[Fantasy] A Strange Encounter with an Immortal (Complete) - Chapters 28-30

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Chapter Nine: Reminiscing About the Poem

A few months passed after Shui Ling'er left, and it was the Old Madam's ninetieth birthday. Life expectancy is rarely seventy, and the Old Madam had lived to ninety, enjoying all the riches and honors of life; she was truly blessed with both longevity and happiness.

The Zhu family was brightly decorated, and the whole family celebrated. The Empress Dowager, the Emperor, and all the officials and civil servants came to celebrate. The celebrations were lavish and extravagant.

After the birthday banquet, the whole family gathered in the inner hall to pay their respects to the Old Madam again and wish her a long life. Seeing her family all there, and the household thriving, the Old Madam was content. However, the only regret was that Zhu Chuanzong still had no children. Thinking of this, he couldn't help but shed tears, saying, "Although our Zhu family is wealthy, we have never done anything wrong. Why is Heaven so blind, refusing to leave the Zhu family with a bloodline? I think this vast family fortune will eventually fall into the hands of outsiders. How can I be happy?"

Zhu Chuanzong had kept the news of Shui Ling'er's childbirth a secret, not daring to let the old lady know at all. Now, seeing the old lady sadly weeping, he couldn't hold back any longer. He went to the old lady and smiled, "Grandmother, don't be sad. You will soon have a great-grandson!"

He then told her about Shui Ling'er. However, he only said that Shui Ling'er was pregnant, without telling the old lady that Shui Ling'er had already given birth to a son, and even less daring to say that Shui Ling'er had taken the child and left, otherwise the old lady would probably be furious. He thought that he should make the old lady happy on this joyous occasion first, and then explain slowly later.

The old lady laughed heartily, exclaiming, "Thank God! Thank God the Zhu family ancestors! The Zhu family finally has an heir!"

She urged Zhu Chuanzong to quickly marry Shui Ling'er. Zhu Chuanzong, of course, readily agreed.

The atmosphere immediately became lively. Seeing the old lady's joy, the servants rushed to flatter her, showering her with compliments. The younger generation, including Zhu Youji, also offered their congratulations, saying it was the old lady's great fortune. The old lady smiled from ear to ear and ordered the accountant to give rewards to all the servants in the household. Everyone was overjoyed, and the gathering didn't disperse until late at night.

But the next morning, when the maidservant in the old lady's room helped her get up, she found the old lady with a peaceful expression and a smile on her lips—she had passed away. The old lady was already very old, her greatest wish had been fulfilled, and she had no more worries. She had passed away peacefully.

The whole family was plunged into grief. The red lanterns and decorations from the birthday celebration two days ago, still hanging, were immediately taken down, covered with white paper, and a mourning tent was erected. The whole family wore mourning clothes, and the sound of weeping never ceased. Fortunately, the old lady had passed away peacefully without illness or pain, leaving no regrets.

Xiao Yu was the old lady's favorite and had a deep affection for her.

She knelt in the mourning hall, weeping uncontrollably. In her grief, she thought, "Now that the old lady is gone, I can't remarry, but if I go back to the young master's room, am I just going to live such an awkward life?"

She was already proud, and now, overwhelmed with grief and self-pity, she was even more heartbroken. Just as she was feeling extremely distressed, someone suddenly said, "Xiao Yu, you don't need to be sad. The old lady's passing at such an old age is a happy occasion. You can stay with me from now on! Don't be too sad."

Xiao Yu turned around and saw that it was her mistress, and she was overjoyed. After the matter concerning the Old Madam was settled, Zhu Chuanzong went to visit Zhu Shuiyue and found Xiao Yu dressed in a nun's robe. He was deeply saddened and said, "Xiao Yu, what are you doing? I love you very much, and I'm willing to take care of you for the rest of my life. Why do you have to become a nun?"

Xiao Yu smiled sadly and said, "Young Master, I am an unlucky being. I committed sins in my past life, and I have come to atone for them in this life. I only wish to spend my days with the ancient Buddha and the flickering lamp, praying for your well-being and wishing you a peaceful life. If you grant my request, I will reluctantly spend the rest of my life with

you. If you do not grant my request, then I will have no choice but to follow the Old Madam." Seeing her say this, Zhu Chuanzong knew she was strong-willed and that no amount of persuasion would change her mind. He could only say, "Alright, I will grant your request. You can practice in the Shuiyue Nunnery from now on. I will not disturb you."

Xiao Yu smiled, turned around, bowed to him, and slowly walked away. Looking at her frail figure, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but feel a surge of sorrow.

Shui Ling'er has gone far away into the world, the Old Madam passed away peacefully, and Xiao Yu entered a Buddhist nunnery—a far cry from her sister's feigned friendship. Truly, life is unpredictable. In just a few short months, those around him have either left or passed away, making Zhu Chuanzong sigh at the vicissitudes of life. Although he possesses beauties, unparalleled wealth, and immense power, misfortunes still come one after another, seemingly endless. He recalled what the Purple Silk Fairy said before she left: no matter how rich and peaceful the mortal world is, it can never compare to the carefree existence in heaven, free from the suffering of birth, old age, sickness, and death, without worries. How true!

