Spring Message in the Snow – CH 102

Chapter 102

Helian Song could not help but laugh. “Your Majesty is indeed meticulous, even planning how to settle her in the future. Bestowing the title of County Lady upon the divorced Heir Apparent’s wife is seen by outsiders as Your Majesty’s consideration and the court’s generous treatment. The Zhang family should be grateful to you!”

The Emperor glanced at him but did not reply.

He had already expressed this idea during his private meeting with Surou last time. She had vehemently opposed it then, but he had his own ways of making it seem plausible. Helian Song was right; he wanted to achieve his goal without offending the Zhang family too much. He even hoped the Zhang family would be grateful to him and persuade Surou to accept him.

Persistence usually paid off. His longing for her during this time had made him fully understand her goodness. If she were truly willing to give him a chance in the future, he felt he could be devoted to her wholeheartedly and cherish her for a lifetime.

So now, only one step remained. If Helian Song gave up, they could both get what they wanted. And if Helian Song truly wanted to return to Longyou and divorce her, then their marriage was nothing more than that, and she should see it clearly.

This was the advantage of wielding power. The Emperor, feeling confident of victory, regained his usual calm tone and said in a low voice, “You want to return to Longyou? I will let you. It’s merely a matter of changing the Princess, making your eldest son the legitimate heir. This is easy for you; I do not think you have any reason to refuse. A true man has no reason to worry about not having a wife. In the future, when you rule the border, countless women will be at your disposal. You may never return to the capital in your lifetime. With time, the past will be forgotten. A moment of wrongdoing can bring a lifetime of peace. You are a wise man; you know how to choose.”

Helian Song slowly nodded. “Your Majesty’s decisions are indeed far-sighted, putting me in a difficult position.”

The Emperor smiled. He smiled. “Then go back and think it over carefully, or have an open and honest talk with Surou. She’s intelligent and kind; she will surely understand your difficulties.”

He finally sighed and said, “Alright, I will discuss this with her, but before we make a decision, please do not interfere, Your Majesty.”

The Emperor did not refuse, which was tantamount to acquiescing, but said, “The situation in Longyou is urgent; you do not have much time to waste. Do it as soon as possible, lest you regret it when things get out of control. If Longyou really falls into the hands of the Left Commandant, then the court will have to expend a great deal of effort to recover it.”

Helian Song was silent for a moment, not giving a definite answer, but he cupped his hands in a gesture of respect and withdrew from the inner chamber.

This time, there was nothing to worry about. There was no unfinished official business at the yamen to attend to. He climbed directly into the carriage and gestured to Zhu Bai, “Go home.”

Zhu Bai glanced back at him. “Does Your Highness not need to go to the army? Today is the day for the inspection.”

He leaned back on the brocade cushion and chuckled coolly. “No need. Nothing is more important than going home.”

Zhu Bai replied with a “Yes,” cracked his whip, and urged the horse back to West Ji’er Lane. Just as the carriage came to a stop at the steps, the Imperial Princess came out of the gate. Meeting him face-to-face, she smiled broadly and said, “I came to see Yun’er. He was asleep the whole time and only woke up after a long while. He was pouting, looking for food. He looked so adorable! They say sons resemble their mothers, and looking at his nose, eyebrows, and eyes, he’s a spitting image of Lady Yan. He will definitely grow up to be a handsome young man.”

How could Helian Song not know her purpose? She was simply keeping an eye on things for the Emperor to see if the tiger would give birth to a mouse.

Fortunately, the child resembled his mother, leaving no room for doubt and reducing potential trouble. He casually remarked, “He’s too young now. In a couple more years, she might look like me.”

The Imperial Princess clapped her hands. “That’s even better! He will not have to worry about finding a suitable wife in the future.” She then sighed, “Sujie’s pregnancy is progressing; I will have to go see her later.” She gestured with her hand, “You go in quickly; I am going back too.”

Helian Song slightly bowed, stepped aside, and watched the Imperial Princess head towards the Duke of Wen’s residence before lifting his robe and stepping over the threshold.

Back in his room, Surou was not there; she probably had not returned from Hengfen Courtyard yet. He had intended to wait for her inside, but then thought he could not ignore the child, so he changed his clothes and went to visit him.

Upon entering, he saw Surou standing before the cradle, looking at the child with kind eyes. Only when the maid bowed and addressed him as “Master” did she look up. The gaze scrutinized his expression, trying to discern the outcome of his trip from his face, but since there were many people around, it was inappropriate to ask directly. Instead, it said, “My Lord, you are back? Come and see Yun’er. The child is growing so fast. Yesterday, he was all wrinkled when he was born, but today he’s all smoothed out and gotten fairer.”

