Di Huang Shu Chapter 1

Translator's Note: Hey everyone!

Just wanted to give you a heads up before we dive into the story. I've recently gone through my translations from Chapter 1 to 16, and, honestly, they're pretty cringe-worthy. I've noticed a bunch of mistakes that are just embarrassing. Well, I guess it's understandable since English isn't my first language and this is my first time translating a historical novel. 

But hey, no worries! I plan on retranslating them soon. I know this note might make some of you hesitate, but I want to be honest about the current state of my translations. So, bear with me as I navigate this new terrain. If you spot any mistakes, please let me know in the comments. Your feedback will be super helpful in improving the quality. Thanks for understanding and supporting me!

　　The morning sun glides through the dawn, lazily casting its light upon the palace courtyard. The majestic palace, as usual, welcomes the thrice-weekly morning court session.

    In the grand nation of Great Jing, which had stood for several decades, Emperor Jia Ning had accumulated immense power. However, he had always been open to accepting counsel from his ministers and frequently engaged in heated debates in the court, with each person holding their own views. Nevertheless, today's situation was somewhat peculiar. All the courtiers lowered their heads and cast submissive glances at the dusty deputy general standing in the center of the hall. They all tightly sealed their lips, resembling motionless statues of Bodhisattvas.

　　"Zhao ài qīng [1], repeat what you have just said."

　　The imperial countenance on the throne exudes majesty, and his hand rests upon the dragon head ornament of the royal seat. His usually strict expression appears somewhat absurd.

 

    The deputy general Zhao Jinshi, clad in armor and having traveled a thousand miles, half-knelt in the court. Eagerly, he glanced to the left side of the hall. The mighty and majestic man, who had experienced hundreds of battles amidst wind and fire, suddenly fell silent. He made an acknowledging gesture but stammered, and then cautiously reported in a low voice.

　"Replying to Your Majesty..." 

     "Zhao qīng [2], answer properly!" Emperor Jia Ning's voice grew cold as he issued a stern command, his dragon-like eyes slightly narrowing.

　　 "Your Majesty, a surrender letter has been sent from Anle Village, expressing their willingness to accept the imperial court's offer of peace and submit to our Great Jing. The village chief, Ren Anle, has heard of the Crown Prince's outstanding reputation throughout the Central Plains. She believes that there is no need for Great Jing to pacify Anle village, and instead proposes that, in exchange for her loyalty with thirty thousand naval forces, she only desires the position of one of the consorts from the Eastern Palace."

      When Emperor Jia Ning let out a resounding roar, Zhao Jin Shi shivered in response. His deep and profound voice echoed and reverberated throughout the grand hall, circling and resonating.　　

　  With these words spoken, all the courtiers turned their heads towards the left side, their faces filled with astonishment.

    Vice General Zhao is an honest person. "The Prince of Great Jing's majestic presence encompasses the Central Plains" is undoubtedly what Ren Anle said. With such words, it is clear in one's heart that they cannot be casually uttered in the court.

　　The young man, positioned on the left side, lowered his gaze. He wore a crimson court attire, and his serene and silent posture hindered the ministers' unclear attempts at prying.

  In the quiet Chong'an Hall, the emperor sitting at the throne gently tapped the dragon chair. His slightly changed expression quickly returned to normal upon receiving a loud report from the deputy general.

　　 "Oh? Thirty thousand water army swearing allegiance unto death? Is Ren Anle's statement true?"　　

    The words spoken by Emperor Jia Ning were not without rarities, and one sentence, in particular, was so astonishing that all the court officials, disregarding everything else, concentrated on pondering the meaning behind the emperor's words.

    "In reply to Your Majesty, this is what the surrender letter sent to us is written. General Ji has instructed this humble official to swiftly return to the capital and present it to Your Majesty. He mentioned that this opportunity is rare, and he hopes that Your Majesty and... His Highness will think twice."

　　Zhao Jin Shi served in the military for several years. He was a rough and seasoned soldier. The words he spoke were incoherent and disconnected, as if he were reciting a book from memory. It seems that Old General Ji also instructed him on what to say.

