1 Chapter One

"Riluo, what's on the docket today?" A deep voice resonated through the large room from behind a screen. It was still a little gravely from having just woken up but he was already up and changing.

"Which one, sir?" Riluo asked rather formally but it was still his way of teasing the Emperor, a privilege only his most trusted can truly get away with.

"You know which one!" Amber eyes leered over the top of the screen at Riluo who was trying to stifle a laugh at the pouty annoyed expression.

Emperor Buxui Yushi was a powerful man who won his right to the throne through his mastery at the art of warfare, having conquered the land from his tyrannical predecessor as he led the charge personally, slaughtering his way to his position. It was amusing for Riluo to see what the world knew as a terrifying and imposing figure, pout like a child.

The Emperor had a particular interest in his country. Very few people understood how it was that he knew his people and their problems so well that he tended to solve them almost as soon as they cropped up. Much of it came from the trusted members of his upper court, each one hand picked for extraordinary talent in their fields. However it wasn't all there was to it. 

Quite often the Emperor went out on excursions through the capital in disguise. Initially it was a way to escape the mundane life of the court, but he quite enjoyed spending time with his people, getting to know them and their needs. Given his natural charisma and impeccable knowledge he had drawn the attention of all sorts of people. He started making a habit of it and slowly became somewhat of an information broker among the more powerful people in the city. A few simple words as a tip to the right person and it would either benefit the country as a whole or even himself. He always knew just what to say. Riluo began assisting him on this endeavor as he saw the results it would bring, it also helped the Emperor better organize his time.

"Seems lunch with Lord Meigui is all you have today," Riluo smiled warmly knowing full well what his feelings were about that man.

"Of course it's him," Yushi groaned in frustration. He really couldn't stand Lord Meigui, at this point he was only meeting with the scum of a merchant to keep a close eye on him. He was rather insufferable and so entitled, it really rubbed him the wrong way. "You think there's a way to mislead him enough to drive him out of business?"

"It would have to be a fool proof plan, he's too cunning for that," Riluo sighed. He'd only met the man a few times himself on imperial business but he understood the sentiment. "Rumor has it he even refuses to hand the business over to his heir."

"Really?" Yushi smirked. "Tell me more about this heir."

"Sir, I know what you are thinking and I don't know if that's a good idea," Riluo knew him well enough to know when he was scheming.

"Why not? Are they just as bad?" Yushi stepped out from behind the screen, fully dressed in dark, simple robes of black and red with a subtle touch of elegance if one looked close enough to see the embroidery that was the slightest different shade. He was adjusting the leather arm braces as he approached Riluo with a curious glint in his eye.

"Quite the opposite," Riluo shook his head. "I hear he's quite pleasant. Many in their Trading Company look forward to the day he takes over."

"Then where's the problem in ensuring that happens?" Yushi smiled at the thought. "At the very least I would like to meet this heir. Perhaps he'll entertain the idea if I ask him."

"I find that unlikely, but by all means," Riluo sighed, knowing he was unlikely to stray from the idea. "Please don't start any trouble until you know for certain. We rely on the Meigui Trading Company quite heavily these days."

"I'm well aware," Yushi pulled half of his long, dark hair up into a bun, tying off with a simple red ribbon that was almost as long as the remainder of his hair that trailed down his back. "Honestly Riluo, when have I ever been anything but meticulous in crushing an opponent?"

"Yes, that may be, but I just feel the need to remind you." Riluo couldn't help but worry. Yushi's actions in manipulating things behind the scenes had often been on a whim or a bit reckless as of late. Certainly Yushi could protect himself perfectly well. It was a bit concerning at times, "You do have your moments of impulsiveness."

Yushi simply laughed to himself, "I'll behave, for now."

"That's all I ask," Riluo sighed knowing whatever he was planning would certainly result in more than a few headaches.

"It's certainly lovely out today, perhaps I'll depart a little early," Yushi looked out over the balcony. The sun was shining brightly and the curtains fluttered in the pleasant sea breeze. 

"You better come back at a decent time," Riluo warned. "You have a mountain of paperwork that's been piling up due to these little excursions of yours."

