The Complete Romance of Zhaojun's Love Story

Chapter One: General Introduction to the Marriage Alliance Chapter Two: Selecting Consorts in the Deep Palace Chapter Three: Refusing Advice and Embroidering Chapter Four: Seclusion and Teaching Daughters Chapter Five: Hearing the News and Panic Chapter Six: Coercion to Accept the Selection Chapter Seven: Presenting Beauties at the Inn Chapter Eight: Enduring the Pain of the Long Journey Chapter Nine: Missing Family at the Inn Chapter Ten: Copying the Beautiful Image Chapter Eleven: The Painter Demands Bribes Chapter Twelve: The Decline Due to Altering the Painting Chapter Thirteen: Lamenting on the Sickbed Chapter Fourteen: Willing to Be a Barbarian Woman Chapter Fifteen: A Farewell Ceremony and Amazing Beauty Chapter Sixteen: Punishing the Traitors and Leaving the Frontier Chapter Seventeen: The Pipa's Lament Chapter Eighteen: The Green Tomb's Enduring Fame Chapter One: General Introduction to the Marriage Alliance Anonymous Author: The cold wind whistles and the reed pipes sound, The purple terrace and green tomb swallow their sobs. The court wins battles, Beautiful women abound, But can it be said that a beauty can topple a nation? Those in power scheme and plot, The lowly painter controls promotion and demotion. She forever holds her pipa, guarding the Jade Gate, Alas, such a beauty is hard to find again. Yellow sand churns the earth, wings fly in the sky, But the green grass on the tomb remains unchanged. Alas, such a beauty is hard to find again, What good is killing the painter! This poem recounts the story of Wang Zhaojun's marriage to the Xiongnu chieftain during the Han Dynasty, blaming the Han emperor. It argues that the mighty Han Dynasty, facing the Xiongnu's tyranny, lacked both brave generals and elite troops to defend its borders, and capable strategists to devise plans to repel the enemy. Instead, it sent a woman to the frontier, leaving her to endure the cold winds, hear the mournful sounds of the Xiongnu, and suffer unspeakable hardship. Was this not relying on a woman to achieve victory in the court? Moreover, as the ruler of a nation, the monarch of a great country, one should be wise, decisive, and not easily deceived—only then can one be called the ruler of China. Instead, he appointed a vulgar, meat-eating man to the court, placing him in charge of state affairs, resulting in a lack of strategies to repel the enemy and manage the borders, resorting to pleading with his daughter to save the country—how shameful! Furthermore, by believing the painter's words, the power of promotion and demotion in the court was wielded by the lowest and most despicable painter, resulting in the tragic loss of a peerless beauty to the Xiongnu, leaving her to forever lament and sigh beyond the Jade Gate Pass, clutching her pipa! Even with the wealth of the four seas and the supreme power of the emperor, he could not protect a beloved beauty. He should have repented, reflected deeply, and corrected his mistakes—that would have been the conduct of a true ruler. Yet, unaware of his own faults, he took his anger out on the painter, Mao Yanshou, out of regret for the beauty, and had him executed. But the beauty was gone, her beauty irretrievable. What good was killing the painter? This is the gist of the poem about Zhaojun. However, in my view, while the Han emperor was indeed foolish and incompetent, Zhaojun, amidst misfortune, found great fortune. Why do I say that Zhaojun found great fortune amidst misfortune? Because Zhaojun was born with a face as beautiful as a flower and the moon as bright as the moon, and was also literate, skilled in poetry and prose, she could truly be considered the foremost lady and the queen of beauties. She should have been a concubine or empress in the Han palace, enjoying wealth and glory, which would have been a fitting tribute to her beauty and talent. However, because she refused to bribe the court painter, her portrait was altered. Not only was she confined to the deep palace, but she was also betrothed to the Xiongnu chieftain, sent to the desolate and heartbreaking land of the Xiongnu, to experience the harshness of their harsh environment and the bitterness of being far from home. Was this not a misfortune? But Zhaojun answered the imperial summons to the palace. If the court painter had not altered her portrait after failing to bribe her, her beauty would surely have won the heart of the Han emperor. Even if she had won the emperor's heart, she would have remained a talented woman or been made a noble concubine, and would have inevitably returned to the earth, becoming a thing of the past. How could she have left a lasting name and become a beautiful story? Although Wang Zhaojun was misled by a painter, forced to return to the Xiongnu, and died and was buried in a foreign land, the Han Dynasty, thanks to her single act, was spared border troubles for generations. Even now, her tomb is overgrown with weeds, a beautiful story passed down in history. Scholars and poets have expressed their admiration in poems. Some even wish they could carry gold thousands of miles to buy the bones of a fine horse and return it to Han territory so that Zhaojun would not marry the Xiongnu chieftain and die an old, nameless palace woman. Could her name have been so widely known and endured for millennia? In contrast, Cai Wenji, daughter of Cai Zhonglang, was exiled to the Xiongnu and composed the Eighteen Songs of the Hu Jia to express her sorrow. Cao Cao, pitying her, sent men with gold and silk to ransom her back to Han territory, allowing her to remarry. Later, a poem about Wenji satirized her: "I would rather die to the sound of the Xiang River zither than live to the tune of the Hu Jia." Both Wenji and Zhaojun were banished to the Xiongnu, yet Wenji's fame pales in comparison to Zhaojun's. Wenji served no purpose for the Han Dynasty and, upon returning home, remarried. Zhaojun, however, restrained the Xiongnu Chanyu, preventing him from invading the Han borders, a benefit that lasted for generations. Even in Xiongnu territory, she refused to conform to their customs, ultimately choosing to marry her son to her mother, a custom she herself practiced, and ultimately died by poison. This act of reforming Han etiquette and customs, spreading the barbaric practices of the Xiongnu to the desert, made Zhaojun not only a meritorious official of the Han but also a virtuous woman of the Xiongnu. Even after her death, her spirit remained, her tomb still green, a testament to her unwavering loyalty to the Han Dynasty until her death. Thus, her name endures to this day. However, the reason for Zhaojun's fame lies in her marriage to the Xiongnu. And this marriage was facilitated by the painter altering her portrait to conceal her beauty from the Han emperor. According to this logic, the painter Mao Yanshou is also a meritorious official in the story of Zhaojun. My discussion here is not intended to excessively praise Zhaojun. Those who understand Zhaojun's history will know that my statement that Zhaojun, amidst misfortune, received great fortune, is not without reason. To understand Zhaojun's history, please read on. Chapter Two: Selecting Concubines in the Deep Palace. It is said that in the Han Dynasty, since Emperor Gaozu Liu Bang, wielding his three-foot sword, slew the white snake, rose in rebellion, destroyed the tyrannical Qin Dynasty, pacified Western Chu, and unified China, although the Xiongnu frequently posed a threat on the borders, the country remained peaceful, and the people and goods were abundant. This continued until the eleventh emperor, Emperor Yuan. This Emperor Yuan was exceptionally wise, with a clean government and simple laws. He inherited the legacy of previous sages and relied on the cooperation of both civil and military officials. He governed with peace and tranquility, and the four borders were peaceful. Furthermore, there were many years of abundant harvests, all warfare ceased, and the people were extremely wealthy. The people praised the peace, saying that the treasury was overflowing and the granaries were overflowing. The imperial court was without any shortcomings. Within the deep palace, there was naturally no need for tireless labor; one could govern with ease. Little did they know that tranquility could be the catalyst for downfall, and pleasure the foundation of future troubles. Emperor Xiaoyuan, finding the court peaceful and the politics simple, felt the long days were too leisurely to pass, a waste of his youth. He intended to select several beautiful young women from among the palace maids and embroiderers to be his concubines, so he could spend his days with them and avoid loneliness. However, Emperor Gaozu, having risen from humble origins to become emperor, deeply understood the hardships of the common people. Therefore, after ascending the throne, he established a quota for all palace maids and eunuchs. Furthermore, because the selection of embroiderers caused considerable disturbance to the people, he limited the selection of embroiderers to once every twenty years, making it an ancestral rule. Subsequent generations could not arbitrarily change this rule. Emperor Xiaowen, on the other hand, was extremely frugal. Within the palace, besides the few palace maids serving the empresses and concubines, even the quota set by Emperor Gaozu was often insufficient. Later emperors Jing and Wu, both wise and ambitious rulers, paid surprisingly little attention to the selection of palace women. Following the teachings of Emperors Wen and Jing, although several selections of palace women were held due to insufficient resources, the selection process was cursory, with little emphasis on appearance or talent. The palace women during Emperor Yuan's reign were remnants of previous dynasties. Therefore, not only were radiant and beautiful women unsuitable, but even those around twenty years old were excluded. Initially, Emperor Yuan ordered his concubines to select women, but finding none to his liking, he suspected jealousy and refused to choose the best. He then personally selected a few, finding that while the women were not old and frail, they were past their prime and unlikely to be chosen. Seeing this, Emperor Yuan lost interest and considered abandoning the selection process, but the decree had already been issued.