　　

　　If it weren't for the chief of Anle village proposing such an absurd condition, this kind of opportunity to return to the capital and seek rewards for military achievements wouldn't have fallen to him. A group of ministers shook their heads, clearly understanding the situation.

　. Great Jing has a strong army and vast territories. The countries of Bei Qin and Dong Qian are located in the desolate northern frontier and cannot be considered major threats. However, the southern coastal areas suffer from rampant pirate activities, which constantly disturb the coastal cities. Unfortunately, the naval forces of Great Jing are weak, and for decades, a solution has yet to be found.

     Anle village is a strange and unique existence for Great Jing. Thirty years ago, during the turmoil in Central Plains, various warlords and aristocratic families were engaged in fierce battles. The Han family from the north rose to dominate the whole land. An Le village was originally a small, remote corner along the southeastern coast. At that time, it didn't catch the attention of the founding emperor and was consequently overlooked and preserved. Unexpectedly, over the decades, it grew in strength. From the few hundred local bandits who used to rule over the mountains, it has now developed into a formidable force of thirty thousand naval soldiers. About a dozen years ago, they proclaimed themselves as An Le village and have been thriving in their secluded corner.

       The imperial court has launched several sieges, but each time they were defeated by the navy, causing them to return in frustration. Consequently, this has become a thorn in the side of the imperial court. Fortunately, although Anle village does not belong to the imperial court, it does not harass the common people. It only occupies the mountains and acts as its own ruler.

　　However, Emperor Jia Ning was not a vegetarian ruler. How could he allow others to snore peacefully on his side bed?[4] An Le Village has been besieged numerous times in recent years, but all attempts to conquer it have been in vain. If they can surrender this time, it will not only showcase the might of imperial power but also allow the utilization of their thirty thousand naval forces to restrain the pirates in the South Sea. This can truly be considered killing two birds with one stone![5] 

　　After pondering over it, the courtiers felt that the matter of Anle village's surrender was almost certain. They looked towards the gentle and amiable Crown Prince and shed a tear of sympathy.　　

    Over a decade ago, this place wasn't known by its current name, it was simply referred to as the 'Bandits' Den.' At that time, the former leader of the village was delighted when he had a daughter. He changed the village's name to 'An Le' in celebration. A few years ago, the former fort leader passed away, and his daughter took over as the new leader. Now, she is over eighteen years old, but it is said that she is extremely rude, strong, and overbearing – a true female bandit.

　　Thirty thousand naval forces exchanged for one position of a concubine. Everyone marveled at the young and talented Crown Prince, who stood out among the courtiers with his youthful and charming appearance. People couldn't figure out whether it was the imperial court that had taken advantage of the situation or if the renowned female bandit had received a good deal.　　

     

    "Zhao Qing, this matter is of great importance. AnLe village has shown a willingness to surrender, and I see that its young lady possesses loyalty and integrity. This could be a good thing, but this matter still requires the Crown Prince's submission. My imperial son, what are your thoughts...?"

　　Emperor Jia Ning lowered his eyes, gazing towards the lower end, his facial expression carrying a smile, yet his eyes betrayed a hint of depth.

      All the courtiers felt a sudden unease in their hearts. Your Majesty, if you want the thirty thousand formidable and skilled naval forces, just say so directly. Why do you have to appear so ceremonious and seek the Crown Prince's approval? If you don't want to be criticized by the people as a ruler without authority, then it seems inevitable that a joyous event in the Eastern Palace will be avoided.

    Besides the various thoughts of the ministers, several princes also had the intention of looking at the joke. The Prince was proposed for marriage by a female bandit, who praised his beauty in front of all the civil and military officials at the court. This incident was a significant blow to the crown prince's dignity.

　

       "Imperial Father, if Anle village pledges allegiance to our Great Jing, the loyal three thousand naval forces are willing to be incorporated into the Sui Nan General's Camp. Anle village will be disbanded from now on. Your son is willing to reserve a position in the Eastern Palace to welcome Anle's arrival in the capital."

    

　 Crown Prince Han Ye stepped forward, faced Emperor Jia Ning, and performed the ritual of salutation. He responded in a calm and composed manner.　　

