Spring Remains the Same - Chapter 41

The Princess left and did not return all night.

The spring night was deep and still, the chill seeping into one’s bones.

Wei Xiu sat under the eaves, pulling her greatcloak tighter around her. A look of confidence, of having victory in her grasp, flickered in her eyes. The Princess had not returned all night, likely held back by the Emperor. The 《Discourse on Relocating the Rong Tribes》 had been presented at the perfect time.

However, in contrast, her quiet life would likely be shattered. Wei Xiu sighed softly, turned her wheelchair, and headed for her bedchamber.

The next morning, Puyang returned to the residence.

Wei Xiu had risen early and was waiting for her in the courtyard. When that splash of aqua-blue palace attire finally appeared at the courtyard gate, her deep, dark eyes focused for a moment before gradually brightening.

Joy was written all over Puyang’s face. Seeing Wei Xiu waiting, her eyes curved into a smile. “I have good news for you, Sir. Would you care to hear it?”

Wei Xiu did not answer, instead signaling for a servant to place a seat beside her. Only then did she ask, “It is still early. Has Your Highness had breakfast?”

Sir is so considerate. A warmth spread through Puyang’s heart, and her voice involuntarily softened. “I have already eaten in the palace.” As she spoke, she sat down and began to recount the events of the previous day. “As soon as His Majesty finished reading your 《Discourse on Relocating the Rong Tribes》, he slammed his hand on the table in admiration, calling it a world-shaking masterpiece.”

Given the current situation, it could indeed be called a “world-shaking” work. Wei Xiu offered a reserved smile. “That is good.”

Pleased with this success, Puyang looked at Wei Xiu leaning back in her wheelchair. She noticed the faint dark circles under her eyes, a clear sign of a sleepless night, likely spent worrying about this very matter.

Puyang’s smile gradually faded, replaced by concern. “I’m afraid that from now on, Sir, you will no longer enjoy your former tranquility.”

Who wouldn’t vie to recruit such a worthy talent? Even His Majesty showed his eagerness yesterday, almost summoning you immediately. It was only my persuasion that made him reluctantly desist. But I fear he won’t hold out for more than three or five days. Sir, your constitution is delicate and not suited for exertion. Puyang said, “I will fend them off for you, Sir, but some advances can be blocked, while others cannot.”

If you had remained a hermit, it would be fine. But the submission of the 《Discourse on Relocating the Rong Tribes》 clearly indicated that Wei Xiu had a heart for worldly affairs. What person who recognizes talent would be willing to give up so easily?

Wei Xiu smiled faintly and, in a gentle voice, began to console Puyang. “Why does Your Highness worry? I have long been prepared. I am here to serve Your Highness, so how could I covet my own tranquility?”

Puyang was at once pleased that Wei Xiu put her first and pained that she was forcing herself, but there was truly no other way at present. She looked at Wei Xiu with concern, and then, an excellent idea occurred to her.

In that instant, Puyang’s gaze became as gentle as water. Wei Xiu frowned, a sense of vigilance rising within her. She had a feeling the Princess was about to say something shameless again.

Sure enough, Puyang voiced this excellent idea: “Sir, why don’t you take me as your wife? My virtue is known throughout the court. It would be perfectly reasonable for my Prince Consort to decline the recruitment efforts of others. I imagine many people would know to retreat in the face of this difficulty.”

Wei Xiu fought the urge to cover her face. Though exasperated, she maintained a tolerant smile and said to Puyang in a heartfelt tone, “There is no need for Your Highness to sacrifice yourself like this. Xiu has her own methods for fending off our adversaries.”

Puyang’s brow furrowed. Sir had rejected her again. But to ensure their future interactions remained pleasant, she maintained her gentle smile. “Sir…”

“Your Highness!” A voice from afar interrupted Puyang.

Puyang was displeased, her face darkening slightly. “What is it?”

The one who came running was a servant from the gate. He rushed near, knelt down gasping for breath, and said with a woeful expression, “Your Highness, an old man has burst in from outside! We couldn’t stop him!”

Someone had forced their way into the residence?

Puyang’s expression turned serious. She exchanged a look with Wei Xiu, whose eyes were also grave.

To force one’s way in without being stopped by the guards, this person must be extraordinary. Puyang quickly pondered who would dare to do so at this time, and who could hold such a high position.

She did not need to ponder for long. The person appeared in her line of sight, huffing angrily at the Chief Scribe who was trying to block him. “If the Princess finds fault, I will explain myself! Do not hinder me further!”

Seeing who it was, Puyang first breathed a sigh of relief. But then she turned to see Wei Xiu’s expression change from grave to silent, and her heart, just relaxed, leaped into her throat.

