Chapter 80 The Sky Curtain Made Me a White Moonlight in History The Sky Curtain, for publicity...
After Si Qi and Chu Feng got together, the sky curtain opened as always.
The coming season is not good; the heavens foretell frequent natural disasters throughout the Qi Kingdom, making the court and officials busier than ever before.
Often, weather warnings can only play a supporting role; the key is for humanity to work together to overcome difficulties.
In the past, in the face of such consecutive natural disasters, some people might have pinned their hopes on the emperor writing an edict of self-reproach, admitting their moral shortcomings to Heaven and begging for forgiveness. Then everyone would comfort themselves by doing their best and leaving the rest to fate, craning their necks and waiting for Heaven's mercy.
Now, Tianmu says that natural disasters are governed by natural laws and have nothing to do with individual thoughts and morals. Everyone then focuses their attention on solving the problems step-by-step, following the methods provided by Tianmu.
This has indeed produced very good results. In addition to various scientific and effective measures specifically designed for natural disasters, the free distribution of food and clothing to disaster-stricken people, the exemption of taxes and corvée labor, and the provision of low-interest loans have not only effectively mitigated the impact of the disaster but also eliminated many hidden conflicts.
When everyone worked together and overcame natural disasters time and time again, joyful news quickly spread throughout the State of Qi. Not only were the people in high spirits, but the ministers were also excited, proclaiming that in the future, the people of Qi would no longer have to suffer from natural disasters.
They have mastered reliable methods to deal with many disasters and will no longer have to passively endure them.
But the impact of this event is clearly more than that.
The already well-regarded government and royal family enjoyed even greater praise from the people. Crown Prince Chu Feng, always leading from the front in everything, not only demonstrated a significant improvement in his abilities but also gained him increased credibility among the ministers.
Everyone was convinced that this crown prince, who was perfect in both ability and character, was the future successor of the State of Qi and their future emperor.
The emperor was indeed paving the way for Chu Feng little by little, passing on various powers one by one, without any fear of the crown prince's excessive power.
This made the succession to the throne a few years later very smooth, without patricide or power struggles. When the emperor began to feel that he was too weak to handle state affairs, he readily handed over the throne to Chu Feng and went into hiding.
With the strong support of the Emperor and Si Qi, the court remained completely unmoved by all of this, and not even a single word was uttered about the Crown Prince not having a Crown Princess or a son yet.
Everyone is too busy, so busy that they don't even have the mood to pay attention to the private affairs of the royal family. It would be a good thing for everyone if the crown prince ascended the throne as soon as possible, so that they would not have to wait for His Majesty to drag his old body to review the memorials little by little, and their work efficiency would be greatly improved.
After Chu Feng ascended the throne, he proved his abilities with his strength. The ministers quickly got used to the new emperor's style of doing things, and the two sides cooperated tacitly. The retired emperor did not have to worry too much about this.
Two more years passed.
Chu Feng and Si Qi were both in their thirties, and the state of Qi was peaceful and prosperous. The people of Qi lived in peace and contentment, and occasionally, when they looked back on the past, they felt as if it were a different world.
The description of overflowing granaries in the sky did indeed come true in the imperial city this year. Coinciding with the Mid-Autumn Festival, Emperor Chu Feng used this good news to hold a palace banquet, inviting ministers and their families to the palace to admire the moon and sample fruits and vegetables presented as tribute from various regions.
The prime minister's youngest son, seventeen years old, had long admired Si Qi. Hearing that he would have the opportunity to see Si Qi up close, he was so excited that he prepared and busied himself for half a month in advance. Finally, on this day, dressed in his finest clothes, he blushed and followed his parents to the palace.
Given the positions of the two prime ministers, their families and the Si family's seating arrangement should have been very close.
But once they arrived at the banquet hall, the young boy looked around in astonishment and discovered that the Si family's seats were indeed there, but Si Qi's seat was right next to His Majesty.
Although it's described as being on the side, the way the tables are arranged makes it perfectly reasonable to call it sitting together.
"Father, isn't Lord Si sitting with us?" the boy asked anxiously, tugging at his father's sleeve.
The Prime Minister remained calm: "His Majesty cherishes Lord Si and often invites him to dine with him, where they often chat."
A few years ago, when Chu Feng was still the Crown Prince, the two sat a few meters apart at banquets. It was troublesome for Chu Feng to serve Si Qi food and fruit platters, and it was also difficult for Si Qi to hear him speak. So he simply asked Si Qi to move to sit next to him.