       Several senior ministers glanced at Emperor Jia Ning, noticing that his facial expression had instantly softened, and they secretly praised him. The Crown Prince's words were spoken beautifully, not only pointing out the conditions for him to marry, which were the loyalty and submission of Anle village, but also indicating that he would only marry if these conditions were met. He will also incorporate thirty thousand naval forces into the Suinan General's Camp, which is under Your Majesty's control. This is to demonstrate that he absolutely harbors no desires for Anle village's naval forces. In this way, the Crown Prince, by willingly marrying a female bandit from Anle village and voluntarily lowering his status as the future ruler, will gain the hearts of the Emperor, ministers, and the common people as they see it as a significant sacrifice.

     Several imperial princes also realized this and snorted a few times, their faces somewhat awkward.

     "The Emperor's son is benevolent, loves the people, and has deeply gained my favor!" As expected, Emperor Jia Ning patted his palms and laughed heartily. The stern expression between his eyebrows disappeared instantly. He looked towards the Minister of Rites and said, " "Gong aiqing, please consider giving a suitable position to the chief of Anle village. Since she has traveled a thousand miles to come here, she should not be treated poorly."

       In the courtroom of Great Jing, for the first time, a mere position in the Eastern Palace was discussed. When the named old minister from the Ministry of Rites, Gong Jizhe, was called upon, he quickly stepped forward. With a sincere expression, he pondered for a moment and respectfully said, 'Your Majesty, this subject thinks the position of rú rén[6] is enough."

      Although Ren Anle surrendered with thirty thousand sailors, she is, after all, a leader of bandits. She is marrying the current Crown Prince, the future Emperor. Given her status, even if she becomes a concubine, it is still an elevation for her. If it weren't for the Emperor's good mood, Gong Jizhe wouldn't have made this proposal. As expected, some officials who emphasize the importance of noble status have already frowned and are preparing to advise against it.

    "Your Majesty..." The long-ignored Vice General Zhao felt something was amiss and suddenly remembered an important matter he forgot to report. He hurriedly took a step forward to intercept the Court Official's words. Emperor Jia Ning was taken aback by his sudden action and asked displeased, "Zhao Qing, what's the matter?"

　　"Your Majesty, on the surrender letter, the position Ren Anle was seeking..." Deputy General Zhao glanced sideways at the handsome and elegant Crown Prince and reluctantly replied, "It's the position of Crown Prince' consort."

　　Quiet, absolutely quiet, so quiet that even the sound of breathing seemed too loud.　　

   The entire Chong'an Hall miraculously fell silent when the three words 'Crown Prince's Consort' were mentioned. Even the censors, who usually liked to argue with flushed faces and thick necks over matters of propriety, tightly closed their mouths, and their lowered gazes showed a hint of fear and apprehension.

    Absurd, absurd, simply... absurd. A group of literati pondered for a long time and still couldn't find any other words besides these two characters to describe that audacious and brazen female bandit from Anle village.

    The Crown Prince is the heir to the throne of the country. She is seeking the position of the Crown Princess. Could it be that she also wants to become the Empress of the Great Jing Dynasty? Within the imperial capital, there are numerous noble ladies raised and educated in distinguished families and noble households. Yet, not a single one dares to bluntly express the desire to enter the Eastern Palace and aspire to be the Crown Princess!

　　The Crown Prince stepped back, lowered his eyes, his facial expression was calm and light like a gentle breeze, but there was a slight ripple in the depths of his eyes.

    It is quite interesting that the leader of Anle village dared to propose such a condition.

    Sure enough, even Emperor Jia Ning on the throne fell silent, and his expression turned grave.

　　  "What a remarkable Ren Anle! How does she regard my Great Jing dynasty..."

    "Your Majesty, Ren Anle has said that if Your Majesty is unwilling to grant her the position of Crown Prince's consort, she is willing to forgo entering the Eastern Palace. She only hopes that Your Majesty can arrange a military position for her within the army, allowing her to exchange military achievements for an opportunity to eventually ascend to the Eastern Palace."

    Although feeling the awe-inspiring aura of the emperor on the throne and finding the Crown Prince's indifferent gaze somewhat uncomfortable, Deputy General Zhao still displayed the indomitable spirit he had on the battlefield. He took a deep breath and completed the report.

