Volume One: If Life Were Only as It First Met
Wind, Flowers, Snow, Moon
To have this woman, one could die without regret. To die under the peony flower, even as a ghost, is to remain romantic.
As night fell, Suyuan Tower was filled with distinguished guests. No matter how many performances by talented women there were, none could compare to a single appearance by Hong Yuan.
It is said that Hong Yuan’s painting skills are unparalleled. Rumor has it that she can paint with both hands simultaneously and finish quickly. There are also claims that she can paint while dancing. Opinions vary widely. Therefore, on today’s painting performance, a competition will be held, and the literati present can challenge Hong Yuan.
Consequently, tonight at Suyuan Tower, one can find famous painters from the Ji Dynasty, as well as scholars, military officers, and other talented gentlemen.
Qin Junlan sat gracefully in an elegant room, gently shaking a folding fan. She saw that a painting stage had been set up in the middle of the clear stream, with brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones beside it, and xuan paper1 prepared in abundance. Several skilled painters were already ready, just waiting for Hong Yuan to appear.
In the water of the surrounding pool, fiery-colored flowers were in full bloom. The flowers, resembling irises, looked like water fairies, with scattered red petals adorning the center of the pool.
“Yue’er, what kind of flower do you see on the four-sided pool?”
“Young Master, it looks like an iris but also doesn’t.”
“Irises grow in water?” Qin Junlan asked with great interest.
“This servant never heard of that, and red irises are already rare. How could they grow in water, as pure as lotuses? It truly is a marvel.”
The moon rose to the treetops as the guests in Suyuan Tower started to lose interest. The four young painters had already prepared their inkstones, but Hong Yuan was still fashionably late.
In Ziyun Pavilion, Mu Jin was adorning Hong Yuan with a pearl hairpin and precious jade. She lightly applied vermilion to her lips, giving them a faint color, and her makeup was elegant and refined.
“Is everything arranged?”
“All the tribute money has been handed over.”
“Good.” Hong Yuan draped a thin gauze outer garment over herself and stepped lightly.
Amid the cheers of the crowd, Hong Yuan, in a long purple dress, appeared graceful and spirited. She walked to the four-sided pool, and the four young men, with considerable etiquette, bowed to her, which she returned with equal courtesy.
The competition will last the time it takes for an incense stick to burn. The one who creates the most paintings will win. The reference is the famous painting 《The Prosperity of Tiandu》, which is said to be greatly admired by the current emperor. The artist is the foremost painter of the Ji Dynasty.
As soon as the drums sounded, the entire venue, with its eighty-one elegant rooms and sixty-four tables, fell silent. The four talented young men dipped their brushes in ink and began copying the painting on the hanging white paper.
“She wore the purple gauze dress I gave her.” Qin Junlan’s face showed joy. This dress is one of only two in the entire Ji Dynasty, made from the finest celestial silk by the top court embroiderer. Qin Junlan has always liked purple. She herself loves to wear this purple gauze dress and has been reluctant to give the other one away. Yet, Hong Yuan wore it with an air of transcendence.
“She does not look as beautiful in it as Her Majesty does.”
“You, stop flattering me. Few can match Hong Yuan’s beauty.”
“Her Majesty’s beauty is unmatched in the kingdom.” In Liyue’s eyes, Qin Junlan’s beauty was unparalleled, with her ever-changing elegance both in court and behind the scenes, a sight she had seen more than anyone else.
“This painting, grand in its sweeping strokes, is adorned with intricate details that cannot be easily imitated. To complete a partial reproduction within the time of an incense stick is no easy feat. Can a courtesan from a brothel possess such talent?” Liyue could not believe that even if there were prodigies in the world, they could not come from a brothel.
“Isn’t it said that she excels in all the arts: music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, wine, and tea? If she were not in a brothel, she might be known as the number one talented woman in Jidu rather than just the best in Qinghe.” Qin Junlan sat elegantly in a private room on the second floor, at an angle that allowed her to see the entire painting process clearly.
“But, Young Master, a brothel is still a brothel. Exposing oneself for men’s appreciation is ultimately not a dignified matter.”
Qin Junlan’s expression changed slightly, as if a sensitive spot had been touched. Although Suyuan Tower was a place for talented scholars and beautiful women, it still carried the name of a brothel. Even if Hong Yuan only sold her art and not her body, she could not escape the title of courtesan.
Look at the sons of those princes, generals, ministers; who among them isn’t coveting her beauty? How can she resist the pursuits of these powerful nobles? Under such strong power, how can a courtesan from a brothel have any say? Unless Boss He Xi has a strong background.
The four young men were writing and painting furiously, competing in speed, while Hong Yuan had yet to start. She had been observing the painting for a long time, her clear eyes reflecting the essence of the artwork. This painting depicted the entire scenery of Jidu with rivers interwoven throughout, and the most challenging part was harmonizing the four rivers with the other elements.
Everyone was anxious for her. Could it be that her reputation was merely an illusion?
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“Young Master, if she doesn’t start soon, there won’t be enough time.”