"Yes, yes," Yushi waved away the notion as he quickly exited before Riluo could realize he likely wouldn't and try to stop him.

Yushi pulled on the cloth mask before he departed the palace. He didn't want anyone in the palace to stop him and get him tied up with work. His upper court knew well enough to leave him be just based on his choice of attire and more casual hair but the lower court officials and staff weren't always the best at taking the hint, they didn't particularly know of his excursions out of the palace unlike the upper court.

He managed to leave unnoticed, giving a nod to the palace guards at the gate as he passed through into the bustling streets of the capital. It was always lively, no matter the time of day. Yushi particularly enjoyed the city at night as it was all lit up, there was such a mystical yet festive feeling with the lanterns that were strung across the main streets. It's typically why he favored doing meetings over dinner, however Lord Meigui tended to favor the early afternoon. 

He didn't wander the city long, considering he didn't particularly stop for breakfast since he was trying to slip away before getting caught up in other business. He decided to head to the restaurant early. It was one he frequented often. He quite enjoyed the food and drink there. He'd likely tried everything on the menu at this point and was never disappointed. The staff there was always pleasant and recognized him by his pseudonym at this point.

"Well if it isn't Shujing!" The owner of the establishment greeted Yushi warmly. The owner was a rather portly man with a thin mustache and the most friendly smile. "Are you meeting with someone today?"

"Yes, I am quite early, so if Lord Meigui arrives do send him my way," Yushi smiled. "I just simply couldn't wait to have your cooking again."

"Certainly, let me take you to your private room then," He bowed his head politely and led the way to the rooms in the back reserved for special or high paying guests. He often kept a room clear specifically for Yushi given how often he frequents their establishment.

Yushi simply ordered a cucumber salad and braised shitake mushrooms to tide him over and some oolong tea to accompany. Lord Meigui was one to throw a fit over sharing a meal together. Archaic etiquette to Yushi, but he'd rather save himself the headache of hearing Lord Meigui complaining so he chose to stick with something light and quick to eat.

The cucumber salad was tossed in a bit of soy, black rice vinegar, and sesame oil with a hint of garlic and chili oil and a touch of sugar to balance it out. It was savory with just the right amount of spiciness to it that Yushi enjoyed. The shitake mushrooms were braised to perfection in a dark soy and oyster sauce base for a warm umami flavor.

After some time had passed, idling away Yushi heard a faint knock at the door. One of the waiters poked his head in with a warm smile.

"Sir, Young Master Meigui is here to see you." the waiter informed him.

"Thank you, send him in," Yushi smiled warmly back. When he disappeared Yushi realized he said Young Master and not Lord. Lord Meigui certainly wasn't young, his age was rapidly catching up to him and it showed. Yushi was filled with a rush of excitement. Was he about to meet this heir he heard of?

 Sure enough, it was a different young man who entered the room. A sweet smile on his soft peach blossom lips, contrasting his fair skin. His features were very soft and rounded, giving him an almost androgynous look. Most of his long white hair was pulled back, held up by an elegant silver and black hairpiece held in place by a simple silver hairpin. Despite the warm smile it didn't quite reach his soft lavender eyes. There was some shadow behind those eyes, almost void of the cheery vitality he showed in his expression. Yushi was quite curious.

"Greetings, Shujing," the young man's voice was cheerful and soft as he gave a polite bow. "I'm Meigui Xueye, heir to the Meigui Trading Company. It's wonderful to meet you after having heard many good things about you. Unfortunately my father ran into an unexpected matter he needed to attend to and sent me in his place."

"Worry not, this works better for me honestly," Yushi couldn't help but smile at this unexpected meeting. He gestured to the chair across the table, "Please, join me for a meal. Order whatever you like when the waiter returns."

"Much appreciated," Xueye sat at the table. After they both ordered a few dishes, Xueye placed his head in his hand, admiring the handsome infobroker across the table, very much captured by his striking amber eyes. "I have to admit you look different from what I imagined."

"Oh? And what was your mind's image of me?" Yushi hummed in amusement.

"I'm just used to my father's acquaintances being stuffy, pretentious old men, like him," Xueye giggled. "It's obvious you are anything but."

