Yu Bei lounged lazily in the court hall. Not many people had come to file lawsuits today; including the fee for dismissing cases, he had only collected two iron coins. This income was far too low to sustain his luxurious lifestyle. Due to the unrest caused by the Red Turban Army, the security in the outer city had improved significantly; fewer people were causing brawls or causing trouble. This was due to two factors: the Imperial Guards had implemented a curfew, and everyone’s focus was entirely on the Red Turban Army. No one had the energy for anything else; if no one committed crimes, no one reported them, which caused Yu Bei’s income to plummet.
“Your Honor, I accuse my third uncle,” said a rather bold woman below. “While my husband is out on business, he constantly comes to harass me.”
Yu Bei fiddled with his fingers. “How much can you afford for the hearing fee? State it first so I can handle this impartially.”
The woman kneeling on the floor seemed not to understand. A nearby yamen runner whispered to her, “The benefit fee. How much benefit fee can you give His Honor? The more the benefit fee, the more readily His Honor will act.”
The woman stuttered, “Your Honor, I am penniless.”
Yu Bei frowned. “Why come to file a complaint if you have no money? Guards, throw her out.”
Yu Bei was inwardly lamenting the money he spent buying his official post. He wouldn't be satisfied until he recouped those funds quickly. Without the prospect of earning money, even women lost their appeal to him.
The woman who accused her own third uncle of adultery was dragged away. Yu Bei grumbled internally, Damn it, another dismissed case with no fee.
A clamor erupted from outside the yamen, followed by a runner rushing in to report, “Your Honor, someone from the Yu Residence has delivered two prisoners. Please receive them.”
Yu Bei dared not be careless about his older brother’s affairs; a significant portion of the money used to purchase his office had been sponsored by Yu Baozan. “Bring them in. Did anyone from the Yu Residence specify what crime they committed or how they should be punished?”
The reporting runner lowered his voice. “Your Honor, the people from the Yu Residence said they are here to redeem that young maid, Shi Shuang. Young Master Yu Wei has taken a fancy to the girl and intends to take her as a concubine. You can just find some reason to lock them both up for ten or eight years; let them go after Young Master Yu Wei has had his way and raised a child.”
Yu Bei nodded. “Understood. That’s easy enough. Just a couple of vagrants. Ascend the hall!”
The two individuals were brought forward—big, rough men with stiff necks, truly formidable figures. Smack! Yu Bei struck the gavel. “Guards! First, give them twenty strokes of the rod—a show of force! To be so arrogant even in the outer city yamen—let them learn my might!”
Sun Chang roared, “How dare you! A mere Judicial Officer of the outer city is not even considered by the Imperial Stables!”
Yu Bei started, startled. Although the Imperial Stables was primarily a place for raising horses, it had recently gained considerable renown. Not only did they raise horses specifically for the Emperor, but the horse guards from the Stables had recently crushed thirty thousand Red Turban rebels, a feat already legendary. Aside from the fact that the supervisor was a man trusted by the Emperor, he had also saved the Emperor’s life outside the West City. Not only the Emperor, but many civil and military officials in the court owed him a favor.
“You are from the Imperial Stables?” Yu Bei asked cautiously.
Sun Chang laughed heartily. “What, are you scared? Let me tell you, this is Director Shi from the Imperial Stables. Release them quickly, or if you delay the Emperor’s great task of quelling the rebellion, you won’t be able to bear the responsibility.”
Everyone knew that the Imperial Stables had been ordered by the Emperor to assist in quelling the rebellion. This so-called Director might very well be a major figure. If he delayed the suppression, it wouldn't just be a matter of Yu Bei bearing responsibility; he would be facing execution.
Yu Bei cursed his nephew silently. Whom else could his nephew have wanted to buy but someone connected to the Imperial Stables? Wasn't this clearly inviting disaster upon himself?
Naturally, Yu Bei couldn't compare to Yu Wei. Having been in officialdom for a long time, he had grown diplomatic and worldly. He hurriedly stepped down from the dais and personally untied the two men. “Gentlemen, this official was blind and failed to recognize your stature. Please forgive me, forgive me.”
Sun Chang had only intended to frighten Yu Bei a little, but he never expected to scare him this badly. Even Shi Shan was stunned. Was the name of the Imperial Stables truly so resounding? How could an official change his demeanor so completely just by hearing he was from the Imperial Stables?
“Guards, arrange seats for these two brave men,” Yu Bei commanded the yamen runners.
The court immediately transformed into a reception hall. Tea was served, and Shi Shan nervously took a few sips. Being this close to an official lord was a first in his life, and he suddenly felt an immense pride in being a member of the Imperial Stables.
