The Prisoner of Beauty

Xiao Qiao felt slightly embarrassed. Knowing she couldn't keep hiding it, she quickly lowered her head and said, "It's all my fault as the granddaughter-in-law. Last night in the room, I got a bit upset with him over some trivial matter. Please don't blame me, Grandmother."

Xiao Qiao had spent most of the night thinking and concluded that Wei Shao's sudden moodiness over the past two days was related to his comment, "Even the men of the Wei family would fall at your feet."

She didn't know how he had so hastily labeled her as a seductress, forcing her to act affectionate in front of Wei Yan, only to turn around and vent his frustration at her.

But one thing she was sure of: he believed there was something improper between Wei Yan and her.

At the time, she had been thoroughly disgusted by his insinuation and, unable to control herself, slapped him without considering the consequences, successfully driving him away. However, since Wei Shao had returned this morning and pretended everything was fine in front of Madam Xu, it was clear he didn't want this "family scandal" to spread. So when Madam Xu suddenly brought it up, Xiao Qiao naturally didn't dare to say much, only vaguely deflecting with mentions of "the room" and "trivial matters." She figured that given Madam Xu's seniority, even if she was curious or skeptical, she wouldn't press for details.

Indeed, Madam Xu didn't pursue the matter further. She simply nodded and said, "Even lips and teeth clash, let alone young couples? Although you just said it was your fault, I know it must have been him who offended you. He's been a mischievous monkey since childhood, always causing trouble if not disciplined. After a good scolding, he'll remember."

Xiao Qiao sensed there might be some underlying meaning in Madam Xu's words but didn't have time to dwell on it. She just wanted to get past this awkward moment and nodded in agreement.

Madam Xu smiled and said, "Tomorrow is the Deer and Horse Assembly, and we must leave early. It's getting late now. The cat can stay, but you should return to your room and prepare for tomorrow. Rest well. If he comes back still upset with you, just come and tell me, and I'll handle it."

Xiao Qiao respectfully agreed and left, returning to the west wing. Wei Shao, of course, wasn't there. Xiao Qiao didn't wait for him to eat and had her meal alone. After returning to her room, she calmed her mind and went over every detail of what she needed to do the next morning to ensure nothing would go wrong. Then she went to bed.

She needed to rest well.

Wei Shao returned in the middle of the night, tiptoeing as if afraid to wake her. Xiao Qiao was actually awakened by him but pretended to be asleep.

Wei Shao came out of the bathroom, turned off the light, and climbed into bed. That night, they slept separately. Xiao Qiao slept soundly. The next morning, she was awakened by movement beside her.

Wei Shao sat up in bed.

Outside the window, the sky was just beginning to lighten with a pale gray hue. Given the current season, it was probably not yet the fifth watch. Still early.

But today was the Deer and Horse Assembly, so it made sense for him to leave early.

Xiao Qiao barely opened her eyes and saw Wei Shao's back and the back of his head as he sat on the bed.

He sat motionless, as if lost in thought, then suddenly turned slightly and glanced at Xiao Qiao on the pillow.

Xiao Qiao was still half-asleep, her eyes half-closed, and she drowsily met his gaze. He seemed disdainful, turned his head back, and got out of bed.Although there had been that earlier incident, which had created some distance between them, since he was now awake, Xiao Qiao would still do what needed to be done. She yawned and got up with him. As usual, she opened the door and called for the servants to come in and assist with washing, dressing, and grooming.

The entire process was carried out in complete silence, with only the sound of the servants' footsteps and the gentle clinking of the copper basin and water vessel. Soon after, the kitchen staff brought in the breakfast tray. Xiao Qiao knelt beside Wei Shao, accompanying him.

Previously, when the two of them were deeply in love, Wei Shao had already been sharing meals with her at the same table.

Now, it was as if they had automatically reverted to the initial stage of their relationship.

Wei Shao remained expressionless throughout. After Xiao Qiao served him breakfast and saw him off, watching his figure disappear into the pale dawn, she came back inside and decided not to sleep anymore. After finishing her own grooming, Chun Niang helped her pick out the clothes she would wear today.

Today marked her first public appearance since marrying into the Wei family, and she had been pondering over what to wear for several days.

The Deer Terrace was not just a gathering of the Wei family's aunts and uncles; it was an event attended by the prominent families of Yuyang, the Wei family's military officers, and the soldiers of Youzhou. Xiao Qiao was already beautiful enough, so the focus was no longer on her beauty but on the grace and presence she needed to display as the third-generation lady of the Wei family.

To this end, Chun Niang had privately sought advice from Zhong Ao. Zhong Ao suggested that since Madam Xu would be wearing dark purple that day, Xiao Qiao could wear a deep red. This would complement Madam Xu's attire while also making her stand out.

Chun Niang was delighted and thanked Zhong Ao. Upon returning, she began altering the dress.