"I'll take that as a compliment," Yushi grinned.

"You should, the mysterious man who deals in information is quite handsome, I have to admit." Xueye's eyes narrowed with a coy smirk.

"Flattery will not receive you any discount, but feel free to keep trying," Yushi smiled fondly.

"Ah, what a shame," Xueye feigned disappointment but recovered quickly. "What is your price anyways? I admit my father just threw this meeting at me at the last minute and hadn't briefed me the slightest bit."

"My price demands a fair trade, money isn't what I seek." Yushi watched Xueye with careful interest. "Information for information. If there's something you want to know, I can ask a question I deem an appropriate cost, or you can offer up information and I will give you what I deem suitable."

"Is that so?" An excitable glow accompanied a fascinated smile from Xueye. "And if I simply want to know more about you?"

"Then it's only fair you share about yourself as well?" Yushi was calm and collected but this was exactly what he wanted most from this ethereal looking young man.

"Perfect, I like to know a bit more about my contacts before we get down to business," Xueye took a sip of the fresh pot of tea the waiter had brought them. 

"Seems we share a common interest." Yushi couldn't help but smile softly. "I have to admit, today is the first time I've heard of you. Your father never once spoke of an heir. Why is that?"

"Interpersonal relations, huh? You must have some lovely secrets then." Xueye sounded playful but the shadow behind his eyes quickly cast a dark cloud across his face. "My father has never been very fond of me, ever since I was born. Initially it was because I looked so different from the rest of our family. He used to call me a cursed child, tried to force me out, sent me overseas for a time. However when my older sister joined the Imperial Army she gave up her right as the heir, so I was appointed considering I was the second born, though I hazard a guess my father would much have preferred my younger brother over me. Even so, man's strict standards are something no one will be able to live up to."

"I can certainly see that…" Yushi groaned internally at the amount of pomp and circumstance he had to bring to such meetings in the past. While he was used to it in the formal setting as the Emperor, this was meant to be a way for him to unwind, so it was always the opposite dealing with Lord Meigui.

"I get the sense you certainly aren't blinded by his fake reputation," Xueye recognized the sense of irritation that flashed across Yushi's eyes. "What a rarity."

"Yes, keep it a secret but I quite despise working with the likes of him," Yushi's thick brows furrowed. "I'm never fond of pretentious people. They are my least favorite to work with but they have their uses."

"And what's his use?" Xueye asked with a dark expression.

He truly hates his father, Yushi thought gleefully to himself. He calmly replied, "It's not him at all, it's the Meigui Trading Company as a whole that's useful for gathering information on trade and infrastructure, given its size and branches outside the country. However, it seems I might not have to deal with him much longer, provided our talks go well."

"You'd really go against my father?" Xueye stared in disbelief. He'd never particularly found anyone alive aside from his older sister that wasn't fooled by the facade of the esteemed tradesman Lord Meigui.

"The thought has crossed my mind many times," Yushi chuckled darkly. "But let's save that talk for the business portion of our discussion. I'd still like to learn more about you. Perhaps something a little more personal. What is it you do in your spare time?"

"Not much these days, my father works me to the bone," Xueye let out a rather sad smile. "Before I became the heir to the company, I did enjoy performing." 

"Not anymore?" It didn't escape Yushi's notice the way he spoke in the past tense.

"Not since my mother passed," Xueye heaved a wistful sigh. "See, my mother was quite proud, seeing me on stage, dancing and even singing. My father would always yell at me when he found out I snuck a performance in every now and then after becoming heir. It just no longer became worth incurring his wrath."

"What a shame," Yushi was getting more fed up with Lord Meigui the more Xueye spoke of him. He was truly disappointed in the man with no regard for his family. 

"What about you, Shujing? What do you do in your spare time?" Xueye tried to shake his gloomy mood and looked at Yushi with a renewed sense of cheerful interest.

"Ah, I guess you could say this habit of information gathering has become my hobby. I think outside that, I quite enjoy walking around and exploring the city. It's always changing, evolving, there's something new around every corner. Trying all sorts of food, seeing what's new in the markets, I can't get enough of it."

