The Han Dynasty Empress is a Ghost | Chapter 63 | The Mark of the Netherworld | Novela.app

A’Jiao did not expect Wei Qing to arrive so early the next day. It was early enough to be considered a breach of etiquette. The sky was barely gray with the first light of dawn when Wei Qing galloped directly to the Chen residence. Chen Yang and Ruan Qing had just risen. After glancing at their children, A’Jiao and Chen Yan, in the side room, they headed toward Old Madam Chen’s Yunjin Courtyard. "News came from someone close to His Majesty in the palace. They say His Majesty intends to visit the residence after lunch today. He specifically mentioned there is no need for formal preparations," Wei Qing said, his breath still ragged from the ride. The Emperor had sent Guo Dun out secretly to deliver the message. He said no preparations were needed, but who would dare take that literally? Only a fool would. The moment Wei Qing heard the message, he had hurriedly changed his clothes and rushed to the Chen estate. The Old Madam, draped in a cloak, nodded to show she understood. "However, Marquis, our family has truly never hosted the sovereign before. Last time His Majesty came in secret, we were already remiss in our hospitality. We cannot allow that to happen again." "That is natural. Since His Majesty gave advance notice, he expects us to be ready," Wei Qing said with a reassuring smile. The Old Madam’s spirit slowly returned. "In that case, I hope the Marquis will assist us in the arrangements." Before long, members of both the primary and secondary branches of the family arrived at Yunjin Courtyard. After some thought, the Old Madam decided that the best place in the residence was currently Anle Residence, where Chen Chuo and Wei Yuan lived. When His Majesty arrived, he would be settled there. Wei Yuan was beyond excited upon hearing this and scurried back to prepare. By the time A’Jiao opened her eyes, the world outside was bright with daylight. She reached out her hand; the spot beside her was empty. Xiazhu had already gotten up. Yuli had slept on the small couch nearby during the night. She was currently tidying A’Jiao’s room with Xiazhu—the items brought back from the palace had to be displayed properly, after all. A’Jiao stretched beneath the covers, letting out a comfortable hum. Yuli was quick-witted; hearing the sound, she immediately ran over to lift the bed curtains. "My Lady is awake. I shall call for the servants to assist with your washing." A’Jiao nodded with her eyes closed. Indeed, life outside the palace was better; even sleep felt sweeter. She allowed Yuli and Xiazhu to help her up. Four young maidservants entered carrying washbasins, towels, and bronze mirrors. A’Jiao was slightly surprised; these girls looked like they belonged to the Old Madam’s courtyard. Seeing her expression, Xiazhu explained, "These are four young maids the Old Madam newly transferred here. She said that since My Lady now holds a noble rank, you cannot be neglected as before. The servants bestowed by the palace won't be released for another half-month, so she assigned some people from Yunjin Courtyard to serve you first." A’Jiao hummed in acknowledgment, letting the girls wipe her face and hands. Yuli watched A’Jiao’s lazy, relaxed demeanor with some surprise; the girl had seemed so cautious and prudent while in the palace. Once finished, A’Jiao sat alone in her room for breakfast. Chen Yan had already been taken to the banquet hall—Shi’an Pavilion. The Chen family had started as merchants, and for this full-month celebration, they had invited everyone from neighbors and business associates to fellow officials. After eating, A’Jiao was led toward the banquet hall. When they reached the garden, Yuli set her down to let her walk a bit. A’Jiao casually plucked a yellow cockscomb flower, playing with it in her hands. Seeing a line of servants carrying a set of folding screens past them, A’Jiao called out to stop them. "Isn't that Grandmother's screen? Where are you taking it?" The leader answered respectfully, "To answer the Eldest Young Miss, the Old Madam ordered it to be sent to the Second Young