Yu Bei said, “Gentlemen, my nephew has some childish tendencies, and my brother is often away on business. I shall go scold him later. That beast has no eyes; how dare he offend men of the Imperial Stables.”
Sun Chang interrupted. “Stop, Director. I think you shouldn't play these games with us. Hurry up and tell your nephew to release the people. We have plenty of money for you too. Lord Zhao instructed us: whatever sum you demand, we will pay it, as long as the person can be redeemed. Lord Zhao is willing to pay any price.”
Yu Bei inwardly groaned. So, Officer Zhao was involved in this. Who was he? He was a notorious killer, the 'King of Decapitations.' Rumor had it that a hundred court ministers impeached him for killing a man on the battlefield, yet he remained untouched in the end, showing how greatly the Emperor favored him. Who dared offend such a person? If he became displeased, what if he ordered Yu Bei’s head chopped off?
“So, it is related to Lord Zhao. My apologies, my apologies. I will immediately send someone to the Yu Residence to fetch them. As for the money, gentlemen, do not mention it. But might I ask which person you are referring to?”
Shi Shan spent all his time at the Shi Lei Factory and the Gunpowder Factory; he had no idea how legendary their Lord Zhao had become outside. To think that just mentioning the Lord’s name immediately secured his agreement to release the prisoners! This world was truly different from before. When he was just a humble stonemason, who had ever treated him with such seriousness?
Shi Shan said, “It is my sister, Shi Shuang.”
Yu Bei feigned surprise. “Oh dear! So you are Miss Shi’s brother! Your sister is truly a little beauty. I will send someone to fetch her immediately. Please, have a seat, gentlemen, just a moment.”
Yu Bei retreated to the back hall and called a yamen runner. “Hurry! Go to the Yu Residence immediately and inform Young Master Yu Wei to prepare fifty thousand iron coins and bring that girl Shi Shuang here to apologize to these two gentlemen.”
The runner looked troubled. “Your Honor, telling Young Master Yu to apologize to them? That would be worse than killing the young master.”
Yu Bei flared up. “You ungrateful wretch! Just tell Yu Wei that if he has offended these two men, whether he sees tomorrow’s sun is questionable!”
The runner said, “Is it that serious? Those two don't seem special.”
Yu Bei slapped the runner across the face. “Damn you! They are men of Zhao the Executioner! That fellow is rumored to be taking charge of the Eastern Depot soon. Do you know what the Eastern Depot is? It oversees all officials and gathers intelligence for the Emperor. If he says a few bad things about me in front of the Emperor, this official post I bought won't even be secure! Others are trying to curry favor with gifts, and our Yu family actually provokes that menace! Get going now! If Yu Wei dares defy my order, have him seized. While my brother is away, I rule the Yu family!”
The runner dared not argue further and hastily set off for the Yu Residence. However, before he even left the Judicial Office gate, he ran into a family servant from the Yu Residence who had come to report the news. That servant had gone out to buy vegetables and hadn't been in the residence. He had seen what happened at the Yu Residence from a distance on the street and immediately rushed to the outer city Judicial Office to inform the Second Master.
“What did you say!” Yu Bei couldn't believe the servant from the Yu Residence. The Yu Residence was raided? How could that be possible? Who dared to be so bold?
The servant said, “Second Master, according to what this little one saw and heard at the street corner: it seems the First Master sold one hundred cartloads of grain to the rebel Prince Shou of Huyang Prefecture. This matter was discovered by the Eastern Depot. All two hundred-plus people in the Yu Residence have been taken to the Eastern Depot prison.”
Bang! Yu Bei collapsed onto the floor. “Brother! You were too reckless! Even if we needed to make money, we shouldn't earn money that costs lives! Even Grand Tutor Pang wouldn't dare step forward to plead for us regarding colluding with enemies and aiding bandits! The Eastern Depot—the Eastern Depot is using our Yu family to establish its authority! That beast Yu Wei provoked anyone but had to provoke that person!”
The servant grew panicked seeing the Second Master’s state. “Second Master, what should we do now? Should we go find Grand Tutor Pang and beg him to intervene and save the Young Master?”
Yu Bei said, “Whether it succeeds or not, this is the only path left. You immediately gather all available iron coins, then take the money and go to Grand Tutor Pang to beg for mercy. Hopefully, he will help us based on our usual courtesies. Even if I cannot keep my official post, if we can save the lives of the old and young of the Yu family, it will be a blessing.”
The Yu Residence servant took the order and left. Yu Bei, face drawn, returned to the main hall and dropped to his knees before Shi Shan and Sun Chang. “Gentlemen, I, Yu Bei, beg you to spare the lives of the Yu family!”