"I can share that sentiment," Xueye smiled warmly at the amount of passion Yushi spoke with. "I don't get to do it often but sometimes I dally a bit as I make rounds to our merchants and stores, just to look around a bit. I never have time to cook, so finding new places to eat every once in a while is always wonderful." It was then that their food arrived. "Speaking of food," Xueye giggled.

Xueye ended up getting fried tofu and spicy lotus root stir fry. The tofu was pan fried to a wonderful crisp on the outside and topped with sesame, shallots, and peppers. The thinly sliced lotus root, garlic, scallions and diced chillies were stir fried in a sichuan bean paste.

Meanwhile Yushi had steamed black bean ribs with a side of sesame noodles. The bite-sized pork ribs steamed with fermented black beans and all sorts of aromatics gives the tender juicy meat a complex earthy flavor. While the noodles were simply tossed in sesame paste and a light soy sauce.

"Have you traveled much?" Xueye asked, nibbling on a piece of lotus root.

"I do on occasion," Yushi smiled thinking of all the political trips he'd had to take. "It's been quite some time since I've ventured out of the capital. Dealing in information keeps me quite busy these days. You said you've been overseas. Where did you travel to?"

"I spent most of my time in the far north studying in Vual," Xueye closed his eyes as he thought back. Recalling the constant snowy landscapes and warm food. "Heavens, they had the most comforting food I've ever tasted. I miss it sometimes. Occasionally I would venture out in the vast snowlands, there was always so much to explore out there. When I came back to those warm, rich stews, it was the best feeling. Honestly, I haven't been able to find anything like it since I came back home."

"Hmm, you might be right, I don't think I know of any Vualian restaurants around the capital," Yushi tried to think of all the places he'd been to but nothing really came close. Vualian cuisine was very different from the food found in the Meihua Empire.

"Just all the more reason to find an excuse to go back I suppose," Xueye grinned at the thought. "I opened a branch up there last year. So maybe I should pay them a visit soon."

"Perhaps you should, get a little happiness where you can," Yushi adored the sweet expression Xueye displayed. Yushi could tell it was a genuine source of happiness for him. He was starting to wonder what else could bring out that perfect, true smile. 

"And just what brings you happiness, Shujing?" Xueye leaned forward and rested his head in his hand again. He was enjoying chatting with this mysterious stranger.

"As cliche as it sounds, I genuinely enjoy seeing others happy," Yushi chuckled. "I started down this trade of information because I realized it didn't just satisfy my curiosities and fascinations, but it helped those around me and even further helped the people of this country."

"How sweet of you," Xueye chuckled. "You certainly stand far beyond my ignorant little mental image of what you'd be like when my father pointed me in this direction. Here I thought this would just be another boring little meeting."

"Do I meet your expectations of an acceptable business partner then?" Yushi smirked.

"Yes, quite so, it's been very enjoyable to speak with you," Xueye sighed contentedly. "I don't think I've felt this at ease in a while."

"I'm glad, as much as I enjoy learning about you, perhaps we should talk a little business," Yushi was getting a pretty decent read on what kind of person Xueye was and he was, by far, more preferable to Lord Meigui.

"Yes, you have me quite curious," Xueye's eyes held a mischievous glint. "From what I gather you don't much care for my father either."

"Indeed, he can fool many with his act but not me. Hearing the ways he's wronged you has made me quite irritated, I have to admit. If you are willing, I'd much prefer to speak with you in the future regarding information that might help your company. If possible I would like you to use the information I give you to better your position. Box your father out as much as you are comfortable."

"You want me to take over then?" Xueye chuckled. A faint look of disbelief filled his eyes, "That's quite the undertaking."

"I'm certain you'll be up to the task," Yushi flashed a reassuring smile. "Even if it takes a while. I have to admit, I look forward to spending more time with you, as well. You, as a person, really interest me."

"The feeling is mutual," Xueye smiled. "This deal seems to be more in my favor though. In the interest of fair trade, I feel like we ought to make it well worth your while as well."

"I'm always quite interested in unique or rare items, perhaps should you come across any, I'd like to have a look first if you don't mind."

"Easy enough," Xueye smiled sweetly. "I'll even give you a little discount."

"Do we have a deal then?" Yushi reached out his hand.