Later, when Chu Feng became emperor, he also found eating like this too troublesome, so he gradually moved Si Qi's seat up, and finally simply moved it to a table similar to the left and right sides.
The ministers were used to Si Qi's special status in Qi. If any other minister did this, it would certainly be considered an overstepping of authority or excessive favor. But when it was done by Si Qi, it seemed perfectly normal.
After all, Si Qi had been arranged to do many more irregular things by the two emperors before and after him, let alone now it was just a seat?
Everyone was already convinced of Si Qi's abilities and admired his character. They knew that Si Qi would not be arrogant or act recklessly because of his special status.
Again...
The Prime Minister looked at the child beside him who had grown up listening to the legends of Si Qi and who, upon first falling in love, had been clamoring at home to marry Si Qi. His eyes were filled with pity: "In the past, it was always the Empress who sat with His Majesty in the seat of honor."
The child looked back at his father, his expression innocent and bewildered, and nodded, saying, "I know, but hasn't His Majesty taken a concubine yet?"
Since the seats are empty, wouldn't it be inappropriate to let the most brilliant, talented and capable Lord Si of the entire Great Qi sit in the seat second only to His Majesty?
This further demonstrates the extraordinary talent and brilliance of his esteemed lord!
Prime Minister: "..."
The Prime Minister could not say much in such a place. When the Si family arrived, two young members of the Si family stepped forward to greet the Prime Minister and he replied with a smile, "Madam Si, Mr. Si, you two have arrived."
The Si family parents were poised and their expressions were no longer as hurried and tense as before. They returned the greeting with gentle smiles: "You too, it's been a long time."
Because of Si Qi, the two often kept in touch in private and spoke to each other quite familiarly.
The young master of the Prime Minister's family, his face flushed, obediently stepped forward to greet the parents of his beloved. After receiving praise for being "handsome and sensible," he was extremely excited and wanted to show off even more.
Unfortunately, the families of other ministers who noticed the Si family's arrival also came over to greet them. The young master couldn't get a word in edgewise and could only listen to his elders chatting.
The conversation naturally turned to everyday family matters.
The main problem is that all of Si's younger siblings are either married or engaged, but the eldest son, Si Qi, who is the oldest and most promising, has not made any moves yet, which is really hard for everyone to accept.
The never-ending topic of marriage was brought up again, and the young master was anxious, glancing at his father repeatedly.
The prime minister remained calm, completely ignoring how nervous and anxious the little guy was inside.
This child still hasn't noticed that Si Qi, who was supposed to attend the palace banquet with his whole family, didn't appear with his parents, siblings, or relatives.
So it's obvious who he's with now.
Sure enough, not long after, a group of eunuchs and palace maids arrived at the banquet hall, with guards standing in various corners. Chu Feng and Si Qi arrived together shortly after.
The room suddenly became lively as everyone paid their respects to the emperor.
Like the retired emperor, Chu Feng was easygoing and didn't stand on ceremony. He gestured for everyone to make themselves at home and then took Si Qi to the main seat.
Many family members who were unaware of this matter were quite surprised. They whispered to those around them and finally showed expressions of "I see," with no one feeling that the arrangement was against the rules.
Si Qi's status in the State of Qi over the years has reached a point where many unreasonable things are acceptable to him, as long as he is the person in question.
Since it was inappropriate for everyone to approach Si Qipan in front of the emperor, they all sought out Si's family members, wanting to continue the previous conversation.
The young master of the Prime Minister's family kept glancing this way, so anxious that he shifted his body back and forth, craning his neck, wishing he could join the conversation.
The Prime Minister watched helplessly as His Majesty the Emperor personally peeled grapes for Si Qi, while his youngest son was sweating profusely because of the idle chatter of the Si family members nearby. He pulled back his sleeve, which was almost torn apart, and gestured to his son, saying, "Look at your Lord Si."
The young master blushed and said, "I'm too embarrassed to look..."
“You’ll see when you see it,” the Prime Minister emphasized. “Go and see.”
The young boy had no choice but to shyly and cautiously raise his head to look at the majestic and imposing emperor above, and his beloved.
The person I love is looking down, their cheeks twitching slightly, as if they're about to vomit something.
A hand reached out from the side, holding a small plate and gently placing it in front of him.
