Chapter 28 – Incident

Spring brought warmth, and the peach and plum blossoms bloomed brilliantly. The people of the capital, both men and women, roamed far and wide to enjoy the spring, and literary gatherings and banquets were held incessantly.

Due to being mocked openly by Li Meiyai, Xu Chun decided not to engage in social activities. Together with Sheng Changzhou, they reviewed their businesses in the capital and prepared gifts for his grandfather. After seeing Sheng Changzhou off, Zhuzhifang fell silent once again. The spring bamboo was charmingly green, so Xu Chun took the time to sketch a few strokes of bamboo and ducklings. He quietly made them into thick bookmarks, had gold lace borders added by craftsmen, and created a pair of bookmarks. He placed them inside the red-lacquered book box on his desk—these were for Jiu Ge as homework.

As the imperial examinations approached, Xie Yi indeed became very busy after leaving. Although Xu Chun missed Jiu Ge, he diligently read several books that Jiu Ge had given him. What was rare was that this Mr. Zhuowu’s books truly suited his temperament, and there were annotations from Jiu Ge, making it comprehensible. Therefore, the days weren’t too difficult to endure. He even wrote down parts he didn’t understand and had Qiuhu send them to Dengcao Alley. Indeed, the following day, Liu Shun would personally bring over a box, inside which were detailed explanations Jiu Ge had written.

The Imperial Academy resumed classes after the New Year, and like other high-born young men, he rarely attended. He merely sent his book boy to sign his attendance for him, appearing as carefree and extravagant as before to outsiders.

In the Guogong Mansion, however, Grandmother was beginning to worry about Xu Chun’s bedroom affairs. One day, she summoned the two maids she had previously arranged to serve Xu Chun and questioned them, “The New Year has passed, and the Imperial Academy has started its new term. Why is it that you have yet to attend to the Prince even once?”

Chimei and Zaolan stood on the ground, heads lowered, saying nothing.

Grandmother, seeing that the maids were well-trained under her watch, was displeased. “Zaolan! Tell me, what duties do you currently have in the Prince’s quarters? Is someone obstructing you? If any of the original maids in the Prince’s quarters are disrespectful to you, tell me, and I’ll punish them. Or could it be that Second Madam doesn’t allow you to serve the Prince?”

Zaolan stepped forward and said softly, “Reporting to Grandmother, no one has obstructed us. When my sister Chimei and I arrived at the Prince’s quarters, the Prince treated us kindly. He asked us about our skills, knowing that I’m good at brewing tea and Chimei is skilled in incense-making. He assigned us duties—one to handle tea, and the other incense. The two original maids in the Prince’s quarters, Qingjin manages finances and household affairs, while Yinju handles sewing. They were also very kind to us, showing no secrets or reservations. As for Second Madam, she treats us the same as Qingjin and Yinju, without distinction.”

Grandmother asked, “Then what do you do all day? Aren’t you attending to the Prince wholeheartedly?”

Zaolan replied, “The Prince told me to experiment with tea storage, specifically wanting plum blossom-scented tea. He said Grandmother loves the scent of plum blossoms and urged me to take advantage of the current season of blooming plum blossoms to quickly test various floral fragrances. He wanted me to create different flavors for Grandmother to try, saying she would certainly enjoy them.”

Grandmother’s expression softened slightly. “Although the Prince may be playful and lazy, his filial piety is indeed first-rate.”

Chimei added, “The Prince had me experiment with the Lingzhen incense mentioned in ancient books. He said he had an agreement with another young master to compete in incense-making after the spring, insisting that I succeed. If I win the incense competition, he promised a generous reward.”

Grandmother remarked, “I assigned you to attend to the Prince’s pillow matters, not to handle these trivialities.”

Chimei explained, “Grandmother, the Prince often stays out late at night. We can’t even leave the inner gates, let alone know where the Prince goes. Even when he occasionally returns, he rarely sleeps in his quarters, often saying he fell asleep in the study after reading late.”

Hearing this, Grandmother was annoyed and waved her hand. “It seems you two are useless, unable to capture the Prince’s heart. Fine, go down for now.”

The two exchanged glances, bowed, and left. Once they were outside Grandmother’s room and through the garden, Zaolan whispered, “Does Grandmother want to replace us again?”

Chimei asked, “Don’t you want to leave?”