This time, even Sun Chang was shocked. He had been putting on airs earlier to prevent the Judicial personnel from acting rashly, but now the Director was kneeling before them. What was the meaning of this? No matter how great the might of the Imperial Stables, they shouldn't be scared to this degree.
Shi Shan was even more terrified. He was originally an ordinary commoner, almost reduced to slavery. He usually kept his head down when facing officials. Suddenly, an official lord was bowing to him and calling him 'Master.' How had the world turned upside down?
Seeing their expressions, Yu Bei knew they were unaware of the events at the Yu Residence. He said, “Gentlemen, you are men of the Imperial Stables. Your Stables Supervisor is now the Chief Commander of the Eastern Depot. He oversees all officials and gathers intelligence for the Emperor—he is the most favored among the Emperor’s favored ones. Our Yu family should never have been greedy for profit and sold grain to Prince Shou. I beg you gentlemen to plead with Lord Zhao to spare the lives of the Yu family elders and children!”
Smash! Sun Chang brought his palm down on the table, cracking it. He cursed, “Damn your ancestors! Your Yu family dared to aid bandits! We men are prepared to risk our lives to suppress the bandits, and instead of supporting your own people, you collude with the enemy! You deserve to die!”
Shi Shan was also greatly angered. Lord Zhao was racking his brains to quell the rebellion here, while people in Shuangcheng were secretly aiding the enemy. They truly deserved death! They deserved to be carved into a thousand pieces!
“Lord Zhao arrives!” someone shouted from outside.
Over a hundred men in flying fish robes filed in, carrying weapons. They did not speak but immediately drew their blades and aimed their bows, disarming the yamen runners. Two Yu Residence servants who had come to deliver the prisoners saw the situation and tried to flee, but ten escorts drew their bows and shot the two men until they resembled hedgehogs. The rest, seeing how ruthlessly they acted, dared not move an inch.
When I established the Eastern Depot, I set the spirit of ‘ruthlessness’ for them from the start. Otherwise, how could we supervise all officials while being polite? With this spirit, even the most insignificant cat or dog, during routine training, would instill the spirit of cutting ties with family in these escorts.
Shi Qing and Shi Shuang ran up from behind me, and the two women grasped Shi Shan’s hands. “Brother, are you alright?”
Shi Shan cried out happily, “Second Sister, you are alright?”
Shi Qing said, “Brother, Master came to save Second Sister. He even confiscated the Yu Residence!”
Shi Shan dropped to his knees. “Lord Zhao, I…”
As I helped Shi Shan up, I said, “No need to say anything more. Just help me with more matters in the future.”
My personal guards, Gu Fei and Kong Wu, stepped forward and slapped Sun Chang’s shoulder. “Hey, are you alright?”
Sun Chang said, “That fellow was scared of our Imperial Stables and was pouring us tea and begging for mercy.”
Gu Fei and Kong Wu bowed to me. “My Lord, please ascend the hall and hear the cases.”
I said, “Hear what cases? First, escort these people back to the Eastern Depot. Let the dog-in-charge investigate thoroughly and then report to the Emperor via memorial. This Lord is very short on time and has no leisure to deal with these petty matters.”
Upon hearing this, Yu Bei nearly wet himself from fright. He cried out, “Lord Zhao, punishment should not extend to relatives! My brother’s crimes have nothing to do with me!”
I said, “Do not worry, Director Yu. If the investigation confirms this matter has nothing to do with you, I will certainly report to the Emperor to exonerate you. However, until the case is clarified, you must endure this temporary inconvenience.”
Two men in flying fish robes came to drag him away, but someone shouted from outside, “Grand Tutor Pang arrives!”
Yu Bei’s face lit up with joy. He knew the people sent for money had successfully engaged Grand Tutor Pang. “Lord Zhao, I have always been on good terms with Grand Tutor Pang. Please, for the Grand Tutor’s sake, spare this junior. As for redeeming Shi Shuang, this humble one will naturally handle it perfectly for you, ensuring no one can find any fault.”
I said coldly, “Director Yu, are you implying that I am abusing my authority for personal gain and breaking the law?”
Yu Bei thought to himself, That is exactly what you are doing; you found an excuse just because you want to snatch this girl. But he said aloud, “My Lord, this junior would not dare, but I only fear that outside gossip might negatively affect your reputation.”
I said, “What use is reputation? I don’t care. Let me tell you, this matter is indeed because of this little girl. If your Yu family had released her earlier, none of this would have happened. Now it’s too late. Take him away!”
