Chapter 96 – Sensational News

Xu Chun slept deeply, and when he woke up, the sun was high and bright outside his window, well past noon. He asked Wufu about the Emperor’s schedule and learned that the Emperor had already finished his court session, seeing that Xu Chun was still asleep, and didn’t disturb him. Instead, he returned to the Imperial Study for a brief rest and then summoned the Grand Secretariat for a meeting.

Xu Chun felt uneasy, asking Wufu about the events at court and what happened to Minister Li.

Wufu replied, “I heard it was quite a spectacle. His official hat was removed and his robe stripped on the spot. He was dragged to the Noon Gate and given eighty strokes of the cane. He was demoted to a ninth-rank city gatekeeper, so that all officials entering and leaving the city gates would see him as a warning.”

Xu Chun asked, “Wasn’t he hurt too badly… Shouldn’t we send some medicine over…”

Wufu assured him, “Don’t worry. He probably knew he would be beaten, so he arranged for a carriage, servants, and a doctor in advance. After the beating, he went straight home. The eunuchs who administered the punishment were instructed by Lord Su, so they knew how much force to use. It was just scary to look at from the outside, but they even fed him a heart-protecting pill before the punishment began.”

Xu Chun hesitated, as there were many details of the case he wanted to know, such as Chu Wei, the mysterious Daoist master, and the assassins who committed suicide. Thinking about these questions made him feel restless. Wufu definitely wouldn’t know, so he asked Wufu, “Do you know where Lord Fang Zixing is? I’ll go find him.”

Wufu replied, “Lord Fang doesn’t necessarily work in the palace while investigating cases. According to Lord Su Huan, the Emperor allowed Lord Fang to focus on his investigations and hasn’t been on duty in the palace these days. If you want to see him, you’ll have to leave the palace and go to the Wu Ying Hou Mansion.”

Xu Chun checked the time and saw that Ninth Brother still had some time before he would finish his court duties. He hadn’t taken care of the Mid-Autumn Festival gifts yet, so he decided to return and give some instructions, and also to find out how the incident was being talked about outside.

After eating a little, he first went to the Idle Cloud Teahouse, a place well-known for gathering information.

Qing Qian naturally came over upon hearing that he arrived. Hearing Xu Chun ask about Li Meiyao, she laughed and said, “The whole capital is talking about it. People say he forced Miss Zhu Da of the Sui Xi Building, but failed. She’s still a courtesan. While drunk, he took his henchmen to cause trouble on her pleasure boat. Somehow, in his drunken stupor, he let his servant smash the boat, and the boat started sinking as people fell into the water. The madam and managers of the building reported it to the authorities when they saw things getting out of hand.”

“Today, everyone heard that the Emperor punished him severely, demoting him to a city gatekeeper. Listen around; the teahouses are full of discussions about it. They say that last night, the banks of the Golden Powder River were lined with soldiers holding torches, and even the capital’s official boats were mobilized, presumably to search for survivors from the sinking boat.”

Xu Chun went to a private room on the third floor, sipping tea while listening to the scholars nearby discuss the matter. Indeed, a group of scholars was holding a literary gathering, discussing the topic animatedly. Writing poetry seemed secondary to the sensational news that caught their attention:

“If I may say, there must be more to this story. A grand secretary, someone destined for higher office, would never act so foolishly. That Li Meiyao has always been upright and incorruptible. This must be a frame-up! I suspect there’s a traitor in the court!”

“I heard from a classmate that he was on the Golden Powder River last night. He heard a loud noise, very suspicious. Later, the area was cordoned off, and all the boats were driven ashore by the official boats. Each person’s identity was registered before they were allowed to leave. He’s still anxious now, afraid his family might find out.”

“It does seem unreasonable and inexplicable. Grand secretaries are the emperor’s advisors. If they wanted to summon a courtesan, would the Bureau of Music dare to refuse? Why would he go to someone else’s pleasure boat to cause trouble?”

“I’ve got some insider information from the Sui Xi Building. It seems that Minister Li fancied Miss Zhu Da of the Sui Xi Building but was afraid others would consider him old. That day, he specially hired an actor to pose as a noble young master, bought the Sui Xi Building’s flower invitation, and dressed himself as the noble young master’s servant, sneaking in with him. The girls all prefer handsome men, and it’s said that they favored the noble young master, allowing him onto the boat. But once on board, he revealed his true identity. Miss Zhu Da is still a courtesan, so she likely refused him. Things escalated, and it’s said that one of Minister Li’s guards carried a firearm, which shattered the boat, causing the commotion.”

“Pfft, impossible, right? How could that happen?”

