Li Yuangui arrived at the Huayang Gate and saw an elderly woman dressed in full ceremonial robes for noblewomen standing outside the palace gate. The palace lantern cast a quiet shadow on the ground. He stepped forward, crossing the high threshold, and said with a smile, "My apologies for keeping you waiting, Old Madam Pei! Please, come in quickly."
As he spoke, two young eunuchs swiftly brought over a sedan chair, lowering it respectfully.
"Old Madam, His Majesty has been residing in the West Garden these days. It's a bit of a distance, so please take the sedan chair and let these attendants escort you."
Old Madam Pei nodded at Li Yuangui and replied with a smile, "Thank you for your trouble, Eunuch Li. Your thoughtfulness is much appreciated. However, my legs are still strong, and within the imperial palace, I dare not overstep my bounds. Please lead the way, and I shall walk on my own."
Li Yuangui urged her a couple more times, but seeing her insistence, he had no choice but to order the young eunuchs to carry the sedan chair alongside while he personally held the lantern, guiding Old Madam Pei through the West Garden gate, past the Banana Garden, and finally to Cheng Guang Hall.
Xiao Lie had been waiting in the outer hall. Hearing the commotion outside, he turned and hurried out. There, he saw an elderly woman with silver hair, leaning on a cane and being gently supported by Li Yuangui. Though many years had passed and she looked much older than he remembered, he recognized her immediately as Old Madam Pei. He descended the hall steps in quick strides and said to Li Yuangui, "Didn’t I instruct you to have Old Madam brought in by sedan chair?"
Before Li Yuangui could respond, Old Madam Pei interjected, "Thank you for Your Majesty’s kindness. Please do not blame Eunuch Li—it was my own impropriety." As she spoke, she began to kneel in obeisance. Xiao Lie swiftly stepped forward to stop her, saying, "No need for formalities," and personally assisted her up the steps into the inner hall.
Without needing orders, Li Yuangui brought over an embroidered chair. Old Madam Pei repeatedly declined, but Xiao Lie said earnestly, "I still remember how, in my childhood after my mother passed early, you treated me with the kindness of your own. Decades have passed in the blink of an eye, and so much around me has changed. Now that I am fortunate enough to return to the capital, I had intended to visit you earlier, but affairs of state kept me occupied. I thought to wait until You’an returned, but before I could visit, you’ve come to see me first. If you insist on standing, I shall stand with you." With that, he ordered Li Yuangui to remove his own seat.
Only then did Old Madam Pei reluctantly take a seat.
Xiao Lie inquired about her health and the affairs of her household. Old Madam Pei replied, "Thank you for Your Majesty’s concern. My health is fair, but my sons and grandsons, who once failed to distinguish right from wrong and followed others, caused you much trouble. Your Majesty’s magnanimity in overlooking their faults fills me with gratitude."
After Xiao Lie captured the capital and was enthroned, he implemented a policy of leniency. With the exception of Prince Shun’an’s close associates, all former officials of the previous dynasty were pardoned as long as they submitted congratulatory addresses of support, regardless of past transgressions. Figures like Zhou Xing and Pei Quan, who had denounced Xiao Lie as a traitor during the Wuding uprising to distance themselves and avoid implication, were among those who hastily submitted new petitions upon his ascension, claiming they had been coerced into speaking against their will.Pei Xiuzhi was no exception. Earlier, in his eagerness to earn merit, he had secretly gone against Old Madam Pei’s wishes and requested to lead troops against The Martial Pacification Army, giving it his all. Yet, in the critical moment, he failed to hold the city. While fleeing after abandoning his post, he was captured by Xiao Yintang. After Xiao Lie entered the capital, Xiao Yintang forwarded Pei Xiuzhi’s written confession of remorse, in which he expressed deep regret and pledged loyalty to the new emperor, pleading for leniency.
In truth, even without Xiao Yintang’s intercession, Xiao Lie had no intention of making things difficult for the Pei family’s descendants. He quickly pardoned Pei Xiuzhi and allowed him to return home, stripping only his recently acquired title of Duke as a warning to others.
