"As you all probably know, besides dealing in silk and tea, my Shu family also handles some procurement of tributes for the Imperial Court. Half a month ago, commissioned by the Imperial Court, we purchased a batch of precious medicinal herbs destined for the northern border, to reward the soldiers defending the frontier. According to the plan, they should have arrived at the capital dock three days ago. However, they still haven't arrived today. We sent people to investigate, and they said the fleet encountered river bandits. Three hundred thousand taels worth of medicinal herbs have all sunk to the bottom of the river. Now the Imperial Court has sent people to hold us accountable, giving us a strict limit of ten days to provide an explanation. Otherwise, we will be charged with the severe crime of delaying military operations. When that time comes, not only will my Shu family's assets be confiscated, but my father and I will also lose our lives."
They didn't expect that the question for the final round would be so perilous. This was no longer a competition to choose a groom, but a gamble of life and death.
"The difficult problem lies right before us. Whoever overcomes this crisis will be the future husband of me, Shu Ji'er. Please consider it carefully. If you feel it is too dangerous, you may leave right now. I will offer one hundred taels of silver as a token of gratitude."
"Miss Shu, I only know that one must repay kindness. My mother's illness was cured only because of the medicine sent by the Shu family. Now that the Shu family is in trouble, I cannot be a coward. I won't leave."
"We won't leave either. The Shu family gave us a chance. We cannot be ungrateful."
"Yes, we will stay and weather this storm with the Shu family."
"Great. Since you all are willing to stay and weather this storm with my family, I, Shu Ji'er, cannot thank you enough. Now you may share your solutions."
"How about pooling our money to buy another batch of herbs?"
"Even if the Shu family could come up with three hundred thousand, we couldn't gather so many precious herbs in ten days."
"What about begging the emperor?"
"The law is unyielding. Delaying military operations is a capital offense."
"Young Master Lin, what do you think?"
"Miss Shu, I believe the top priority is not how to make amends, but rather to clear up one thing. That is, were the ships really scuttled by bandits?"
As expected, he didn't disappoint me.
"Oh? What do you mean by that?"
"I have read some geographical journals. They record that the Blackwater Shallows area is extremely treacherous. Experienced sailors would rather take a detour, even if it takes a few more days, than take that dangerous route. The Shu family has run shipping routes for years, and your sailors are highly experienced. How could they make such a rookie mistake? This makes no sense. Secondly, the Blackwater Shallows are perilous, offering no profit. Why would bandits occupy such a place? Thirdly, Miss Shu said the scout reported the ships were scuttled and all the herbs sank into the river. If that is the case, how did the messenger find out? If he witnessed it firsthand, how did he return safely to deliver the news? If it is just hearsay, then how reliable is this news?"
Every single word Lin Zikuan said coincided perfectly with my own suspicions. Exactly. This so-called shipwreck incident was fabricated by me. This was the final test. It tested their intellect, their perception, and whether they could keep a cool head and think logically when disaster strikes.
And Lin Zikuan delivered a perfect answer.
"Young Master Lin, congratulations. You have passed the final test. From this day forward, you, Lin Zikuan, are the husband I, Shu Ji'er, have chosen."
"A test?"
"Yes, indeed. The shipwreck was entirely fabricated. It was a test I devised for all of you. I apologize for using such a method. However, the son-in-law of the Shu family must not only possess a benevolent heart and business acumen, but also a calm mind in times of crisis and the wisdom to see through deception. I deeply appreciate all of your intentions. Uncle Fu, take these four gentlemen to the accounts office. Give each of them five hundred taels of silver and see them off properly."
Lin Zikuan was still standing where he had been. "Is what you said really true?"
"Of course it is true. I, Shu Ji'er, always keep my word. Young Master Lin, from now on, you and I will be in the same boat, through thick and thin. Are you willing?"
"I am willing."
The selection of the groom had finally concluded. The poor scholar Lin Zikuan became the biggest winner in this highly anticipated nationwide event. This outcome caught many people completely off guard. As for the gossip and rumors, I ignored them entirely. One lives their life for themselves, not for others to watch. Whether the person I chose is good or bad, I know very well in my own heart.
"By grace of heaven, the emperor decrees. Miss Shu, Young Master Lin, congratulations to you both. His Majesty has declared that the wedding date is set for one month from now, and he will personally officiate the ceremony. It must be held with the utmost grandeur."
This was a favor, but also a warning. He is telling the crown prince not to harbor any more wicked thoughts.
In the Eastern Palace, I am told, the crown prince raged.
"A bunch of useless fools. A penniless scholar dares to ride on my head."
"The crown prince. Your Highness. You have not attended court for three days. If the emperor asks—"
"Get out."
During this time, our relationship gradually began to change. At first, there was mostly politeness and distance between us. But with more contact, I discovered many shining qualities in him. He is highly knowledgeable, kind-hearted, and meticulous.
It turns out this is what it feels like to have someone by your side. Very warm, and very reassuring.