“Haven’t you read the official dispatches from the Five Armies Command Department? ‘He brought an entertainer to visit a courtesan, the courtesan refused, and he let his servant cause chaos, damaging property and destroying the boat, leading to several people falling into the water, causing significant public disturbance.’ Bringing an entertainer is quite telling.”

“They’re saying the compensation was set at five thousand taels, but the courtesans say it’s far from enough. However, who dares to argue? Afterward, all the courtesans were taken away for questioning, and they haven’t been fully released yet.”

“He’s a grand secretary, after all. The handling had to be careful. If it went through normal legal procedures, it would typically take half a year or more. If officials covered for each other, it would eventually be reduced to a minor issue, with perhaps just a fine. This was the Emperor’s direct anger in court, granting him caning and orally decreeing his dismissal and demotion. Otherwise, such a small matter couldn’t shake a grand secretary. The Emperor is wise indeed.”

“I have a friend who was also at Zhu Da’s place for the Sui Xi Gathering. Apparently, Minister Li’s eloquence is indeed remarkable, driving everyone away. He even wrote a poem, but it wasn’t because he fancied Miss Zhu Da. Rather, he seemed interested in Xuanwei Yuke, the instructor at the Sui Xi Building, who rarely accepts guests. Perhaps because of this, he had to enter through the Sui Xi Gathering. You should know that she isn’t listed in the music register, doesn’t hang out a sign, and the Bureau of Music can’t control them. Regardless of whether you’re a grand secretary, you can’t force them to come.”

“Xuanwei Yuke? Is that a Daoist name?”

“Hehe, many famous courtesans have joined the Daoist order. By borrowing the prestige of being a Daoist nun and knowing poetry and literature, they only entertain literati and poets, befriending artists and scholars. They merely seek a secure future while they’re still young, ensuring a life free from want.”

“You don’t know this.” A scholar lowered his voice. “Xuanwei Yuke was once a concubine in the Regent Prince’s mansion, greatly favored. After the Regent Prince passed away, she drifted out.”

Someone chuckled, “Regent Prince? That was over ten years ago. She must be in her thirties or forties, a middle-aged woman. Minister Li certainly has unique tastes.”

The previous scholar lowered his voice further. “That’s the odd part. Younger ones might not know, but Minister Li rose from the ranks of officials under the Regent Prince’s mansion. The Regent Prince truly bestowed upon him the grace of recognition.”

“Minister Li’s background has never been hidden. He’s always hated evil and kept himself clean. He didn’t even have a wife, let alone a concubine. To go see a former acquaintance of the mansion with vicious servants and carrying such lethal weapons, causing the boat to capsize. Could this really be just a scandalous affair of seeking courtesans?”

“The question returns to the beginning. A grand secretary of the second rank, why would he need courtesans or beauties? There are plenty who would willingly offer themselves. Moreover, returning to the point, such a trivial matter of visiting a pleasure boat could reach the Emperor’s presence and provoke his fury, leading to demotion and punishment. Does that make sense?”

For a moment, the room fell silent. Someone whispered, “We shouldn’t discuss this anymore…”

“I think Minister Li isn’t simple either. Everyone says he lives a poor life, but now he can afford to hire vicious servants and carry firearms. That’s even worse, isn’t it?”

“Forget it, forget it. Let’s not talk about it. Write poetry, write poetry.”

Suddenly, everyone clammed up, turning to lighter topics.

Xu Chun listened for a while before quietly leaving. Summarizing, most of the scholars believed that Minister Li’s incident was not simply a scandal involving courtesans but had deeper reasons, possibly fueled by jealousy or unrequited love. However, two truths were obscured and concealed amidst the sensational rumors spreading throughout the city: his own presence that night and the existence of the boat explosion and the assassins.

Xu Chun felt grateful, understanding that Ninth Brother was covering up the aftermath for him, protecting him. Even Minister Li Meiyao probably didn’t realize the subtle intentions behind Ninth Brother’s actions, a silent and gentle shield.

He instructed Qing Qian to prepare several gifts for the Mid-Autumn Festival, starting with Shen Mengzhen. Shen Mengzhen happened to be free from the Imperial Academy that day and was at home. Seeing Xu Chun arrive, he was quite pleased. “The appointment documents from the Ministry of Personnel should be issued in the next few days. Get ready. Tianjin Port is close, so I’ll visit you when I have time.”

Xu Chun thanked his teacher. Shen Mengzhen gave him several books. “These are books on economics. You can read them, but don’t believe everything. In this aspect, I have nothing more to teach you. As for Fang Zixing, his family also has a maritime customs office in Guangzhou, but now that Wu Ying Hou is in Minzhou, Fang Zixing is less reliable. Plus, he’s probably busy now, so forget it.”