As Old Madam Pei spoke, she rose once more to express her gratitude to Xiao Lie, who helped her sit back down with a sigh. “Madam, there is no need for such formalities. I am not an unreasonable man. At that time, who wasn’t acting under duress? If anything, I feel somewhat ashamed before you, Madam. No sooner had I entered the capital than I revoked your second son’s noble title. It was a difficult decision, but given that he had harmed my subordinates, I had no choice if I wished to maintain authority. But rest assured, Madam—the Pei family has rendered meritorious service to Great Wei, and the ducal title shall remain in your family.”
Old Madam Pei hurriedly replied, “Your Majesty is too gracious! He is now at home reflecting on his mistakes. Having committed such a grave error, the fact that Your Majesty spared his life is already an immense kindness. This old woman is endlessly grateful—how could I possibly harbor any other thoughts?”
“Madam has always been wise. Since you do not blame me, I am relieved. Let him settle his mind for now—there will be plenty of opportunities to serve the court in the future.”
After Old Madam Pei expressed her thanks, Xiao Lie spoke a few more words before observing her expression and asking, “Madam, do you have something on your mind? If so, speak freely. Whatever is within my power, I shall grant it.”
Old Madam Pei smiled. “Since Your Majesty has seen through me, this old woman will speak plainly. To be honest, I have come regarding the marriage of my eldest grandson, You’an.”
Xiao Lie paused in surprise, then beamed. “What wonderful news! You’an was recently dispatched by me to quell unrest in Ü-Tsang and should be returning soon. But tell me, Madam—which family’s daughter have you chosen for him? Speak quickly! I would gladly oversee the arrangements myself!”
The old madam replied, “Many thanks for Your Majesty’s kindness. It is none other than the daughter of the Zhen family of Quanzhou, named Jiafu. She is no stranger—she happens to be the niece of my second son’s wife, making her You’an’s cousin.”
Xiao Lie hesitated. “This Zhen family—would it be the same one that recently arrived in the capital with Fujian’s Provincial Governor Gao Huaiyuan?”
Old Madam Pei smiled. “Indeed.”
Xiao Lie was stunned.Old Madam Pei remained composed and said, "Your Majesty may not be aware, but the daughter of the Zhen family has been visiting me since she was a child. You'an has known her since they were young, though I never realized his feelings for her until last year. It was when Your Majesty was compelled to rise in action that I received a handwritten letter from You'an, revealing his affection for the Zhen family's daughter. At the time, amidst the chaos and following Your Majesty's campaign, he had no time to attend to personal matters. He earnestly pleaded with me to keep his feelings in mind and, when the time was right, to propose to the Zhen family on his behalf. Now that the major affairs have finally settled, I heard that the Zhen family has arrived in the capital these past two days, accompanying the Fujian governor, and among them is the daughter—apparently at Your Majesty's behest. I do not know why Your Majesty summoned her to the capital and thought to ask the Zhen family directly, but feared it might inconvenience them. As Your Majesty knows, You'an has been sensible since childhood and has never asked anything of me all these years—except for this one matter. Thus, mindful of his earnest request and relying on the slight favor I once enjoyed in Your Majesty's presence, I took the liberty to seek an audience."
"I wonder why Your Majesty summoned the Zhen family's daughter to the capital? If it does not conflict with You'an's marriage prospects, then I may set my mind at ease and proceed to propose to the Zhen family on his behalf. After all, You'an is no longer young, and I dearly hope he can settle down soon."
Having said this, Old Madam Pei smiled and looked at Xiao Lie.
Xiao Lie was momentarily stunned, then stood abruptly as if waking from a dream. "I had no idea You'an and the Zhen family's daughter shared such a bond! Rest assured, Old Madam. My summoning of the Zhen family was for no other reason than to reward them for their past kindness to Yintang. It poses no inconvenience whatsoever to You'an's marriage!"