Zaolan glared at her. “Do you want to leave? In the Prince’s quarters, the work is light, and there are few people. Second Madam never scolds anyone and often gives silver as rewards. Qingjin and Yinju aren’t the type to gossip; they’re honest people without any quarrels. Not to mention, the tea leaves and incense we make now earn us a share of the profits when sold. Although it’s only two or three strings of cash per month, it’s extra income on top of our regular allowance. The materials are plentiful for us to use. The Prince also said that if we do well, he’ll hire a teacher to teach us. When we can officially sell on the shelves, he’ll allow us a long-term profit-sharing arrangement. That’s a steady income!”

Chimei commented, “Your vision is too short-sighted. I heard that Bai Bi and Qingqian, who are close to Second Madam, receive allowances equal to those of the shop managers outside. They also get year-end bonuses. Moreover, the managers of more than ten shops selected those under thirty for them to choose from. If they fancy someone, they can marry, with dowries provided. Formerly, Flower Aunt and Cloud Aunt accompanied Madam as part of her dowry, and now they own shops and estates outside. How can ordinary families compare?”

Zaolan sighed. “Unfortunately, our contracts are with the Guogong Mansion, unlike theirs. Grandmother hopes for us to become the Prince’s concubines, and when he marries his principal wife, where will we stand? It’s better to be content as maids like Yinju and Qingjin, at least we have money.”

After discussing and sighing, they were about to leave when they encountered Xu Gu walking in. Startled, they hurriedly greeted him, “Master Gu.”

Xu Gu dared not look directly at them, merely stepping aside to let them pass, maintaining proper etiquette.

The two could only hurry away. Once they were far enough, they whispered, “Isn’t Master Gu supposed to be preparing for the imperial examinations? Hasn’t he been studying hard with his teacher in the courtyard these days? Why did he suddenly come out today?”

Zaolan guessed, “He must be here to greet Grandmother.”

Chimei countered, “Grandmother excused him from daily greetings, telling him to focus on studying and not to bother with anything else. To be fair, Master is always very respectful and has good looks, but alas, he’s a concubine-born son.”

Zaolan chuckled softly. “Being a concubine-born son doesn’t mean you’re our servant. Wait until Master passes the imperial examination. You’ll see, Grandmother will definitely make arrangements. I heard she’s already found a suitable match for him, planning a prestigious marriage to support the Guogong Mansion. That’s why she only arranged for low-ranking maids and boys to serve him, not assigning a single close attendant.”

As they quietly discussed, Zaolan suddenly said, “I think Master came here for something. Let me find out. If the Prince asks later, we can answer.”

Chimei saw through Zaolan’s intentions. “Are you trying to please Young Master?”

Zaolan whispered, “We’ve served in Old Lady’s courtyard since childhood. Don’t you know her nature? She’s all talk but no action, treating us servants like cats and dogs. Second Madam, despite being from a merchant family, treats her subordinates genuinely, giving real money. Rather than waiting for the Prince’s wife to arrive and getting dismissed, it’s better to rely on our skills and make plans early. Look at Yinju and Qingjin; how are they stronger than us? They just happened to arrive earlier at the Prince’s side, but actually, the Prince is very easy to talk to.” Finishing, she secretly turned around and walked along the corridor, peeking inside.

Xu Gu walked straight to Grandmother’s room and spoke to Qiaohe, who was by Grandmother’s side. “Please help relay a message, Sister Qiaohe. Say I’ve come to greet her.”

Grandmother was somewhat surprised to hear that Xu Gu had come. She was chatting idly with Madam Bai, pinching Buddha beans, and instructed Xu Gu to enter. “You’re about to enter the examination hall soon. Instead of studying hard, why are you thinking about greeting? Do you need something? Just say, and I’ll have your mother arrange it for you. Have you read the essays your eldest sister sent over the other day? Your eldest sister said your brother-in-law worked hard to obtain them. Take a look; even if you come across one topic, it will surely benefit you.”

Xu Gu hurriedly replied, “Thank you for your concern, Grandmother, and thank you to Aunt, Eldest Sister, and Brother-in-Law. My review is going well, but today, I heard rumors about our mansion’s affairs, and I’m worried. That’s why I’ve come to report to Grandmother. Logically, I shouldn’t trouble Grandmother with this matter due to her age, causing her worry, but I don’t know whom else to tell. After all, this isn’t something I should discuss with Mother.”