And so the grape seeds fell from those red lips and white teeth into the dish.
The boy's shy face unconsciously turned into one of astonishment, and he couldn't help but stare intently.
The bright yellow sleeve embroidered with dragon patterns draped over the outstretched wrist. The owner of the wrist withdrew the plate, but kept looking at Si Qi with a natural and intimate smile.
It was unclear what the two were discussing, as Si Qi didn't say much; it was the emperor who initiated conversations with Si Qi.
Then Si Qi nodded, as if in agreement, and the emperor took a mooncake from the table and handed it to Si Qi.
The mooncakes weren't particularly well-shaped; some parts were sunken, and others were overbaked and had a dark brown color.
But Si Qi didn't mind at all, and took a bite.
"How is it? Is the taste good?"
Through lip reading, the young master roughly saw that the emperor said this sentence.
Si Qi smiled and nodded, his gaze towards the emperor filled with a gentle tenderness: "Very good."
The emperor's smile grew even wider. He took back the mooncake that Si Qi had taken a bite out of, took a big bite of the spot where Si Qi had eaten, and said with a grin, "It was indeed delicious!"
Although neither of them said it explicitly, the young master had a hunch that the poorly presented mooncake might have been made by His Majesty the Emperor himself, and that he was presenting it to Lord Si as if it were a treasure.
And the next second, the mooncakes that Lord Si had praised were personally pushed by the Emperor to Si Qi, inviting him to taste them together.
The young master looked dazed. Although he hadn't quite sorted out his thoughts, a strange sense of loss and bitterness suddenly welled up in his heart.
The prime minister observed his expression and said knowingly, "Well, what have you figured out?"
The young master lowered his head, his eyes red-rimmed, his voice hoarse: "What... Lord Si is deeply favored by His Majesty..."
The Prime Minister did not point it out, and said with relief, "It's good that you know."
The young master fell silent for a moment.
His expression was no longer as lively and cheerful as before. He sat there listlessly, forced to accept the subtle rejection from Si's parents beside him, and finally understood some different interpretations.
This is hardly a matter of respecting Master Si's wishes or helping to introduce suitable men and women of the same age. It's clearly because Master Si already has someone in mind, and the parents aren't worried about it, which is why they're not in a hurry.
He was in a daze, as if he had lost his soul. After a long while, he lowered his head and said to his father, "You just mentioned the position of Empress..."
The Prime Minister coughed lightly and hinted to his son, "His Majesty is willing, but it seems that Lord Si..."
The young boy snapped back to reality, looked up, his eyes wide, and his voice involuntarily became shrill: "So Lord Si is unwilling? Then His Majesty is not..." taking it by force!
The Prime Minister quickly gestured for the child to be quiet, then leaned in and whispered, "What's the rush? If Lord Si really doesn't want to, he has plenty of ways to refuse."
The boy's tense nerves finally relaxed a little, and he was so frightened by his own momentary guess that he broke out in a cold sweat.
"Our Emperor is not a morally corrupt person..." the Prime Minister muttered under his breath, but he was not surprised that the child would have such thoughts.
Over the years, those in the court who gradually noticed the discord between the emperor and Minister Si all had the same initial reaction—to speculate whether the emperor, relying on his status as the Son of Heaven, was using the guise of a subject to coerce Minister Si into something.
Regardless of the circumstances, Chu Feng was the ruler and Si Qi was the subject. There were many things Si Qi dared not do to Chu Feng, but Chu Feng could do them with just a little reason.
For example, for at least twenty days a month, the emperor would find reasons to require Si Qi to stay in the palace, or even the emperor's bedroom...
Although the emperor claimed that this was a late-night discussion to discuss state affairs, what matters in the court required these two to talk all night? As ministers, they knew perfectly well how capable the two men truly were, and that it was merely an excuse.
Many people realized something was wrong because of this, and they were worried about Si Qi's safety, fearing that the emperor might have really done something to Si Qi.
Some of them approached Si Qi privately, subtly expressing their sympathy for him and their willingness to act as his pawns, submitting memorials to bear the Emperor's wrath on his behalf. They urged Si Qi to quickly find a suitable person to marry and sever ties with the Emperor.
Others, however, were intolerant of such injustices. They didn't want Si Qi to compromise or pretend to be deaf and dumb. Instead, they went directly to the emperor, exposed the truth, and asked Chu Feng what exactly happened and whether he had any ill intentions towards Lord Si.