Thinking of this, Zhu Chuanzong's longing for the Purple Silk Fairy surged uncontrollably into his heart again. He was now somewhat disheartened, no longer so enthusiastic about power and status. Even his passion for intimate moments with the beauties around him had waned. In the end, all of this mortal world is nothing but emptiness. How could one not feel dejected and disheartened!

These days, Zhu Chuanzong was deeply moved, and his longing for the Purple Gauze Fairy intensified. However, she had already ascended to the celestial realm, her spirit shrouded in incense smoke, leaving no trace despite his constant yearning. Remembering that the Purple Gauze Fairy loved poetry, Zhu Chuanzong began reciting poems himself to soothe his longing.

With his photographic memory, Zhu Chuanzong studied poetry for several years and became quite proficient. While he might not be able to compose any masterpieces, reciting poems fluently was not difficult for him. His interest deepened as he delved into this art, discovering that poetry could cultivate one's character and contained many philosophical insights, and he became somewhat engrossed in it.

Zhu Chuanzong devoted himself to poetry, paying less attention to political affairs, leaving most matters to Shui Fengliang and a few trusted ministers. Shui Fengliang became a powerful and influential figure in the court, his power growing ever greater, and naturally, officials flocked to curry favor with him.

However, Zhu Chuanzong was exceptionally intelligent and keenly aware of the importance of power balance. Previously, with Wang Dingkun and Shui Fengliang checking and balancing each other, he felt quite at ease. Now, with only Shui Fengliang remaining, he secretly began to consider promoting another trusted confidant.

By chance, a minor official named Wu Kexing caught his attention.

Wu Kexing was a fifth-rank official in the Ministry of Rites, and his father was the former Grand Secretary Wu Shide. Initially, he showed no particular talent, first purchasing a position as a minor official, and later, through his father's influence, becoming an official in the Ministry of Rites. His appearance was also ordinary—clean-faced and beardless, in his thirties, seemingly unremarkable.

However, he was not as mediocre as he appeared; he was an extremely shrewd man. He knew that to advance his career, he needed a strong patron, and the greatest patron was, of course, the powerful regent Zhu Chuanzong. To gain Zhu Chuanzong's favor and trust, he had to cater to his preferences.

Zhu Chuanzong wielded immense power, the Zhu family was the wealthiest in the land, and all of his wives were stunning beauties. Moreover, Zhu Chuanzong himself deeply hated corrupt officials, making it extremely difficult to win his favor. Many officials, finding it impossible to win over Zhu Chuanzong, opted instead to curry favor with Shui Fengliang.

However, Wu Kexing had other plans. Although Shui Fengliang was now second only to Zhu Chuanzong and seemed to have the power to influence events, everything he had was given to him by Zhu Chuanzong. Without Zhu Chuanzong's favor, he was nothing. In other words, to rise to prominence, one ultimately had to ingratiate oneself with Zhu Chuanzong.

With this in mind, during his time at the Ministry of Rites, aside from official duties, Wu Kexing devoted all his remaining time to studying Zhu Chuanzong. He noticed that Zhu Chuanzong had recently become engrossed in poetry, so although he himself had no interest in this, he also began to diligently study and recite classical texts. Moreover, he learned that Zhu Chuanzong was most fond of Princess Chang Le and often missed her. So he spent money to bribe people in the palace to copy the poems and lyrics left by Princess Chang Le, and memorized them all.

Heaven rewards those who persevere, and after a few years, the opportunity finally came.

On this day, Zhu Chuanzong was in a very good mood and invited many officials to his residence for drinks. Wu Kexing, through his father's connections, was also fortunate enough to attend. During the banquet, a dozen or so singing girls danced gracefully to accompany the drinks. In an instant, the hall was filled with the fragrance of incense and the fluttering of sleeves. Zhu Chuanzong was moved by the scene and suddenly remembered a short poem, which he recited aloud: "The fragrance of silk sleeves lingers, red lotuses sway in the autumn smoke. Light clouds on the ridge sway in the breeze, tender willows brush the pond water."

As soon as Zhu Chuanzong finished reciting, a minister immediately stood up and flattered him, saying, "Wonderful, wonderful! Your Highness's poem is profound in its imagery and vivid in its description; it is truly a masterpiece worthy of being passed down through generations!"

Zhu Chuanzong chuckled inwardly, glanced at him, and said with a smile, "Since you can appreciate the poem's meaning, you must also know who wrote it?"

The minister stammered, "This poem... isn't it the one Your Highness just wrote?"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "How could I possibly write such fine lines? If you don't know, Your Highness, please sit down and have a drink."

The ministers in the room laughed gleefully. The minister blushed, saying, "This humble official was ignorant; Your Highness, please forgive me!"

as he quietly sat down and remained silent.