Grandmother asked anxiously, “What’s the matter?”

Xu Gu explained, “Yesterday, I heard that Second Brother invited the Shun Prince’s heir to a feast at White Stream Villa in the outskirts. The banquet was excessively lavish and wasteful. Coincidentally, that day, Li Meiyai, who was resting at home, was taken along by the Shun Prince’s heir. Grandmother might not know, but Li Meiyai is extremely upright and selfless. Seeing the extravagance of the banquet, he ridiculed it and left angrily. Seeing the situation, the Shun Prince’s heir also felt it was uninteresting and left. The banquet ended unhappily and became a laughingstock, spreading throughout the literati and official households in the capital.”

Upon hearing this, Grandmother covered her chest in anger, her body trembling. “I’ve said it many times! This child needs discipline! Quickly summon the Guogong and Guogong’s Madam! The Guogong Mansion’s reputation and honor have been completely ruined!”

Madam Bai hurriedly called for Qiaohe to fetch the pills that Grandmother usually took to calm herself down. She then dissolved them in water and offered them to Grandmother.

Soon, Jingguo Xu Anlin and Sheng arrived. Grandmother repeatedly asked, “Where’s Second Master! His parents are here, yet he hasn’t arrived?”

Sheng said, “I had a headache this morning and sent him to ask the doctor for medicine.”

Grandmother’s face turned livid with rage. “You’re still covering up for him. He hasn’t returned at all! A doting mother spoils her child. Do you think I’m senile and don’t know? He spends only a few days at home each month, indulging in cockfighting and gambling outside, spending money like water. It’s all because you let him stay out all night!”

Sheng remained silent, while Xu Anlin put on a smile. “Mother, don’t ruin your health for our sake this early in the morning. What exactly did you summon us for? Chun Ge doesn’t know any better; please bear with him.”

Grandmother retorted, “If it weren’t for Gu Ge hearing about it from his teacher and classmates, I would still be in the dark. Now, everyone in the capital knows that Chun Ge invited the Shun Prince’s heir to a banquet that was overly extravagant and wasteful. At the banquet, he was angrily rebuked by Li Meiyai, tarnishing the reputation and honor of our Jingguo Mansion for generations!”

Xu Anlin was puzzled. “Who is the Shun Prince’s heir? Who is Li Meiyai? Chun Ge spent so much money on the banquet and was criticized. Wouldn’t it be better if I handled it? I would have done it properly.”

Grandmother nearly fainted from anger. Madam Bai hurriedly patted her back. Turning to Xu Gu, her hands shaking, she said, “Gu Ge, tell your father who doesn’t know any better!”

Xu Gu explained, “The Shun Prince’s heir, Xie Fei, stands out among the imperial clan. He enjoys literature and is the grandson of Lin Jijiu, thus enjoying a considerable reputation among scholars. He also maintains a friendly relationship with Grand Secretary Li Meiyai. Li Meiyai is the youngest grand secretary in the cabinet. At the age of twenty-two, he passed both the metropolitan and palace examinations and was appointed as a reviser. At the age of thirty-six, he already serves as the Left Minister of the Ministry of Personnel and concurrently as the East Pavilion Grand Secretary, participating in military affairs. Recently, he angered the Emperor with a memorial and was ordered to stop working and reflect at home. I heard he has resumed his duties recently. He is extremely upright and righteous. If he reports the excessive extravagance of the banquet, Father won’t escape the blame for lax discipline.”

Xu Anlin sighed in relief upon hearing that Li Meiyai had been suspended. “He’s suspended, right? Censors love to impeach officials; I’ve been impeached before… It’s just a matter of losing some salary. I’m not in charge of anything…”

Grandmother’s eyebrows furrowed. “What do you know? How could a grand secretary of the cabinet be dismissed casually? Even if the Emperor is angry, at most, he would let him reflect at home for a few days before returning. Do you know that when a grand secretary impeaches someone, even the chief grand secretary must submit a resignation letter and wait for the court’s inquiry at home? You, a mere hereditary peer, wouldn’t be dismissed with just a word from the Emperor?”