Those palace maids, confined within the palace walls, trapped in their long-term confinement, could never even catch the emperor's eye. Now, after much anticipation, this day has arrived—the emperor himself is choosing them. Those chosen will be promoted to concubines, or at least to the rank of Noble Lady or Talented Woman—a meteoric rise from the depths of despair! Upon hearing this news, the palace maids have already perfumed themselves, styled their hair, and applied makeup. Even the older maids, with their wrinkled faces, have applied thick layers of powder to conceal them. The younger ones, fearing they lack charm and won't win the emperor's favor, act coy and affected, feigning elegance. Even those with unattractive appearances, knowing full well their unappealing looks and certain they have no hope, still cherish this rare opportunity and adorn themselves with hairpins and flowers, changing their clothes to try their luck. Perhaps they sowed good karma in their past lives, and this time, they might just be chosen by the emperor. Those who were slightly more beautiful, though knowing their looks would stand out among the many palace women and that they were quite confident of success, still faced the challenge of the emperor's personal selection—a far cry from the selection of concubines. The emperor's judgment was undoubtedly strict, and selection was not easy. Therefore, they had no choice but to dress up elaborately, wearing fine silks and satins, displaying their allure and beauty, hoping the emperor would favor them and elevate them to the rank of concubine. Thus, these palace women, regardless of age, appearance, or gender, were all dressed neatly and colorfully, lined up in rows, awaiting the emperor's selection. At a glance, they were of varying heights and lengths, their hairpins and ornaments gleaming in the sunlight, their silks and satins dazzling to the eye. The fragrant scent of cosmetics wafted through the air, creating a pleasant aroma. Seeing so many women hoping to be chosen as concubines, how could the emperor possibly retract his decree and refuse to select them? He had no choice but to take two concubines with him, ascend the dragon throne, and wait for all the palace maids to pay their respects. He then ordered the two concubines to call out names one by one, looking at them carefully and selecting a few from among the less attractive ones. Those palace maids who hadn't been chosen, who had come full of hope, left disappointed, resentful that the emperor was heartless for not selecting them; yet they envied those who were chosen, believing them to be blessed with good fortune and able to please the emperor. "Today they are our sisters, tomorrow they will receive titles and call her Imperial Concubine, bowing and paying homage, as our mistress." These palace maids discussed amongst themselves and then withdrew. What happened after the emperor selected the palace maids remains to be seen; we will find out in the next chapter. Chapter Three: Rejecting Advice and Selecting Embroidery. Although Emperor Yuan had looked at all the palace maids and selected a few from among the less attractive ones, he looked again and felt that the selected ones were all over twenty years old and of average appearance, which displeased him greatly. He had no choice but to order two concubines to take them away, and then retreated to the main palace. Empress Lin greeted the Emperor and brought him inside. After paying her respects, she noticed the Emperor's displeasure and asked, "What happened in court today? Why is Your Majesty so depressed upon returning to the palace?" The Emperor replied, "There was no incident in court. Because the world is at peace and the government is relaxed, I intended to select several beautiful women to serve as my concubines. However, while inspecting all the palace maids in the inner palace, I found that they were all of marriageable age, with ordinary appearances and very few outstanding ones. Therefore, I am displeased." The Empress smiled and said, "All the palace maids are remnants of the previous dynasty." For over twenty years now, no embroidery girls have been selected. Not only are there no beautiful women, but even if there were, they would be too old and lack charm. How will His Majesty select beauties from among the palace women? The Emperor asked, "If not from among the palace women, what other method is there?" The Empress replied, "Your Majesty, as the Emperor, possesses the entire realm; all under heaven is your land, and all within your borders are your subjects. Simply issue a decree, dispatching several eunuchs to various prefectures and counties to select embroidery girls, ordering them to secretly investigate. If there are any beautiful..." "Beautiful women, selected from among them. Then, how could you possibly fail to please the Emperor?" Emperor Yuan said, "I am not unaware of this intention. If I were to issue this edict, the court officials would surely submit memorials to object. Moreover, ancestral rules are difficult to disobey, and it is inconvenient for me to change the old regulations. Therefore, I have repeatedly wanted to order the embroidery, but I have repeatedly refrained from doing so. I can only search for women within the palace." The Empress said, "Your Majesty's consideration is indeed wise, but ancestral rules stipulate a term of twenty years. From the time of the previous dynasty's embroidery to now, more than twenty years have passed. These palace women, since being selected to serve in the palace, have been confined to Changmen Palace." "Do not let them receive rain and dew, lest you harbor selfish resentment and offend the harmony of heaven and earth. Why doesn't Your Majesty make this intention clear, send people to the countryside to select women for embroidery, and release all these older palace women, ordering their families to take them away to choose spouses? That would be a good thing. Even if the court officials object, Your Majesty would have a reason to deal with it." Upon hearing this, Emperor Yuan was overjoyed and said, "What the Empress has said is very reasonable. I will issue the decree to select women for embroidery tomorrow." The next morning at court, Emperor Yuan indeed issued the decree, sending eight eunuchs to various prefectures and counties to select women from the countryside
to serve as palace maids. Before this decree was even issued, a high-ranking official had already stepped forward from the court, prostrating himself on the golden steps, and objecting, "No, no!" Emperor Yuan looked at him; it was Zhonglang Hou Ying. Emperor Yuan said, "I wish to select other palace maids because the ones I employ are getting on in years. Why does the Gentleman of the Palace say it is not permissible?" Hou Ying bowed and replied, "I have heard that wise rulers are close to virtuous men and distant from women, bring peace to the people and scrutinize officials, their words are law, and their actions are without fault. Now, fortunately, the threat from the Xiongnu has subsided and the border wars have just ended. Your Majesty should indeed allow the people to rest and recuperate, so that they may enjoy a peaceful life and share in the blessings of peace. Why then should you send your inner court officials to select embroidered maidens everywhere, causing alarm in the capital and leaving the people with no peace of mind?" Emperor Yuan said, "Selecting embroidered maidens is a common practice in the country. Why should it cause such alarm in the capital and leave the people with no peace of mind?" Hou Ying replied, "The people cherish their children dearly. Upon hearing of the selection of embroidered maidens, they fear that their daughters will be chosen for the inner palace, separating them from their families. In their panic, they will not cherish their daughters and will arrange marriages haphazardly, leading to chaotic and rebellious unions that ruin their lives. This is unacceptable. Your envoy has presented the decree." "When Your Majesty travels, the costs of boats, carriages, horses, lodgings, and supplies will inevitably be borne by the people. Those who are honest and upright will only be charged a small amount; but the greedy will use this opportunity to extort and demand bribes, making life unbearable for the people. This is the second reason. The selected embroiderers must be extremely young, beautiful, and able to please the emperor. Young women are unwilling to leave their homes and parents, but are forced to comply by the strict decree of the court and the coercion of the envoys. As a result, they hang themselves or throw themselves into the river. This is the third reason. Because of these three reasons, Emperor Gaozu solemnly established the ancestral system of selecting embroiderers once every twenty years. Fearing that future generations would not understand the emperor's wise intentions, he also limited the number of embroiderers, so that even if this practice continues, it will not be an insatiable search. This shows that Your Majesty deeply understands the people's hardships and is compassionate towards their plight. Now Your Majesty has suddenly issued an order to select embroiderers, which violates the ancestral system and goes against the people's wishes. Therefore, I believe it is unacceptable."