Xu Chun said, “Big Brother Fang has been very busy lately.”

Shen Mengzhen sighed, “Don’t mention it. Li Meiyao caused him a huge mess. He’s probably investigating it now. Last night, the Five Cities Military Command Department made a fuss on the Golden Powder River. Did you hear about it?”

Xu Chun hesitated for a moment, tentatively asking, “I heard he tried to force a courtesan and let his servant destroy the boat?”

Shen Mengzhen scoffed, “With his personality, how could he try to force a courtesan? Those familiar with him know there must be another reason. When I heard Xuanwei Yuke, I knew he was still investigating the Regent Prince’s case. This time, he angered the Emperor, ruining his bright future. I must say, the Emperor is wise and benevolent. He rose from being an official under the Regent Prince’s mansion, and the Emperor didn’t hold it against him, always favoring him. But who could tolerate him still harboring loyalty to his old master for so many years? Clear your mind, don’t bother with him. You should focus on your new post.”

Xu Chun agreed, but in his heart, he thought that although Mr. Shen said not to bother with him, outsiders would see that he and Minister Li only met a few times. How could he bother with him? This advice was actually aimed at him. It seemed that despite their fiery arguments, Mr. Shen and Minister Li, one stubborn and the other a talented playboy, remained loyal friends. Understanding someone’s true nature and supporting them accordingly held some truth.

He bid farewell and left. On the way out, he went to the Wu Ying Hou Mansion, thinking that Fang Zixing might not be there. He planned to deliver the Mid-Autumn Festival gifts and consider it a gesture of goodwill. However, as he watched Chunxi deliver the gift, a procession of carriages arrived at the Wu Ying Hou Mansion.

He looked over and saw a red phoenix carriage with vermilion decorations, recognizing it as a princess’s carriage. He quickly led his horse away. A guard near the carriage window approached him, bowed, and asked, “Princess Heshun asks where the distinguished guest comes from and the purpose of the visit.”

Xu Chun bowed respectfully toward the carriage. Chunxi answered, “My young master is the Prince of Jingguo. Approaching the Mid-Autumn Festival, he personally delivered gifts to Lord Fang.”

The guard hurriedly bowed and rushed back to convey the message. The phoenix carriage’s curtain slightly moved, revealing a graceful figure inside. A voice called out, “Please invite the Prince of Jingguo into the mansion for a short rest. The marquis has a letter for him, and I am happy to relay the message.”

Xu Chun hastily bowed in response. Someone guided him into the mansion and served him tea in the flower hall.

After a while, several palace maids led Princess Heshun out. Her abdomen was visibly swollen, indicating that she was pregnant. She walked slowly and gracefully, appearing to be around thirty years old. Her complexion was fair and smooth, her features delicate and beautiful, her eyes clear and bright, and her demeanor charming and captivating, with a natural allure.

After exchanging pleasantries, Princess Heshun smiled at Xu Chun. “A few days ago, my husband sent a letter from northern Guangdong, recommending a scholar skilled in maritime customs affairs. He’s coming from northern Guangdong and is to be recommended as a consultant for the prince’s household. However, Zi Xing has been very busy these days and hasn’t found the time to introduce him. Coincidentally, since you’re here, I’ll introduce him.”

Xu Chun was pleasantly surprised and repeatedly expressed his gratitude. Princess Heshun smiled. “No need to be so formal. In the past few days, you’ve sent many gifts, and I’ve been grateful. I haven’t had the chance to repay you. Zi Xing has also received your help. We should be close allies, not so distant. Unfortunately, you’re not yet married, and I’m pregnant. When I’m free, I’ll invite the Princess of Jingguo to visit for flower appreciation.”

Xu Chun repeatedly thanked her. Princess Heshun ordered someone to call over the scholar named Jiang Mei to meet and greet him. Xu Chun noticed that he was a middle-aged scholar, around forty years old, with clear and bright features and a refined demeanor, giving a favorable impression. After the formalities and introductions, Princess Heshun smiled and ordered someone to fetch gifts as a token of gratitude for Xu Chun’s previous offerings.

Xu Chun engaged in polite conversation, feeling drenched in sweat. Finally, Princess Heshun smiled and instructed Jiang Mei to accompany the guest, excusing herself. He relaxed, and Jiang Mei, noticing Xu Chun’s discomfort, remarked, “Prince, are you not accustomed to entertaining noble ladies? If so, you should marry a virtuous wife soon to manage domestic affairs.”

Xu Chun chuckled awkwardly, not mentioning to Jiang Mei that he sensed the same aura from Princess Heshun as from Wu Ying Hou. Despite her seemingly warm and amiable demeanor, he could still feel a strong sense of intimidation. Considering her early marriage far from home, she was likely not as gentle and refined as she appeared on the surface.