Xu Anlin’s eyes widened. “What? Chun Ge invited him to dinner with good intentions, even if it was a bit extravagant, it was a gesture of goodwill from the host. How could he have the nerve to impeach us? Isn’t that like a dog biting Lu Dongbin, not recognizing kindness? Isn’t that lacking in common sense? Doesn’t he have teachers, old friends, and superiors? Does he dare to speak out at others’ banquets? Who would dare to invite him?”

Grandmother was exasperated with her son, who acted like a good-for-nothing. Knowing that talking to him was futile, she shouted, “Where is Chun Ge? How could he cause such a disaster and not show up? When the day comes and we are destroyed and stripped of our titles and punished, he’ll still be enjoying himself somewhere!”

Xu Anlin frowned. “Mother, why are you speaking inauspiciously? Chun Ge is just mischievous. It’s not that serious.”

Xu Gu whispered, “Father, I didn’t want to alarm Grandmother and Father and Mother, but Second Brother also invited the Shun Prince’s heir with his cousin from the Sheng family. This matter has caused quite a stir. If Grand Secretary Li Meiyai doesn’t pursue it, it will fade in a few days. However, the fact that the Jingguo Mansion’s Prince privately hosted the Shun Prince’s heir, fraternizing with the imperial clan, will have long-lasting repercussions.”

Xu Anlin, full of nonsense, didn’t understand a thing, looking blankly. “What’s the problem?” He was in his forties, with passable looks, but his mind was empty—a stuffed puppet.

Madam Sheng glanced at Xu Gu indifferently. Xu Gu didn’t dare meet her eyes and merely bowed. “Please forgive your son’s rashness, Father and Mother. The news has spread throughout the capital’s scholar-official circles. Coupled with the previous incident of donating ten thousand taels to the court for a title, people now only know that the Jingguo Mansion is extremely wealthy and extravagant. Moreover, befriending rich relatives and the imperial clan brings ill omen. We must find a solution.”

Grandmother sneered. “Old Second is older than you, yet he doesn’t see things as clearly as your son. I’ve said it many times; Chun Ge needs to be disciplined. Both of them were taught by famous scholars, but you ask around—could anyone easily invite Master Jia? If it weren’t for me asking Father to extend the invitation and inviting him repeatedly, you wouldn’t have been able to hire him no matter how much you paid! Gu Ge can settle down to study, but Chun Ge? He can’t learn and isn’t allowed to be beaten! A doting mother spoils her child!”

Madam Sheng remained silent, while Madam Bai sighed. “It’s unfortunate that Gu Ge is about to enter the examination hall. Such a commotion will affect him to some extent.”

Grandmother was reminded and hurriedly said, “Gu Ge, don’t think about this anymore! Quickly return and study carefully. No matter who asks about your younger brother, just say you don’t know and that you’ve been studying outside. We’ll handle the rest.”

Xu Anlin asked confusedly, “So how do we remedy the situation now?”

Grandmother raged, “Bring Chun Ge back and give him a beating. Make him kneel in the ancestral hall and confine him! Then send people to apologize to Li Meiyai and the Shun Prince’s Mansion. Just say it was a child’s ignorance and that he hosted the banquet without informing his parents. Spread this news. People will only think it was his childish decision, and they won’t think we adults are ignorant.”

Madam Sheng coughed lightly, causing Xu Anlin’s body to tremble slightly. He hastily said, “Confining him is fine, but there’s no need to beat him. Old Second is very weak. What if he falls ill from the beating?”

Grandmother glanced at Madam Sheng, knowing she must be heartbroken. Thinking for a moment, she said, “Do you think I want to? Chun Ge was raised by me. I cherished him, afraid he would melt in my mouth and break in my hands. But we must set an example outwardly… A slight punishment is necessary. If we don’t discipline him, Chun Ge will become even bolder! When the time comes for our family to be destroyed and our titles revoked, it will happen in an instant!”

Xu Gu interjected softly, “There’s another matter, if I may inform Grandmother, Father, and Mother.”

Grandmother asked, “What is it?”

Xu Gu replied, “This rumor is spreading fiercely. I learned that in recent days, Second Brother has been lingering in theaters and places of pleasure, befriending actors and selecting male courtesans, spreading the word that he must find good-looking and sensible ones to try… After all, Second Brother is the Prince. I fear he’s been led astray by youth. Hearing this, I’m very worried and dare not hide it from my elders. Perhaps we should take advantage of this opportunity to discipline him a little.”