“Marshal Zhao, how have you been lately? This old man has missed you greatly!” Grand Tutor Pang walked in with a beaming smile. He had indeed accepted money behind the scenes just now, which was why he had to see what was happening. Yu Bei rushed forward and clutched Grand Tutor Pang’s leg. “Grand Tutor, save me!”
Grand Tutor Pang feigned confusion. “Director Yu, what is the meaning of this? What has happened? How can you, a dignified Judicial Director of the outer city, be so rude?”
Yu Bei glanced at me fearfully, then turned to Grand Tutor Pang. “Grand Tutor, Lord Zhao intends to arrest this junior. Please uphold justice for me!”
Grand Tutor Pang looked at me. I smiled. “Grand Tutor Pang, you may not be aware, but Yu Bei’s brother, Yu Bao, has colluded with the enemy. He secretly sold a hundred cartloads of grain to Prince Shou. This junior feared the case might implicate Director Yu, which is why I came to interrogate him. If it were collusion between merchants and bandits, it might be tolerable, but official collusion makes the matter extremely serious.”
Regarding the bandit suppression campaign, Pang Hu was a strong supporter. If the bandit threat wasn't eliminated, the dynasty would remain unstable for a day, and then his position as Grand Tutor would naturally not be secure. Dreaming of anything else would be wishful thinking. Grand Tutor Pang pointed a finger at Yu Bei’s forehead. “Audacious servant! To commit such an act and still dare ask me for leniency? You deserve death!”
Yu Bei looked like his backbone had been pulled out. Grand Tutor Pang wouldn't protect him. In that case, whatever the Eastern Depot said was law. “Grand Tutor, help me! My brother’s crimes have nothing to do with me.”
Grand Tutor Pang said, “As long as you truly haven't done anything to interfere with the Eastern Depot, so what if they investigate? I trust Marshal Zhao will not wrong you. Go on, stop creating a ruckus here; I still have matters to discuss with Marshal Zhao.” Pang Hu hadn't actually come specifically to save Yu Bei; he came because he had learned the Marshal suppressing the bandits was present.
The people were led away. Grand Tutor Pang waved away the attendants, and the two sat in the court hall, drinking afternoon tea. Grand Tutor Pang flicked the tea leaves with the lid of his cup. “Marshal Zhao, the Emperor’s trust in you is immense lately. Truly cause for celebration.”
I said humbly, “This is also thanks to Grand Tutor’s strong support behind the scenes.”
Pang Hu smiled faintly. “Marshal Zhao, you need not be so modest. You are truly talented; even if I didn't promote you, your brilliance would be hard to conceal. As long as the bandit menace exists, I cannot rest easy. For this campaign to suppress the rebellion, I must ask Marshal Zhao to exert himself.” He paused. “As for anyone in court who dares collude with foreign enemies or aid bandits, if I become aware of it, I will certainly punish them severely! We must work together wholeheartedly to eliminate the bandits!”
Pang Hu spoke his true feelings. The three thousand Red Turban troops attacking the outskirts of Shuangcheng had kept him awake all night. The sudden attack outside the West City had also visibly shaken his aged face. Even if these Red Turban rebels conquered the realm, they certainly wouldn't recognize him as Grand Tutor, nor would they foolishly make him Emperor. Therefore, he supported the bandit suppression effort wholeheartedly.
“Grand Tutor, rest assured, this junior will certainly not fail the Emperor’s command or Grand Tutor’s trust.”
Grand Tutor Pang nodded. “Marshal Zhao, I know your capabilities, but sending only a mere ten thousand men to suppress the rebellion—isn't that treating the matter too lightly? I suggest mobilizing another forty thousand Imperial Guards to bring the total to fifty thousand for better security.”
I considered this. “Since the Grand Tutor agrees on reinforcing the troops, I shall immediately go to the palace to request the Emperor to send an additional five thousand auxiliary troops for logistics support.”
“What?” Pang Hu exclaimed. “Only five thousand more, and they are logistics troops? That—that is no different from not adding troops at all.”
I said, “Grand Tutor, an excessively large force hinders my guerrilla tactics. If we intend to overwhelm the rebels in numbers, even the entire strength of Shuangcheng couldn't achieve that, right? Therefore, we cannot fight a direct confrontation in this battle. Furthermore, I have a few things to say. Bandits can be suppressed, but if we truly want to eliminate the source of rebellion, the court must pacify the local populace. Otherwise, if more desperate farmers emerge, they are bound to rise up again. I ask the Grand Tutor to ponder this matter carefully.”
Pang Hu stroked his white beard. He thought for a moment. “What good strategy does Marshal Zhao suggest? I believe that to solve this problem, land must become state-owned, turning the farmers into slaves of the nation. This way, they cannot leave the land and thus cannot rebel again.”
