lips. So, you’ll help me, right? When I ascend the throne, you’ll help me revive this Empire’s glory, right? You’ll help me make the lives of our people better, right?

You bet I will, Qing promised with a grin. I’ll always be there for you!

Who would’ve known that promise would turn out to be empty.

CHAPTER 2

WITH a heavy heart, Qing set down the last letter Yu had sent him, just a month before the Kingdom of Ji had invaded. In the letter, Yu had written about the troubles he had had in the palace, of his struggles against the Empress’s faction and his concerns that certain relatives and nobility would start another civil war. Ironically, not once had Yu worried about the Jiang Family, yet it was the Jiang Family who had betrayed him. The Empire could put down civil war, but it couldn’t defend itself from invasion, especially since the Kingdom of Ji had superior military force.

What was more, Yu’s fears about the Xianbei immigrants had turned into reality. It did not take long for Qing to learn that the Xianbei immigrants had started the war with a riot, giving the Kingdom of Ji the perfect opportunity to slip through the borders and helping them conquer the lands.

The candlelight flickered solemnly, reflecting Qing’s mood as he waited for news about the fate of their Empire. Without his father’s support, the chances of Rong surviving were pitifully slim. Finally, after what seemed like ages, his closest servant scurried into the room.

Young Master, the Empire of Rong…, Zhao Wenjie choked. The Empire of Rong is no more. The Emperor has abdicated the throne to King Tuoba Rutan, and the Xianbei have renamed the Empire Huai.

Even though Qing had expected this news, it still shook his very heart. His fingertips felt cold, and his heart pounded crazily. What of… what of the Imperial Family?

Wenjie lowered his eyes. The Emperor has been executed. All descendants in the harem were slaughtered, though beautiful consorts were spared.

Despair crushed Qing. "And the Eastern Palace{17}?" He feared the answer, even though he knew what it would be.

Wenjie looked up, his expression mixed. The Taizi has been spared.

Qing thought he must’ve been hallucinating, so he didn’t dare feel any emotion. What?

Lan Yu has been spared, Wenjie repeated, sounding just as confused as Qing was. Speculation is that the usurper wanted to keep the best officials in the Court, so this is just to placate them, as the Taizi is well-liked. For now, they have him under house arrest.

Strong conviction steeled Qing’s mind. He could still save Yu and restore Rong! Anything else? he asked a little hastily, his mind already working on a way to reach his goal.

The Princess of Wuheng has also been spared, Wenjie said. However, vital regions are being conquered as we speak. The Xianbei are making sure to get rid of the rest of the Imperial Family.

Well, there weren’t many members left of the Imperial Family anyway, since many had lost their lives during the civil wars. Which reminded him…. And the Empress?

Wenjie licked his lips. "One of her handmaidens killed her amidst the chaos. The rest of her family is on the run. Her brother, Xu-wang, set up a new Empire in Richuan and named it Xu."

How shameless. Yet, it wasn’t as if Qing was in a position to condemn them, as his father had betrayed the Imperial Family by surrendering without a fight. Perhaps Qing was being selfish, because all he could think of right now was Yu. As long as Yu was alive, everything was all right; there was still hope.

Wenjie, bring me all the books on military strategy in the study room, Qing said, putting aside his Confucian books.

Wenjie stared at Qing in utter confusion. What are you talking about?

Maybe not all, Qing said after thinking a bit, "but could you get me the Art of War and Wuzi first?"

Forgive my insolence, but aren’t you supposed to be studying history? Wenjie inquired meekly. The Master might punish you for neglecting your homework…

I’ve decided that I don’t want to be a government official, Qing said, ignoring Wenjie’s horrified expression. There wasn’t any point in being a government official, anyway. Qing had toyed with the idea, even though his father didn’t want him to follow his military path. However, this was the last straw. At least Qing’s younger brother Xian hadn’t started his official military studies yet—Qing could still swap with him. Real power lay in having a strong military force during difficult times, and without an army of loyal soldiers, Qing would never be able to help Yu. Just do as I say; Father would understand.

Wenjie examined Qing for a while before he sighed in defeat. As you say, Young Master.

That night, Qing pored over the books, taking notes and memorizing the tactics until he fell asleep from fatigue. Hold on there, Yu, he murmured in his sleep.

THE Xianbei didn’t take long conquering the remains of Rong. In three short years, they had forced the so-called Empire of Xu to move their capital farther south. Many nobles who had not migrated with Xu’s emperor had been forced to surrender, though, unlike the Jiang Family, they had lost much status for resisting. What was worse, Han Chinese became second-rate citizens under Xianbei rule. Qing’s father had fallen ill, too ashamed to continue.

In exchange for their part in the Xianbei invasion, the Jiang Family retained its land, people, and—more or less—its status, but at what cost? Nobles who had survived the invasion hated them. The Xianbei conquerors looked down on them. Even some people in Shangping spat on the Jiang Family’s name, despite the fact that they were better off than their less-fortunate neighbors.

After all, the Jiang were able to keep their army as a part of their deal. Other Han soldiers had been dismissed from their military duties and sent to farm, not only because the Xianbei wanted to minimize the likelihood of rebellions, but because they thought the Han were wimps unfit for war. Humiliating, all too humiliating.

Naturally, the Xianbei did not completely trust the Jiang and regularly sent inspectors to monitor their loyalty. The inspectors were often far from friendly, often mocking and insulting Qing’s men and treating the Jiang as their servants.

If not for the thought of Yu, Qing would have long given up on his decision to walk down a military path.

Disperse! Qing ordered soldiers from a training tower overlooking the grounds. Though he was only eighteen and younger than they, they didn’t take his commands lightly. Awl formation! he roared shortly after. Within no time, the men formed a neat triangle. Just when Qing was about to bark another order, Wenjie interrupted him, which