Zhu Chuanzong smiled at the crowd, "Gentlemen, if anyone knows the source of this poem, I have a gift for them!"

The Zhu family was incredibly wealthy, so the gift would undoubtedly be extremely valuable. This wasn't the worst part; if he could gain Zhu Chuanzong's favor through this opportunity, wouldn't his future be bright? Everyone's eyes lit up, and they racked their brains, but no one stepped forward to answer.

Seeing this opportunity, Wu Kexing stood up and said, "Your Highness, I apologize for my rudeness, but I'll try to guess. Please enlighten me."

Zhu Chuanzong turned and saw an unfamiliar minor official, asking, "Does this gentleman know? Please speak freely."

Everyone looked at Wu Kexing, some with envy, some with jealousy, and some who were certain he couldn't answer and were waiting to see him fail.

Wu Kexing said, "These are lines from a poem left by Princess Chang Le. The poem is so exquisite that I can't forget it after just one reading, and thus I have the good fortune to remember it."

Zhu Chuanzong was taken aback, not expecting him to actually answer correctly. Overjoyed, he ordered someone to bring two luminous pearls as a reward for Wu Kexing. Wu Kexing accepted them. Zhu Chuanzong smiled and asked, "How did you know this poem was written by Princess Chang Le?"

Wu Kexing replied, "I am quite fond of poetry. Princess Chang Le of this dynasty is an exceptionally talented poet. After reading several of her poems, I was filled with admiration and thus collected many of her works. It was only because Your Highness asked about it today that I was able to answer."

Zhu Chuanzong was delighted to hear Wu Kexing praise Princess Chang Le, and out of affection for her, he also developed a good impression of Wu Kexing.

A few days later, Zhu Chuanzong planned to go on a spring outing. Thinking that he might compose a poem if he encountered any beautiful scenery, he felt it would be rather uninteresting to do it alone. Suddenly, he remembered that Wu Kexing had claimed to love poetry. He immediately sent someone to summon Wu Kexing to accompany him on the spring outing. What an honor it was to be able to go on a spring outing with the Regent! Wu Kexing was overjoyed.

The group passed through a small village, where the villagers seemed to be celebrating something. Many people had gathered in the village square, playing drinking games. What caught the eye were several exceptionally pretty young girls, constantly weaving through the crowd. They would sometimes stop to chat and laugh with the drinkers, and sometimes whisper in the ears of others, their beauty captivating.

Upon seeing them, Zhu Chuanzong was inspired to write a poem: "Peach blossoms red, willow smoke green, beautiful ladies serve at the banquet. Fifteen or sixteen, understanding and appreciative, urging others to drink more. Long eyebrows, small lips, whispering in someone's ear, 'Willow shade curves, this is my home, red apricot blossoms before the door.'"

After reciting, Zhu Chuanzong, wanting to test Wu Kexing, asked, "Lord Wu, do you know whose work this poem is?"

Wu Kexing replied, "Your Highness, this poem was written by Mr. Zhuang Mohan of the previous dynasty. However…"

Zhu Chuanzong nodded and smiled, "However what? Speak freely."

Wu Kexing said, "The first two lines of the original work seem to be not 'peach blossoms and willow smoke,' but rather 'a brocade banquet. '" "A curtain. I wonder if I remember correctly?"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Lord Wu remembers it perfectly. But the village scene before us doesn't have any elaborate curtains or brocades, only blooming peach blossoms and layers of willow smoke, so I casually changed it to something appropriate for the occasion. This poem isn't widely circulated, yet Lord Wu remembers it word for word. You are truly a man of great learning!"

Wu Kexing hurriedly replied, "Your Highness is too kind. Compared to Your Highness, my learning is utterly insignificant. I only hope to be able to follow Your Highness around often and listen to Your Highness discuss the ways of poetry. That would be my great fortune!"

Wu Kexing's words were extremely clever. He was clearly flattering Zhu Chuanzong, but he praised his scholarship, making it sound anything but vulgar; he clearly wanted to curry favor with Zhu Chuanzong, but he said he wanted to learn from him, so there was no ill will in his voice. Moreover, he showed no fear of power and dared to point out Zhu Chuanzong's mistakes, which was especially rare in Zhu Chuanzong's eyes. Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but appreciate this man even more.

Wu Kexing was not only adept at reading minds and flattering, but also quick-witted and responsive. Once, while accompanying Zhu Chuanzong on a trip, they passed a beautiful scenic spot. Zhu Chuanzong asked him to compose a poem to commemorate the occasion. Wu Kexing, however, had only memorized many ancient poems to please Zhu Chuanzong; he knew nothing of composing poetry himself.

He cleverly replied, "I was indeed in high spirits and wanted to compose a poem. But then I remembered an ancient work that perfectly captured the scene before me. I immediately lost all desire to embarrass myself."

Zhu Chuanzong asked which poem it was, and Wu Kexing immediately recited it with great feeling. It was indeed a masterpiece by an ancient poet, perfectly matching the scene before him, and Zhu Chuanzong praised it highly. Wu Kexing not only concealed his inability to compose poetry but also impressed Zhu Chuanzong with his erudition—a double win.