I could not bring myself to endorse an action that pushed history backward—what was the logic of transitioning from a feudal society to a slave society? At the very least, I could not accept it myself. “Grand Tutor, your method is currently very difficult to implement. The court has no direct control over the prefectures and circuits. Even if they intended to issue such an order, could the lower officials execute it? Most of the land is concentrated in the hands of the various vassal princes. How can the court reclaim their lands? If not handled carefully, this could lead to an even larger rebellion.”
Pang Hu’s old face also showed distress. “I am well aware of the problems Marshal Zhao mentioned, but the flaws of the Shuangcheng Kingdom have accumulated over a thousand years. Even if I have the will, how can I change the situation if I am not the sovereign? If one day…”
Pang Hu abruptly stopped speaking. I dared not imagine further. Did this old fellow harbor intentions of usurping the throne? Did Ma Xiaoda secretly leaking the news of his trip to Feiyu County originate from him? If so, did he have some connection with the bandits? Things were getting complicated—the situation was becoming complex. Pang Hu appointed Xin Cheng as the General for Reinforcing the Border. But everyone knew Xin Cheng couldn't lead troops to battle. Was Pang Hu intentionally setting this up?
Pang Hu seemed afraid that I would overthink things and continued, “According to Marshal Zhao’s opinion, what should we do right now?”
I said, “Grand Tutor, this junior is clumsy and cannot think of a solution. However, the common people of Huyang Prefecture must be pacified. The recent warfare must have made it even harder for them to have enough to eat and wear. If they are not fed and clothed, we will suppress the bandits in the front, and they will revolt again in the back. I ask the Grand Tutor and the Emperor to plan this matter seriously.”
Pang Hu said, “That makes sense. I will present this to the Emperor at tomorrow’s morning court. Marshal Zhao, you are very busy; it is difficult to see you on a normal day. Since you are setting out tomorrow, why don't I host a gathering tonight?”
I said, “You are too kind, Grand Tutor. You have helped my Eastern Depot greatly recently; I should be the one inviting you.”
Pang Hu seemed to be demonstrating his loyalty to the court. “What do you mean by that? Marshal Zhao serves the Emperor, and I serve the Emperor. We serve the same sovereign; how can there be a question of helping or not helping? We simply exert our greatest efforts. Let’s settle it then. You just returned from the Imperial Stables and surely have other matters to attend to. I won't keep you any longer. I’ll see you tonight.”
I knew it would be difficult to refuse Pang Hu’s invitation, at least I couldn't offend this man currently, or he would keep causing trouble behind my back. “Then I thank the Grand Tutor first. If the Emperor does not summon me urgently tonight, I will certainly attend the banquet.”
The two walked to the courtyard of the Judicial Office, where the imposing men in flying fish robes stood guard. Grand Tutor Pang praised, “Excellent! Marshal Zhao’s leadership of troops is indeed formidable. In just a few days, he has managed the Imperial Stables admirably and established the Eastern Depot quickly and effectively. With iron fists striking, the rebel bandits will surely flee at the mere sound of it.” He continued, “I heard that in the battle at the Imperial Stables, Marshal Zhao deployed many new weapons. This old man is truly eager to see them.”
“That… testing those high-powered weapons within the city is not feasible. Please visit the Imperial Stables for an inspection when the time comes, Grand Tutor.”
“That is true. We shall discuss it after you return victorious from suppressing the rebellion. I must depart now. Investigate the Yu family’s aiding of the enemy thoroughly; if anyone dares to intervene, let me know, and I will resolve it.”
It was unexpected to find myself on the same side as Pang Hu now; if the bandit menace wasn't eliminated, Pang Hu would never truly establish himself, which was why he had to be so resolute. For the sake of mutual benefit, the court was temporarily unified.
"My Lord, where shall we go next?" the personal guard asked, stepping forward.
I replied, "Dispatch men to escort the three Shi siblings back to the Zhao residence. I must report the events at the Yu manor directly to the Emperor in the inner city, lest someone lodge another impeachment against me behind my back."
Since I still carried that waist token, I gained entry to the inner city without issue. Ma Da usually spent the afternoon reviewing memorials in the Imperial Study, and sure enough, I found him there.
I recounted the entire affair to Ma Da, embellishing the narrative slightly. Naturally, I omitted my leveraging of the Yu family's treasonous dealings to ransom the captured individuals, framing it instead as a grand success achieved through the diligent investigation of the Eastern Depot.