Emperor Yuan said, “Although the ancestral system has limited the number of women to be selected over a certain period, it does not mean that the selection of embroiderers is forbidden. The palace maids in my palace are all descendants of the late emperor, and they have not been selected for more than twenty years. According to the ancestral system, this has not been violated. Moreover, most of the current palace maids are around thirty years old. Being confined in the palace for so long without being released to choose a spouse will inevitably lead to an imbalance of yin and yang, which is against the harmony of heaven and earth. This is probably not appropriate. As for disturbing the people, I have thought about it many times. I have ordered the envoys I sent not to harass or extort along the way, so the people will not have to worry about being disturbed.” Hou Ying wanted to say something more, but Emperor Yuan’s expression changed and he said, “You need not say more, my mind is made up.” Hou Ying dared not advise further. Seeing the emperor’s intention, the ministers all remained silent. What happened next? Let us wait for the next chapter. Chapter Four: Seclusion and Teaching Women It is said that Emperor Yuan was determined to select beautiful women to serve as concubines, and ignored the advice of his ministers. He ordered eight eunuchs to go separately. When this news spread, the common people, hearing that the court was selecting beautiful women aged seventeen to twenty to serve as embroiderers, were naturally relieved. Families without daughters had no worries. Families with daughters under seventeen still had a glimmer of hope that they could be exempted from the selection. Families with daughters over seventeen, upon receiving this news, feared that if their daughters were selected, they would be separated from their families, destined to die in the deep palace, never to see each other again. Regardless of whether they were officials or commoners, everyone was in a state of panic and rushed to marry off their daughters. At first, they could still be somewhat selective, choosing partners of similar social standing and age; but as the situation tightened and the government further prohibited private marriages, some even went so far as to send their daughters to the homes of unmarried men for immediate marriage. Some older men who had no one willing to marry found young wives at this time. Some poor men who could not afford wives took this opportunity to marry daughters of wealthy families. Even those of slightly higher social standing, wealthier families, better looks, and younger age, were sometimes married three times in a single night. The streets were filled with the sounds of carriages and horses escorting brides, and every household was engaged in wedding ceremonies. Amidst this joyous atmosphere, however, the parents of the brides wore sorrowful expressions and sighed deeply. It was truly a helpless situation, a forced turn of events that transformed these once peaceful families into a state of distress—how lamentable! Later generations wrote poems lamenting this: "The imperial edict emanated from the deep palace, weddings and marriages were commonplace everywhere. Young people cherish their youth, and three marriages in one night bring boundless fortune." These weddings first took place in the Guanzhong Plain (Sanfu region), and later gradually spread to other provinces and counties, causing the same panic and turmoil. Parents, as long as their daughters don't enter the deep palace and are spared the lament of growing old together, regardless of poverty or age, will forcefully send their daughters to the palace if they are unmarried. They won't argue about the dowry, let alone discuss beauty or ugliness. Even if their daughter marries a middle-aged man or an ugly son-in-law, it's a thousand times better than being chosen to enter the palace, never seeing their parents and brothers again, enduring the cold moon and dim lamplight, confined to the palace, the desolate Changmen Palace, overgrown with weeds. Therefore, these girls are naturally overjoyed when they marry handsome young men, and even if they are mismatched with poor and ugly husbands, they can only lament their bad luck and not blame their parents for arranging their marriages wrongly and ruining their lives. Amidst this turmoil, a family has been stirred up, and a remarkable woman has risen up. This family is surnamed Wang, named Rang, originally from the State of Qi, who moved to Zigui Township in Shu County to escape the chaos of war. Later, during the Chu-Han Contention, he moved to Jingmen Prefecture. Wang Rang was naturally reclusive and unwilling to serve in the government. Although he was full of talent, he preferred to live a secluded life, indulging in poetry and wine. He also loved mountains and rivers and often went out to travel. When he encountered famous mountains and scenic spots, he would linger there, composing poems and drinking wine, reluctant to leave. His wife, Yao, came from a family of scholars and virtuous people. She was literate, virtuous, and managed the household affairs
herself. Wang Rang appreciated her greatly, and the couple loved each other deeply. They were wealthy, had servants, and were extremely happy. However, there was one regret: Wang Rang and Yao were the same age but had no children. No matter how much they prayed and prayed, Yao could not conceive. Wang Rang was carefree and did not care, but Yao was constantly worried about this and wanted to persuade her husband to take a concubine. Helplessly, Wang Rang refused, leaving Yao with no choice but to give up. Unexpectedly, when Yao turned forty, she suddenly became pregnant and gave birth to a daughter. The couple had longed for a son, hoping for someone to rely on in their old age. Now, with the birth of a daughter, although their wish had not been fulfilled, they were overjoyed to have such a beautiful girl after a long period of childlessness. Wang Rang named his daughter Wang Qiang, with the courtesy name Zhaojun. Zhaojun was exceptionally intelligent and beautiful. The couple cherished their daughter like the apple of their eye. When she was five or six, Wang Rang personally taught her to read. Zhaojun was remarkably gifted. Her father only needed to teach her once, and she could recite it fluently, as if she had memorized the text perfectly
. Therefore, Wang Rang was even more delighted, saying that she had a profound foundation, innate wisdom, and was a talented woman. He then passed on all his talents to his daughter. Therefore, by the age of sixteen, Zhaojun had already thoroughly read the classics and was proficient in composing poems and essays. Sometimes, when Wang Rang and his daughter composed poems together, he would still be thinking while she had already finished. Wang Rang was even somewhat unable to keep up with her. What will happen next? Let's find out in the next chapter. Chapter Five: Hearing the News and Being Panicked. It is said that by the age of sixteen, Zhaojun was already well-versed in poetry and literature, possessed a keen understanding of poetry, and was proficient in music. She was also exceptionally beautiful, with a natural charm. Everyone in Jingmen Prefecture knew of Zhaojun's talent and beauty. Many wealthy families, officials, and gentry sent matchmakers to propose marriage, praising the noble lineage and handsome sons of these families, or the wealth and talent of the young men of others. They came incessantly. Wang Rang and his wife, being already in their fifties, only had this daughter and were unwilling to easily agree to a marriage. They insisted on choosing a young man of both talent and good looks before agreeing to the marriage. Therefore, they rejected the matchmakers. From then on, Zhaojun followed Yao and learned needlework, no longer studying in the study. In her spare time, she would compose poems and play the zither alone, passing the time in her secluded chamber. Sometimes she would compose poems and play chess with Wang Rang, enjoying family time. The household was harmonious and happy, and time seemed to pass exceptionally quickly. Zhaojun was already seventeen years old. One day, while she was doing needlework and chatting with Yao in her room, she suddenly saw Wang Rang rush in from outside, his face changed, and he was filled with alarm. Seeing his unusual appearance, Zhaojun and her daughter wondered what had happened and hurriedly asked, "What's the matter that you're in such a hurry?" Wang Rang said, "It's terrible! I heard that the court is selecting embroiderers, and the imperial envoy has already arrived in the city. Families with daughters are rushing to arrange marriages. What should we do?" Yao said, "This is probably just a rumor. If the imperial envoy has already arrived in the city, how come there's no impact at all?" Wang Rang said, "Our village is far from the city, so we don't know the news. Besides, the imperial envoy was afraid that families would cherish their daughters and be reluctant to part with them, so he came in complete secrecy. How could we let people..." "Do you know?" Yao said. "Even if it were true, we live in this secluded place. The angel wouldn't know we have a daughter, let alone come to choose her. Besides, she's still young. We can easily make excuses."
Before Wang Rang could finish speaking, he stamped his foot anxiously and said, "You're still saying such reassuring things!
Everyone in Jingmen Prefecture knows our daughter's talent and reputation! The angel will surely question the local officials. How can we hide it from them? This time, all girls over seventeen years old must register. My daughter is already seventeen. How can you say she's too young?"
Upon hearing this, Madam Yao exclaimed anxiously, "So, my daughter is going to be chosen for the imperial concubine selection? How can this be?" Tears welled in her eyes, and she almost cried aloud. With a troubled expression, she said to Wang Rang, "We must think of a way. Are we just going to watch our daughter be chosen and wasted in the inner palace? Even if we had more children, we couldn't bear to part with her." As she spoke, she couldn't help but sob. Wang Rang said, "How could I not be anxious? To avoid the selection, the only way is to marry our daughter off immediately. But in such a rush, who should we marry her to? If we act rashly and marry her to someone unsuitable, wouldn't that ruin her life?" At this point, Wang Rang also couldn't help but shed tears. At this moment, Zhaojun stood to the side, having heard everything clearly. She listened calmly and without flinching as her parents discussed the matter, saying little. Later, seeing the two elders grow sorrowful, she stepped forward and advised, "Father, Mother, don't worry. If it is my destiny to be chosen for the palace, it cannot be forced. Your anxiety will only harm your health." Yao cried, "My daughter, how can you speak so comfortingly? Your parents are over fifty, and you are our only child. If you are chosen, who will we rely on? I think there is no other way but to follow your father's advice and quickly choose a young man, regardless of whether he is a farmer, and marry him today. As long as you don't leave home, and mother and daughter can see each other often, I would die content." Having said this, Yao burst into tears. Wang Rang said to Zhaojun, "Daughter, I have thought about it again and again, and there is no other way. It's just that the time is short and there is no way to choose. I'm afraid it will delay my son's future." Seeing her mother so sad, Zhaojun also shed tears. Upon hearing her father's words, she quickly wiped away her tears and stood upright, saying, "This is absolutely unacceptable. Firstly, the selection of embroiderers is an imperial decree, which all subjects should obey. If we follow your advice, wouldn't that be disobeying the imperial decree? Secondly, I am a woman, and although I have great ambitions, I cannot realize them, which I often regret. If I were selected to enter the palace, perhaps I could fulfill my long-cherished wish. Although Father and Mother are old, they are fortunate to be in good health and can rest assured. Moreover, Mother is pregnant and, by a blessing from Heaven, will give birth to a brother, so Father will have someone to rely on. I know that beauty is fleeting, and even without the selection of embroiderers, I would not have a good life. Leaving my parents' side would spare them grief should anything happen to me. Therefore, I have decided to go and take the selection." Wang Rang was about to reply when a servant announced, "The Prefect of Jingmen has come to visit." What happened next remains to be seen. Chapter Six: Coercion in the Selection It was said that Wang Rang, upon hearing the news that the prefectural magistrate had come to visit, was anxious. He thought, "This prefectural magistrate of Jingmen Prefecture has never had any dealings with me before. His sudden arrival must be about selecting embroiderers." He wanted to refuse to see him, but knew he couldn't. If he went out to greet him directly, he feared he might not be able to protect his daughter. Wang Rang was in a dilemma, unsure of what to do, wringing his hands and stamping his feet, utterly at a loss. Seeing her father's anxiety, Zhaojun calmly said, "Since the prefectural magistrate has arrived, there is no reason not to see him. Father, quickly go and greet him inside so we can discuss it further." Hearing this, Wang Rang had no choice but to go out. However, the prefectural magistrate, without waiting to be invited, had already gotten out of his sedan chair and sat in the hall. Seeing Wang Rang come out, the official raised his hand and smiled, saying, "Greetings, sir. I wouldn't dare disturb you without reason, but the imperial court has decreed the selection of embroiderers. I've long known that you have a daughter who could be selected. Please quickly provide her age and appearance to avoid delaying the date." Wang Rang was caught off guard by the official's sudden arrival and was speechless. After regaining his composure, he replied, "Although I have a daughter, she is ugly and still very young, making it difficult for her to be selected. I beg your forgiveness." He then bowed slightly. The official laughed, "Sir, there's no need to refuse. In Jingmen Prefecture, who doesn't know that your daughter is exceptionally beautiful and has grown up? Why not accept her?" Upon hearing this, Wang Rang quickly replied, "Indeed, my daughter is too young to be selected. I would be extremely grateful for any leniency." It turned out that the magistrate had come because the imperial envoy had delivered a secret decree to secretly search for beautiful women. Upon arriving in Jingmen Prefecture, the task fell to the magistrate, who was to find an exceptionally beautiful woman within the prefecture and return to the capital to report back to the emperor. The magistrate, having received the envoy's order, dared not neglect it. He had long heard of Wang Qiang's reputation and feared that her parents would not be willing to offer her up for marriage in advance. Therefore, he brought his retinue of soldiers and prepared a sedan chair and horses, rushing over overnight to catch Wang Rang off guard and prevent her from making any preparations for escape, thus avoiding punishment for himself. Seeing Wang Rang repeatedly decline, the official adopted a show of authority, his expression changing as he said, "I came to advise you personally because I admire you, sir, for you are a learned man. Now that you do not heed my advice, it means you intend to disobey the imperial decree. I cannot show you favoritism, so I have no choice but to take you to see the imperial envoy and await your punishment." Seeing the official using his power to coerce him, Wang Rang became even more unwilling, saying, "The imperial decree requires the selection of embroiderers to be done willingly. If they are unwilling, there is no reason to force them. Even if I were to go see the imperial envoy, I would still be ineligible for selection."