"Yes, you have a deal," Xueye took his hand in a firm grip with a delighted smile. "I look forward to spending more time with you, Shujing."

"As do I, Young Master Meigui," Yushi returned the sentiment.

"Now, now, no need for the formality, just call me Xueye," Xueye was never very fond of being referred to by his title, if he could avoid it he would.

"Very well, Xueye," Yushi's voice deepened upon calling his name. 

Xueye felt his heart skip a beat upon hearing the honeyed tone behind it. It was certainly unexpected but he tried his best not to react in any way beyond a pleased smile.

"I'll be certain to write to your father informing him that you will now be the one I will contact for the foreseeable future," Yushi said cheerfully.

"He won't be too happy about that, but when is he happy about anything," Xueye shrugged.

"Will you be alright, dealing with any sort of backlash?" Yushi raised a brow in concern.

"The worst he'll do is throw more work my way, I'm used to it," Xueye let out a weak chuckle. "It's kinda the point after all."

"I suppose it is," Yushi let out a breath. "Last thing we need is for you to be overworked. Let's start with something small, this shouldn't be too hard for you to look into. Supposedly out on the eastern border the Imperial Army has stumbled across a grove with an excess of unique herbs that are difficult to procure here in the capital. They have been considering sending some back here."

"Oh? I'm certain we could not only arrange transport but distribution as well," Xueye smiled with interest. "Perhaps, I'll have a chat with our imperial liaison. Thank you, this will be quite beneficial should it work out. You've been quite considerate, I greatly appreciate it. Is there anything else you wish to know in exchange?"

"When would you like to meet next?" Yushi smiled warmly, already looking forward to spending more time with Xueye.

"Hmm, how soon would you like to meet next?" Xueye tried to think of his own schedule but he knew he could make anything work pretty easily.

"Would tomorrow evening work? I'm curious to hear about your father's reaction," Yushi looked rather amused at the prospect.

"I can make that happen," Xueye laughed lightheartedly. "How about we meet down by the docks tomorrow, say around sundown?"

"Sounds lovely," Yushi smiled fondly.

Once they finished their meal they parted ways. Yushi slowly made his way back to the palace with a pleased and content smile on his face. Riluo had spotted him not long after having entered the palace gates and was a little concerned upon seeing him in such a good mood given who he was supposed to be meeting.

"Um, sir?" Riluo fell in step just behind Yushi.

"What is it?" Yushi's smile brightened which caused a chill to run down Riluo's spine.

"You're in quite the good mood…" Riluo narrowed his eyes suspiciously.

"I am, Lord Meigui sent his heir in his place today," Yushi's amber eyes contained such delight the likes of which Riluo had never seen before.

"Then I take it the Young Master agreed to your idea," Riluo sighed, a bit worried about the turmoil that would likely ensue.

"Yes, I'll be writing a letter to Lord Meigui stating that I will only be doing business with Xueye. Ensure he has it by tomorrow morning, if you would. Also please arrange so that any logistic inquiries by Xueye are approved."

"First name basis?" Riluo raised a brow at the fact.

"Ah, forgive me, it was at his request," Yushi chuckled as he entered his study, settling at his desk and wasting no time to start writing to Lord Meigui. "I must say, I don't mind it. His demeanor is quite refreshing, certainly much more preferable to his father."

"Then all the more reason to be cautious in this endeavor," Riluo shook his head. "Who knows what Lord Meigui will do when he's cornered, considering he's had some questionable dealings in the past."

"I'm aware," Yushi nodded. "Could you see about getting more information on that. It could be beneficial in getting rid of him."

"I'll see what I can do, he's quite meticulous in covering his tracks, it's circumstantial at best," Riluo had looked into Lord Meigui when Yushi first had dealings with him but wasn't able to find concrete evidence of some of the suspicious dealings he'd uncovered.

"If not, don't worry about it, we'll just keep tilting the favor towards Xueye," Yushi beamed, handing over his completed letter. 

"I'll deliver this so long as you get your imperial work done as well today," Riluo reluctantly took it.

"But of course," Yushi sighed in defeat as he started sorting through the pile of papers on his desk awaiting his approval.