Her expression tightened. She immediately rose with a serious look, took two steps forward as a sign of welcome, and then rebuked her Chief Scribe, “Grand Tutor Wei has graced our gate. Why was no one sent to report, so that I could have come to greet him personally!”

The Chief Scribe immediately knelt to beg for forgiveness.

Grand Tutor Wei’s eyes were stern and imposing. Though his hair and beard were white, he lacked any trace of benevolence. Hearing the Princess’s words, he knew that while she appeared to be reprimanding her Chief Scribe, she was in fact rebuking him for his disrespectful intrusion. The Wei Clan had no dealings with Her Highness Princess Puyang. Wei You occasionally instructed her in archery, but it was merely archery, with no deeper intention.

Grand Tutor Wei had never had contact with this princess of unfailing imperial favor. He had only heard that the Seventh Highness was very easy to get along with—so long as one did not anger her.

At this thought, Grand Tutor Wei’s expression softened slightly. He first bowed in greeting, then apologized. “This subject has presumptuously intruded upon your residence. It is truly a breach of etiquette.”

Puyang immediately switched to a smile, her bearing dignified as she returned the courtesy. “Old Grand Tutor, you overstate the matter.”

Straightening up, Grand Tutor Wei couldn’t help but look toward the only other person present, who had remained silent since his arrival, watching with cold detachment. Grand Tutor Wei first frowned. This grandchild grew up in the wilderness and truly lacks manners. But then, thinking of their abilities, his anger turned to joy. Talented people should all contribute to the prosperity of the clan. He had to recruit them before others arrived. Moreover, they were a child of the Wei clan, lost for many years. It was time for them to acknowledge their ancestors and return to the fold.

He looked at Wei Xiu, his lips trembling for a moment as if he were overcome with emotion. After a short pause, as if realizing his own lack of composure, the Grand Tutor sighed, a world-weary look on his face. “As for why this subject has come today, Your Highness must surely have a clear understanding.”

Puyang smiled. “Old Grand Tutor, you jest. I have never had any dealings with you, so how could I know your thoughts? Please, do enlighten me.”

Grand Tutor Wei then looked toward Wei Xiu, originally expecting her to show some sign of her feelings—be it aversion or joy. But to his surprise, Wei Xiu remained impassive. Grand Tutor Wei was first displeased, then he smiled and said to Puyang, “From the looks of it, Your Highness is likely unaware of the connection between Sir Wei and the Wei clan.”

“I would be honored to hear the details.”

“Sir Wei is this subject’s grandchild. They were lost as a child and could not be found despite extensive searching. This subject has regretted it for many years and had dared not hold out hope. Who knew that Heaven would show its favor and allow this subject to reunite with my grandchild in my twilight years.” Grand Tutor Wei was overcome with emotion. As he spoke, he stared at Wei Xiu, unable to look away, tears even welling at the corners of his eyes.

Truly, his words are more beautiful than a song. Puyang was left breathless by Grand Tutor Wei’s masterful performance.

His ability to find his way here was likely thanks to the 《Discourse on Relocating the Rong Tribes》, but how did he know this Wei Xiu was that Wei Xiu? And to rush to the door, fearing he’d be a moment too late? Clearly, what Puyang had said during her last visit to the residence of the General of Chariots and Cavalry, Wei You had reported it all to his father.

Yet he could act as if he was hearing it for the first time. It was clear the Wei clan had its own skills to have stood for several hundred years without falling. In shamelessness alone, few could match them.

Though Puyang was inwardly scornful, she did not let it show. She raised a delicate eyebrow, her expression full of amazement, her voice melodious and captivating. “I never imagined such a wondrous thing could happen!”

Grand Tutor Wei gave a bitter smile and looked at Wei Xiu. “All these many years, you must have suffered greatly. Now that we, grandfather and grandchild, have been reunited, there is no reason to let you remain adrift outside.”

He only spoke of reunion, not of recognition, leaving room in his words. He was likely still sizing her up.

Wei Xiu felt neither joy nor worry, let alone anger. She merely said softly, “I’m afraid the Grand Tutor has mistaken me for someone else.”

She denied it the moment she opened her mouth, her attitude clear. Grand Tutor Wei’s eyebrows shot up, his imposing manner instantly apparent. But then, as if he had thought of something, his expression softened again. “You have endured so much hardship; it is only natural that you harbor some resentment in your heart.”

Harboring resentment? Puyang sneered inwardly. The old Grand Tutor’s every word was laden with meaning. He searched bitterly for years, unable to bear his grandchild being lost, yet the grandchild doesn’t appreciate the family’s difficulties and harbors resentment. Truly unfilial.

Grand Tutor Wei turned and bowed deeply to Puyang. “This is a family matter, not fit to be aired in public. I ask that Your Highness allow this subject to be alone with Sir Wei.”