Mistress’s courtyard." A’Jiao nodded. "Why send it there? Isn't it needed in the front hall?" The leader replied, "I heard a distinguished guest is coming. The Old Madam ordered the Second Master’s courtyard to be prepared for a separate banquet." A’Jiao was puzzled. Yuli knelt beside her and whispered, "The Great General sent word. His Majesty has left the palace and is coming to our residence." A’Jiao: "..." She crushed the flower in her hand into a pulp and threw it on the ground. Yuli waved the servants away, and only then did they dare to retreat. A’Jiao began stomping toward Shi’an Pavilion on her short legs. Xiazhu quickly scooped her up. "My Lady, Physician Song said you cannot run fast." "It’s nothing." A’Jiao hooked her arms around Xiazhu’s neck, leaning against her quietly. *** The Chen residence was indeed crowded today. There were those she knew and those she didn't; some came to build connections with the Wei family, while others came for the "new noble," the Lady of Huikang. Many Marquis households in the capital had sent representatives to register their names. The Old Madam held Chen Yan, conversing with a group of noble ladies in the inner chamber of Shi’an Pavilion. While the great aristocratic clans looked down on the Chen family's origins, several families had still sent stewards or head maids to deliver gifts. The Old Madam rose to greet the House Manager from the Princess of Yangxin’s manor. Princess Yangxin... The Old Madam glanced toward the outer hall. She knew the Princess was only showing face because of her son-in-law, Wei Qing, and she did not dare to be arrogant. The House Manager only exchanged a few polite words with Old Madam Chen as instructed by Liu Ying, then excused herself, claiming the Princess’s manor was busy, and left in a hurry. In the city of Chang'an, a titled noble with a fief of a thousand households was not much, but sending someone was a gesture of goodwill—a way of saying, "When you prosper in the future, remember the face I gave you today." A’Jiao found their social maneuvering boring and decided to go to the flower hall to watch her second-branch aunt, Zhang Su, play leaf cards with several ladies. Her own hands were itching for a game, but she was unfortunately too young. "Oh, My Lady, why have you come to the flower hall? Princess Weichang has arrived, and the Second Young Mistress is hosting her. The Princess wishes to see you," Yuli said, running over. Princess Weichang? Liu Qing? A’Jiao frowned. Yuli carried A’Jiao to a small side parlor near Shi’an Pavilion. Only Liu Qing and Wei Yuan were seated, while the floor below was crowded with standing maids and palace attendants. Yuli bowed and set A’Jiao down. A’Jiao immediately lunged into Wei Yuan’s arms. "Is this the Lady of Huikang whom Imperial Father enfeoffed? She truly comes from a minor household; how lack-set in manners!" Liu Qing shook her head. Her tone was gentle, and though her words were critical, she wore an expression of feigned affection. Liu Qing took Wei Yuan’s hand. "Sigh, Sister Yuan, I must say, Uncle was quite something to marry you off to... Do not be afraid in your husband’s house. If you lack anything, you can always tell your elder cousin. Do you understand?" Wei Yuan didn't understand why Liu Qing had been acting so pitying since she entered the Chen residence, but she assumed it was just Liu Qing being kind. She smiled and replied, "Then I thank my cousin! Actually, the residence has everything; nothing is lacking." "This house is far too small. And it was Uncle who bought it for you; you are truly being wronged." "The house? Oh, does Cousin wish to see the house Father bought for me? That isn't here. If you want to see it, I can take you there." A’Jiao stayed nestled in Wei Yuan’s arms, remaining silent. Liu Qing was stunned. "What do you mean it isn't here?" She lowered her voice. "Don't be embarrassed that I'm saying this. Empress Mother told us all; we know this Chen residence was bought for you by Uncle. But look at you—just now when I came in, why were you standing down there? People coming and going could have bumped into you. You shouldn't