Seeing that Wu Kexing was different from others, Zhu Chuanzong sent someone to the Ministry of Rites to investigate him. Upon learning that Wu Kexing was also very diligent in his official duties, Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed. He thought to himself that this man was knowledgeable, capable, and got along very well with him, making him worthy of being promoted as a confidant. He immediately began to cultivate him. Within half a year, Wu Kexing was promoted three ranks, becoming the third-rank Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, and was constantly by Zhu Chuanzong's side, making him the envy of all the civil and military officials.

Shui Fengliang, seeing that Wu Kexing was highly regarded by Zhu Chuanzong and had a promising future, but unsure whether Wu was friend or foe, specially invited him to a banquet to test him. If they could befriend him, that would be ideal.

Wu Kexing accepted the invitation. After a few drinks, Shui Fengliang smiled and said, "Lord Wu, your learning is truly admirable. We should get to know each other better in the future!"

Wu Kexing knew that Shui Fengliang was a favorite of Zhu Chuanzong and was worried about how to befriend him. Seeing that Shui Fengliang was trying to win him over, he was naturally delighted. He bowed respectfully and said, "This humble official has long admired Lord Shui. I hope to receive your guidance in the future!"

Both men were cunning and shrewd; their words carried a hidden meaning. They exchanged a glance and then burst into laughter.

With Shui Fengliang and Wu Kexing as his trusted subordinates, Zhu Chuanzong had more free time and could focus more on studying poetry. Several months passed, and his skills deepened. Some of his poems were already quite evocative.

One day, Zhu Chuanzong was strolling in the garden when he heard voices behind a tree. He quietly went to investigate and saw Dongxue sitting under the tree, looking at the flowers and plants, softly reciting a poem. Upon closer listening, he realized it was one of his recent works. Just as

Dongxue was reciting the last line, Zhu Chuanzong's heart skipped a beat, and he recited it aloud first. Dongxue was startled. When she saw it was her young master, her face flushed red with a mixture of joy and shyness. Remembering that she had secretly recited her young master's poem, and that her secret had been discovered, she became even more embarrassed, her face turning as red as rouge.

Seeing the adoring look in her eyes and her shy demeanor, Zhu Chuanzong found her utterly adorable and smiled, "Dongxue, do you like the poems I wrote?"

Dongxue looked at him adoringly again, biting her lip, and said, "I love them. Your poems are getting better and better."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "I recently wrote another one. How about we go to a quiet place, and I'll read it to you?" Dongxue blushed, nodded gently, and followed Zhu Chuanzong to an empty room. As

soon as they entered the room, Zhu Chuanzong saw Dongxue's bright eyes and beautiful face, and his heart stirred. He embraced her and kissed her.

They stuck out their tongues and tasted each other, both unable to resist the stirrings of desire. Zhu Chuanzong quickly tore off Dongxue's clothes, stepped forward, spread her legs, his erect penis aimed at her vulva, and thrust in, pumping vigorously. This

aroused Dongxue greatly, causing her to sway her hips and hook her legs together. Zhu Chuanzong then gently entered, rubbing his penis against the outside, which aroused Dongxue's lust, causing her to gush with lustful fluids. Unable to restrain herself any longer, she pressed her hands on Zhu Chuanzong's buttocks, arched her body upwards to meet him, and entered her headlong. Zhu Chuanzong took advantage of the momentum, thrusting in and out completely, pumping hard and fast, making a series of sounds, like fish gulping water. Dongxue was panting heavily, her hips swaying wildly, her legs hooked together, feeling smug and limp, her limbs weak and lifeless, letting her lover thrust and tease her, feeling an unbearable tingling sensation, her flower throbbing wildly, until she finally climaxed.

Zhu Chuanzong took out a handkerchief he carried with him and wiped her clean. He looked down at her vulva, which was full and protruding, like inlaid jade; it was covered with fine pubic hair, like a steamed bun, with a slit revealing a hint of her red heart.

Zhu Chuanzong inserted his finger and teased her clitoris. Dongxue cried out softly from below, "Hurry up and finish, I'm afraid someone will come, it's so embarrassing!"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Who dares to disturb my pleasure?"

He lifted her feet, pinched them, and placed them on his shoulders. Holding his large, egg-shaped penis, he thrust it in, gradually reaching the root, pumping in and out, penetrating her clitoris more than a thousand times. Dongxue was enjoying herself immensely, extremely happy, not caring about her disheveled hair and hairpins, freely embracing and clasping, their lovemaking wild.

After they finished, Zhu Chuanzong recited a poem, which made Dongxue even more intoxicated. Zhu Chuanzong's literary talent was growing, and not only Dongxue, but also the other maids admired and loved him even more. She often secretly copied Zhu Chuanzong's poems, some even embroidering them on handkerchiefs, which she never parted with day or night. Zhu Chuanzong, seeing this, chuckled, naturally quite pleased with himself.