She was skilled in needlework and had finally completed the dress yesterday.

Xiao Qiao put on the deep red ceremonial robe embroidered with black dragon, phoenix, and vine patterns. The skirt trailed on the ground, the wide sleeves reached her knees, and the belt was seven inches wide, adorned with intricate golden dogwood and cloud patterns. A beautiful jade ornament was embedded in the belt, and her black hair was styled into a high, elegant bun, with a pair of gem-encrusted, pearl-dangling golden phoenix hairpins on either side.

Compared to when she had first married over half a year ago, Xiao Qiao had grown taller, and her figure was gradually shedding the youthful immaturity, becoming more balanced and graceful. Dressed in such a ceremonial robe and fully adorned, she exuded a noble and elegant aura, yet still retained a sense of freshness and beauty. Even Madam Xu, upon seeing her, examined her for a long time before finally smiling and saying, "With such a fine daughter-in-law, my grandson is truly blessed!"

The day was clear with high clouds, and the morning was bathed in brilliant sunlight. At mid-morning, Wei Liang was sent to escort the women of the Wei family. Xiao Qiao and Madam Xu boarded the carriage, and Zhu Shi also joined them. After traveling a few miles out of the city, they arrived at the Deer Terrace.

The Deer Terrace, despite its name, was actually a tall observation tower built on a solid earthen foundation. Facing south, it was dozens of feet long and wide, with three stories and no walls, making it imposing and offering excellent views. Opposite the Deer Terrace was a large training ground capable of accommodating ten thousand people, with gates named after the four celestial creatures: Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise. Each gate had a smaller side gate, and above each gate was a slightly lower observation platform, named after the respective gates, serving as seats for the invited prefects and other distinguished guests.

By nearly mid-morning, the training ground was filled with countless banners and gleaming armor, as tens of thousands of troops from various regions had gathered.

As Madam Xu's carriage approached the Azure Dragon Gate, the cannons at all four gates fired, and Wei Shao and Wei Yan, along with the prefects of Yuyang and other regions, as well as the noble families, quickly emerged and lined up to welcome them.Madam Xu, her silver hair neatly combed and dressed in a deep purple robe, descended from the carriage. She leaned on a dragon-headed cane with one hand, while Xiao Qiao supported her other arm. Zhu Shi followed behind as they made their way towards the Azure Dragon Gate.

Wei Shao and Wei Yan hurried forward to pay their respects, and the various prefects also bowed in greeting.

The Deer and Horse Assembly, besides its purpose of selecting talents and showcasing military might, was also an occasion for the Wei family to connect and strengthen alliances with the prefects from various regions.

The prefects invited today were all old acquaintances from the time of Wei Shao's father. Over the past few days, Wei Shao had already met with those who had arrived. Naturally, they had all interacted with Madam Xu and were eager to see her. However, Madam Xu had been rarely receiving guests. Now that she finally appeared, they eagerly stepped forward to greet her.

Madam Xu, spirited and smiling, exchanged pleasantries with each person. Noticing the gazes of the crowd soon falling upon Xiao Qiao, she laughed and said, "I am old, but fortunately, the Wei family has a successor to manage the household. This is my grandson's new bride, Qiao Shi, who has won my heart. Today, Qiao Shi will strike the golden drum on my behalf, to inspire the brave warriors of Youzhou!"

Under the slightly surprised gazes of the crowd, Xiao Qiao stepped forward calmly, a gentle smile on her face. "Before I came, my grandmother told me that today's gathering is filled with outstanding heroes and pillars of the Wei family. She instructed me not to be impolite and to address you all as uncles. Uncles, please accept my respects." With that, she bowed in three directions.

Though young, her extraordinary beauty, graceful demeanor, and poised responses left a striking impression on everyone. With Madam Xu's endorsement and her status as Wei Shao's wife, no one dared to act superior or condescending, and they all returned her bow.

Madam Xu, in high spirits, laughed heartily and once again took Xiao Qiao's arm, leading her through the Azure Dragon Gate.

The soldiers in the training ground erupted in cheers of "Long live!" at the sight of Madam Xu.

Madam Xu, beaming, led Xiao Qiao, with Zhu Shi following behind, and accompanied by Wei Shao and Wei Yan, ascended to their positions on the Deer and Horse Platform. The prefects, nobles, and invited guests also took their seats on the viewing platforms at the four gates. Yuan Dai and Ding Qu, who had arrived two days prior, were also shown to their seats.

The Deer and Horse Platform offered an excellent view. The strong winds swept across, and from the platform, one could see the vast training ground below, where the soldiers stood in disciplined formations, their armor gleaming, exuding a powerful martial aura. It was impossible not to feel a surge of excitement.