Upon hearing this, Grandmother trembled with anger. “No wonder he never touches the maids in his quarters. He’s been led astray like this! When has our Jingguo Mansion had such a family style? How can we afford to let this spread? Which noble family’s maiden would dare to propose marriage to us? Even the marriages of other young masters would be affected! Call him over immediately!”

Suddenly recalling something, Grandmother said to Madam Sheng, “No wonder your Sheng family sent four boys to serve Second Master without any reason. Our mansion has plenty of book boys. Why must they be chosen from outside? Looking at it now, none of them are good! I’ve heard that Min Province is known for these deviant practices. Now, they’ve corrupted the young masters! How can I face the Old Guogong?”

She wept bitterly, covering her face with a handkerchief. Madam Sheng, unjustly accused, frowned. Madam Bai supported Grandmother and said, “Take it easy, Grandmother. Sister-in-law may not have known about this, but as the master’s attendant, if the young master behaves badly and the servant doesn’t promptly report it to Sister-in-law to correct it in time, such a bold servant deserves severe punishment.”

Realizing this, Grandmother came to her senses. “How could those boys have such courage? Their contracts belong to the Sheng family. How dare they not report it?”

Madam Sheng said, “The boys mentioned that Old Second is thinking about raising a troupe of young actors for the mansion to entertain Grandmother for her birthday. That’s why he’s been looking outside recently. I thought it wouldn’t cost much and should surprise Grandmother. So, I didn’t say anything. Besides, it’s normal for young men to socialize with classmates from the Imperial Academy in entertainment venues. Perhaps Gu Ge misunderstood and spread false information.”

Her bright eyes swept over Xu Gu, filled with a deep threat.

Xu Gu lowered his head, not daring to speak further. Madam Sheng then looked at Jingguo and said, “I’ve discussed this with Lord before. Lord said that if there’s a new play anywhere, the money he spends supporting actors every year is in the tens of thousands. This is the prevailing atmosphere in the capital. Now, it’s peaceful to raise a troupe of young actors ourselves. During banquets, they can perform whenever we want to listen. Isn’t that great? It’s just that the first requirement for young actors is their age—they must have clear voices and be taught well by a master. It’s not easy to find good ones, so Chun Ge has spent more time searching.”

Xu Anlin hastily agreed. “Yes, he did mention it to me.”

Grandmother glared at him and repeated, “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” She urged, “Why hasn’t Old Second shown up yet?”

In her heart, Madam Sheng had already instructed Xia Chao to warn Xu Chun not to return to the mansion no matter what. She planned to concoct a story about a horseback riding accident tomorrow to cover it up. However, she wasn’t sure if the typically clueless Xia Chao could handle it properly.

Meanwhile, Xia Chao, having received the order, had already rushed to Zhuzhifang.

Xu Chun had just received a red-lacquered book box from Liu Shun, opening it with joy. He took out the paper slips with explanations written by Xie Yi and sealed his pre-written questions back into Liu Shun’s box. He then ordered someone to reward Liu Shun. “Fortunately, I got a box of amber pine nut candies yesterday. They taste excellent. Give them to you to try. Also, please take a box of five-colored sweets to Jiu Ge for me.”

Liu Shun gratefully accepted it, smiling broadly. “Thank you, Prince.”

Xu Chun asked Liu Shun, “How is Jiu Ge’s health? Has he improved? Is there anything he wants to eat? I’ll have someone prepare it for him.”

Liu Shun said, “Everything is fine with Ninth Master, Your Highness needn’t worry.”

But Xia Chao had already burst in, shouting and rushing over. Seeing Xu Chun, he didn’t even have time to bow before hurriedly saying, “Young Master, it’s bad news. The head of the household has gone to the matriarch and complained that you hosted a banquet for the Prince of Shun, which was mocked by Grand Chancellor Li for being excessively extravagant. Now, the whole capital is talking about it. The matriarch is furious. She has summoned Duke Guogong and Lady to reprimand them, and she has also sent someone to immediately call you back to the estate. Lady said that under no circumstances should you return. Tomorrow, just say that you twisted your ankle and can’t come back.”