Old Madam Pei expressed her gratitude, but Xiao Lie hesitated before fixing his gaze on her and saying, "To be frank with you, Old Madam, even back in Wuding, I repeatedly urged You'an to marry, hoping he would settle down, but he always refused. I had no choice. You'an has followed me for years and rendered outstanding service. Now that he is to be wed, how could I not reward him? Not only shall I bestow this marriage upon him, but I shall also ensure it is a grand celebration. What does Old Madam think?"
After speaking, he stared intently at the elderly woman before him.
Old Madam Pei met his gaze for a moment before nodding. "Everything shall be as Your Majesty arranges."
Xiao Lie seemed to relax, his eyes brightening with joy. "I will see to it personally. You need not worry in the slightest."
Old Madam Pei smiled faintly and said no more, rising to take her leave. Xiao Lie personally escorted her out of the West Garden before returning to his seat behind the desk, lost in thought. Eventually, he summoned Li Yuangui and inquired about the Zhen family's daughter.
Li Yuangui replied, "The girl is quite comely and carries herself with grace. I have already relayed her words to Your Majesty, who may judge for yourself. If still uncertain, I could summon her to the palace for Your Majesty to see."
Xiao Lie initially nodded but then shook his head after a moment's thought. "If You'an is fond of her, she must be commendable. Summoning her here might frighten her—let it be."
Li Yuangui said solemnly, "Your Majesty need not doubt. If I have spoken falsely, you may have my head."
Xiao Lie burst into laughter. For the first time in a long while, he felt a deep sense of relief, as though a weight had been lifted from his heart—yet a faint trace of regret lingered.At Pei You'an's age, most ordinary men would have already settled down with families. Yet he had remained solitary all this time, refusing to keep any woman around to attend to his daily needs. Now that he had finally found his match, how could Xiao Lie not feel gratified? However, this satisfaction was tinged with regret—Pei You'an had never mentioned a word about it in his presence, and he only learned of it today when Old Madam Pei came to see him. Had it not been for the Zhen family's daughter initially refusing the marriage, he might have made a grave mistake.
After a brief laugh, Xiao Lie gradually drifted into thought and suddenly said, "Summon the Heir Apparent."
Li Yuangui left, and within the time it took to drink a cup of tea, footsteps echoed outside the hall. Xiao Yintang entered, knelt before Xiao Lie, and addressed him as "Imperial Father."
Xiao Lie bade him rise. Xiao Yintang said, "Imperial Father, your son was just about to seek an audience. These past days, following your orders, I have been occupied with reorganizing the affairs of the Five Armies. Only today have I managed to sort out some clarity, completing the tally of the Official Banner Army personnel under the Regional Military Commissions and Garrisons of the five commands. The register lists 3,256,373 names, though the actual number is barely half that. I will soon compile a detailed report for your review."
Xiao Lie nodded. "This reveals the deep-rooted flaws of our dynasty's past. The road ahead remains long and arduous. You've worked hard."
Xiao Yintang replied, "Sharing your burdens is my duty, Imperial Father. Moreover, I have done little—there is no hardship to speak of. Rather, it is you who should rest early tonight to conserve your energy, for tomorrow is the enthronement ceremony, and you have been tirelessly managing state affairs these days."
Xiao Lie smiled. "I know. Yintang, I called you here because there is a matter concerning you that I wish to address. Some time ago, Fengtong came to see me, saying you had once received kindness from the Zhen family of Quanzhou. She proposed taking their daughter as your secondary consort to repay this debt. Unaware of the circumstances, I initially agreed, thinking it appropriate. Only today did I learn of the complications. The Zhen family is actually related to the Pei family, and their daughter shares a childhood bond with You'an, even having an oral betrothal previously delayed by the war. Ignorance was one thing, but now that I know, how could I allow a mismatched union? Thus, I have reconsidered. The Zhen family's kindness to you shall be repaid in other ways—Fengtong's proposal is hereby rescinded and will not be discussed again."
Xiao Yintang's expression stiffened slightly.
Xiao Lie watched him intently, his gaze unwavering. After a pause, he asked, "What is it? Do you have something else to say on this matter?"