Puyang was naturally unwilling, but Wei Xiu also said, “Your Highness, please withdraw for a moment. It will be good for me to speak clearly with the Old Grand Tutor.”

Left with no choice, Puyang could only say, “Very well. It is best to have things spoken plainly.” With that, she actually left.

Seeing this, Grand Tutor Wei couldn’t help but be surprised. Princess Puyang was this indulgent toward Wei Xiu.

Puyang did not go far, but wandered slowly to the bamboo grove behind the courtyard. After the passage of the spring winds, many tender bamboo shoots had sprouted in the grove—fresh, succulent, and lovely to behold.

“For a taste of freshness, none can compare to spring bamboo shoots.” She could use this as an occasion to host a bamboo shoot banquet, inviting all the princes and young masters of the city for a gathering.

Puyang walked through the grove, her thoughts wandering aimlessly, but her heart was still preoccupied with Wei Xiu.

If Sir returned to the Wei clan, it would be a good thing. The Wei clan’s power was not small, and it would be beneficial to her, not harmful. It was just that Grand Tutor Wei’s conduct was truly contemptible—seeing someone was useful and wanting to take them back, but casting them aside like a worn-out shoe when they were useless. It was far too opportunistic.

After walking a circle in the grove, she returned by the same path.

A first meeting couldn’t last too long, nor could they speak of things too deeply. Grand Tutor Wei’s visit was merely to plant a seed; he probably didn’t expect to succeed all at once.

Puyang saw that enough time had passed and slowly walked back towards the small courtyard.

When she arrived, the Grand Tutor was indeed gone.

Wei Xiu was still in the same spot. A closer look revealed two teacups on the small table before her, indicating that the conversation had progressed smoothly. This was to be expected. Given their current difficulties, they could not possibly let go of a clan as powerful as the Wei. Rather than saying Grand Tutor Wei had sought them out on his own initiative, this was one of the effects of the 《Discourse on Relocating the Rong Tribes》.

Wei Xiu had someone clear away the teacups and bring fresh ones. Looking up, she saw Puyang’s sullen expression and couldn’t help but be amused. “Everything is under control. What is Your Highness displeased about?”

Puyang sat down and said, “Seeing you feigning civility with the Grand Tutor was painful to watch.”

Hearing this, Wei Xiu chuckled. “He is my grandfather. To be able to return to the clan is something I couldn’t ask for more.”

She always had this ability to make something false sound true. Even she could see why the Grand Tutor had come; Puyang refused to believe Sir couldn’t. Recalling that day at the residence of the General of Chariots and Cavalry, how Wei You had tried every which way to hide her, as if Wei Xiu was someone who couldn’t be seen in public, Puyang became furious.

“This is a good thing for Your Highness. My returning to the clan is the best course of action at present. Your Highness should prioritize the greater good. Why should you be upset?” Wei Xiu spoke in a soft, gentle voice, her every word considerate of Puyang.

She was right, Puyang knew it well. “It is indeed a good thing.” She said, looking at Wei Xiu with a helpless smile, “But I also don’t want to see you wrong yourself.”

Her eyes filled with a sorrow and heartache so tangible that Wei Xiu felt a pang in her own chest. She found she couldn’t meet her gaze directly. Turning her head to look elsewhere, she said coldly, “Your Highness cannot bear to see me wrong myself, yet in the end, I must still do so. There is no need to speak of this again.”

Those words were like sharp needles, piercing Puyang’s heart and bringing waves of sharp, unbearable pain. Her face paled. She nodded and said apologetically, “I misspoke.”

She had said those words to escape the strange atmosphere, but hearing the Princess apologize made Wei Xiu feel even more uncomfortable. She felt a tightness in her chest, a stifling sensation. She furrowed her brow, and just as she was about to ease the tension, she saw Puyang stand up. “I shall take my leave now.”

She departed in a hurry, turning as if to flee and walking away quickly. Yet even so, she struggled to maintain her bearing as a princess.

The flowing, aqua-blue palace dress had arrived in a hurry and now departed in a hurry.

A Rong brought up the fresh tea, but seeing only one person left in the courtyard, she didn’t know what to do with the extra cup.

Wei Xiu withdrew her gaze from the courtyard gate, glanced at her, and said, “Pour it all out.”

Author’s Notes:

I forgot to mention that 《Discourse on Relocating the Rong Tribes》 was written by someone from the Jin dynasty. I’ve borrowed the name.

The content is also similar; it discusses how these foreign tribes should be moved out, otherwise they will bring disaster to the world. This came true. Unfortunately, the Jin court at the time did not adopt this advice, leading to the Uprising of the Five Barbarians. But then again, it seems there wasn’t a particularly good solution, as the degree of integration between the Hu and Han was already quite deep.

I only have a partial understanding myself, this is all my own opinion. If I’ve said anything wrong, please don’t flame me.