let those who took advantage of you mistreat you." Liu Qing had heard from her mother that the Chen family was destitute. Furthermore, since her own marriage, she was used to others coming to pay respects to her. She assumed Wei Yuan was being mistreated by having to receive guests at Shi’an Pavilion. A’Jiao finally caught the scent of what was happening. From Liu Qing’s words, it sounded as if someone had told her the Chen residence had been purchased by Wei Qing. Years ago, Old Madam Chen had ignored all opposition and made the decisive move to buy official posts for her two sons, Chen Zhe and Chen Ao, and spent a fortune to buy this residence in Chang'an. It had nearly exhausted the Chen family's savings. But the Old Madam never regretted it. Today, the Chen family had gradually earned back that money and even had a surplus. A’Jiao felt this was quite good. At the very least, they had established a foothold in Chang'an, and with the income from their shops, life was very comfortable. A’Jiao spoke up: "You are mistaken. This is our home, bought by ourselves. The courtyard Great-Uncle bought is over there!" Liu Qing froze, then felt a flash of anger. *How ill-mannered!* Wei Yuan realized the confusion and laughed. "Cousin, you must have misunderstood. The courtyard Father bought is next door. This place was bought by the Chens themselves, decades ago!" Wei Yuan looked up at the ceiling. "By my father-in-law’s standards, this house is very good. Of course, it cannot compare to your Princess Manor!" Wei Yuan giggled. Liu Qing smiled but said nothing. She didn't believe it; she thought this was merely Wei Yuan trying to save face. However, she prided herself on being gracious enough to let Wei Yuan keep her dignity. Wei Yuan chatted with Liu Qing for a long while. As the sun climbed higher, Wei Yuan figured it was time for the banquet to start outside. She asked, "Cousin, why don't you come to my quarters? It’s noisy here with so many people. It would be quieter to have lunch at my place." Liu Qing thought for a moment. Naturally, she looked down on the Chen family. She had come today thinking Wei Yuan’s life was pitiful and wanting to give her some prestige. But to eat here... Liu Qing’s expression shifted slightly, then she smiled again. "I think not. I must return to have lunch with Zong’er." She stood up as she spoke. Despite Wei Yuan’s repeated attempts to make her stay, Liu Qing was unwilling to dine there. Wei Yuan had no choice but to see her out. Looking at the crowd of people bowing to her outside, Liu Qing departed with a smile. The Princess’s carriage headed straight back to the Marquis of Pingyang’s manor. Liu Qing wondered what else she should bestow upon Wei Yuan. Such a pitiful person—giving money directly didn't suit her status, so perhaps she would send some jewelry. Liu Qing smiled slightly. The wind caught the carriage curtain, and she caught sight of a man riding a tall horse passing her carriage. Liu Qing felt as if a sun had suddenly dropped into her cold world. *"Thinking of the gentleman, he is as warm as jade,"* she murmured. A moment later, her face burned. How could she recite such poetry for a man she had only seen once? Liu Qing sat back, her breath hitching for a long time. Ignoring the surprised looks of her maids, she threw open the curtain again, but the young man was nowhere to be seen. Liu Qing’s mouth hung slightly open, her heart in a mess. She sat there in a daze. *** Chen Chuo, who had personally gone to the palace gates to receive the Emperor’s carriage, rode to the entrance of the Chen family’s alley. He dismounted and approached the carriage. "Your Majesty, we have arrived. Will Your Majesty enter through this residence, or through my humble side?" "There are too many people here. We will go through your side," a slightly deep voice came from inside the carriage. "Understood." Chen Chuo remounted and led the carriage to the other side. *** Chen Chuo sent word ahead. Old Madam Chen led the primary branch of the family to the gates of Anle Residence to receive the sovereign. The threshold of the gate had been removed, allowing the carriage