Chapter 14: Liu Susu

This brought a great sense of relief to Chen Mu. If that living ancestor had truly been arranged for him, wouldn't his dreams of having many wives and concubines be dashed? Yet the Minister of Revenue’s words served as a timely reminder to both Chen Xingtian and Chen Mu: the Crown Prince was no longer young—it was indeed time to appoint a Crown Princess.

Chen Xingtian soon broached the subject with Chen Mu.
“My son, among the daughters of all the ministers and officials at court, is there anyone you favor?”
Chen Mu searched his memories carefully before replying,
“The youngest daughter of Chancellor Liu—Liu Susu.”

In the memories of the original Crown Prince, he had met Liu Susu as a child, and they had played together for some time, enjoying a pleasant bond. Only after Chen Mu was named Crown Prince did their relationship gradually grow distant. According to what Chen Mu remembered of Liu Susu, while she might not be stunning enough to make flowers blush or fish sink from shame, she was a rare beauty indeed. She came from a distinguished family, making her an ideal match as his principal wife. Moreover, Liu Susu was gentle, virtuous, well-read, and sensible—marrying her would be a wise choice.

Chen Xingtian nodded in agreement, approving of Chen Mu’s decision. Of course, his considerations differed from Chen Mu’s. In his view, Chancellor Liu had been loyal to him ever since his days as heir apparent, steadfastly supporting him on his path to the throne. As for loyalty, few in the entire court could compare. Chancellor Liu was always discreet and cautious, never participating in the court’s open or covert power struggles. Though he held high office and great power, he never abused his position and always performed his duties with diligence and integrity. In short, given Chancellor Liu’s character, he would not overstep his bounds simply because his daughter became Crown Princess. The Chancellor’s legitimate daughter was certainly worthy of such a title.

“Very well. I shall seize an opportunity soon to grant you both a marriage,” Chen Xingtian agreed without hesitation. “Before that, you should pay a visit to the Liu family’s young lady.”

This was precisely what Chen Mu wished for. That very afternoon, he prepared a gift, changed into simple attire, and set off for the Chancellor’s residence to visit his future bride.

At the gate, a servant stopped him.
“Sir, who might you be?”
“Go and inform your master that Chen Mu has come to call, and request that he come out to meet me.”

A servant hurried in to deliver the message, and soon Chancellor Liu himself came trotting out to the entrance.

“Your humble servant greets Your Highness the Crown Prince.” As soon as he reached the gate, Chancellor Liu made to bow. “I did not know Your Highness would grace us with your presence—please forgive my inadequate welcome.”
Chen Mu quickly helped his future father-in-law up.
“Chancellor Liu, there’s no need for such formality. Away from the court, let us be at ease.” He handed his gift to a servant.

Chancellor Liu, a little flustered by the honor, promptly ushered Chen Mu into the house.
“Your Highness, may I ask if you have come on state business?” Chancellor Liu inquired cautiously.
“Has there been some trouble with the reform that requires my assistance?”
Chen Mu waved his hand.
“You are overthinking, Chancellor. My visit today is not for matters of state, but for a personal affair.”
“A personal affair?” Chancellor Liu was taken aback. What private business could the Crown Prince have with him?

Chen Mu considered his words, then asked,
“How has Miss Susu been of late?”
“Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. My daughter is quite well.”
“Is she betrothed?”
“No. Many have come to propose, but she has taken a liking to none and declined them all,” Chancellor Liu replied honestly. “May I ask what prompts Your Highness to inquire about this matter now?”

With the conversation at this point, Chen Mu saw no need for further pretense.
“Chancellor, let me be frank.” Chen Mu adjusted his posture and continued, “I wish to marry Miss Susu as my Crown Princess.”

At these words, Chancellor Liu stared in shock. He was well aware that the debate over the Crown Prince’s marriage had been raging at court, and every minister with a daughter of suitable age was racking their brains to forge a connection with the heir. Chancellor Liu had never considered himself a contender and thus had not sought to vie for the honor. He never imagined the matter would come to rest on his own household.

“Your servant… your servant thanks Your Highness for your favor on behalf of my daughter, but as for His Majesty…”
“My father is already aware and intends to grant us the marriage.”

With the Crown Prince’s side settled, Chancellor Liu’s mind was still troubled by one worry. It was true, as he had said, that over the years many had admired his daughter’s beauty and come to propose—some even from noble or princely houses. Yet, and this was no exaggeration, his youngest daughter not only had exceptionally high standards but also a stubborn temperament.

Not one of those suitors had pleased her; even Chancellor Liu’s own persuasion was to no avail. Now, what worried him most was what he would do if his daughter dared refuse the Crown Prince.

Chen Mu noticed Chancellor Liu’s uneasy expression.
“Chancellor Liu, is there some difficulty?”
Honest to a fault, Chancellor Liu confided his concern.
Chen Mu, hearing this, smiled gently.
“Then may I trouble you to invite Miss Susu here to meet with me?”

Chen Mu was not much worried about this. From his memories, Liu Susu had always been fond of him; besides, with the imperial marriage decree, a learned and gracious girl like her would hardly refuse. Chancellor Liu, seeing there was no sign of anger from Chen Mu, hurriedly ordered someone to fetch his youngest daughter.

Before long, the soft chime of ornaments announced Liu Susu’s approach. When Chen Mu saw her, he could not help but marvel inwardly at her beauty. Seeing her in person was an entirely different experience from recalling her in memory. Truly, Liu Susu was the epitome of a noble lady—her demeanor elegant, her makeup light, her features as fresh and tender as a lotus just emerged from the water.

“Greetings, Father. Greetings, Your Highness.”

Chen Mu himself stepped forward to assist her.
“Miss Susu, it has been many years. How have you fared?”

Liu Susu glanced up at him, a blush swiftly spreading across her cheeks.
“Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. I have been well.”

Her voice, like herself, was gentle and melodious. Chen Mu, hearing it, felt his heart stir.

Chancellor Liu quickly stood and explained Chen Mu’s intentions to his daughter.
“Susu, His Majesty now wishes to grant you and the Crown Prince marriage, appointing you as Crown Princess. Do you consent?”