“Perhaps she is waiting for the right moment.” Qin Junlan remained relaxed and at ease. Although a courtesan competing against the four great talents was unprecedented, she felt that Hong Yuan was someone who might indeed be different.
Finally, she began to move, arranging four inkstones of varying sizes in a row. Her graceful figure started to dance, with a light silk draped over her body, twirling in her hands like water sleeves. Suddenly, she used her dance to control the silk, dipping it into the largest inkstone, splashing ink and water. Using the silk as a brush, she painted with powerful strokes.
Her enchanting figure moved between the ink and brush, dreamlike and ethereal. Her stunning beauty and alluring sensuality caused the four young men to pause, captivated by her.
The audience erupted in astonishment. A woman of such talent and beauty—what harm in dying for her? Some spilled their wine without noticing; others drooled without realizing. Her heavenly beauty made the entire Suyuan Tower come alive with vibrant charm.
Only Qin Junlan, seeing this scene of flourishing beauty, felt displeased. A strong sense of possessiveness, mixed with a tinge of bitterness, surged within her heart.
Must Hong Yuan be the top courtesan of Suyuan Tower? Is her contract too heavy for anyone to redeem, or is there another reason?
The time had passed, and the incense had burned out. Without waiting for the results, Hong Yuan turned and gracefully walked away.
Looking again at the painting, the form was complete. Although it lacked detailed embellishments, it depicted the grandeur of Jidu in a different light.
“We concede defeat.” The four young men bowed to Hong Yuan’s departing figure. She paused, turned slightly, and returned the gesture with a graceful curtsey.
Immediately, the manager of Suyuan Tower began to auction off the painting created by Hong Yuan, with a starting price as high as five hundred taels.
“Yue’er.” Qin Junlan also stood up. Li Yue understood her intention; the Empress was determined to acquire this painting.
Still feeling unsatisfied, Qin Junlan wanted to invite Hong Yuan for a drink, so she started to move forward. Suddenly, she saw a man holding a box of silver ingots, which he placed heavily. “I have five thousand taels of silver ingots.”
“Then, this painting…” the manager declared.
“I don’t want the painting; I want the person!” The man, wealthy and arrogant, then took out a gold ingot.
“Heh… This gentleman seems unaware of the rules of Suyuan Tower. Miss Hong Yuan does not accompany guests, does not drink with them, and does not leave the tower. Even if you offer five thousand taels of gold, I cannot comply.”
“Then I will buy the entire Suyuan Tower, along with Miss Hong Yuan’s contract.”
“I’m sorry, but Suyuan Tower is not for sale, and this painting will no longer be sold to you.”
Qin Junlan scoffed lightly, thinking that under the allure of beauty, there were indeed many who wished to indulge in romantic escapades.
“How insolent! Do you know who I am?”
“Even if you are a prince, I cannot comply,” the manager replied unwaveringly. The man became angry, and at his command, over ten servants rushed forward.
The manager’s expression changed slightly, and he waved his hand. Mo Feng and the other three descended from above. The four guards, with swords at their sides, declared, “Who dares to cause trouble at Suyuan Tower?”
“I’d like to try!” The young man was determined not to give up.
Both sides began to fight fiercely. Li Yue quickly pulled Qin Junlan aside to avoid the chaos. “I’ve heard that Suyuan Tower often encounters such incidents, but it’s been a long time since anyone dared to cause trouble.”
“Why?”
“Look at those four guards; their movements are light and agile, clearly experts. Ordinary wealthy young men wouldn’t dare provoke them. Moreover, Suyuan Tower has always been peaceful. What kind of entertainment venue can so easily handle officials, merchants, and young nobles? I think the owner behind it must not be simple.”
“That makes sense. Who is this young man?”
Li Yue hesitated to speak. Qin Junlan noticed her hesitation, “What? Could it be the son of some important minister?”
“It is indeed the son of Grand Academician Ji, Ji Ruxiao.”
Qin Junlan was quite surprised. How could the world be like this now? The Duke of Hongchuan had ambitions of power and profit, yet his son was kind and commendable, cultured and elegant. Grand Academician Ji, a loyal minister who served two dynasties, produced such an arrogant and unruly son who lacked manners.
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“Can Grand Academician Ji’s salary withstand such extravagance?” Qin Junlan wondered, knowing that the Grand Academician had led an honest and incorruptible life.
“Madam Ji is the daughter of a wealthy merchant.”
“Ah, I see…”
Amidst the brawl, silver ingots scattered. The four guards subdued the dozen or so servants effortlessly. With skillful handling, they did not even break a wine bowl or topple a guest’s table.
Li Yue picked up a silver ingot and was about to return it when she noticed the character “Luo” engraved on the bottom.
“Young Master!” Li Yue was shocked.
Qin Junlan glanced at it indifferently. The tribute silver of the Luo Kingdom was issued by the government. This “Luo” character was the best proof. It seemed the situation had been complicated by the other party, deliberately stirring political turmoil and framing the Grand Academician.