Xu Chun paused, then laughed. “Since I caused the trouble, of course I should take the punishment. How could I let Father and Mother suffer on my behalf? I should go back. Avoiding the issue won’t solve anything; it’s better to get the punishment over with sooner rather than later. It’s just kneeling in the ancestral hall, after all. Grandmother has always doted on me. If I don’t go, she’s likely to take her anger out on Mother.”

Xia Chao stomped his foot. “My dear prince, is this a small matter? This is the deputy prime minister of the court. He’s been reinstated, and the emperor holds him in high regard. Moreover, before I left, Elder Sister Zao Lan secretly sent someone to tell me that the head of the household exposed your dalliances with young men outside. You must be careful. Now, the Old Lady dislikes our four Sheng family servants for corrupting you and wants to drive us away.”

Xu Chun said, “Your contracts aren’t in the Duke Guogong’s manor, so being driven away doesn’t mean we can’t still stay here. It’s not a problem. Big Brother probably resents me for offending a court official and blocking his path to success.” He got up, intending to return home. Chun Xi thought for a moment and said, “Lady must have a way to handle the situation. Your Highness, why don’t you wait a bit longer and send someone to find out more before deciding.”

Xu Chun replied, “No need. Why should Mother suffer on my behalf?” He smiled at Liu Shun and said, “Liu Shun, you should go back first. Don’t mention anything about my side when you return, so as not to cause Ninth Brother unnecessary worry. Grandmother has always doted on me; there won’t be any problems.”

Liu Shun nodded with a full smile on his face but did not verbally agree.

Xu Chun didn’t notice, too concerned about his mother’s punishment. He quickly went downstairs. Chun Xi, Qiuhu, and the others couldn’t stop him, so they followed closely behind. Liu Shun held the box and returned to Dengcao Alley. He hastily changed his clothes and entered the palace, seeking out Eunuch Su. He recounted everything he had seen and heard.

Su Hua pondered for a while. Liu Shun suggested, “Given the hour, it should be the time when His Majesty is discussing affairs with the cabinet ministers. Normally, no one dares disturb him. Why don’t you, Master Eunuch, talk to Minister Fang Zixing about visiting Duke Jingguo’s estate? Perhaps that would resolve the situation.”

Su Hua shook his head. “You’re being naive. What status does Zixing have? Are you not afraid that the old lady of Duke Jingguo’s estate will be frightened to death? This matter needs to be reported to His Majesty urgently.”

Liu Shun looked bewildered. “But, His Majesty set an ironclad rule that during discussions with the cabinet ministers, nothing short of military emergencies can interrupt them.”

Su Hua flicked his forehead. “You have much to learn.” He took the box of five-colored candies and opened it, and found inside were snow lotus slices, red crispy dates, sesame candy, amber orange candy, and pine nut candy. He smiled slightly. “They’re all the favorites of His Majesty.” He personally carried the tray and headed towards the Qinzhen Hall where the deliberations were taking place.

Inside the Qinzhen Hall, although the cabinet ministers had been granted seats by the emperor, everyone sat upright, solemn and respectful, silent as a tomb. Xie Yi broke the silence after a moment. “Do any of your excellencies have a good strategy?”

Li Meiyao said, “We can divert the silver allocated for border defense this year to disaster relief and replenish it after the autumn harvest tax.”

Minister of War Su Zhen said indignantly, “No! This year is cold, and there may be disturbances along the borders. If the border provisions are insufficient, border affairs could become chaotic.”

Li Meiyao sneered. “Military affairs are in a state of emergency every year. Despite the local government raising taxes for military provisions, it’s never enough. Military administration is lax, and bandits are rising everywhere, causing trouble in the regions. We don’t see reports of victories in anti-bandit operations. The people are the foundation. Now, famine-stricken people are dying everywhere, so naturally, we should prioritize the disaster victims.”

Su Zhen said angrily, “Grand Chancellor Li! Day after day, you target the border army. If the borders really do become unstable, what will you use to repel foreign invaders? Your shield-like face and knife-like tongue?”

Li Meiyao hummed, as if about to continue his rebuttal. Xie Yi coughed lightly, and the ministers immediately fell silent, daring not to speak further.

Xie Yi said, “I remember that we originally reserved two hundred thousand taels of silver this year for repairing the city walls of the capital and dredging the canal. Let’s take that money and use it for disaster relief. Fortunately, only one province is affected by the snowstorm. If all of it can be used on the disaster victims, there should be no major issues.”