In the past, when power was in the hands of ministers and the emperor was merely a puppet, it was indeed not uncommon for ministers and eunuchs to question the emperor and demand that he obey their commands. However, the State of Qi has only been established for a few decades, and the emperor's power has not yet been divided. Especially given the stable position of Chu Feng before and after his succession, the ministers' awe of Chu Feng is only greater than their fear of him.
But they were willing to confront the emperor directly for Si Qi's sake. Their attitude clearly showed that they would rather die on the spot than let Si Qi suffer any injustice.
Chu Feng felt helpless looking at this group of loyal and righteous ministers. While he was gratified that Si Qi was being protected by everyone, he couldn't help but laugh and cry when he heard them saying things like "coveting Lord Si" and "staining Lord Si's reputation".
"How could I bear to wrong Lord Si?" Chu Feng smiled bitterly. "It was Lord Si who was unwilling to—" to make their relationship public so early, lest Chu Feng, who had not yet ascended the throne, be attacked and killed, and accused of using Lord Si to gain power.
All they heard was the word "unwilling," and they glared at him with righteous indignation: "Lord Si has devoted himself to the country of Qi, how can you treat him like this!"
"Lord Si is already thirty years old, yet he doesn't even have a wife or concubine to warm his bed." This must be the Emperor's doing behind the scenes!
"I am thirty years old and have a house full of children and grandchildren, yet Lord Si is still unmarried!"
Given how much Si Qi is loved, the people who want to be with him could stretch from the capital of Qi to the border and circle around several times. Yet now he is all alone. What else could this be but unspeakable suffering?
"Last time, I saw you take away the pastries that Lord Si had eaten and eat them yourself. You were clearly taking advantage of Lord Si!"
"You even forced Lord Si to taste the wine you had drunk. Lord Si had no choice but to drink it, despite his suffering!"
"Lord Si sleeps in the same bed with you every day, how can he get a good rest? No wonder he often sleeps until the sun is high in the sky on his days off!"
"The Imperial Medical Academy often collects medicines for making ointments, is that you...?"
"Lord Si has suffered so much! It's bad enough that he was almost assassinated by that villain Zhao Ren, but now even His Majesty, whom he serves, treats him like this!"
"Lord Si has devoted himself wholeheartedly to the Great Qi, yet the people of the Great Qi cannot even protect him!"
"If I must remain deaf and dumb for the rest of my life, and be a treacherous and unscrupulous minister, I would rather take off my robes and remove my crown to plead for Lord Si!"
"Your Majesty, I wish to file a complaint against the Emperor Emeritus!"
"We cannot allow future generations to criticize us behind our backs!"
Chu Feng: "..." These people are getting more and more outrageous.
He is, after all, the ruler of a country. It's as if he forcibly seized Si Qi, making him his personal possession, and intending to ensure that their beloved Lord Si would be childless and widowed in his old age.
How could they forget that the emperor, too, had reached the age of thirty and had not yet taken any concubines, nor had he had any princesses or princes?
The continuation of the Great Qi dynasty was so obvious that I initially thought it would attract a lot of attention and people would be eagerly seeking answers, but surprisingly, no one noticed it.
Such favoritism...
Chu Feng felt both proud and exasperated.
Seeing the group of people heartbroken by Si Qi's plight, tears streaming down their faces, and their angry shouts turning red with rage, Chu Feng's initial annoyance quickly subsided. He said helplessly, "I've been with Minister Si for several years now, haven't you noticed?"
"Instead of asking me why I don't give Minister Si a title, it's more accurate to say that Minister Si refuses to give me a title to this day, so I can only wait."
The ministers: "..."
The ministers were stunned and came to their senses: "What?"
Because emperors have historically taken many concubines and had numerous children, and because Si Qi's abilities and status would certainly ensure the prosperity and continuation of the Si family, no one had ever considered these two most sought-after young talents of the Great Qi together, let alone imagined that they would be together.
Now that the truth is known, upon closer examination, if Chu Feng, as emperor, truly has a throne to pass on, he certainly won't only have the infertile Lord Si in the future. Sooner or later, Chu Feng will have to take concubines to continue the imperial line, and many princesses and princes will inherit the throne, while Lord Si will merely be one of the many in the harem… This is too humiliating for Lord Si! It's a huge injustice to Si Qi.