to drive directly to the entrance of Anle Residence. Liu Che stepped out and waved his hand, signaling everyone to dispense with the formalities. Wei Yuan had already ordered servants to set up screens and curtains. They entered the main hall. Once Liu Che was seated, someone brought water for him to wash his hands, and then Chen Yang stepped forward to present a cup of honey water. Liu Che took a sip and granted everyone permission to sit. Men and women sat on opposite sides. A’Jiao was held by Yuli, sitting next to Ruan Qing. As for Xiazhu, A’Jiao had ordered her to guard Tongjing Courtyard—she simply did not trust Liu Che. "Jiao Jiao, come here," Liu Che beckoned to her. A’Jiao had no choice but to trot over. Liu Che stroked A’Jiao’s hair and smiled softly. "A jar of grape wine was opened in the palace yesterday. I thought you hadn't tasted it yet, so I brought some for you today." Huang Yu carefully brought forward a ceramic jar, and Guo Dun presented a luminous jade cup. A’Jiao looked at the wine and felt something was wrong. Although she had indeed never tasted grape wine—Zhang Qian had brought back a fruit called "grapes" after his mission to the Western Regions, and she had only eaten the fruit—why would Liu Che go out of his way to bring it to her? As she lowered her head in thought, her peripheral vision caught a familiar figure flashing by—Chu Haiguang. Huang Yu carefully poured the wine, and Guo Dun handed the cup over. Looking at the reddish liquid, A’Jiao felt she shouldn't drink it. "Father says children cannot drink alcohol." Liu Che laughed. "It’s fine. If you don't believe me, ask your father and your great-uncle if you can have a taste!" Wei Qing also smiled. "A little bit won't hurt." He was surprised the Emperor had specifically brought grape wine for A’Jiao. A’Jiao didn't move. The entire room was watching her. Wei Yuan was visibly impatient, wishing A’Jiao would just drink it. A’Jiao closed her eyes, steeled her heart, took the cup, and drained it in one gulp. Then she began to cough violently. Ruan Qing was startled and moved to help, but Yuli held her back firmly. Liu Che smiled and pulled A’Jiao into his arms, ordering, "The remaining wine is bestowed upon the rest of you. One cup each." Everyone expressed their thanks and tasted the grape wine, which was a rarity even in the palace. Liu Che smiled again. "Since there are festivities in the residence today, you may all go about your business. I shall wander the grounds on my own." Wei Qing looked up at Yang Deyi. Seeing Yang Deyi nod slightly, he bowed and took his leave. Seeing this, the others followed suit. A’Jiao drifted into a drunken stupor in Liu Che’s arms. Only after everyone had left did Chu Haiguang bow and enter. Yang Deyi wiped the wine from the luminous cup and placed it back in its box. The others withdrew, leaving only three people in the room. Liu Che stroked A’Jiao’s smooth cheek, his voice devoid of emotion. "She has taken the medicine. What method do you have to make that treasure appear?" Chu Haiguang bowed and presented a porcelain vial. "To answer Your Majesty, by dripping this substance onto her body, the treasure can be forced to manifest." That day in the Hall of Xuanzhi, he had fainted from the pain of his chronic ailment. When he woke midway, he had happened to see the treasure manifest within the girl again, incinerating the "eyes" within the golden cranes. He had been in and out of the Hall of Xuanzhi many times, yet he had never discovered that those golden statues contained foreign objects. Fortunately, taking advantage of the Ministry of Justice's interrogation, he had secured another opportunity from the Emperor. "How certain are you?" Liu Che held A’Jiao, making no move to take the vial. "Fifty percent." "You dare ask me to come here with only fifty percent certainty? You have quite the nerve." Liu Che pinched A’Jiao’s tender skin. "If we do not try, there is zero percent certainty." Chu Haiguang held the vial above his head. Inside the bottle was talisman water left by his master, capable of breaking all illusionary arts. Combined with the wine A’Jiao had just