Sometimes he couldn't help but think, "If Zisha knew I was now well-versed in poetry and could recite and compose with her, wouldn't she be even happier?"

Imagining the scene of composing poems with the Fairy Zisha, he became lost in thought.

Chapter Ten: Revisiting the People's Conditions

In the blink of an eye, the Fairy Zisha had ascended and left eight years ago. This day marked the anniversary of her departure, and Zhu Chuanzong, overwhelmed with sorrow at the sight of her, couldn't contain himself. He reminisced about the days when he and the Fairy Zisha would stroll incognito through the streets, so he changed into plain clothes and walked along the street, unknowingly entering a tavern.

Zhu Chuanzong found a corner seat, ordered a pot of wine, and drank alone. With nothing else to do, he listened to the tavern's guests chatting.

He noticed many people surrounding a middle-aged man, listening to him tell jokes.

The man said, "To be honest, that day was truly unlucky. This morning, when I went out, I saw an old lady slip and fall on a watermelon rind!"

The people around him exclaimed in surprise, "Oh, you're really unlucky!"

Zhu Chuanzong was taken aback, thinking, "It was an old lady who fell; it's one thing you didn't help her, but to call yourself unlucky is just ridiculous."

But hearing the others say the same thing, he couldn't help but listen more closely.

The man continued, "Indeed, what's even more unlucky is that I was all alone. I thought, if I help her up, I'll have to give her a hundred taels of silver, which I can't afford. Take her to the doctor? That would not only cost me a hundred taels, but I'd also have to pay for her medical expenses. It's a real dilemma!"

Zhu Chuanzong was puzzled again; why would helping someone cost money? At this point, everyone asked, "So how did you solve it?"

The man sighed, "There was no other way. I had to pick up a stick nearby, grit my teeth, and break my left hand and both legs. Then I hit myself on the head with the stick, and I collapsed next to the old man, covered in blood. I thought to myself, if someone reports this to the authorities, I'll just say the old man hit me. Not only will I not have to compensate him, but he can even pay my medical expenses."

Everyone laughed, "Brilliant! That's the only way! Now that you've made some money, treat us to a meal!"

The man waved his hand and said, "Listen to me! Who knew that so many people passing by saw us lying on the ground, but no one dared to help. Some ran away as if they'd seen a ghost; some were so anxious they were afraid of paying compensation, so they copied me, picked up the stick next to me, broke their own legs, and lay down next to me; some even fainted from fright."

He told the story vividly, as if it were a serious matter, and everyone around him was laughing, clutching their stomachs. Zhu Chuanzong, however, didn't understand and didn't find it funny at all; he was just puzzled.

The man continued, "And there's something even more bizarre! There was a woman who was so scared she was weak all over, unable to run, and too weak to hit herself with a stick. She yelled, 'So many people are injured, how many hundred taels of silver do I have to pay?' and then vomited blood and fainted. Two young men fought over the stick, and both ended up seriously injured. In the end, an old man was the smartest. He held the stick in one hand and put up a sign that read, 'Wooden stick for rent, one tael of silver for each hit, guaranteed to break limbs.' Many people were eager to pay him to hit them!"

The crowd laughed loudly, "It seems people have become smarter now, no one's a fool anymore. So how did you manage to escape in the end?"

The man said, "In the end, I realized no one was going to pay me. My limbs were broken, I was thirsty and hungry, so I hopped home upside down with my remaining uninjured hand."

The people around him laughed so hard they almost fell over. Zhu Chuanzong, being extremely intelligent, gradually understood the meaning. The story the man told was most likely fabricated, satirizing someone who faked a fall and injury to extort money from others. However, he still couldn't understand: if they were afraid of being extorted, why not just report it to the authorities? How could they just stand by and watch someone die?

Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but interject, "Then report it to the authorities!"

The man looked at him and said, "Don't get me into trouble! Who knows if this old lady is the mother of some official in the yamen?"

Everyone nodded, "That's right, anyone who reports it to the authorities is a fool."

Zhu Chuanzong sensed something in their words and wanted to ask for clarification, but seeing he was a stranger, the men stopped talking and dispersed. One of them whispered as he left, "The case of Pang Yu in Ningzhi Province has spread throughout the land, haven't you heard?"

He then hurriedly left as well.

Curious, Zhu Chuanzong returned home and sent someone to inquire about the matter. His subordinates returned with the news that a case had indeed occurred in Ningzhi Province. A man named Pang Yu knocked down an old woman and took her to the hospital. The woman's family then demanded 100 taels of silver for her medical expenses. Pang Yu refused, claiming he hadn't caused the accident. The matter went to court, and the court found Pang Yu guilty, ordering him to pay the old woman's medical bills.

The case itself was simple, but Zhu Chuanzong, recalling the jokes made by the people in the tavern, wondered, "Could there be something fishy about this case?"

He suddenly became interested. He hadn't personally investigated a case incognito in many years, so he decided to investigate himself and observe the current state of affairs.