Many ministers would rather Siqi sever ties with the emperor than have the driver continue to be delayed by the emperor.
I even want to say that even if Your Majesty is fond of Lord Si, you have no reason to prevent him from marrying and having children. This approach is far too domineering.
The group made no attempt to hide their thoughts, which were all written on their faces. Chu Feng saw this but wasn't annoyed; he had already anticipated their reaction.
"I only intend to grow old with Minister Si, and have never thought of having children," he said. "Besides, there are things that you can think of, surely Minister Si can think of them too?"
Upon hearing this, everyone's serious expressions relaxed slightly.
"I have long wanted to make our relationship public with Minister Si. Who wouldn't want to be openly and legitimately partners with Minister Si? I dream of it!" Chu Feng sighed. "But Minister Si was worried about your reaction and feared that I would face criticism after my ascension to the throne, so he has been reluctant to make it public."
In reality, he didn't care about any of that. He wanted to announce to the whole world that Si Qi was with him. He would be so happy that he would repeat this to everyone he met, and he would never get tired of saying it.
So what if he was attacked, accused, or even cursed as a tyrant who was blinded by lust and desecrated meritorious officials? More than fame, he wanted to stand openly with Si Qi, so that he wouldn't have to spend his days watching others submit memorials and running to the Si family to ask for Si Qi's hand in marriage.
But Si Qi didn't want him to suffer such injustice, so he always told him to take his time.
The effects were indeed noticeable. His benevolent rule deeply resonated with the people, and the State of Qi improved day by day because of his numerous policies. The people's perception of him grew stronger with each passing day, and they praised him as a wise ruler.
As time goes by, he and Si Qi will be able to prove their love is stronger than gold with their actions, and then the obstacles will decrease.
He explained these matters to the ministers in detail, and their expressions gradually softened. Finally, they couldn't help but ask, "Are you really not planning to have a prince?"
The emperor's taking concubines and ensuring he had an heir was, to some extent, a political task to appease the people.
To prevent the emperor from suddenly passing away one day, leaving no one to succeed him, and the struggle for power leading to chaos in the court.
"I have no intention of doing so," Chu Feng said, his expression completely like that of a love-struck fool, absurd yet extremely real: "What if I have ulterior motives and Minister Si abandons me? I feel like I don't have enough time to spend with Minister Si every day, how can I have the mind to pay attention to others? Moreover, if there are princes and princesses, Minister Si's already limited free time will definitely be taken away, and I can't stand it."
The ministers: "..."
Chu Feng: "When I was still the Crown Prince, I pleaded with the Emperor Emeritus to resign my position and marry Minister Si. What does the mere succession to the throne matter? I don't even want to be the Emperor."
The ministers: "…………"
Chu Feng: "You actually think that the concubines and princes are more valued by me than Minister Si? You are really belittling Minister Si! Who could be more charming than Minister Si? I fell in love with Minister Si at first sight. He is the best person in the world!"
The ministers: "………………"
As Chu Feng spoke, he became somewhat aggrieved: "I have repeatedly told Minister Si that I want him to be the Empress, but he refuses. I am also worried that Minister Si might dislike me, get tired of me, and run off to marry someone else and have children, then I will be a lonely widow for the rest of my life—I am afraid of that!"
The ministers couldn't bear to listen any longer and stepped forward to comfort him: "Lord Si is of noble character and would never do such a thing..."
"I will no longer advise Lord Si to marry, please do not be sad."
"Lord Si's refusal is also for your sake..."
"You and Lord Si are a perfect match, and we have no objection."
"If there is any opposition from the outside world, I will certainly give my full support to you."
Chu Feng: "..." Playing the victim worked quite well.
As the ministers talked, the topic shifted from their initial indignation on behalf of Si Qi to how to help His Majesty the Emperor stay with Lord Si for a long time.
Meanwhile, Si Qi was also discussing similar topics.
However, the atmosphere was not as tense as in the Imperial Study. After Si Qi personally admitted that the two were in love and that he had been with Chu Feng for several years, the ministers present put their worries about Si Qi to rest.
After so many years of getting along, they knew Si Qi's abilities. He was truly as ethereal as his appearance and as shrewd as his methods. No one in the court, including the increasingly impoverished nobles, dared to oppose Si Qi. Moreover, given the extent to which the outside world protected, or rather spoiled, Si Qi, it was to the point that if the emperor had no son, it would definitely be the emperor's fault, not the fault of the "femme fatale" who was a male beauty.