Helian Song did not actually like children, but because this was his “eldest son,” he had to feign interest, bending down to examine the little face closely.

The child’s skin was so thin; his flesh seemed separated only by a thin membrane. One could easily injure him.

He dared not touch him, only instructing the wet nurse beside him to take good care of him. He then went to inquire about Zhiniang, asking how she was feeling that day.

Zhiniang replied, “I slept and have regained my strength. If the Lady had not forbidden me to get out of bed, I would have liked to go out for a walk.”

This seasoned sentry, accustomed to hardship and adversity, was not so delicate. But childbirth was a major event, and it was said that improper care could lead to chronic illness. Now that he held a position of authority, he naturally had to do his best. He instructed her to obey the Lady’s orders and remain in bed for a full month before getting out of bed.

Surou, still preoccupied with his progress at the Emperor’s meeting, turned back and said, “The Imperial Princess stayed quite a while, disturbing Zhiniang’s rest. Let’s go back and let her continue sleeping.” She then instructed the wet nurse to take the baby to the next room to care for it so as not to make too much noise and disturb the new mother’s sleep.

The two slowly walked back. Surou glanced at him every now and then, noticing the tense lines of his profile; she knew the trip had not gone well.

“What did the Emperor say?” she could not help but ask. “Has he mentioned letting you return to Longyou after learning the child was born?”

He narrowed his eyes, gazing into the distance, and gritted his teeth, saying, “If it were not for the fact that he’s the Emperor and I am his subject, I would have given him a good beating today! I used to think he was cunning, but at least he was upright. I never imagined that when his selfishness ran rampant, he would be so despicable.”

Surou suddenly felt deflated. She had a premonition that things would not go so smoothly, and sure enough, they did not.

“What did the Emperor say? Does he not care about the internal strife in Longyou? Or did he offer conditions, forcing you to settle for second best?”

She was an exceptionally intelligent woman. She never believed the Emperor would fall for his trap so easily, nor did she believe that a mere illegitimate son could secure his return to his fiefdom. But both were gambling; they were gambling on luck, the Emperor on Helian Song’s ambition. As for what cards today’s negotiations would reveal, Surou was somewhat afraid, feeling that she might ultimately be implicated.

At most, she would be allowed to stay in the capital with Yun’er. If trouble was inevitable, she was prepared for that. However, Helian Song did not answer, vaguely saying, “Do not worry about it, I have my own way of dealing with it.”

She stopped, looking at him, and said, “Such an important matter—are you going to keep it from me, My Lord?”

He was in a dilemma. To be honest, the Emperor could make such a request, yet he could not bring himself to speak to her. But she pressed him for an answer, and he could not refuse. Finally, he told her the truth: “The Emperor wants me to divorce you and make Zhiniang my legal wife. That way, the child will become the legitimate heir and can inherit the title.” Even repeating it aloud felt unbelievable. He sneered, “Li Chen has been Emperor for too long; it’s corrupted his brain. He’s come up with such a despicable scheme. He thinks I am a three-year-old child to be manipulated at will. Even if I do not return to Longyou, I will never let him have his way.”

But Surou found it truly heartbreaking. If she viewed it without any emotion, from the Emperor’s perspective, it was indeed a good plan.

However, she also truly despised the Emperor. She remembered when the Empress summoned her that day, she had asked if this child would take away the title of the eldest son. He had categorically said no. To maintain his authority, he devised a plan to directly make the concubine a wife, thus making the illegitimate son the legitimate heir. This move, cutting off the source of the problem, was truly masterful.

What to do now? The Emperor had the power to make her and Longyou opposing choices, which placed Helian Song in a difficult position. She thought disheartenedly, although she was certain he loved her, could that love be more important than the political situation?

She sighed, “The Emperor is truly cunning. He still wants to keep the eldest son before letting you go back.”

Afraid she would worry, he took her hand and said, “Do not worry about this. Even if I risk not returning to Longyou, I will not abandon you.”

Surou turned to look at him, tears welling in her eyes, but a smile appeared on her face. “Not returning to Longyou, staying in the capital forever? This place binds you, preventing you from running or jumping. You’ve waited twelve years, have you not? You long to go back and reunite with your family.”

“But you’re family too. Should I abandon you for the sake of my family on the other side?” He pulled her into his arms, his cheek pressed against her temple, and sighed deeply. “No, I cannot. I’d rather marry into the Zhang family than abandon you.”