Having made up his mind, Zhu Chuanzong summoned Shui Fengliang and told him his plan. Shui Fengliang initially objected, saying that the prince was of noble birth and shouldn't take such a risk. However, seeing that Zhu Chuanzong had made up his mind, he dared not object anymore. Zhu Chuanzong then ordered him to arrange a team to depart later, just in case.

Shui Fengliang went to prepare, taking a long time to ensure everything was in order. More than a month later, Zhu Chuanzong, after much urging, finally reported that preparations were complete. Zhu Chuanzong, accompanied by several guards and disguised as merchants, set off for Ningzhi Province.

The journey was smooth, with stops along the way. Thanks to Zhu Chuanzong's diligent governance over the past few years, the Great Liang Kingdom was indeed much wealthier than before. Along the route, there were almost no refugees or beggars to be seen, which pleased Zhu Chuanzong greatly.

Passing through Shanyang County, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but recall the time he investigated a case with Shui Ling'er and met Wang Dingkun there. Now, Shui Ling'er was far away, and Wang Dingkun was also thousands of miles away on the border; several years had passed since they last met. He wondered how they were doing.

More than a month later, they finally entered the territory of Guangfu, the capital of Ningzhi Province. The Pang Yu case took place in Pingchuan County, a subordinate county of Guangfu. The carriage traveled along the official road, passing through a bamboo forest. Deep within the bamboo forest, the shadows of houses could be vaguely seen, appearing to be a fairly large residence. Zhu Chuanzong, finding the scenery beautiful, asked the carriage to slow down so he could admire it a little longer. He thought to himself, "The owner of that residence, choosing to live in such a secluded place, must not be an ordinary person."

At that moment, a zither melody suddenly drifted from the bamboo forest. The tune was melodious and ethereal, extremely beautiful. Accompanying the zither music was a song, melodious and enchanting, like celestial music. The song went: "The four directions are vast and boundless, chasing light and shadow across the boundless waters. In the still night of the whirlpool palace, weaving in the pavilion, the catalpa trees on the peaks of Tongshan stand tall and straight. The catalpa is felled to make instruments, a zither and a lute, the clear song flows, the joy is boundless, coming to rest on the shores of the vast sea."

Zhu Chuanzong was mesmerized. He couldn't help but recall the scene when he was attracted by the song of the Purple Gauze Fairy by the Milky Way, the scene of their first encounter. How similar this scene was! Moreover, the zither music and the song were so gentle and enchanting, almost exactly the same as the Purple Gauze Fairy's song. For a moment, Zhu Chuanzong thought he was dreaming.

He jumped off the carriage without thinking and followed the sound into the bamboo forest. After walking for a while, he saw a woman in a pink gauze dress sitting under a tree in the depths of the bamboo forest, playing the zither and singing. At this time, the morning mist was thick, and her face was not clear. But her figure was graceful, and her black hair was like clouds. From a distance, it was indeed the Purple Gauze Fairy!

Zhu Chuanzong was both surprised and delighted, calling out, "Zisha, is that you?"

The woman was startled, and the music stopped abruptly. She seemed frightened by Zhu Chuanzong, stood up, grabbed her zither, and hurried away. Zhu Chuanzong came

to his senses, but she was nowhere to be seen. Could it be that the fairy Zisha had returned to the mortal realm? Then why didn't she go to the capital to find him, but instead chose to live in seclusion in this remote mountain forest? Or was it just that his longing was too great, causing him to have a hallucination? Zhu Chuanzong stood there blankly for a long time before returning to the carriage, feeling utterly lost.

The carriage continued on its way. Zhu Chuanzong kept looking back towards the bamboo forest. He saw a house hidden among the bamboo and suddenly a thought struck him: "Whether she is Zisha or not, she must live nearby, perhaps even in that house. I must find her."

He made up his mind that once he had investigated Pang Yu's case, he would return to this bamboo forest and find the woman he had just seen.

Before long, they finally arrived at Pingchuan County. The group found an inn to stay in, and after settling in, they went out to stroll around the streets to observe the local customs.

The streets of this county town were fairly tidy, but the market was extremely deserted, and pedestrians hurried along, keeping several feet apart as if afraid of any contact. Even the vendors didn't dare to shout their wares loudly, glancing around furtively as they traded, creating an atmosphere of widespread anxiety.

And that wasn't all. The public security in Pingchuan County was truly appalling. Zhu Chuanzong and his companions walked through three streets and encountered two groups of fighters, three purse snatchings, and several people sitting by the roadside crying, saying their wallets had just been stolen. Moreover, after observing for a long time, not only did no passersby intervene, but no officials even showed up.

Zhu Chuanzong frowned deeply, thinking that with such poor public security, he would have to punish the magistrate of Pingchuan County.

Zhu Chuanzong and his companions were clearly from out of town, and soon, some unsuspecting thieves and swindlers set their sights on them. However, Zhu Chuanzong's guards were all highly skilled and incredibly alert, and Zhu Chuanzong himself was knowledgeable and exceptionally intelligent. Therefore, the thieves and swindlers failed, were instead taught a lesson, and slunk away.