Xiao Qiao knew that Wei Yan and Wei Shao were nearby, their eyes fixed on her. Though she found the two Wei men quite unsettling, she did not let it distract her, nor did she even glance their way. She focused solely on Madam Xu. Under Madam Xu's encouraging gaze, she took a deep breath, exhaled the tension in her chest, and walked steadily towards the massive golden drum at the center of the Deer and Horse Platform. She took the copper mallet adorned with red tassels from a soldier and, under the watchful eyes of the crowd, swung her arm firmly to strike the drum. After three resounding beats, as the echoes of the drum still lingered, she proclaimed in a clear, vibrant voice: "To the grand hall, raise the goblets! Honor our brave warriors, who guard the four directions! May you live forever!"

At that moment, the strong winds carried her clear, energetic voice, mingling with the drumbeats, across the training ground.

"May you live forever!"

"May you live forever!"The training ground was initially silent, but after a moment, it suddenly erupted again with the sound of "Long live the Emperor," echoing her recitation. The voices came from all directions, almost shaking the heavens.

Xiao Qiao placed the copper hammer back on the tray and walked back steadily, just as she had come.

She looked at Madam Xu, and from the smile in Madam Xu's eyes, she knew she had passed this "test," which was actually not easy for her.

She let out a long sigh of relief. Her expression appeared calm, but in reality, her heart was still beating rapidly, and her palms were sweaty.

Although women's status was generally low at present, in the Wei family, there had been a period when women were in charge of governance. It was thanks to Madam Xu at that time that the Wei family had survived the turbulent low point, laying a solid foundation for Wei Shao's later governance.

Therefore, in front of Madam Xu of the Wei family, there was no such thing as women not being allowed to step out of the inner hall.

Xiao Qiao knew very well that with her qualifications, it was originally impossible for her to stand in such a high position at this place called Deer Terrace, receiving cheers from the masses below.

From her heart, she had never aspired to gain such glory—she never felt she deserved it. More importantly, she felt some trepidation—the fear that she could not reciprocate such glory in the future.

But Madam Xu had pushed her to this position. She could not refuse.

Xiao Qiao actually did not know why Madam Xu valued her so much. Since she was favored, she could not decline today's event. The only thing she could do was to do her best and not disappoint Madam Xu's expectations.

Now it seemed that she had done quite well. At least, she had not embarrassed herself.

Madam Xu asked her to sit beside her, gently patted the back of her hand, and smiled, "You did very well."

Xiao Qiao said, "Thanks to Grandmother's love and encouragement, I was fortunate not to fail the mission."

...

After the golden drums, the Deer Terrace Assembly officially began. The training ground was filled with the majestic voices of soldiers, cheering for the athletes from their own regiments.

Wei Shao and Wei Yan were about to go down to the training ground. They came to bid farewell to Madam Xu.

Wei Yan had a smile on his face and looked composed.

Looking at Wei Yan, Xiao Qiao couldn't help but think of Wei Shao's paranoia, which was even worse than a woman's.

Although she didn't know how he had come to suspect that she and Wei Yan had an affair, recalling the way Wei Yan had stared at her when they first met, and now seeing both of them in front of her, she suddenly felt uncomfortable.

Xiao Qiao couldn't help but glance at Wei Shao. She saw that he was staring at her. She didn't avoid his gaze but slightly raised her chin and stared back at him.

Wei Shao seemed to pause, his expression darkening, and then he turned and left.

Wei Yan followed and also descended from Deer Terrace.

With these two troublemakers gone, Xiao Qiao finally felt at ease and immediately looked for her younger brother Qiao Ci in the training ground.

There were two competitions today: archery on horseback and hand-to-hand combat. The first was archery on horseback, which was Qiao Ci's event.The competition combined the skills of "riding" and "archery." At the end of the field, a golden bell was suspended by ropes. All participating warriors would start from the starting point on horseback, and the one who could avoid opponents' interference and be the first to shoot down the golden bell with an arrow would be the winner. Striking the opponent's horse was prohibited, but any other means of hindering the opponent were allowed. This posed a significant challenge to the warriors' equestrian skills, archery, and combat abilities.

A total of thirty-two warriors participated in the bell-shooting contest. Except for Qiao Ci, all were top-notch riders and archers from various military camps. They had already mounted their horses at the starting point, awaiting the beginning of the competition.

Xiao Qiao soon spotted her younger brother, Qiao Ci.

He looked exceptionally spirited today. His face was as bright as a silver plate, his eyebrows sharp as swords. Dressed in a white robe and silver armor, he carried a precious bow on his shoulder and a sword at his waist, sitting tall on his blue-maned horse.

Xiao Qiao felt joy in her heart and gazed intently at Qiao Ci. Sensing her gaze, Qiao Ci suddenly turned his head toward the Deer Terrace behind him and smiled at her. The youthful vigor and heroic aura of the young warrior were palpable.

Author's note: By the way, the phrases "long live" and "eternal life" were not yet exclusive to the emperor in this era.