Hearing him use the word "coercion," the official flew into a rage, saying, "I offered my advice with good intentions, and you accuse me of coercion! Fine, I will coerce you! What's wrong with that?" He then ordered his attendants to lock Wang Rang up and take him back to the city. The servants on both sides responded with a clatter, took out chains, and
seized him. At this moment, Zhaojun, along with Yao, had been listening behind the screen for half a day. Seeing the magistrate about to arrest her father, she knew the situation was dire. She immediately stepped forward and shouted, "You dare to be so rude and arrest people without permission! I, Wang Qiang, have arrived!"
Her voice was delicate and melodious, like the sound of phoenix flutes and phoenix pipes. Hearing this sweet voice, the constables stopped what they were doing and looked up. Wang Qiang bowed to the magistrate and said, "Your Honor, I, Wang Qiang, pay my respects. My father's words were offensive just now; I beg your great forgiveness. Your Honor has come only to have me participate in the selection process. Now I have come out in person to obey your command and go to be selected. I hope Your Honor will have mercy and release my father. I will be eternally grateful and will repay you in the future."
The magistrate, seeing that Wang Qiang was indeed beautiful and radiant, and that she spoke so tactfully and willingly participated in the selection, was already very pleased. He was about to agree and not arrest Wang Rang. Suddenly, he thought, "Wang Rang dared to defy me to my face. If I let him go now, it would be too easy on him. Let me intimidate him again, and it will also serve as a warning to those foolish people." He then said sternly, "Are you Wang Qiang, woman? Wang Rang not only defied this prefect, but also disobeyed the imperial edict. His crime is very serious. This prefect cannot release him lightly. He must be taken to see the imperial envoy for punishment. You should pack your things quickly. The sedan chair and horses are ready. Go with him to the selection."
Seeing that the prefect was being presumptuous and unwilling to release her father, Wang Qiang said solemnly, "Your Excellency ordered Wang Qiang to participate in the selection, and Wang Qiang has already obeyed. What more do you want? Why are you unwilling to release my father? I advise Your Excellency not to exert all your power." Wang Qiang's departure is a stepping stone into the palace; she may well achieve her ambitions. Your Excellency should treat her with some kindness, leaving yourself some room for maneuver. Although Qiang is a woman, she is quite discerning in distinguishing between gratitude and resentment. If you display your power today, you may regret it later. The magistrate, upon hearing this, was secretly astonished, thinking, "This woman is quite cunning. She clearly relies on her beauty and talent, fully expecting to gain the Emperor's favor after entering the palace, and is using these words to control me. If I don't leave her some room, she will hold a grudge and surely retaliate once she achieves her goals. Then it will be too late for regrets. It would be better to follow her advice and release Wang Rang to avoid creating enmity." The outcome remains to be seen; we shall wait for the next chapter to find out. Chapter Seven: Presenting the Beauty at the Inn After hearing Zhaojun's words, the prefectural magistrate's face softened. He said, "Since you are willing to be chosen, why should this prefecture make any further demands? Just get into the sedan chair immediately and come with this prefectural magistrate before your father can be released." Wang Qiang smiled and said, "This humble woman is now under your control, sir, and will obey your orders. If you would be so kind as to consider my elderly parents and that I am your only child, and allow me a moment to reminisce with my mother, I would be eternally grateful and never forget it." Seeing her pitiful state, the prefectural magistrate did not press her further and allowed her to go inside to pack. Hearing this, Wang Qiang repeatedly thanked him. Seeing Wang Rang's pale face, she said to the prefectural magistrate, "Sir, please take a seat. This humble woman and my father will come inside together; we will not delay any longer." The prefectural magistrate nodded without speaking. Zhaojun stepped forward to help her father to the back. Yao Shi was already weeping uncontrollably. Seeing Zhaojun and her father enter,
She rushed forward, embraced her daughter, and cried out, "My child, how could I bear to leave you and be chosen to enter the deep palace? It's all because of that official, who stirred up trouble out of nothing, causing us to be separated. I don't know what hatred I had for him in my past life that he would dare to threaten me like this. I don't care about my old life anymore, I'll go and fight him to the death!" With that, she was about to go outside to fight the official to the death. Zhaojun quickly stopped Yao, pleading, "Mother, don't be sad. I don't think I'll have to stay in the palace forever. If I make even the slightest progress, I'll find a way to see you. That official was only following the court's orders; he had no choice. Don't blame him, Mother. I must leave now to bid you farewell." Wang Rang finally caught his breath and sighed, "It's too late now. What good is weeping? I believe you are exceptionally talented and will surely be favored by the Emperor. We will meet again someday. Quickly pack your things." With that, he covered his face and wept. Yao collapsed to the ground, unable to move. With tears streaming down her face, Zhaojun ordered her maid to help Yao up. She bowed twice and said, "Father and Mother, I have no need for anything. You need not pack. I only ask that you ease your grief, take care of yourselves, and not worry about your unfilial daughter. I also hope that Mother will give birth to a brother to continue the family line. Even if I die old in the palace, I will be content."
Yao choked with sobs and could not speak. Wang Rang said with tears in his eyes, "Daughter, you must take care of yourself on your journey. Although you are old, you are still healthy. You will take extra care of yourselves from now on. I only hope that you will have a chance to rise in the world so that we can meet again. There is no use in delaying now. Get into the sedan chair." Zhaojun agreed through her tears and said with a forced smile, "Father, Mother, your unfilial daughter is leaving." After saying this, she covered her face and went outside. When she saw the magistrate, she got into the sedan chair herself and let them carry her away. Seeing that Wang Qiang had been coerced into leaving, the magistrate led his constables and soldiers back to the city. Yao, watching helplessly as her daughter was carried away, naturally burst into tears, weeping uncontrollably. She fell ill and was bedridden for several months. Wang Rang, too, grieved deeply, missing his daughter. However, fearing his wife's excessive grief would harm the fetus, he suppressed his own sorrow and comforted Yao. Fortunately, Yao gave birth to a son after ten months. The couple finally felt some relief from their longing for their daughter. This is a later story, which we will leave aside for now. The magistrate carried Zhaojun into the city and went straight to the official residence to meet the imperial envoy. This envoy was a eunuch named Zhang Rang, who had been staying at the Jingmen Prefecture's residence for three years. He had already selected dozens of women, waiting for the magistrate to bring Zhaojun to him for inspection. If she was indeed beautiful, he would return to the capital to report. While waiting for news at the inn, Zhang Rang heard that the prefect had come to pay his respects and hurriedly ordered him to be invited in. The prefect entered, bowed, and respectfully reported, "My humble prefecture has been ordered to search for beautiful women, and has now selected a renowned beauty from Jingmen Prefecture named Wang Qiang. She awaits the imperial envoy's inspection and inclusion in the register." Zhang Rang was overjoyed and said, "Guizhou is very capable. When we return to the capital, we will certainly report to the Emperor and request a further promotion." The prefect bowed and said, "It is all thanks to the envoy's guidance." Zhang Rang said, "Where is the beauty Wang Qiang now? Please call her in so I can see her, inquire about her appearance, and then she can be included in the register." The prefect readily agreed and personally led Zhaojun inside to meet Zhang Rang. Upon seeing her, Zhang Rang was almost mesmerized, exclaiming in admiration, "Such a beauty exists in the world! If she isn't Mao Qiang reborn, she must be Xi Shi reincarnated! We've seen countless beauties in the palace, but none can compare to her. Even the current Empress of the Western Palace, though a peerless beauty, pales in comparison. The Emperor will surely be delighted to see her enter the palace, and we'll gain great merit. We mustn't neglect this beauty today; we must treat her well and serve her diligently. That way, we'll have something to rely on in the future!" Zhang Rang pondered this. How he will react remains to be seen; we'll find out later. Chapter Eight: A Long and Painful Journey The eunuch Zhang Sheng, seeing Zhaojun's extraordinary beauty, surmised that she would surely gain the Emperor's favor upon entering the palace. Not daring to feign his imperial status, he rose and bowed, saying, "This beauty must be Wang Qiang. Please tell me your age, where you live, and your father's name so we can register you."