　　In fact, to put it plainly, Ren Anle has only one intention. You can choose not to grant me the position of Crown Princess now, but for the glorious Great Jing Dynasty, you must show some sincerity to exchange for the allegiance of my thirty thousand water army. What can Ren Anle do? Embroidery and female accomplishments in arts such as guqin, go, calligraphy, and painting are just nonsense. The only thing she knows is how to wield a big sword and engage in battles. Joining the army and getting promoted is the most direct way.

 

     Just doing this, how is it any different from robbing in broad daylight? As expected, being a woman who is accustomed to a bandit's life, even when marrying a husband, she still carries the habits of a bandit that are hard to change.

    　The status of women in Great Jing holds a relatively high position. Although there have been few women leading armies and entering the imperial court throughout history, it is not unheard of. The courtiers disdain the arrogant and tyrannical chief of Anle village, but they also dare not speak recklessly, as they fear offending the higher authorities, especially considering the valiant and vigorous thirty thousand-strong naval forces.

　

     "Oh? She says she won't enter the Eastern Palace unless she becomes the Crown Prince's consort? Such arrogant words! Gong Qing, draft an imperial edict on my behalf and announce it to the world." Emperor Jia Ning unexpectedly deviated from his usual behavior and didn't scold Ren Anle for such an outrageous demand but instead clapped his hands and laughed heartily.

    "The resolute and loyal leader of Anle village, with compassion for the ruler, is willing to lead a naval force of thirty thousand to pledge loyalty to Great Jing. In recognition of this, the position of Deputy General of Suinan will be conferred upon her. All the people of Anle village will be treated generously. This Emperor appreciates the loyalty shown by this humble young woman and grants her permission to enter the capital and take up an official position."

　　The Minister of Rites received the imperial edict and withdrew to one side, feeling a slight movement in the bottom of his heart. Ren Anle was summoned to the imperial capital and lost her backbone. Thirty thousand naval troops, sooner or later, will be tamed by General Ji. Not more than a few years later, Anle's influence on the southeast coast will disappear. At that time, Ren Anle, a mere woman, will certainly be at the mercy of the imperial court.

    Once the emperor made this statement, no one dared to mention the matter of Ren Anle seeking to marry the Crown Prince. Instead, Emperor Jia Ning was willing to exchange thirty thousand naval forces stationed at Anle village for a low-ranking official position with no real authority for Ren Anle.　　

    After the emperor waved his hand, a young eunuch shouted at the top of his voice, 'Leave the court.' When the various ministers were leaving the main hall, they noticed that the crown prince had already been led by the chief eunuch, Zhao Fu, to the study room.

　　"Father Emperor truly values Third Brother. He just finished court, and yet he eagerly summoned him again," said Han Zhao, the Ninth Prince. He had thick eyebrows and big eyes, and have a military bearing. His mother was the daughter of the Left Prime Minister and had a fondness for the battlefield. As there was not much conflict with the Crown Prince, the fifteen-year-old young prince had developed such a carefree temperament."

　　"Ninth brother, the Third brother is the crown prince, receiving Father Emperor's favor is only natural." The eldest prince, Han Rui, replied with a tone that was neither light nor heavy, his solemn expression displaying an air of authority.

    Han Zhao hummed disdainfully, slightly raising his eyebrows, indicating that he did not take it to heart.

    

    Han Rui is the eldest son, but he is not born of the principal wife, and his mother's family is not of high status. Originally, he was not highly regarded by Emperor Jia Ning. Among all the imperial princes, his status is the most awkward. Fortunately, over the years, he has shown great loyalty and filial piety towards Emperor Jia Ning. He treats the Crown Prince, Han Ye, with the utmost respect as a loyal subject. He has made significant contributions to the court over many years and, as a result, he is one of the most respected princes by the courtiers, second only to the Crown Prince. Three years ago, he was further honored by Emperor Jia Ning and was bestowed the title of Mu Wang. 

    

    The Fifth Prince, Han Yue, saw the two of them locked in a tense standoff and hurriedly intervened to mediate the situation. "Ninth Brother, what the Eldest prince said is true. The Third Brother is the Crown Prince, and his position is different from ours. However, I have a feeling that Father calling him away might not be solely about the matter with Anle village."