The pressure certainly won't fall on Si Qi. As long as Si Qi isn't so disloyal to the emperor that he doesn't resist being defiled by the emperor and instead accepts it willingly, then no one will worry about Si Qi for such a thing.
"No wonder Elder Master Si and Elder Madam Si weren't too worried about Lord Si; it turns out you already had someone in your heart." A minister said with a smile, "Judging from the Emperor Emeritus's attitude, he must have known about your relationship with His Majesty for a long time?"
Otherwise, given the Emperor Emeritus's concern for the Emperor, he would definitely urge Chu Feng to choose a concubine sooner rather than leisurely indulging in the idea that his children and grandchildren have their own blessings, and avoiding the topic with jokes for years.
“We all support you becoming Empress,” everyone said. “The harem should not interfere in politics, but you are an exception.”
"It's good to be one person for life, one love, and one partner. This is a beautiful story that has been passed down from generation to generation."
"His Majesty has not taken any concubines for many years, so he must have you in his heart."
"The future crown prince was personally chosen by you and His Majesty, so he will definitely not be bad."
"Historically, it was not uncommon for emperors to have no children and to choose an heir from the imperial clan, so no one would object."
"We will keep an eye on His Majesty and prevent eunuchs, palace maids, and children of officials from getting close to him."
As Si Qi listened, his smile gradually turned somewhat strange, and he said, not knowing whether to laugh or cry, "Then thank you, gentlemen."
Chu Feng's reputation in the court is clearly excellent, so how could he be portrayed like this? He has completely lost the dignity that an emperor should have.
"If you need anything, just tell us what you need. You don't have to do it all by yourself. We will do our best and will not hesitate to help."
Si Qi thought for a moment and smiled, "There are indeed some things I need to ask you all for help with."
Chu Feng has been hiding their relationship every day and is almost unable to hold back anymore. He should lay the groundwork as soon as possible to avoid making Chu Feng feel uncomfortable.
Soon after, several poems that had been passed down from the ministers quickly spread throughout the entire state of Qi.
The poems are exquisitely written, every word a gem, with a profound and lasting artistic conception that is unforgettable. The emotions they contain are even more powerful and moving, sometimes touching the heart and sometimes stirring the soul. Every line is so classic that it makes one want to applaud and wish they could copy it down and engrave it on their desk to read and appreciate day and night.
Many scholars initially didn't know which master had written this poem, and they kept asking around. They heard that it was created by Minister Si in his spare time, and that it was written on paper and seen by other officials. Before they knew it, it had been spread around, and they all exclaimed, "As expected of Minister Si, only he could write such a masterpiece!"
"Many words and phrases cannot be written without a sufficient level of intellectual understanding."
"His loyalty to His Majesty and his care for the people are truly moving."
"Not only is he capable, but he is also a man of great talent. Lord Si is truly a man of many talents."
"Wait a minute—" A student who had finally been able to afford to study in recent years due to improved living conditions asked in confusion, "This poem seems more like a love poem, how could it express loyalty to the emperor and patriotism?"
"It's not that I mean to say that the Prime Minister is unpatriotic; that's not what I meant at all," the student quickly explained when he saw his classmates frowning. "It's just that the wording clearly expresses affection..."
"Many officials would use poems about women longing for their husbands to express their loyalty to Your Majesty," explained a classmate who was slightly more knowledgeable. He also listed several poems that at first glance seemed to be about a woman's lament or expressing love, explaining the identity of the creators and the circumstances under which they were created, proving that this was not uncommon.
"Besides, with the position of the Prime Minister, how could he possibly not get what he wants?" the other classmates joked. "If the Prime Minister were willing to agree, even if I'm not into men, I'd be more than happy to offer myself up—after all, he's the Prime Minister, who in the world wouldn't yearn for him?"
The student who had been speaking earlier scratched his head in bewilderment, looking at the poem on the wall that the academy professor had copied down for everyone to appreciate. He felt that the poem's emotional expression was a bit too genuine, as if Lord Si was truly deeply in love with someone, yet unable to obtain their affection...
That bittersweet longing, even through the pages of paper, can be vividly conveyed to everyone's heart.
But since his classmates all said so, the student believed them and exclaimed, "Si Da's talent is exceptional; his poems are so moving and touching."