Meeting his father's eyes, Xiao Yintang noticed the thoughtful scrutiny in them. A chill ran through him, and he immediately lowered his gaze, replying respectfully, "Your son has nothing to add. As you say, Imperial Father, the Zhen family may be rewarded otherwise."
Xiao Lie studied him for a long moment before slowly saying, "Excellent. After tomorrow's enthronement ceremony, I will designate you as Crown Prince and instruct the Ministry of Rites to prepare your wedding with Fengtong. As for secondary consorts, if suitable candidates arise, I will keep them in mind for you."
...
The following day marked the enthronement of the new emperor.
The new reign was proclaimed with the era name "Manifest Peace," to take effect from the first day of the coming year. For the remainder of the current year, the era name from the Young Emperor's reign was retained—the twenty-sixth day of the sixth month in the seventh year of Chengning.On this day, at the third watch, officials from the Ministry of Rites and the Court of Imperial Sacrifices arrived at the Altar of Heaven. By the fifth watch, all nine ministers, capital officials of the seventh rank and above, and provincial officials of the fourth rank and above had also arrived, solemnly lining both sides of the altar. Over ten thousand guards and strongmen were stationed every three to five paces along the Imperial Processional Route from the palace to the northern gate of the imperial city, clearing the way to the Altar of Heaven. The common people knelt in wait along both sides of the route, anticipating the auspicious hour when the new emperor would emerge from the palace to perform the Heaven Worship Ceremony.
According to the Imperial Astronomical Bureau's decree, the new emperor was to leave the palace at exactly the hour of Si (9-11 AM) and arrive at the Altar of Heaven by the third quarter of Si. The worship ceremony would follow immediately.
Now, only two quarters remained before the scheduled departure at Si. Xiao Lie, clad in the Emperor's Crowned Robes, exuded the majestic aura of a true sovereign—his dragon-like authority and swallow-jawed dignity made it impossible for others to meet his gaze directly. Zhang Shiyong, Minister of Rites, and Lu Qi, Chief of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, who remained in Cheng Guang Hall to accompany the emperor, noticed him sitting motionless on his throne, seemingly waiting for someone. They exchanged puzzled glances.
Another half-quarter passed. Just as Zhang Shiyong was about to remind the emperor of the time, hurried footsteps suddenly echoed from outside the hall. Cui Yinshui came darting in, sliding to his knees on the golden bricks with an excited expression: "Your Majesty, Lord Pei has returned to the capital to report his mission! He awaits outside the hall!"
The emperor immediately stood up, his brows relaxing as a faint joy flashed in his eyes. "Summon him at once!" he commanded.
Cui Yinshui responded with an eager "Aye!" and dashed out again. Moments later, accompanied by steady footsteps, Zhang Shiyong and Lu Qi turned to see a young man stepping across the threshold, his figure bathed in the slanting morning sunlight streaming through Cheng Guang Hall's doors.
Though clearly wearied from long travels—his brow bearing traces of fatigue from journeying under the stars—his eyes shone bright as the moon, his demeanor as serene as a gentle breeze. With such striking presence, who else in the entire Great Wei court over the past decade could it be but Pei You'an, that once-celebrated young minister who had taken the capital by storm in his youth?
Though years had passed since they last saw him, transforming the once-youthful figure into a grown man, Zhang Shiyong and Lu Qi recognized him instantly. Stunned, they immediately understood—the person the new emperor had been waiting for had finally arrived.
...
Pei You'an followed Xiao Lie into the rear hall and immediately knelt, performing the full ceremonial three kneelings and nine prostrations. Upon rising at the emperor's gesture, he said, "Yesterday, as I approached the metropolitan area, I learned today would be Your Majesty's enthronement ceremony. I traveled through the night and only entered the city gates this morning. The guards informed me they had received Your Majesty's order—should I appear, I was to proceed to the palace immediately. Fearing I might delay Your Majesty's auspicious timing, I came without even tidying my appearance. I beg forgiveness for any breach of protocol."
Xiao Lie grasped his shoulders joyfully. "I knew you would arrive in time! How was your journey?"