Zhaojun replied, "My name is Wang Rang, courtesy name Zhaojun. I am originally from Qi, but we have lived in Jingmen Prefecture for many years. My father is Wang Rang, and my mother is Yao. I am seventeen years old this year." Zhang Sheng, upon hearing this, entered her information into the register and then said to the prefect, "This beauty Wang is extraordinary; she must be treated well. Please have the prefect prepare a fine carriage, a fine horse, and all the necessary clothing and adornments. We will be returning to the capital soon. With this beauty Wang, we will not need to select any more embroiderers." The prefect readily agreed and hurried off to make the preparations. Zhang Rang then invited Zhaojun to stay in the upper room, fearing she would be lonely. From among the selected women, he chose two with dignified appearances to serve her. These two women were named Huifeng (surname Yu) and Qingyan (surname Zhou). They were only seventeen or eighteen years old, both graceful and elegant, though not as beautiful as Zhaojun, they were still quite remarkable. Huifeng and Qingyan, following Zhang Rang's orders, came to the upper room together. Upon meeting Zhaojun and explaining their purpose, Zhaojun, seeing their distinguished appearance, inquired about their backgrounds and learned that they were also from respectable families, chosen by Zhang Rang and
unable to avoid it. Having learned their details, Zhaojun refused to accept their service, only allowing them to stay in one room to keep her company. Huifeng and Qingyan, seeing Zhaojun's exceptional beauty and character, unlike anything they had ever seen, suspected she was a celestial being descended to earth, and were filled with admiration, willingly declaring their willingness to serve her. From then on, Zhaojun gained two close female companions. Whenever she missed her parents, Huifeng and Qingyan would comfort her in every way, and Zhaojun would gradually let go of her sorrow and stop being depressed. Several days later, the prefectural official had already prepared the carriages and horses, and the clothes and ornaments had also been sent. Zhaojun saw that all the clothes and ornaments were for her, while the other women had not received any gifts. She briefly inspected the clothes and ornaments, took two simple sets for herself, and gave the rest to Huifeng and Qingyan. The two were extremely grateful. From then on, they became even closer to Zhaojun and served her wholeheartedly. Zhang Rang, seeing that everything was settled and the carriages and horses were ready, chose a day to set off. Fearing that the chosen women, upon learning of the departure date and their impending farewell to their families, would weep and whine, causing annoyance, he kept quiet until the evening before their departure. He then informed the women, instructing them to pack well, go to bed early, and rise at dawn the next day. Upon receiving this news, the women all knew they would be leaving their hometown the next day, unable even to see their parents and brothers. They
couldn't help but weep softly, covering their faces in sorrow. Everyone resented Zhang Rang for his cruelty and malice, but they had no choice but to obey his orders, quickly packing and preparing for their departure. Zhaojun, along with Huifeng and Qingyan, also learned of the news. The three wept facing each other. After a while, Zhaojun stopped crying and said, "Things have come to this, and weeping for a while won't do any good. Even if Zhang Rang had explained a few days earlier, allowing us to inform our families and come to say goodbye, we would only have cried together, and it still wouldn't have prevented our departure. It would only have made us feel uneasy. This departure is decisive and straightforward, so you two don't need to be sad. Let's pack up to avoid being rushed at the last minute. When we set off tomorrow, we'll cry and bow to our families again, and that will be our farewell." Huifeng and Qingyan deeply agreed with Zhaojun's words. They wiped away their tears, packed up, and rested peacefully until dawn the next day. Zhang Rang had prepared a large carriage with heavy curtains and brocade backs. He invited Zhaojun to get in, and also ordered Huifeng and Qingyan to ride in the same carriage to keep her company on the journey and prevent her from being lonely. Although Zhaojun was broad-minded, at this moment, she was overcome with grief, tears streaming down her face. She bowed several times towards her hometown, then covered her face and wept, saying, "Father, Mother, your unfilial daughter departs today, forever leaving your side, never to see you again." Overwhelmed with sorrow, she fainted, almost collapsing, but was fortunately caught by those around her. Seeing Zhaojun in such a state, Zhang Rang feared she would grieve even more upon waking, so he hurriedly ordered everyone to help her into the carriage while she was still unconscious. He also urged Huifeng and Qingyan to go with her to take good care of her. The two women, with tears in their eyes, boarded the carriage. They had barely settled in when it departed, heading straight for the capital. Those watching along the roadside, seeing Zhaojun's condition, couldn't help but feel sorrow for her. Later, Zhaojun was betrothed to the Xiongnu chieftain. The people of Jingmen Prefecture, out of pity for Zhaojun, named the place where she grew up Zhaojun Village. During the Jin Dynasty, because it violated the taboo of Emperor Wen of Jin's temple name, it was changed to Mingfei Village. This is evidenced by a poem by Du Fu of the Tang Dynasty, which expresses his remembrance of this historical site. The poem reads: "Countless mountains and valleys rush towards Jingmen, where the village of the beautiful concubine still stands. She departed for the northern deserts, leaving only her green tomb facing the twilight. Her portrait reveals her spring-like face, her jade pendants returning empty in the moonlit night. For a thousand years, the pipa has played in a foreign tongue, its mournful melody clearly expressing sorrow." What will become of Zhaojun after her departure? We shall find out in the next chapter. Chapter Nine: Missing Family at the Inn When Zhaojun fainted, she was helped into a carriage and immediately set off. Fortunately, Huifeng and Qingyan were in the same carriage, supporting her on either side. She slowly awoke only after they had traveled about ten miles from Jingmen. Knowing that they had already departed, she was overcome with grief and wept, covering her face. Huifeng gently advised, "Miss, you must take care of your health and not grieve too much. With your talent and beauty, you will surely have opportunities in the palace. Then you can welcome your parents and travel together to the capital, where you will be reunited with your family."