However, after several such incidents, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but get angry and lost his appetite for shopping. Back at the inn, Zhu Chuanzong thought, "Tomorrow I'll investigate Pang Yu's case. If there's truly an injustice, the local officials must be dismissed and investigated!"

The next day, they went out, and after only a few steps, they saw a carriage pass by on the side of the road. An old man seemed to have been hit by the carriage and fell to the ground.

Surprisingly, the driver, instead of stopping to check on him, whipped the horse's rump and galloped away. Passersby all kept a distance, watching from afar. They only saw the old man rolling on the ground, crying out in pain, but no one came to help.

Zhu Chuanzong watched from behind. The carriage passed the old man several feet away, so it seemed they hadn't hit him. However, it was possible the old man's clothes had been grazed. Seeing that no one came to help the old man, he cursed these people for their lack of public spirit and immediately went forward to help him.

The old man groaned, "Kind person, thank you so much. My leg seems to be broken, I can't walk. Please, could you please take me to a doctor?"

Zhu Chuanzong felt sorry for him and immediately agreed. He took him to a medical shop and even took out a few taels of silver to buy some medicine for the old man's wounds. Before long, several burly men rushed in, shouting, "Father, Father, what happened to you? Who hit you like this?"

The old man, who had been "on the verge of death," suddenly perked up and pointed at Zhu Chuanzong, saying, "He hit me!"

The men immediately threw the old man aside and glared at Zhu Chuanzong, saying viciously, "You brat, if you had hurt our father, we wouldn't have let you off! Pay up!"

Zhu Chuanzong was initially taken aback, but after a moment's thought, he immediately understood the whole situation. He found it amusing: "I was just about to investigate this case, and now I've encountered the same thing."

Recalling the jokes he had heard in the capital, and the behavior of the passersby earlier, he wondered, "Could Pang Yu be in the same situation? Was he wronged?"

At this moment, several guards hidden in the crowd wanted to come and help, but Zhu Chuanzong gave them a look, signaling them not to act rashly. He wanted to see how the authorities would handle this matter.

The old man's sons demanded compensation, but Zhu Chuanzong refused. The men then dragged Zhu Chuanzong to the magistrate's office. Zhu Chuanzong, who was already planning to go, went with them. Upon arriving at the courtroom, the petition drum was sounded, and the magistrate began his proceedings. A large crowd of onlookers had gathered outside, and several guards were also present.

The magistrate, after hearing the old man's complaints, slammed his gavel and shouted at Zhu Chuanzong, "You troublemaker from out of town! You injured this old man; you should pay compensation. You refuse to pay; do you have any respect for the law?"

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "Your Honor, he fell on his own. I just couldn't stand by and watch, so I helped. Why should I pay him?"

The magistrate said, "Your stories are contradictory; do you have any evidence?"

The old man said, "I have evidence."

Several people immediately emerged from the crowd outside, claiming to be eyewitnesses who could testify that Zhu Chuanzong had hit the old man.

Seeing that things were going badly, Zhu Chuanzong's guards sent one of them to testify on Zhu Chuanzong's behalf, saying that he hadn't done it, but rather that he was just a good Samaritan passing by.

The county magistrate was taken aback, seemingly not expecting anyone to speak up for Zhu Chuanzong. His eyes darted around, and he chuckled, "Don't try to deny it. If you didn't hit him, why would you take the old man to the hospital? Why would you buy him medicine? It's completely unreasonable!"

Zhu Chuanzong was so angry he didn't know whether to laugh or cry. He said, "Sir, seeing someone fall and helping them is what a normal person does. How come it's unreasonable in your eyes? Do you think it's normal to stand by and watch someone die?"

The magistrate angrily said, "Shut up! Do you think I'm a fool? Since both of you have witnesses and the case is unclear, according to the principle of justice in the law, which should favor the weaker party, you should each pay half of the medical expenses. If you honestly pay the money, that's fine, otherwise, you'll face severe punishment!"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Oh? Then, sir, how much should I pay?"

The magistrate said, "A life is at stake, and the old man is so old, so I'll pay one hundred taels."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Chuanzong was furious. One hundred taels of silver was a considerable sum among ordinary people. Even if he hadn't caused the accident, and had actually injured someone, the medical expenses would only be a dozen or so taels. This county magistrate was demanding an exorbitant amount, clearly an act of injustice. He glared and said, "What if I don't have the money?"

The magistrate shouted, "No money? Then send money from your family! Guards, arrest him!"

The constables, who had been eyeing him menacingly, swarmed forward to bind Zhu Chuanzong. Zhu Chuanzong hesitated, wondering whether to reveal his identity, when suddenly someone said, "Wait."