Ma Da listened, his Imperial visage darkening with rage. "They have truly become insolent! The Yu family, having received such grace from the Throne, dared to collude with rebel enemies—they shall not be spared! I shall issue a decree to be announced throughout the realm, as a warning for future generations never to imitate their betrayal of the court. I must also properly reward the Eastern Depot; at its very inception, it has rendered such a great service to Me. Otherwise, while we are suppressing bandits here, the Yu family fuels them over there—when would this ever end?"
With Ma Da’s words secured, I no longer feared slanderers whispering behind my back. "Your Majesty, following your previous instructions, the assets of the Yu family, upon confiscation, are to be transferred to the Eastern Depot. Does Your Majesty require me to submit a detailed report of this to the court?"
Ma Da waved his hand dismissively. "No need! Lord Zhao is absolutely trustworthy. You used your own funds to build the Imperial Stables and establish the Eastern Depot for Me; do you think I fear you coveting the meager wealth of a disgraced official? If I were to do so, would it not chill the loyalty of Lord Zhao?"
No report needed, which saved me further trouble. As for the Yu family's wealth, I held it in low regard; at best, it was just a pile of metal, fit for forging weapons, but pointless to let it rust away in the Zhao residence.
After discussing the Yu family matter, I said, "Your Majesty, I must deploy troops to quell the rebellion tomorrow. To ensure stability in logistical support, I request an additional five thousand auxiliary troops, tasked with transporting provisions, maintaining camp affairs, and repairing weaponry."
Ma Da nodded. "That is prudent. It was My original intention to allow you to increase your forces further, but warfare is an area where I lack experience. Increase by whatever number you deem necessary. To avoid being too rushed tomorrow morning, I will immediately draft an edict for the Ministry of War, ordering them to mobilize the personnel tonight."
Before Ma Da could finish writing the Imperial Edict, a report came in that the Crown Prince had arrived. Ma Xiaoda entered the Imperial Study, saw me, and smiled. The two of us stood side-by-side below, awaiting the completion of the edict.
Once the Imperial Seal was affixed and a eunuch took the decree away to be delivered, Ma Da turned to his son. "Xiaoda, what business brings you to the Imperial Study?"
Ma Xiaoda replied, "Father the Emperor, Grand Scholar Zhao happens to be here as well. I came precisely to request that you host a banquet for Grand Scholar Zhao this evening. He sets out tomorrow to suppress the rebellion; this can be seen as us bidding him farewell on his journey."
Ma Da stroked his beard. "You are thoughtful, indeed. Very well, I shall immediately instruct the Imperial Kitchen to prepare a feast. This evening, your father and I will host a send-off for Marshal Zhao."
Ma Xiaoda continued, "Father the Emperor, your son requests that Princess Xu Chen and Miss Cai also attend the banquet. After all, they are friends of Grand Scholar Zhao. Furthermore, my two elder sisters, the Supervising Officials, and Marshal Zhao's three wives should also be present."
Ma Da stepped down from his large writing desk and clapped Ma Xiaoda on the shoulder. "Xiaoda, your father is very pleased to see you acting so sensible. Your request is granted. Have the eunuchs go and invite them."
Ma Xiaoda was thinking of me, but how could he know that I had already offended Xu Chen and Cai Jingjing by broadcasting the A-film scene live? The upcoming meeting would be terribly awkward. There were so many social obligations now! I had originally planned to spend the evening at home with Cheng Susu and Zhou Ni, but now I couldn't even attend Grand Tutor Pang's banquet; the Emperor's command overrides all else.
Ma Da returned to reviewing memorials, while Ma Xiaoda and I sat idly below. Soon, Xu Chen and Cai Jingjing arrived, albeit belatedly. The two women paid their respects to Ma Da and then stood quietly to one side. They faced me and Ma Xiaoda, yet they didn't offer us a single greeting! That was fine; it saved everyone the embarrassment. We could pretend the others hadn't arrived.
Ma Xiaoda quietly nudged me. "Hey, this isn't right. Why are they acting like they don't see us today? When did we offend them again? I was genuinely trying to bring you all together."
I feigned innocence. "Who knows? Men can never decipher the thoughts of women. Let them be. A melon twisted by force won't taste sweet; let nature take its course."
In truth, Xu Chen and Cai Jingjing weren't completely ignoring me. They were stealing furtive glances my way, looking almost guilty. I knew they had seen their own A-films. These two wives were just putting on a show of propriety. I wanted to see how long they could keep it up.
Ma Xiaoda suddenly said to Ma Da, "Father the Emperor, your son, Grand Scholar Zhao, and the Elder Princesses should withdraw first, so as not to disturb Your Majesty's review of the memorials."
Ma Da seemed to wake up. "Yes, yes, you all wait outside first. Dinner will be served once Little Wei and Little Rui arrive."