Qingyan chimed in, "Miss, please take care of yourself. If you don't moderate your grief, it will harm your health. Not only will you fail to comfort your parents, but you will also increase their worries upon hearing the news. Miss, you are deeply filial and surely understand this principle; we don't need to persuade you." Zhaojun, wiping away her tears, said, "I am deeply grateful for your kind advice and wise counsel, elder sisters. Although I am young and ignorant, I have read some books and dare not disobey your good advice to lessen my sorrow." From then on, Zhaojun tried her best to suppress her sorrow and moderate her grief, but the longing for her parents constantly lingered in her heart. Even if she managed to put it aside, it would soon return. The sound of the watchman's clapper at the inn shattered her dreams, and the footsteps on the plank bridge further aggravated her traveler's soul. The scenery along the way evoked sorrow, and the moonlight in the sky intensified her homesickness. Everything along the way added to her sorrow; every shape and form was a source of resentment. Though the gentle breeze and swallows offered their kind words of comfort, her deep sorrow could not dispel her grief. Looking back at her homeland, the clouds and trees were desolate; where were her family and friends? Thinking of the future, the dust of travel stretched endlessly; where could she entrust her life? Overwhelmed with sorrow, she lost track of time and distance traveled. Then one day, she heard that they had reached the capital. Zhang Rang hurriedly directed the carriages and horses, escorting Zhaojun and a group of embroiderers to the Jinting Inn for temporary lodging, to await the emperor's decree at the morning court the following day. The next day, Zhang Rang reported that the embroiderers from Jinghu had all been mustered and were heading to the capital, temporarily resting at the Jinting Inn, awaiting the emperor's decision. Emperor Yuan was overjoyed upon hearing the report and issued an edict: "Zhang Rang went to the provinces to inspect the embroidery. He worked diligently and protected the embroiderers along the way without any mistakes or mishaps. His merit is considerable. He is hereby awarded one hundred taels of gold and granted a month's leave to reward his efforts. All the embroiderers are to be taken care of by the relevant officials and moved into the palace. The painter Mao Yanshou and others are to select the most beautiful ones and have their portraits presented to the emperor. I will then dispatch officials to prepare them for use." Zhang Rang thanked the emperor for his favor, withdrew from the court, handed over the list of beauties from the Jinting Inn to the relevant officials, and prepared to return home. Little did he know that Zhang Rang's departure would lead to a lifetime of suffering for Zhaojun. It turned out that Zhang Rang, having obtained such a stunning beauty as Zhaojun, intended to present her to Emperor Yuan to demonstrate his talent. Therefore, he rushed to Chang'an to take advantage of the fact that the envoys selecting embroiderers from various places had not yet returned to the capital and to claim the credit. Unexpectedly, after his audience with the emperor, Zhang Rang was praised and rewarded with a hundred taels of gold and a month's leave. Such favor was truly beyond his expectations. Overjoyed, he kept kowtowing in gratitude, even forgetting about Zhaojun's beauty and failing to inform the emperor. It was Zhaojun's destiny to marry a Xiongnu chieftain, endure the hardships of the frontier, and leave a lasting legacy. Therefore, the emperor bestowed upon Zhang Rang a hundred taels of gold and a month's leave. Even without this month's leave, Zhang Rang would have been attending to the emperor daily, waiting for his orders. If he had forgotten Zhaojun today, he could have done so tomorrow. Why would he have altered Mao Yanshou's portrait, causing such a beautiful woman to be overlooked by the emperor? Even if Mao Yanshou had changed the portrait, without the leave, Zhang Rang would still have been serving the emperor; how could the portrait have been ignored? If the portrait depicting Zhaojun's appearance had been altered, he would surely investigate the matter, and the flaw in Mao Yanshou's alteration would immediately be exposed. Why then would it have taken until the marriage to the Xiongnu chieftain, the audience in the golden palace, and Emperor Yuan's first meeting with Zhaojun revealing her to be a peerless beauty? In short, it was ordained by Heaven that Emperor Yuan was not destined to be with Zhaojun; she was meant to marry the Xiongnu chieftain and be remembered for eternity. Thus, by a twist of fate, Mao Yanshou emerged. Because his bribery was not accepted, he harbored resentment and altered the portrait, causing Zhang Rang to be granted leave and thus removed from Emperor Yuan's side. This event became a flaw for all time, all ordained by Heaven, arranged by the unseen forces. No matter how powerful you are, you cannot undo it. But enough of this digression. Now, let's return home. Only on the eve of his departure did he remember Zhaojun's situation. He had not yet reported it to the Emperor and had to wait for the relevant officials to report it. However, with Zhaojun here, no one is taking care of her. If she gains the Emperor's favor in the future and then resents us, we cannot afford the consequences. So he hurriedly instructed the servants at the post station to take good care of Consort Wang, and also informed the official in charge of receiving the register, instructing him to be careful and not to be negligent. He also instructed the postmaster, if Master Mao Yanshou, who is to draw portraits tomorrow, comes here, to tell him that there is a beauty named Wang Qiang, specially selected, and to be careful when drawing her portrait, so as not to make any mistakes. Zhang Rang gave all these instructions, then went to Zhaojun's room to say goodbye before returning home. How Mao Yanshou revised the portrait remains to be seen; we will find out later. Chapter Ten: Copying the Beauty's Shadow After receiving Zhang Rang's register, the official moved all the embroiderers into the palace, where the eunuchs took care of them and made proper arrangements. Mao Yanshou then led ten painters into the palace to draw portraits for presentation. Mao Yanshou was originally from Duling. He was skilled in painting, especially figure painting. Regardless of age, appearance, or ugliness, his paintings brought people to life, making them appear incredibly lifelike. Even women of ordinary appearance could be made radiant and spirited through his artistry. Because of this exceptional skill, he served as the head painter. Historically, all the embroiderers selected for the palace had their portraits presented by Yanshou. These embroiderers knew their future depended entirely on the skill of his brush. If he painted a beautiful and captivating portrait, they
could be chosen for the palace and made concubines. Therefore, they all secretly bribed him to elaborate on the portraits, hoping to receive the favor. Mao Yanshou, delighted with this lucrative position, determined the rank of his paintings based on the amount of the bribe. Those who bribed more, even if their appearance was ordinary, could be placed in the first rank. Those who bribed less were placed in the second or third rank. If an embroiderer had no bribes, no matter how beautiful she was, she could be painted...
Even the most beautiful woman, like the goddess Luo, is useless; it has always been so, it's become a habit. This time, hearing that the embroiderers had chosen him to draw a picture, he was overjoyed, for it was a stroke of good fortune, and he could gain money. He excitedly led more than ten assistant embroiderers to the inner palace, where a eunuch led him to the embroiderers' quarters. Dozens of embroiderers were already gathered there, waiting for him to draw. Mao Yanshou looked around and saw dozens of beauties, tall and short, fat and thin, all around eighteen or nineteen years old. Among them, only one beauty stood out exceptionally. She was as pure as snow on a mountain peak, as radiant as a crane among chickens. Her round figure resembled the moon, her long sleeves fluttered in the wind, her divine light radiated, dazzling and splendid. Her eyebrows were arched like double inkstones, her lips were lightly rouged, her figure was perfectly proportioned, neither too tall nor too short. Holding her hands in her sleeves, she stood there like Chang'e in the moon, a fairy from the Han palace. She overshadowed the dozens of other women; in comparison, they all seemed insignificant. Upon seeing such a beauty, Mao Yanshou was stunned for a long time, unable to utter a sound. After a moment, he assigned the other beauties to various people to paint, but he placed Zhaojun under his own supervision. However, Zhaojun's beauty was extraordinary. Mao Yanshou gazed at her intently for a long time, finding her radiant, like a lotus emerging from water, or a peach blossom glistening with rain. Her waist was slender, her shoulders like carved jade; even a startled swan or a swimming dragon could not fully capture her beauty; only the radiance of dew and pearls could adequately describe her brilliance. He picked up his brush, pondering, wanting to write but then stopping. Adding even a fraction would make it too long, subtracting even a fraction would make it too short; applying rouge would be too red, applying powder too white—he simply couldn't capture the essence. Painting it seemed impossible. Yan Shou was perplexed, hesitant and deliberate. He began a draft, but upon examining Zhaojun's face, he felt it didn't quite resemble her, so he tore it up and started again. After another draft, he looked at Zhaojun's expression, still feeling it couldn't convey even a fraction of her beauty, so he tore it up again and started painting again. He drafted three or four times, yet still couldn't capture her beauty. Yan Shou put down his brush and laughed, "I've been a painter for decades. Although my experience is limited, I've painted countless beauties, always completing them in a single stroke without difficulty. Even when the court selected embroiderers, it went through several rounds, and I was always the one to draw the portraits. Yet, I've never encountered such a beautiful woman. Her appearance is undoubtedly unparalleled, but I couldn't capture her likeness perfectly; moreover, her spirit and charm are beyond description. I gazed at this