    

     Among all the imperial princes, the Fifth Prince is the most peculiar. Despite being born into the imperial family, he has a strong preference for vegetarianism and Buddhist rituals. Since the age of ten, he has been under the guidance of Venerable Master Jingxian at the national temple. Emperor Jia Ning had many sons throughout his life, but only four of them are still alive today. The Emperor is afraid that the Fifth Prince, due to his early reverence for Bodhisattva, might shave his head to become a monk, so he forcibly summoned him back to the imperial court. However, it is believed that due to the Fifth Prince's early reverence for the Bodhisattva, he possesses a clear and pure temperament. He never speaks falsehoods and always expresses his true thoughts without compromising himself.

      "Besides Anle Village, what else could there be?" Han Zhao saw his older brother's expression calm and obediently climbed down the ladder following the Fifth Prince.

    

　　Han Rui's eyebrows twitched slightly, and he gazed towards the study upstairs with a somewhat profound expression.

　　In the eyes of the Great Jing Dynasty, a small and insignificant place like Anle village is not a formidable matter, even if Ren Anle were to lead a navy of thirty thousand to surrender. The reason why Emperor Jia Ning would take it seriously is that the dissolution of Anle village signifies the complete end of the era under Taizu's[7]  rule.

　　Anle village was established thirty years ago, and it has endured almost as long as the reign of the Great Jing Dynasty, deeply buried in the southeastern territory of Great Jing. This is what Emperor Jia Ning cannot tolerate the most.

　　 "Third brother is already twenty-two years old." Seeing Han Rui and Han Zhao looking at him together, Han Yue said indifferently, "But up until now, he still doesn't have a legitimate heir."

    Without a Crown Princess, where would the legitimate heir come from!

    Listening to the conversation, the two people were about to retort casually, but at the same time, they suddenly felt a chill. Han Rui sternly said, "Fifth brother, you must not speak recklessly." After leaving behind this sentence, he brushed his sleeve and turned around to leave.

    

    "Hmph, always putting on a loyal and upright face, without any backbone," Han Zhao sneered, not showing any hesitation. "Fifth Brother, I made plans to go out of the palace with someone for sightseeing. If Father Emperor inquires about me, just say that I went to the Western Suburb Garrison. Cover for me."

    

　　While talking, he ran down the stone steps, disappeared quickly like a streak of smoke, and then his figure was gone.

　　Han Yue smiled. As expected of someone who had grown up in the palace, even the lively ninth brother knew that there were some things that could not be said.

　　The imperial family has many taboos, but there is only one taboo that truly offends Emperor Jia Ning.

    Is it the Crown Princess? Of course not. What the Emperor truly avoids is the surname represented by the Crown Princess.

    The Southern Jin's Di Family. Great Jing esteemed the Han family of royal lineage, which could be considered noble, but not necessarily limited to the imperial household.

    Only that, all the glories and shames associated with this family surname had already vanished like smoke and clouds ten years ago. What remains in the mortal world is just a sole descendant of the Di family, representing nothing more than an empty title of Crown Princess.

    

    Under the intense sun, which was somewhat dazzling, Han Yue chuckled to himself, considering his own meddlesome nature. He then turned around and left the palace, heading back home, silently reciting the Heart Sutra on the way

    

[1] 爱卿 (ài qīnɡ) - means the monarch's pet name for his subjects 

[2] 卿(qīng) high ranking official (old); (from the Tang Dynasty onwards) term used by the emperor for his subjects; honorific 　　

[3] 朝服 (cháo fú) court dress in ancient China; was usually worn by the emperor and ministers at court meetings, and sometimes also included specific dresses for concubines, imperial concubines, and female officials.　　

[4] The same as "How can one snore on the side of a couch?" It is a metaphor for being close to or within one's jurisdiction; often saying that one's own sphere of influence or interests cannot be invaded by others. 

[5] Doing one thing and getting two benefits at the same time.     

[6]孺人(rú rén) - In the Ming and Qing dynasties, the title was given to the mother or wife of a seventh-rank official; Also used as a title of respect for women.    

[7] 太祖( tài zǔ). Taizu. Usually refers to the founder of the dynasty or the founder of the regime.

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