The cabinet ministers were all shocked, especially Jiang Xian, the governor of Jingzhao Prefecture, who stood up. His face was almost dripping with bitterness. “Your Majesty, the city walls of the capital must be repaired. Last year, the southeast corner was barely patched up; otherwise, it would have collapsed. I’ve struggled to fill the ten-thousand-tael deficit. I cannot spare any more funds.”

Recently, he had summoned all the officials of Jingzhao Prefecture and given them a stern warning. He reprimanded those cunning and crafty clerks, making them return what they had previously embezzled. He also wrote a letter to the former governor, asking him to bear some of the responsibility, and managed to distribute the deficit among the officials to cover it up. Where could he now find the silver to repair the city walls and the canal?

Xie Yi glanced at him. “Order the Imperial Household Department to select some paintings and antiques from the imperial treasury and invite royal merchants to hold a charity auction. The Empress Dowager has gone to the imperial temple, devoted to frugality and cultivation. Some of the former worldly items have been spared and idled. They can be sold for charity to raise funds for disaster relief, accumulating merit for the Empress Dowager and praying for blessings for the late emperor.”

The cabinet ministers were silent, their thoughts echoing loudly.

If the emperor hadn’t spoken these words with a demeanor as cold as ice, it might have seemed more affectionate between mother and son.

Unfortunately, even Li Meiyao, who usually spoke frankly, didn’t dare to mock the emperor for being unfilial or insincere. Instead, he appeared to tacitly approve. Indeed, it was said that this stubborn scholar had once impeached the Empress Dowager for extravagance in her birthday celebrations. Now, he naturally approved of earning money for disaster relief.

The other ministers couldn’t help but look down on Li Meiyao, but then they saw Su Hua suddenly lift the curtain and enter the hall, carrying two boxes. He placed them on the imperial table.

Although the ministers were relieved that someone had broken the awkward silence, they couldn’t help but secretly glance at the emperor.

During political deliberations in the Qinzhen Hall, eunuchs and guards were not allowed to enter unless it was a military emergency, and violators would be executed.

And yet, as First Eunuch Su Hua calmly opened the boxes without any sign of rebuke from the emperor, it seemed there was nothing unusual.

One box was a plum blossom box containing five-colored candies, which appeared ordinary.

The other box was a lacquer book box. The emperor seemed unperturbed and reached in to retrieve a golden-edged bookmark, which he examined before putting it back. Then, he rose and instructed Su Hua, “Have the imperial kitchen prepare some perilla drinks for the grand chancellors to drink. I need to change clothes.”

The grand chancellors hurriedly rose to thank the emperor and bid him farewell respectfully.

Xie Yi merely turned around and returned to the rear chambers, asking Su Hua, “What happened to Xu Chun?”

Su Hua smiled and said, “It was Liu Shun who delivered the interpretation of His Majesty’s studies. However, he encountered the steward of the duke’s estate who came to report that Young Master’s public mockery by Grand Chancellor Li for extravagance had spread throughout the capital. Also, the news of Young Master’s frequenting places of pleasure and his fondness for young men had reached the matriarch. She’s angry and has summoned him to return, and it’s rumored that he might be beaten and punished.”

Xie Yi furrowed his brows. “This incident happened half a month ago. Why is it spreading now? And there weren’t many people that day. Who spread the word?”

Su Hua remained silent. Xie Yi said, “Fortunately, Shen Mengzhen’s appointment was just issued the day before yesterday, and the arrangements have been made. It’s not a problem to finalize it today. Send a few people to the families on the list we prepared the day before yesterday to summon their sons to the palace for evaluation. Also, call all the imperial relatives studying at the Imperial Academy to the Yanbo Palace. Tell them that I want to test their studies.”

Su Hua hurriedly smiled and agreed. Xie Yi said, “You don’t need to attend to me here. Go and ensure that this matter is handled properly.”

Su Hua hastily agreed. After a moment’s hesitation, Xie Yi looked at the sky and added, “It might be too late to go there now. Instruct the imperial physicians to wait. If he gets beaten, they must come to the palace immediately and treat him.”

Su Hua said solemnly, “Yes, I will prepare a sedan chair and have medical eunuchs accompany him to ensure that Little Prince doesn’t suffer any injustice.”