beauty for half a day, feeling her divine light shift and change in countless ways, leaving me unable to grasp it. Such radiance truly embodies the essence of heaven and earth, the spirit of mountains and rivers. I wonder how many thousands of years it would take for such beauty to emerge." "This beauty is as lovely as a flower, as flawless as jade, with almost no luster, like a fairy! The Zhou Dynasty's Bao Si, the Jin Dynasty's Li Ji, the Wu Palace's Xi Shi, and the favored Lady Qi of Emperor Gaozu of this dynasty, and Lady Li of Emperor Wu's palace—all are rare beauties in this world. But compared to this Lady Wang, she is probably just as stunning, with no difference in beauty. I am fortunate to have met this beauty today and to have painted this portrait of her; my luck is considerable, a once-in-a-millennium encounter, a beautiful story indeed!" Mao Yanshou muttered to himself. After a long pause, seeing that Zhaojun had not given him any further instructions, he felt displeased. He then smiled at Zhaojun and said, "Your beauty possesses the most captivating beauty of all time, embodying all the wonders of the world. This portrait is truly no easy feat. Although I have roughly sketched your features, I can only capture seven or eight tenths of your beauty. I am already exhausted and unable to paint any further. Fortunately, you have met me today, allowing me to achieve a semblance of your likeness. I am not boasting, but in this world, even with a reward of ten thousand gold pieces, there is no one else skilled in capturing the likeness of your portrait except me." How Zhaojun responded remains to be seen. Chapter Eleven: The Painter Demands Bribes. Mao Yanshou said to Zhaojun, "Your beauty's countenance embodies the most beautiful features of all time, making it extremely difficult to paint. In this world, even with a reward of ten thousand gold pieces, there is no one else skilled in capturing the likeness of your portrait except me." His meaning was simply to get Zhaojun to secretly offer him a reward; only with money would he be willing to paint an exceptionally beautiful portrait to present to Emperor Yuan. Unexpectedly, Zhaojun was a young woman, unaware of the treacherous deeds of these petty men. Moreover, confident in her beauty and straightforward by nature, she would never secretly bribe or influence such people. Therefore, upon hearing Yanshou's words, she assumed they were a compliment to her beauty, never imagining that Yanshou was demanding a bribe. She smiled slightly and said nothing more. Seeing that Zhaojun smiled but offered neither words nor money, Yanshou suspected that Zhaojun, confident in her beauty, was unwilling to exert herself. He secretly thought to himself, "Since you have no money to give me, I'll make sure you die old and destitute in the palace, sighing in vain, never to see the light of day again. Only then will you know the power of my methods, Mao Yanshou!" He then said, "Although this painting is finished, the colors still need some refinement to make it truly breathtaking. This painting is crucial to the beauty's lifelong happiness, so it cannot be done hastily. I am exhausted and my mind is in turmoil; I cannot continue painting. I will take the painting home and polish it under the lamp. Tomorrow, I will present it to the Emperor, and I guarantee the beauty will be immediately rewarded and deeply favored by the Emperor. When she enjoys wealth and glory then, she will not forget the merit of my painting." With that, he smiled, rolled up the painting, packed his tools, and went out with more than ten painters. Zhaojun was overjoyed to hear Yanshou's praise. Back in the palace, still fearing her appearance might not match Yanshou's description, she took a precious mirror and looked at herself. She found her beauty exceptionally captivating, realizing Yanshou's words were not mere flattery. She thought of the portrait; though it couldn't capture her every nuance, it was already breathtakingly beautiful. The Emperor, upon seeing the painting, would surely summon her immediately. When summoned, her beauty would naturally surpass the portrait. If she responded calmly and clearly, without error in manners, she would surely win the Emperor's favor and be made a concubine. Then, gaining his favor, she could plead for his grace to summon her parents to Chang'an, allowing her to reunite with her family—truly her greatest fortune. Thinking of this, Zhaojun was filled with boundless joy. A radiant happiness appeared on her face, and her heart blossomed like lotus flowers—a joy that even the writer could not adequately describe. Just as Zhaojun was enjoying herself, a palace maid came and said, "There is a palace eunuch outside who wishes to see you, my lady." Upon hearing this, Zhaojun was alarmed. "I know no one here," she thought, "why would someone request an audience, especially a palace eunuch? Could it be that Mao Yanshou's painting has already been presented to the Emperor, and that the Emperor, having seen it, finds it to his liking and has ordered this eunuch to summon me?" Lost in thought, she stepped outside and saw an elderly eunuch. She asked, "Where have you come from, sir? What brings you here?" The eunuch replied, "I have come here with a matter..." "It is an important matter to inform you, my beauty. This matter concerns your lifelong happiness,
and I understand you will not be able to refuse." Zhaojun said, "What instructions do you have, sir? Please speak plainly." The eunuch said, "I have been entrusted by the painter Mao to ask a favor of yours, my beauty." Zhaojun was greatly suspicious and said, "What does the painter Mao want from me? Please tell me quickly. If it is something I possess, I will certainly agree to it without hesitation." The eunuch laughed and said, "My beauty is so clever, surely you know my intentions? The painter Mao is the most beautiful woman in the palace. His portrait is presented to the emperor in the morning, and by evening she is promoted to empress. The painter has put a lot of effort into painting this portrait." "I have painstakingly planned this for you, so that you may enjoy wealth and glory in the future. I would like to request a thousand gold pieces as payment for your painting."
Upon hearing this, Zhaojun pondered for a long time and said, "Since childhood, I have studied diligently. Whenever I encounter historical figures who advance through bribery, I am ashamed of their behavior and consider them despicable and petty. How could I emulate them and tarnish my integrity? Please convey my message to Painter Mao: it is not that I am stingy with a thousand gold pieces and refuse his request, but rather that I am ashamed to be a scheming person. That is why I have come here with such a purpose. If the painter is swayed by the price, I will surely repay him tenfold if I achieve success in the future." "I will never fail," Zhaojun replied. The eunuch said, "My lady, please do not begrudge this small fee. Your entire life, from glory to ruin, hangs in the balance. With a single stroke of the painter's brush, beauty or ugliness is immediately determined. Today, the power of life and death is in his hands; you should obey his request. Besides, all the embroiderers chosen throughout history have been of this caliber; it wasn't you who initiated this. What does it matter to your integrity? Why be so insistent?"
Zhaojun said, "It's not that I'm insistent, but rather that I am ashamed to be a petty person, and therefore I refuse to seek advancement through flattery." The eunuch said, "If you refuse, my lady, someone else will surely do it before you. Then it will be too late for regrets."
Zhaojun retorted angrily, "People are happy to be sycophants, but I absolutely refuse to do such a thing against my conscience. Please, sir, do not say any more." Seeing that Zhaojun had refused repeatedly, the eunuch sighed and left. What happened next is unknown; we will find out in the next chapter. Chapter Twelve: The Altered Painting Leads to Trap. It is said that Zhaojun, unwilling to bribe Mao Yanshou, sought advancement through flattery and reported back to the old eunuch. Sitting alone in the palace, she was sullen and thought to herself, "Mao Yanshou, having failed to extort a bribe, surely cannot conceal the painting and refuse to present it again. Even if the painting does not resemble my appearance, compared to others, it is still a thousand times better. How could it not catch the emperor's eye and move his heart? Does Mao Yanshou really have the audacity to hide the painting? However, the women selected are all of a fixed quota, and the list is available for verification. How can he arbitrarily increase or decrease the quota, or manipulate things?" After thinking it over, she felt that there was still hope, and she relaxed slightly, waiting for good news. Little did anyone know, Mao Yanshou had other ways to deal with Zhaojun. Despite her yearning and longing in the palace, no good news came. Several days later, the embroiderers whose beauty was less than one ten-thousandth that of Zhaojun were successively summoned, made concubines, and bestowed with the highest honors, as if they had been lifted from the mud and soared to the heavens. Only Zhaojun, her hopes dashed, sat alone in the deep palace, weeping all day, lamenting her ill fate. But to be abandoned by the king despite her beauty filled her with resentment. She wanted to find out what kind of wicked scheme Mao Yanshou had used to confine her to the deep palace and subject her to such misery, but the palace was strictly guarded, making it difficult to inquire. Fortunately, Huifeng and Qingyan were exceptionally clever and quick-witted. Having entered the palace not long ago, they had already become acquainted with many of the embroiderers. Among them was a woman surnamed Li named Wanhua. Although her beauty was not as great as Zhaojun's, she was very kind and gentle. Like Zhaojun, she refused to bribe the painters, and thus was dismissed. Although he himself had been dismissed, he harbored no resentment because he knew he was not handsome. However, because of Zhaojun, he mentioned that he had refused to bribe her, which led to his being rejected despite his beauty. Zhaojun then told Wanhua about her desire to find out how Mao Yanshou had framed her but was unable to. Wanhua said, "If you want to find out about this, I can do it. Consort Liu of the Western Palace is the emperor's favorite and knows everything that happens in the palace. I have some connection with her, so I can find out with just a question."