Leaving with Jiang Mei, they unexpectedly ran into Fang Zixing. Fang Zixing, seeing Xu Chun, said, “The gatekeeper mentioned you came. It’s fortunate timing, as my brother sent someone. Since my sister-in-law has already introduced him, I won’t repeat myself. Scholar Jiang is highly proficient in economics and has extensive experience with the maritime customs office in Guangzhou. He’s adept at paperwork and worldly-wise. Take him to the Tianjin Port maritime customs office; he’ll be a perfect fit.”

Jiang Mei bowed repeatedly, smiling. Xu Chun thanked him again. Fang Zixing dismissed Jiang Mei. “Go ahead. I have something to say to Prince Xu.”

Jiang Mei humbly retreated. Fang Zixing led Xu Chun to the garden and said, “This is the person the Emperor and my brother want for you. Our family carefully selected him. Don’t be too polite. Originally, he was our family slave, and now his indenture contract is yours. Feel free to use him. If he’s not suitable, let me know.”

Xu Chun now understood why Wu Ying Hou suddenly sent him someone. He was filled with gratitude. Fang Zixing continued, “You didn’t come just for the festival gifts, did you? Don’t worry, Minister Li is fine. Everything is under control.”

Xu Chun asked, “I want to know about Daoist Xuanwei and the old Daoist priest from the Sui Xi Building last night. It seemed strange. Has Minister Li mentioned anything to you? I came to remind you.”

Fang Zixing nodded. “The old Daoist priest, according to Daoist Xuanwei and the courtesans, is Xuanwei’s uncle, Xuchenzi. He usually wanders freely, and Chu Wei doesn’t interact with him often, but she has received his kindness. He coincidentally visited during the Sui Xi Gathering and left that night, not staying. It’s indeed peculiar. We’re currently searching for him in the city.”

“As for Chu Wei, she’s still being interrogated in the inner government offices, but we haven’t gotten much information. She doesn’t seem to be hiding anything. She left the Regent Prince’s mansion empty-handed, taking nothing with her. What the Regent Prince left her, she cannot recall at the moment. Minister Li privately advised her to think more about it. She’ll be released in a few days, but you mustn’t go looking for her. The waters are deep. The Emperor sternly ordered that you mustn’t get involved. Spend some quality time with the Emperor for now. After the Mid-Autumn Festival, you can go to the maritime customs office.”

Fang Zixing sighed. “Even the sketch you casually drew yesterday was confiscated by the Emperor. If something had happened to you yesterday, I’m sure Dinhai would have been exiled to the borderlands. Truly, gods and Buddhas protected us.”

Xu Chun felt a slight flush in his ears. Fang Zixing continued scolding, “It’s hard to find reliable people for the time being, but luckily, Chunxi is back. The Emperor said to train Chunxi when I have time. Give Chunxi an official position in the imperial guard. Arrange your schedule accordingly. Have Chunxi contact Dinhai in the next few days. Dinhai will take him to the camp.”

Xu Chun was pleasantly surprised. “Really giving Chunxi a military position? He’ll be so happy when he finds out!”

Fang Zixing shrugged indifferently. “It’s precisely when we need more people. The Emperor has long had his eye on Chunxi. In the future, those four around you will likely be put to use. But bestowing kindness shouldn’t be too rapid. Promote one first, giving the other servants around you hope for advancement. This way, when you need to use people, it’ll be more convenient. The Emperor said to combine kindness with authority. You’ve shown kindness, so you can’t be too lenient. But the Emperor knows you’re soft-hearted and have grown up together, so you won’t want to discipline them strictly. That’s why he instructed me to teach him the rules of a guard. I absolutely cannot let you continue as usual, especially after last night’s situation where you casually stepped into danger.”

“Something about how a gentleman doesn’t stand near a wall about to collapse, doesn’t walk on unfamiliar paths, doesn’t wade into deep waters, doesn’t enter dangerous states, doesn’t reside in chaotic lands. The Emperor has never been so nagging. This morning, he specifically called me in for a lecture, insisting that I must manage everyone around you. The problem is, last night, you were only going to a pleasure boat with Minister Li! I’m calling injustice for you! What kind of dangerous place was that? If anyone should be blamed, it should be Li Meiyao for cunningly using you.”

He turned to Xu Chun and asked curiously, “Are you hot? Why are your cheeks so red?”

Xu Chun’s ears burned fiercely, remembering Ninth Brother’s physical demonstration of a lesson last night. He coughed lightly. “Thank you, Big Brother Zi Xing, for your consideration.”