"The mission was successfully completed, and the return journey was smooth. Thank you for Your Majesty's concern. With your permission, I shall submit a detailed memorial tomorrow morning about this expedition."
"Rest well first—there's no need for such haste. A few days' delay matters not!" Xiao Lie reassured him.
Distant bell tones drifted from outside the hall—another quarter had passed, bringing the emperor's departure for the Heaven Worship Ceremony nearer.
"You'an!"
Just as Pei You'an was about to remind him of the time, Xiao Lie suddenly called his name with solemn expression.
"Your Majesty, if you have words to say, please speak," Pei You'an responded.
Xiao Lie paced slowly across the hall before stopping. "You'an, this throne—I originally intended to leave it vacant. Should news of the Young Emperor emerge someday, it would rightfully belong to him. Yet at the time, civil and military officials pleaded relentlessly until I could no longer refuse. You... wouldn't hold differing views about this, would you?"Xiao Lie finished speaking, his gaze fixed intently on Pei You'an.
Pei You'an smiled faintly and replied respectfully, "Your Majesty, although I was on the road, I have read the petition posted at the city gates. There is a line that says, 'When the Great Dao prevails, the world belongs to all.' I commend this sentiment. Ancient sages knew well that the world does not belong to one person alone but is upheld by the people and the state. Now that Your Majesty has ascended the throne in accordance with Heaven’s will, ruling with majesty and selecting the virtuous and capable, if peace reigns across the land and the people live in contentment, how could I harbor any dissent?"
Xiao Lie’s eyes sparkled as he laughed heartily. "I knew it—You’an is truly my right-hand man! I have prepared ceremonial robes for you. Go and change, then accompany me to the Altar of Heaven to witness my enthronement ceremony today!"
Pei You'an expressed his gratitude and was about to withdraw when Xiao Lie called him back.
With a smile, Xiao Lie said, "There is one more thing you should know. The daughter of the Zhen family from Quanzhou is currently in the capital. Last night, your grandmother came to see me and requested her hand in marriage on your behalf. I have granted it. The imperial decree of marriage will be issued soon—you must be pleased?"
Pei You'an’s gaze flickered slightly. After a brief pause, he replied, "I am indeed pleased. I thank Your Majesty for your great kindness."
His tone was reverent and respectful.
...
The ceremonial robes bestowed upon Pei You'an by Xiao Lie consisted of an Eight-Tier Jade-Adorned Crown, a Blue-Trimmed Red Silk Robe, a Leather Belt with Ribbons and Insignia, and white socks with black shoes.
These were the highest-ranking ceremonial attire for nobility in the Great Wei dynasty.
That day, Pei You'an appeared alongside the new emperor at the Altar of Heaven, witnessing the dawn of a new era for Great Wei. In this extraordinary manner, after years of absence, he returned to the public eye and once again stood in the imperial court.
After the ceremony at the Altar of Heaven concluded, the master of ceremonies led the civil and military officials into the palace courtyard, where they stood in rows facing north and performed the ritual of three kneelings and nine prostrations before Xiao Lie seated on the throne. Once the elaborate formalities were completed, the Ministry of Rites dispatched officials to confer the title of empress upon Princess Zhou and proclaim Xiao Yintang, the heir apparent, as Crown Prince.
With this, the enthronement ceremony came to an end.
The following day, the Ministry of Rites issued two additional imperial decrees.
The first was the marriage decree for the Crown Prince and Zhang Fengtong.
The second was the decree bestowing marriage upon Pei You'an, the eldest son of Duke Wei’s Mansion, and Zhen Jiafu, the daughter of the Zhen family from Quanzhou.
The news spread swiftly. Duke Wei’s Mansion, which had been quiet and overlooked for years, suddenly saw an endless stream of visitors offering congratulations from morning till night, nearly wearing out its threshold. Meanwhile, the Zhen family’s previously inconspicuous residence in the capital became the center of attention overnight.
Both marriages were scheduled for the same day—the sixteenth of the following month—and were to be jointly arranged by the Ministry of Rites and the Court of Imperial Entertainments.
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