Surou raised her hand and stroked his broad back. “Actually, you knew long ago that after marriage, it would be difficult for the couple to return to Longyou together, which is why you delayed getting married until you were twenty-four. Now reality is before you, and you have to make a choice. Do what you planned before, and do not let yourself regret it.”

His previous plans… He thought about it carefully. He fell in love at first sight on the city wall and was single-mindedly determined to marry her. His thinking was simple then: if she did not love him and wanted to stay in the capital, he would respect her choice. But plans kept changing, and circumstances shifted. By the time of their marriage, he was completely unable to let her go, which led to post-marital contraception and the unexpected arrival of Zhiniang.

If he had not cared about her, things would not be so complicated now. She could have gotten pregnant and given birth as usual after marriage, he could have left easily, and the Emperor would not have had to go through all that trouble. It was because he could not let go; feelings were something you could not just taste. Once you stepped in, you could never get out.

He tightened his grip on her arm, frowning as he gazed at the distant horizon. “We are husband and wife; no one can separate us. The more he lusts after you, the more I will make sure he cannot have you.”

Surou playfully slapped him. “Why are you saying that again? Do not let anyone hear!”

He chuckled. “What’s there to be afraid of now? He tries his best to hide it, but I see it clearly. He’s making things difficult for you because he cannot have you. I used to think he was a gentleman, but now that the facade is gone, he does not care about the substance. He’s already thinking about how to save face for you, saying he will make you a County Lady—it’s laughable and utterly despicable!”

Surou suddenly realized. She had heard these words before. The Emperor had said so in front of her that he would bestow upon her the title of County Lady, grant her a grand mansion, and keep her outside the palace as a mistress… It seemed this idea was deeply ingrained and had not been abandoned even now. She found it terrifying. Most girls in the capital hoped to gain the Emperor’s favor, but in her eyes, being targeted by the Emperor was not a stroke of luck but a sign of impending doom.

“My Lord, what should we do…” she murmured, burying her face in his chest. Maids and servants passed by in the courtyard from time to time. She no longer cared about honor or dignity; she only wanted to be close to him.

He said not to be afraid, “I am here. I said we will go together; we will stay together.”

But how easy was that? Did he not want his future? Did he want to abandon all his ambitions for a woman?

The Prince of Wukang had more than one son. If he abandoned him and another son was chosen to inherit the title, then his situation would truly be precarious. Surou had too many things to consider. She could not simply hand over all her problems to him based solely on his impulsive love.

Back in her room, she was also troubled and restless. She felt bound hand and foot, unable to move forward, only able to retreat. Behind her lay the entire Zhang family and so many close relatives and siblings; she did not dare to gamble everything.

If she were to let him stay as he suggested… It was becoming increasingly impossible. Leaving aside whether he would regret it or harbor resentment in the future, she could not imagine what would become of him once he was no longer of any use.

He went out to attend to his arrangements again, and Surou sat alone by the moon-shaped window, lost in thought.

Nanny Fu, unaware of the reason, noticed that Surou seemed rather melancholy today. She poured her a fragrant drink and asked softly, “What’s wrong, Madam? Has someone offended you? Did Her Highness the Imperial Princess say something unpleasant? Or did Lady Yan upset you?”

Surou shook her head, forcing a smile. “I guess I am just too tired these past few days. It’s alright; I will be fine after a rest.” She paused, then instructed, “Pack some clothes and supplies for me. I am going back to stay for a few days tomorrow.”

Nanny Fu was quite surprised and hesitated before asking, “What about the Heir Apparent’s supplies? Should we pack them too?”

Surou said no, “Just pack mine.”

Being together all the time, she feared disturbing his thoughts. It would be better to separate for a few days so he could calm down and consider things carefully. She was actually quite pessimistic, fearing that love could not withstand reality and that the lovers would become bitter enemies. If that were the case, she’d rather let him return to Longyou; at least they could have a good memory of each other, and if he came to the capital in the future… they could meet again.

“You may all go and rest.” She waved her hand, dismissing everyone.

Those before her exchanged glances, not daring to ask further, and bowed before retreating.

She rested her arms on the table, forming a small hollow, and buried her face in them. A heavy weight pressed on her heart; she was lost, unsure of what to do. Even though she had long anticipated that leaving the capital would not be easy, she had not expected the Emperor to even strip her of her title as the Heir Apparent’s Consort. This was the love of an Emperor.

Her heart was filled with unbearable pain. After much restraint, she finally burst into tears, sobbing into her arms so no one could hear her loud lament.