“Young Master, should we return to the palace immediately?” Li Yue was extremely nervous.
“No need. Exchange one ingot for him and keep one for yourself.”
Liyue understood and took the tribute silver, leaving another ingot on the ground. Qin Junlan played with the silver ingot and walked towards Ziyun Pavilion.
Ziyun Pavilion was on the top floor of Suyuan Tower, perfectly distanced to block out the noise from below. However, the path to Ziyun Pavilion was guarded, and no one could approach.
“Stop! Ziyun Pavilion is the ladies’ boudoir, no idlers allowed!” The guard stopped Qin Junlan.
She folded her paper fan and politely said, “I have matters to discuss with Miss Hong Yuan.”
“Miss does not see visitors. Please leave, Young Master,” the guard insisted firmly.
Li Yue, filled with anger, wanted to take out the palace token but felt it was inappropriate. They had dealt with the ruffians together during the day, and now they were turning their backs at night.
“I believe Miss will want to see me.” Qin Junlan revealed the character on the bottom of the silver ingot, causing a slight change in the guard’s expression.
“If Miss cannot meet, having the owner come out to meet will also suffice. However, I have heard that the owner has never shown their face. Is Miss Hong Yuan the one in charge of Suyuan Tower?” Qin Junlan’s gaze was sharp. The two guards exchanged glances, and one of them said, “Please wait a moment, Young Master. I will go inform Miss.”
After a short while, the guard invited Qin Junlan to come over.
Inside Ziyun Pavilion, the air was filled with a pleasant fragrance. Hong Yuan was removing her makeup, and an elegant atmosphere surrounded the boudoir. Every day at this time, Hong Yuan would take a bath; their encounter that day was also at this hour.
Under the bright moon, a wine table was set up in the pavilion. Qin Junlan and Hong Yuan sat opposite each other. “Young Master’s injury, has it healed?”
“Thanks to Miss’s rescue, it is no longer a problem.”
Hong Yuan filled Qin Junlan’s wine cup. Li Yue reached out to taste the wine first but was stopped by Qin Junlan, who gave her a stern look, “How rude!”
“Don’t worry.” Hong Yuan raised her cup and took a sip first. Only then did Qin Junlan relax a bit and dismiss Li Yue.
“Young Master insists on seeing me, not just to have a few cups of wine, right?” Hong Yuan’s gaze fell on the silver ingot on the table.
“I really just wanted to chat with Miss.” Qin Junlan raised her cup in invitation. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to meet in your boudoir. I’ve heard that no one else has had this honor.”
Hong Yuan drained her cup and said indifferently, “You are a woman, not one of those playboys, how can you compare?”
“Ahem, speaking of which, I was taken advantage of by Miss once.” Qin Junlan smiled slightly, her gaze on Hong Yuan glowing brightly.
“This… I did not do it intentionally…” Hong Yuan seemed a bit uneasy. Qin Junlan’s words instantly reminded her of the soft and moist sensation from that day.
Her face was tinged with a faint blush, appearing even more radiant under the candlelight, which left Qin Junlan’s heart in turmoil. If the initial attraction was just a moment of impulse, then what was this current state of emotional confusion?
What happened that day was entirely an accident. Although she knew of such an encounter, she did not expect the Empress to be so stunningly beautiful, nor did she anticipate that she would be hiding in the warm pool due to an injury. The defensive slap that landed on such a sensitive spot was not her intention.
But how could the Empress easily let it go after being seen during her bath?
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“I did not intentionally spy on Miss while she was bathing. Sometimes, a fight leads to acquaintance; perhaps this is also a form of fate.” Qin Junlan felt fortunate for that accidental encounter, as if it had opened a door in her heart.
“…” Hong Yuan was speechless, unable to thank her for not looking.
Suddenly, Li Yue hurried over. It turned out she had received a secret report from the shadow guards; the Empress Dowager was furious and ordered the Empress to return to the palace immediately.
Qin Junlan could not ignore the Empress Dowager’s decree and had to return to the palace. Before leaving, she leaned slightly closer to Hong Yuan, the two of them almost touching. She could smell the faint fragrance on Hong Yuan, never having felt such a strong desire to be close to someone. Although Qin Junlan felt the impulse in her heart, she controlled her actions.
As an Empress, she would never allow herself to easily fall into a certain emotion, nor could she let herself be entangled by someone.
Even though she felt a sense of reluctance about leaving this time, she decided to stop at their current relationship.
“Miss, I will come to find you again in three days.”
After saying this, she hurriedly left.
The silver ingot on the table lay there quietly. Hong Yuan picked it up and suddenly felt that Qin Junlan was too complicated a person, her thoughts and intentions impossible to decipher.
Hong Yuan originally thought she would use the pretext of suspecting Suyuan Tower to thoroughly investigate her, but she only came for a few cups of wine and did not mention the tribute silver at all.
She had already shown great interest in her, yet still did not advance, behaving like a courteous and respectful gentleman. However, her strong sense of vigilance also indicated that she would not easily trust anyone and would be wary of everyone in the world.