drunk—which contained a demonic toxin—it should be enough to make the treasure appear. Chu Haiguang was also nervous. He had only told the Emperor that the inner rim of the luminous cup was coated with a sedative; he had not mentioned that he had arranged for it to be coated with a demonic toxin. Liu Che placed A’Jiao on the floor. Chu Haiguang placed two fingers on A’Jiao’s forehead; he could feel the toxin taking effect. Chu Haiguang couldn't help but smile. As expected, that thing could only defend against magical attacks, but it could not stop poison. He dripped the talisman water onto A’Jiao’s forehead and used a golden hairpin to spread it across her brow. Liu Che watched in amazement as something truly began to manifest on A’Jiao’s forehead. "*Punishment* (罚)." Liu Che looked at the character appearing on A’Jiao’s forehead in confusion. "What is this?" Chu Haiguang suddenly froze. This was...? This was! This was the mark of the Netherworld!!! He shouldn't have been greedy for a treasure! Chu Haiguang was suddenly struck by regret. He wouldn't have died without this treasure; it would have just been a day or two of pain every three months. For a man like him who toyed with occult arts, the thing he feared most was crossing paths with Earth Immortals or Celestial Gods. Seeing Chu Haiguang sweating profusely, Liu Che barked in a low voice, "What is wrong?" As the talisman water seeped into A’Jiao’s forehead, her body began to burn. A small bead manifested at her chest, followed by three talismans hanging around her neck. "It’s out!" Liu Che marveled. He reached out to touch it, but his hand only met A’Jiao’s clothes. "How do I take it out?" Liu Che asked urgently. "Your Majesty, stop. This is a thing of the Netherworld." Chu Haiguang’s legs gave way, and he collapsed into a kneel. Liu Che stared intently at the bead. "The Netherworld?" "The Netherworld is the Yin Realm, another divine realm that governs the dead. All those who cannot achieve immortality must go there after death..." Chu Haiguang’s voice was trembling. As the light intensified, a faint black mist began to steam off A’Jiao’s body. In less than the time it took for half an incense stick to burn, Chu Haiguang saw the demonic toxin—which his master said would kill a mortal instantly—vanish. A’Jiao slowly woke up. She was shocked to see Chu Haiguang slumped like a pile of wet mud beside her. She tried to sit up, but she had no strength. She could only look at Liu Che. She didn't know what this chaotic fool had done to her! Liu Che’s eyes were bloodshot. A’Jiao curled into a ball. Liu Che, as if driven mad, began tearing at A’Jiao’s clothes, fumbling at her chest in an attempt to seize the bead. "Your Majesty." Wei Qing pushed open the door, carrying a tray of pastries. He froze the moment the door opened. "Get out!" Liu Che roared. He saw the bead on A’Jiao’s chest slowly fading away. Wei Qing’s mind went blank. He closed the door woodenly. He must have seen wrong. He knew the Emperor had always loved beauties, but how could the Emperor do anything to a three-year-old child? He must have seen wrong! The pastries spilled all over the floor. *** **Glossary** Chinese | English | Notes/Explanation ---|---|--- 世安馆 | Shi’an Pavilion | The main banquet hall of the Chen residence. 安乐居 | Anle Residence | The courtyard of Chen Chuo and Wei Yuan. 云锦院 | Yunjin Courtyard | Old Madam Chen's courtyard. 同景院 | Tongjing Courtyard | A'Jiao's courtyard. 惠康君 | Lady of Huikang | A'Jiao's noble title. 卫长公主 | Princess Weichang | Liu Qing, the Emperor's daughter. 阳信公主 | Princess of Yangxin | Also known as Princess Pingyang. 家令 | House Manager | An official title for someone managing a princess's household. 叶子戏 | Leaf cards | An ancient Chinese card game. 言念君子，温其如玉 | Thinking of the gentleman, he is as warm as jade | A quote from the *Book of Songs* (Shijing). 地府 | Netherworld / Underworld | The realm of the dead in Chinese mythology. 妖毒 | Demonic toxin | A supernatural poison. 符水 | Talisman water | Water infused with the power of a burnt or dissolved Daoist talisman. 罚 | Punishment / Fa | The character that appeared on A'Jiao's forehead.