Once outside, Ma Xiaoda bowed to the two women. "Elder Sister, Sister Cai, Young Master Xiaoda pays his respects."
The two ladies returned the courtesy. "Your Highness the Crown Prince need not be so polite. You study under a certain person frequently; we hope you maintain your resolve and do not pick up bad habits."
It was clear their words were aimed at someone specific; that "bad influence" must be me. They were worried I would corrupt Ma Xiaoda. Ma Xiaoda looked confused. "Thank you both for your concern, but with Grand Scholar Zhao instructing me, how could I possibly go astray?"
Cai Jingjing, whose personality was much livelier than Xu Chen's, chimed in. "It's that person. He's a complete hooligan! You must not follow his example, or else all the girls in the world will suffer!"
"Ah, why are you two also calling Grand Scholar Zhao a hooligan?" Ma Xiaoda grew even more puzzled. Wasn't 'Hooligan' Ma Xiaorui's specific nickname for him? And didn't they have a different attitude the last time they met?
Cai Jingjing huffed indignantly. "He truly is a hooligan. We saw it with our own eyes."
Ma Xiaoda inquired, "What did you see? I refuse to believe Zhao Qian would act like a hooligan towards others."
Cai Jingjing and Xu Chen were momentarily tongue-tied. Of course, they dared not reveal what they had witnessed—and as for acting like a hooligan, acting that way towards one's own wives, when it was mutually consensual, what business was it of outsiders?
"What are you all discussing?" Ma Xiaorui rushed in without waiting for a eunuch's announcement, followed by Ma Xiaowei, Zhou Ni, Cheng Susu, and Yun Yao.
Cai Jingjing and Xu Chen did not wish to bring up that incident in front of the assembled ladies, but Ma Xiaoda was completely in the dark. He explained, "Sister Cai said Zhao Qian is a great hooligan, and I was refuting her."
Cheng Susu and Zhou Ni both suppressed smiles; they certainly understood the implied meaning of 'hooligan.' Ma Xiaorui, the most inquisitive, eagerly asked Cai Jingjing, "What is it, Sister Jingjing? Did he harass you?"
Cai Jingjing hurriedly clarified, "No! Not since we listened to stories together last time has he sought us out."
Ma Xiaorui looked puzzled. "That's strange. Then why do you call him a hooligan? Actually, Sister Jingjing, you may not know this, but this 'hooligan' isn't actually rogue-like. Sister and I have seen him working very diligently and capably at the Imperial Stables these past few days."
Cai Jingjing and Xu Chen exchanged shocked glances. "You... you're speaking well of him? You used to hate him the most and even wanted to kill him!"
Ma Xiaorui blushed slightly. "I'm not speaking well of him. I am merely stating facts. He is a Supervising Official now, so of course, I must be objective and report truthfully to Father the Emperor."
Although Ma Xiaorui spent her days riding horses and playing around while serving as Supervisor at the Stables, Ma Xiaowei still recounted to her the day's activities at the Stables each evening. Through hearing and witnessing indirectly, she learned a great deal—much of it pertaining to me—and consequently, her impression of me gradually changed.
I didn't want Cai Jingjing and Xu Chen to dwell on the A-film live broadcast incident. Without batting an eye, I led Cheng Susu and Zhou Ni over to introduce them. The two women looked visibly uncomfortable when they saw Cheng Susu, and they deliberately glanced at her chest, seemingly recalling the very scene they had witnessed that night.
It was the first time the five women had gathered since my amnesia, but because they lacked memories of past events, they couldn't interact with the intimacy they once shared—at least, not yet.
"Father the Emperor is reviewing memorials, and dinner isn't ready yet. Zhao Qian, please tell us another story. A tragedy is fine; my capacity to endure things has improved greatly recently," Ma Xiaorui requested.
"Your Highness the Princess, how about I show everyone a movie instead? You must be tired of listening to my stories," I suggested.
Ma Xiaorui was confused. "What is a movie? Your stories are excellent; no one is tired of them."
I turned to Cai Jingjing. "May I borrow your mobile phone?"
Cai Jingjing seemed highly guarded. "Wh-what are you planning? How can I just lend you my phone? The things inside... Alright, I'll lend it to you, but you must return it to me."
It appeared Cai Jingjing treasured her phone and its contents deeply, confirming my suspicion—they did, in fact, still care about me. I copied a version of Star Wish onto my own phone, then took Cai Jingjing's device and showed it to Ma Xiaoda. "Your Highness the Crown Prince, this is an extremely advanced communication tool. When we depart for Huyang to suppress the rebellion tomorrow, if you need to contact me for any reason, ask Miss Cai to borrow her phone for you. We can converse face-to-face even separated by a thousand li."