Xie Yi nodded slightly and then turned to return to the Qinzhen Hall.

Su Hua hurriedly summoned Zhao Side and personally instructed him with a speech, sending him to Duke Jingguo’s estate first. Then, he found a few more eunuchs and gave them clear instructions before dispatching them to deliver messages.

Xie Yi returned to the Qinzhen Hall and, upon seeing Li Meiyao standing up to bow with the other ministers, felt a surge of displeasure, and found him extremely disagreeable. Sitting down, he said, “The matter of disaster relief is crucial. The national treasury is strained. The disaster relief funds were hardly obtained after being reallocated. If they are misused by corrupt officials along the way, or if the arrangements are improper, and cause hardship for the people, it would be a tragedy.”

The chief cabinet minister, Ouyang Shen, said, “Your Majesty’s concerns are well-founded. We can send a special envoy for disaster relief to oversee the situation.”

Xie Yi asked, “Does Minister Ouyang have anyone in mind?”

Ouyang Shen paused, momentarily unable to think of a suitable candidate. After all, disaster relief with an imperial mandate required ensuring the effectiveness of the relief efforts and guaranteeing that the funds were used solely for the intended purpose. This was truly a difficult task. Moreover, going to such a distant place as Xiang Province, which was hit by a snowstorm, meant dealing with famine-stricken people and bandits along the way. Who could he recommend without offending anyone?

He hesitated without answering. Su Zhen chuckled and said, “Isn’t there a ready-made choice? I believe Grand Chancellor Li, known for his integrity and capable governance, is the right person for the job! He will ensure that every penny of the disaster relief funds goes directly to the disaster victims!”

The present ministers: “…” Isn’t it a bit too obvious, Old Su?

Li Meiyao stood up and said, “I am willing to serve my lord and go to Pu Prefecture for disaster relief.”

Xie Yi said, “Approved. You shall be the special envoy for disaster relief. Depart immediately for the disaster area, prioritizing the welfare of the people along the way. You may utilize the local granaries as needed.”

Li Meiyao said, “I obey the decree.”

Xie Yi glanced at Su Zhen, who was gloating. “Bandits are likely rampant along the disaster areas. I hereby appoint Su Zhen as the deputy envoy for disaster relief. Lead a thousand soldiers to escort the disaster relief funds. All actions must follow Grand Chancellor Li’s orders.”

Su Zhen hastily rose to accept the decree, his face collapsing as if mourning the loss of his parents.

Xie Yi said, “You have indeed been somewhat negligent these days. Military affairs have been neglected, and it’s no wonder that Meiyao spoke candidly. On this disaster relief mission, observe the lives of the people to understand the responsibilities of generals. It’s not about focusing solely on your own interests, jumping at the slightest provocation like a village ruffian. Can such behavior be tolerated in the imperial court?”

Su Zhen hastily knelt down to plead guilty. “I admit my fault. This time, I will wholeheartedly assist Grand Chancellor Li and will not seek personal revenge at the expense of the public interest.”

Xie Yi then looked at Li Meiyao. “Meiyao’s honesty is renowned across the land, but you should also know that waters too clear contain no fish. Don’t always find fault with others and charge them with crimes under the guise of offering advice. In recent days, I ordered you to reflect at home. You should have realized the need for self-restraint and prioritized practicality over reputation-seeking actions.”

Li Meiyao stood up and bowed. “I admit my fault.”

Xie Yi continued, “All of you should take note. You are my trusted advisors and should prioritize the well-being of the country and its people. You must not neglect public affairs due to personal interests, and attack each other, ignoring the bigger picture.”

Ouyang Shen hurriedly led the ministers in rising to receive the emperor’s instructions.

Xie Yi then dismissed the ministers, glancing at the sky. He wondered if the little playboy had been beaten yet. Last time, after receiving a few verbal jabs, he had cried until his eyes were swollen. If he was beaten, it was unknown how much coaxing would be needed, and his studies would certainly be delayed. As an elder, it was natural for the matriarch to discipline the younger generation. But if Xu Chun was really beaten, the emperor would have no choice but to take it out on Duke Jingguo’s buttocks.

Xie Yi held the bookmark from the box in his hand, contemplating grimly. If a child isn’t taught, it’s the father’s fault. Whatever number of strokes Xu Chun received, he would double it and return them to Duke Jingguo’s backside.