“Of course,” the others said, raising their heads with pride, their faces beaming with self-satisfaction.
Unfortunately, this firm belief that "Lord Si is as pure as snow on a high mountain, untouched by dust" gradually became uncertain as poems and lyrics from various ministers were disseminated and circulated widely.
Because Si Qi's literary talent was truly impeccable, many of his poems would move even illiterate people who could barely read to tears, allowing them to grasp the most sincere and passionate emotions within them.
What's more, these are scholars who have immersed themselves in books for years, studying and appreciating every word and sentence over and over again.
They treasured Si Qi's writings, reciting and studying them day and night. As they studied, it became difficult not to notice the subtle, undeniable emotions emanating from the author.
At first, even if people read it aloud, they didn't dare tell those around them, for fear of being accused of slandering Lord Si.
Later, whenever people discussed topics related to Lord Si and praised his literary talent, they would instinctively fall silent if they inadvertently mentioned related poems, and the scene would suddenly become very quiet.
Only then did everyone realize from the quiet atmosphere that others around them had also noticed this, and that they were not the only ones.
Later, the poems circulating among the ministers gradually changed from expressions of admiration and longing to verses that subtly conveyed sadness and sorrow. The students who had initially pretended not to know began to feel uneasy and couldn't help but discuss with their friends: "What's wrong with Lord Si? Why is he so sad?"
"Who on earth has caused Lord Si such sorrow?"
Generally speaking, writers rarely write poems that specifically involve emotions; some do, but definitely not many.
For example, among the poems written by Si Qi, there are those about the frontier, the country and the world, the scenery of mountains and seas, and the daily life in the countryside. Every one of them is amazing and is of the kind that can be directly included in the imperial examinations as test questions.
However, there is indeed too much poetry about emotions.
Si Qi had clearly reached the point where he was thinking about something during the day and dreaming about it at night, which is why he unconsciously revealed it and wrote it down on paper.
Poetry, in particular, is a medium that reveals a lot about the thoughts and feelings of its inhabitants. People describe scenery only after seeing it, and they depict life only after experiencing it. If Si Qi had no emotional turmoil, why would he always write similar pieces?
Even if you were to write, you shouldn't have expressed such sorrow! After all, he is the beloved Lord Si, and he deserves all the best things in the world!
The more people praised Si Qi's excellent literary talent, the more they could feel the emotions Si Qi had when writing this poem, and they couldn't help but feel heartbroken and shed tears for Si Qi.
How could their Chief Justice be subjected to such injustice?
Who on earth made Lord Si so sad?
What was originally a topic kept unspoken and kept to oneself has gradually been brought to the forefront. Many people are discussing and exploring, wanting to find out the truth.
The answer is obviously not hard to guess.
In an era where same-sex love is openly accepted, and in an environment where Si Qi is loved by everyone and is second only to the emperor, who else could make Si Qi yearn for something he cannot have, and have to keep his feelings hidden in his heart?
Of course, only the one who sits in a high position and controls the power of the world can make Si Qi suffer like this.
After everyone guessed the answer, they gasped and couldn't help but sigh in regret: "It was actually His Majesty!"
"His Majesty is not a suitable match!"
"Lord Si is confused."
"Our Lord Si is so pitiful!"
"But actually... it's not impossible?" Some people whispered among themselves, "Hasn't His Majesty not yet taken a concubine?"
“But His Majesty will…” the others retorted.
“If His Majesty intended to take a concubine, he should have done so when he was still the Crown Prince,” the speaker analyzed. “At His Majesty’s age now, he either has some unavoidable difficulties or his heart is already with someone else…”
The predicament naturally referred to his physical condition, and no one dared to discuss it too much. The focus was on what followed: "Your Majesty has someone you love... But if Your Majesty has someone you admire, just say so. What reason is there to delay?"
"That's because... because His Majesty's beloved is someone he can't openly express!" The speaker suddenly had a flash of inspiration and couldn't help but slap his thigh: "That makes sense!"
"Huh?" The close friends around them were initially taken aback, but after sorting things out, they couldn't help but widen their eyes: "Ah! That's it, that's the only possibility!"
"It is abnormal that His Majesty has not yet taken a concubine."
"I hadn't noticed it before, but now that I think about it carefully, something really is wrong..."
"Your Majesty's position is now secure, yet you have not taken any concubines. Is it because you are troubled by love?"
"But to have such ability that even His Majesty is in a difficult position..."