But what could she do? After a good cry, she had to pull herself together. She stood up groggily to wash her face, then hastily applied another layer of powder. When he returned, everything seemed as if nothing had happened. She had the kitchen prepare a table of fine dishes, and after inviting him to sit down, she said gently, “Leave all the hardships you encountered outside. Come back and eat well, and rest well.”

She served him food with gentle movements, her fair wrists swaying gracefully in the lamplight. Her gaze met his, and he was suddenly filled with indescribable tenderness.

“My wife, do not think such things. I’d rather give up this title of Heir Apparent than not share a grave with you.”

Surou chuckled, “It’s just a little hardship, nothing to be so dramatic about.” She scooped some snow dumplings into his bowl and said softly, “Try it, the cook started preparing it this afternoon.”

Unfortunately, this meal was not as enjoyable as usual; they both forced smiles. Later, the topic changed, but their minds remained on the matter, so their conversation became disjointed, and they barely managed to finish their meal.

That evening, after washing up, they lay down, staring blankly at the canopy ceiling. The air seemed to freeze, a suffocating feeling making them uncomfortable.

He turned to his side and called out, “Wife, you must believe me. I will definitely find a way to get you out of here.”

Escape was not difficult; the challenge was to leave unscathed. Surou knew the Emperor’s obsession. Perhaps letting him return to Longyou was not difficult; using this opportunity to regain some ground was paramount.

She said nothing, rose, and blew out the candle on the table.

The inner chamber immediately darkened, with only a faint light from the lantern in the back corridor casting a hazy glow on the night.

“Wife…” he called to her hesitantly.

She shushed him, her fingertips silencing his words. Then, her slender fingers moved to her warm, soft lips, lightly touching them, and she said in a deep voice, “Helian Song, I love you.”

He was stunned. He had never heard her say these words to him directly. It was the Emperor who had relayed them, a fabricated excuse she had made up to escape. Now it had come true. Those few words, so beautiful, struck his heart instantly.

He stroked her face, responding tenderly, “Me too, my wife, me too…”

Surou mimicked his actions, slowly exploring his body, but her heart grew increasingly bitter. They had only been husband and wife for half a year; to let go now was truly unbearable.

Her tenderness elicited a series of surprises from him. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he murmured, “My wife… Surou…”

Surou loved the closeness of their bodies; his strong physique and surging passion told her he was deeply infatuated with her.

Her hand rested on his chest, looking down at him, and she said, “My Lord, I have no regrets about marrying you. Even if we are separated in the future, I will cherish you for the rest of my life.”

He was confused but still retorted, “Nonsense! Without you, even if I return to Longyou, I will just be an empty shell. So I’d rather not go back and stay with you.”

His words were enough.

In the dim light, he could not see the tears in her eyes, only her slender figure, like a small boat on a wave, like a red ribbon tied to a mast, swaying gracefully in the wind. He loved her vibrant self; her nightgown was half-transparent in the hazy light, revealing a mysterious allure beyond her elegance, visible only to him.

She was weak and could not last long, but having made such a good start, the rest was up to him.

Strangely, this night felt like their wedding night, filled with a frenzied and pounding heart. Only afterwards did he realize, “I forgot to take the medicine.”

Surou wrapped her arms around his neck and whispered, “I do not want to take it anymore. Let nature take its course. If I get pregnant, I will have the baby. I want a child of ours.”

He could hear the despair in her voice and held her tightly, saying, “You have to believe me. Do not worry, and do not be afraid.”

She leaned in, her lips meeting his. “But this is a serious matter…” She pulled up the blanket, carefully tucking him in, then added, “Something’s come up at home tomorrow. I need to go back and stay for a couple of days.”

He was initially a little dazed, but suddenly he came to his senses. “What happened? I will go with you.”

Surou said no, “I will go back alone; you stay at the Prince’s Mansion.” She smoothed his loose hair as she spoke, her voice gentle, “We need to be apart for two days to think things through. If you are with me every day, I will interfere with your decisions, and that’s not good. If we can be husband and wife for a long time, I hope we will not harbor resentment towards each other and that we can have a good ending. So… you need to think carefully about what His Majesty said today so you will not regret it later.”

Actually, being apart for two days was also to let him experience what it was like without her. If he could endure it, he could ignore her and pursue his own future. If he could not endure it and was determined to defy His Majesty, then there would be nothing to complain about in the future. Whether it was good or bad, husband and wife would bear it together, and it would have nothing to do with family or relatives.