Zhaojun was overjoyed and said, "Since you are related to Consort Liu, please inquire for me to find out the truth." Wanhua readily agreed and then took her leave. After much inquiry, they learned that Mao Yanshou, harboring resentment because Zhaojun refused to bribe him, had painted a portrait of Zhaojun with a small black mole under each eye and presented it to Emperor Yuan. Upon seeing the portrait of Zhaojun, Emperor Yuan was overjoyed and exclaimed, "This woman possesses an ethereal beauty, surpassing all others in the mortal realm. Even the goddesses of Han Gao and Luopu are no match for her!" He immediately ordered Zhaojun to be summoned. At this time, Mao Yanshou, who was standing nearby, saw Emperor Yuan's delighted expression and his intention to summon her, and hurriedly prostrated himself, saying, "Although this woman is extremely beautiful, her face bears a very ominous appearance. She must not be allowed to come before me. Moreover, although her portrait is beautiful, upon seeing her, her captivating beauty is completely obscured by two moles, making her no different from ugly women like Mo Mu and Wu Yan." Emperor Yuan held the portrait, pondered for a long time, and then said, "This woman is already so beautiful in the portrait; seeing her in person will
surely reveal even more. Although there are moles below her eyes, how can they conceal her beauty? I wish to summon her to see me. You have worked hard on the painting; please go and rest. Another day will be more opportune." "A reward." Seeing that Emperor Yuan was determined to summon Zhaojun, Mao Yanshou was extremely anxious. He hurriedly bowed and said, "Your Majesty, I dare not stop you from summoning Zhaojun. It is only because this woman has a mole under her eye, called a tear mole. If an ordinary woman has one, it is already an omen of widowhood. This woman has tear moles in both eyes, which is especially taboo. Your Majesty must be careful and not treat your life as a game. I am deeply indebted to Your Majesty and dare not fail to speak frankly to dissuade you, in order to fulfill my foolish loyalty. I know that I have offended the Emperor and deserve to die ten thousand times. I only beg Your Majesty to spare Zhaojun from summoning her and to take care of your health. Even if I were to die by the axe, I would be willing to do so." After saying this, he kowtowed repeatedly and prostrated himself on the ground. Emperor Yuan saw that Mao Yanshou was so eager to dissuade him and thought that there was indeed something to it. Although he loved beauty, his life was ultimately more important, so he granted Mao Yanshou's request and did not summon Zhaojun again. Wanhua found out the details and hurriedly went to inform Zhaojun. Upon hearing this, Zhaojun felt a pang of sorrow,
tears streaming down her face. She sobbed, "The world is so treacherous. We, who restrain ourselves and walk the straight path, are no wonder we are betrayed. I have already given my life, remaining confined to the palace, daring not to think of anything else. But even with your family's status and influence, you have been abandoned like a broken vessel. I cannot help but feel indignant on your behalf. Since you are related to Consort Liu, why not try to ask her to intercede with the Emperor and offer you a chance to rise in status?" Wanhua smiled and said, "There are countless women like you in the palace. Being abandoned in Changmen Palace is simply a matter of family background; what is there to complain about? It is only when someone as beautiful as you, elder sister, is abandoned in such a way that it is truly hateful and lamentable." At this moment, Zhaojun was suddenly overcome with homesickness and discussed with Wanhua the idea of returning home. How Zhaojun planned to do this remains to be seen; we will find out in the next chapter. Chapter Thirteen: Lamentations from the Sickbed It is said that Zhaojun, overcome with homesickness, discussed with Wanhua, saying, "Since I have been abandoned by the court and am of little importance in the palace, I wish to submit a petition to the Emperor, begging for his mercy and permission to return home. Do you think this is feasible, my dear sister?" Before Wanhua could finish speaking, she hurriedly waved her hand to stop her, saying, "Sister, please be quiet." She glanced out the window, making sure no one else was there, before whispering, "Sister, please discuss this with me. If others hear this, my life will be in danger." Zhaojun was greatly alarmed, not understanding why, and quickly whispered back, "This is a trivial matter; how could it be so life-threatening?" Wanhua... He replied, “The palace laws forbid any palace maid who longs for home; she will be immediately sent to the inner palace and executed without mercy. Therefore, once a woman enters the palace, unless she is granted imperial favor and promoted to a concubine or is released from her family, she has no hope of advancement. Sister, consider this: if even the thought of homesickness leads to immediate execution, how much more so would submit a petition requesting to return home? Such an act clearly shows resentment at not being appointed a concubine. If others hear of this and spread it, will she even survive? Sister, you must be careful with your words and actions in the future, and never be so outspoken as to invite disaster.” Upon hearing this, Zhaojun realized how severe the palace laws were; she was like a bird in a cage, never to see the light of day again. Not only could she not return home, but even the thought of homesickness was forbidden. With tears in her eyes, she thanked Wanhua, saying, "Thanks to your guidance, my wise sister, I learned of the palace's prohibitions; otherwise, I would have been punished." Wanhua smiled and said, "Sister, why be so polite? We are both beautiful women with tragic fates, and we are in the same place, so we should care for each other. Since I know about the prohibitions, how could I not tell you? I only hope that you will be patient for now and not be too sad. Please take good care of yourself. Although you have been framed and cannot achieve your goals for the time being, you may still get what you want in the future. If you cannot bear this small resentment and cry and grieve, you will harm your body. There will be a day when you can rise again. If your body is already injured, how can you fight hard and stand out from the crowd and accomplish something great? In short, in this life, whether you are a man or a woman, when you encounter difficulties and hardships, you must be determined, persevere, and fight hard to overcome them before you can enjoy a peaceful and prosperous life. Heaven has given you, sister, and..." "His extraordinary beauty and unparalleled grace, if bestowed upon you, sister, would surely lead to extraordinary achievements and unparalleled merit. It is up to you, sister, to build upon his legacy; it will not end here. Sister, if you become disheartened and ruin your health at the first sign of hardship, would you not be betraying Heaven's will? This is my opinion, and I believe you will not disagree." Upon hearing this, Zhaojun was deeply impressed and said, "My wise sister's words have enlightened me. I, in my ignorance, have studied books in vain, yet I never considered such a principle. From now on, I will obey your command, cast aside my sorrow, and patiently await the opportune moment. Even if I am forever confined to the deep palace, it is my fate, and I will never complain." From then on, Zhaojun indeed opened her heart, no longer weeping alone with a sorrowful expression. She spent her days chatting with Huifeng and Qingyan, exchanging pleasantries with Li Wanhua, or cleaning her assigned palace. She lived a carefree and untroubled life. But Zhaojun's sorrow was deep in her heart. Though she tried to cheer herself up and dispel her grief, the longing for her parents and
the resentment towards Emperor Yuan could not help but linger in her heart. In the clear autumn, she caught a cold, suffering from headache and fever, unable to get out of bed. Fortunately, her attendants, Huifeng and Qingyan, inquired about her well-being and diligently served her. After several days, she finally felt a little calmer. That night, Huifeng and Qingyan went to sleep, but Zhaojun slept restlessly, her heart filled with sorrow. Thinking of how Emperor Yuan had listened to slander and abandoned her, refusing to see her, she was overcome with grief and resentment. She rose and composed a song of lamentation, which later generations named "Zhaojun's Lament" because of its poignant and sorrowful verses. The song goes: "Autumn trees are lush, their leaves withered and yellow. Birds dwell in the mountains, gathering on the mulberry trees. Nourishing their feathers, their forms gleam. Having ascended to the clouds, they float to the winding chambers. The palace is desolate and lonely, my body is broken and hidden." My spirits are low, unable to find peace. Though I have food and drink, my heart is filled with unease. I am alone by the Yi River, its course constantly changing. The swallows, graceful and elegant, flock far to the Western Qiang. High mountains rise majestically, the river flows vast and deep. Father and Mother, the truth is profound, alas, my heart is filled with sorrow and grief. Having composed the lyrics, I recite them to myself, feeling the autumn wind rustling through the window, chilling me to the bone.
A chill ran down her spine. The autumn insects chirped and sang before the steps, their sounds seeming to aid her own lament. Such a desolate and bleak scene would inexplicably stir up sorrow even in someone without grief; how much more so for Zhaojun, who harbored a heart full of longing and melancholy—wouldn't this only add to her troubles and deepen her grief? What happened next? We'll find out in the next chapter. Chapter Fourteen: Willing to Be a Barbarian Woman. During the Western Han Dynasty, the most formidable foreign threat was the Xiongnu. The Xiongnu's strength began in the Eastern Zhou Dynasty. By the time of Qin Shi Huang,
years of warfare had exhausted the resources of China, finally managing to drive them far away, preventing them from advancing south. Yet, fearing they might take advantage of a moment of lapse in vigilance and revert to their old ways, Qin Shi Huang conscripted hundreds of thousands of laborers to build the Great Wall
to strengthen the defenses between the Han and the barbarians. During the reign of Emperor Gaozu of Han, the Xiongnu invaded. Gaozu personally led 300,000 troops to defend against them, but was again besieged at Pingcheng. Fortunately, thanks to Chen Ping's ingenious plan, he was able to escape the siege. Left with no other option, he employed Lou Jing's strategy of a marriage alliance to ease the Xiongnu's advance. During the reign of Empress Lü, the Xiongnu sent slanderous letters, and the Han dynasty could only endure the humiliation and allow their arrogance to run rampant. However, under Emperor Wu of Han, seeking to avenge the previous dynasty's defeats, a major campaign
was launched. With the wise and courageous generals Wei Qing and Huo Qubing leading the expedition, the Xiongnu suffered repeated defeats, their power waning. Realizing they could not prevail, they requested a marriage alliance, as was customary. Emperor Wu granted their request, and from then on, every Xiongnu chieftain had to seek a marriage alliance with the Han as proof of their non-aggression and non-rebellion. When a Xiongnu sought a marriage alliance, the Han court would select daughters from respectable families in the palace, designate them as princesses, and send them to marry into the Xiongnu. The Xiongnu, having received a Han woman, would establish her as their queen. The queen was the empress of the Han dynasty. Due to the Xiongnu custom of valuing women over men, the queen wielded considerable power, thus controlling the Xiongnu and preventing them from encroaching on the Han borders. For decades, peace was maintained thanks to this arrangement. At this time, the Great Chanyu of the Xiongnu had just ascended the throne and had not yet established a consort. He sent an envoy with one hundred catties of gold and ten pairs of white jade discs to Emperor Yuan, requesting that a princess be made his consort to strengthen their long-standing alliance. Emperor Yuan, seeking peace on the borders, intended to bestow the eldest princess upon the Chanyu in marriage. The court officials unanimously advised, "The Xiongnu are of a dog-like nature; they cannot be bound by favor and righteousness. Therefore, during the reign of Emperor Gaozu, when a marriage was arranged, a beautiful palace maid was chosen, nominally a princess, and given a generous dowry to prevent suspicion. Even if there were changes of heart or discord between husband and wife, it would not harm the court. Now, if the eldest princess is bestowed upon the Chanyu, and he treats her with deep respect, and they live in harmony and happiness for life, it would be a fortunate event. However, if the couple turns against each other, and the eldest princess suffers mistreatment and sends envoys for help, the court cannot simply abandon the matter, nor can it ignore it."

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The Complete Romance of Zhaojun's Love Story

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