"Only Lord Si... only Lord Si would make His Majesty hesitate to speak, after all, he is Lord Si!"
The more people talked about it, the more they felt that this speculation made perfect sense. What other explanation could there be?
His Majesty the Emperor doesn't need to abstain from sex, but Chu Feng is already thirty years old and doesn't even have an Empress, let alone a concubine, and he's even unwilling to have a child to inherit the throne.
"Since His Majesty also has feelings for Lord Si, then Lord Si need not be heartbroken anymore?"
"Yes, yes, and I hope Your Majesty will also be deeply devoted to Lord Si. This would be a blessing for the nation."
The person who spoke elevated the topic to a whole new level.
Originally, if the emperor had first spread rumors that he was interested in Si Qi, the people and the court would certainly have become suspicious of the emperor because of their affection for Si Qi, and there might even have been excessive protests.
However, if everyone deduces this from Si Qi's sorrowful and mournful poems, recalls the emperor's behavior over the years, and combines it with Si Qi's mood during this period, everyone will suddenly feel that the two of them are a match made in heaven and a perfect couple!
If you have feelings for each other, why don't you get together?
As a result, mainstream public opinion emerged regarding the relationship between Lord Si and His Majesty. Every now and then, many people would come to Si Qi and say that they supported all of Lord Si's decisions, hoping that he could muster the courage to face his own heart, and that everyone would help Si Qi overcome any obstacles on the road ahead.
They even said that the emperor doesn't necessarily have to take concubines to have princes; isn't a male empress just fine? As long as His Majesty likes it, everyone will support it.
Similar topics are not only circulating outside the court, but also appearing in the imperial court. Ministers are beginning to submit memorials, saying that His Majesty works so hard for the country, yet he has no one who understands him, which is truly heartbreaking.
Regardless of His Majesty's sexual orientation, even if he were to find a male empress, everyone would welcome it, not for any other reason than to make our beloved His Majesty happy.
The other ministers nodded in agreement, saying, "Yes, Your Majesty, please do not have any concerns."
"The male empress is excellent, we all support her."
"What could be more important than His Majesty's mood?"
"If Your Majesty has someone in mind, we, as your subjects, will certainly cooperate."
"Do you wish to select a concubine? Our unmarried officials, unmarried officials, unmarried officials, all may submit their names for a try."
"Old Chen, did you mention the unmarried official three times...?"
"Lord Si, are you interested?" Old Chen looked intently at Si Qi, emphasizing, "This is a golden opportunity! If we don't act now, His Majesty will be with someone else!"
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Author's Note: --
Because of the endless stream of flattering compliments over the past few years, the people of Qi, whose style has become increasingly bizarre, are thinking: I absolutely have to be the matchmaker today!
Si Qi: =w=
Chu Feng: ovo
——
I have quite a few drafts for this book, so I plan to publish it in two parts, the one called "Everyone Loves the Lord God".
I'll save this book for now. Once it reaches 300 pre-orders, I'll update both books simultaneously. If it doesn't reach 300, I'll only update this one. Once this book is finished and I've received enough pre-orders, I'll start updating the other one. It's still uncertain at the moment.
Everyone Loves the Supreme God [Quick Transmigration]
The main god Siqi and his partner went to a small world for their honeymoon, only to discover that the person they were using was always involved in a tragic love affair.
World One:
Before his death, the man from humble beginnings discovered that the duke's son truly loved him. After being reborn, he planned to trick his way into marriage and exploit his family's infertility.
Duke's son: Actually, you're just a tool. I've always loved my childhood sweetheart.
World Two:
The fiancée, not wanting to be the prince's kept woman, conspired with a demonic cult to poison the entire sect on their wedding day.
The Chosen One: If you want freedom, then leave. Let yourself be exposed to the elements. I choose Long Aotian, who will fight alongside me.
World Three:
An alpha who lives off a rich man harms her wealthy beta husband, inherits his fortune, and then confesses her love to her true love, an omega.
Rich beta: I wish you and your "true love" a happy marriage. This time, I'm going on a blind date with the Alliance Marshal who will avenge me after my death.
The Alliance Marshal, who was just about to intercept the deal, suddenly got a great deal: Thank God for this blessing!
Also, I'd like to ask for pre-orders for "Sky Curtain Spoilers: My Rebellion and Ascension to the Throne," as I'm already writing the manuscript.
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