Ma Xiaoda was incredulous. "Really? How is that possible? Talking across a thousand li?"
"I'll demonstrate, and you will believe me," I offered.
As others approached to look at the phone, Cai Jingjing suddenly grew tense and snatched it back. "What are you doing? I'm not lending it to you anymore."
I reasoned with her. "Jingjing, I leave Shuangcheng tomorrow, and Susu and Zhou Ni will remain in Zhongcheng. If anything comes up, I will have them use the waist token granted by the Emperor to enter the inner city to find you. Then you can use the phone to contact me. I know you hate me, but for the sake of the bigger picture, please listen to me this one time, alright?"
Cai Jingjing lowered her head, shuffling her feet repeatedly on the ground. "I have to operate it myself. I’m afraid someone will break it. We... we don't hate you. Just be careful."
It wasn't that she feared it breaking; Cai Jingjing feared the contents inside being seen by others. Her final words were barely audible. I smiled. "Fine. You test it out first, just in case you don't know how to use it later."
Cai Jingjing retorted, "Who doesn't know how? I learned all the functions of the phone some time ago."
It seemed Cai Jingjing's phone might have accidentally been restored to factory settings. When Ma Xiaorui saw both screens displaying each other, clearly visible and audible no matter the distance, she immediately crowded around, acting like a child who had discovered a treasure.
Although Ma Xiaoda was younger than Ma Xiaorui, he appeared increasingly mature. After one look and confirmation, he stopped crowding around. As the group of girls started playing, Ma Xiaoda pulled me aside.
"The Eastern Depot has certainly made a name for itself this time. Bai Shi told me that many officials were already wary of the Depot accumulating power, and they continuously tried to curry favor with you at the Zhao residence. Today, the Eastern Depot struck thunderously, taking down the Yu manor. The power displayed by the Depot within the Yu residence was something even the Imperial Guards couldn't match. From now on, few will dare to disobey you or offend you."
I replied, "I originally intended to stage this display of the Eastern Depot’s might after returning from suppressing the rebellion, but circumstances did not allow. The Yu family captured Shi Shan—he is the director of the Shi Lei Factory and the Gunpowder Factory, responsible for producing gunpowder and the Zhentianlei thunder bombs. Could I allow the Yu family to oppress such a talent? Thus, I brought the Eastern Depot out for a trial run. Establishing this authority now will undoubtedly make future actions much smoother."
"Indeed," Ma Xiaoda nodded. "You have already created two miracles. If you create another miracle suppressing this rebellion, our strength will grow ever mightier. When I enter court politics next year, I won't need to fear others."
Zhou Ni and Cheng Susu quickly blended in with Cai Jingjing and Xu Chen. Seeing them getting along harmoniously eased my worries about Zhou Ni and Cheng Susu being unable to contact me when I was away. The women were constantly video-chatting with each other—this novelty was an eye-opener for the Ma Xiaowei sisters.
Zhou Ni suddenly pulled out a pile of diamond jewelry from her bag. "Sisters, I made these myself. Tell me, do you like them?"
The multicolored, glowing diamonds were quite alluring. Ma Xiaorui licked her lips. "They're beautiful! What are these things? We've never seen anything like them before."
Zhou Ni explained, "These are diamonds. Let me help you put them on; I can custom-make any style you like."
Ma Xiaowei fastened a bracelet onto her wrist; the diamonds sparkled beautifully against her fair skin. Ma Xiaorui wore a necklace, equally lovely. With these girls leading the way, I believed the aesthetic value of diamonds would quickly be promoted.
Returning to the Zhao residence after dinner, it was already near midnight, yet Ah Mao was still waiting for me. Seeing me return, he looked energetic rather than tired, and excitedly reported, "My Lord, when we confiscated the Yu manor this afternoon, do you know how many iron coins we transported back?"
I remarked, "A prominent family like that should have yielded some profit."
Ah Mao exclaimed, "Yes, My Lord! We brought back nearly a million iron coins, plus large quantities of grain and silk cloth. Our Imperial Stables have struck it rich!"
I laughed. "It seems we won't need to sell paper for small business anymore. We can just confiscate a few more manors, and we'll have everything."
Ah Mao replied, "My Lord, that’s exactly what I was thinking. We used your personal savings to establish the Imperial Stables and the Eastern Depot, and this expedition to Huyang requires vast sums. If we arrest more corrupt court officials in the future, we could be earning gold daily."
I cautioned him, "We cannot push this too far. Catching one or two examples as a warning is sufficient; otherwise, the Eastern Depot will find it difficult to coexist with the civil and military officials."
"Understood, My Lord. I shall go prepare for tomorrow's departure."