Two women, seemingly a mistress and servant, entered from the crowd outside. The one

in front appeared to be the young lady. She took a few steps, bowed to the magistrate, and said, "Your Honor, this man is my servant. He injured someone; it was due to our lack of discipline. I brought one hundred taels of silver to compensate the old man. Please release my servant." The

magistrate had never seen such a beautiful woman in his life, and he couldn't help but drool. The young lady asked several more questions before the magistrate came to his senses. He was a cunning old man; he could tell from her clothes and demeanor that she was not from an ordinary family, and she was offering one hundred taels without a second thought. It was clear she was the daughter of some high-ranking official or wealthy family, someone a mere county magistrate like himself couldn't afford to offend. Besides, he already had the money, so he hurriedly smiled obsequiously and said, "Since Miss is willing to take responsibility, then naturally there's nothing to worry about. Men, quickly release this Miss's servant."

The constables released Zhu Chuanzong. But Zhu Chuanzong seemed to be in a daze, staring motionlessly at the young lady, muttering, "Zisha, Zisha!"

The young lady had exquisite features, skin as white as snow, and unparalleled beauty; she was none other than the Zisha Fairy that Zhu Chuanzong had been longing for day and night!

The young lady blushed under Zhu Chuanzong's gaze and said, "What are you staring at? Hurry up and leave!"

Zhu Chuanzong followed behind her, his eyes unwilling to leave her for even a moment, as if afraid she would disappear in the blink of an eye.

Upon arriving outside the yamen, the young lady said to Zhu Chuanzong, "You're from out of town, aren't you? You don't know the situation in Pingchuan County. Don't meddle in such matters anymore. I saw you were a kind person and couldn't bear to see you suffer, so I helped you. You should leave now."

Zhu Chuanzong stared at her and said, "Zisha, I've missed you so much. Why won't you come to see me?"

The young lady was startled, her face turning even redder. She whispered, "What nonsense are you talking about? How do you know my name? But my name isn't Zisha, it's Zixian. You've mistaken me for someone else."

With that, she turned and left with her maid.

Zhu Chuanzong gradually came to his senses. He thought, "She's not Zisha, she just looks like her. Zisha has gone to heaven and will never return."

Thinking of this, he felt another pang of sadness.

Now that he had calmed down, he looked at the woman again and noticed many differences between her and the Fairy Zisha. The Fairy Zisha's voice was clear and gentle, while this woman's voice was sweeter and more seductive. The Purple-Clad Fairy always wore only purple and white gauze dresses, but this woman wore a pink one.

Even though he knew she wasn't the Purple-Clad Fairy, Zhu Chuanzong was reluctant to leave. He longed to see that face he yearned for a few more times, so he followed behind the young lady.

After a few steps, the young lady stopped and said, "Why aren't you leaving? What are you following me for?"

Zhu Chuanzong was taken aback, then a thought struck him, and he said, "Didn't you say I was your servant? Of course, a servant should follow his master!"

The young lady was both amused and annoyed, and rolled her eyes at him, saying, "I was just fooling the magistrate. You actually believed me?"

With a slight frown, her delicate eyebrows furrowed, her cheeks puffed out, and her eyes seemed like two pools of autumn water. That beauty, a mixture of anger and joy, was truly captivating. Zhu Chuanzong was mesmerized.

The maidservant beside him snorted and said, "Miss, I don't think this man is a good person. You shouldn't have helped him; you should have had the magistrate arrest him. It's such a waste of money. I think he has ill intentions; let's go quickly."

Zhu Chuanzong seized the opportunity and said, "That's right, Miss paid a hundred taels of silver for me. I have no way to repay you, so I'll simply become your servant!"

The maidservant scoffed, "You wish! Many young masters are willing to spend a thousand taels of silver to be my young lady's servant, but my young lady doesn't even want that. Don't dream about it."

Zhu Chuanzong was stunned, then nodded and said, "That's right. If I could be by Miss's side, even spending ten thousand taels of silver would be worth it."

Seeing his serious expression, the maidservant was amused and giggled. She wanted to say more, but the young lady said, "Dujuan, what nonsense are you talking about?"

She glanced at Zhu Chuanzong, blushed, and continued walking.

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed that she wasn't chasing him anymore and followed closely behind. Several guards, receiving a signal from Zhu Chuanzong, mingled with the crowd and followed behind, not daring to disturb him.

Episode 10

Synopsis:

Even a gentle embrace can be a tomb for heroes, a truth even a celestial being like Zhu Chuanzong, descended to earth, cannot see through. He is obsessed with and dotes on Zi Xian, neglecting state affairs, while a conspiracy secretly brews…

It was thought that under his diligent governance, the world was politically stable and the people lived in peace and prosperity, but the truth behind it all is that powerful ministers manipulate the country and corrupt officials have resurfaced. Zhu Chuanzong personally visits his former teacher, Tang Hui, to request his assistance again, but the grown-up Tang Hui has his own ideas and cannot be manipulated by him!

In the mortal world, wealth and power are fleeting like clouds. Will Zhu Chuanzong be able to realize the truth and attain immortality in time? Read the final chapter of "The Immortal's Descendant Romance"! Even the chickens and dogs ascend to heaven!

Chapter 1: Zi Xian

Time flies. Zhu Chuanzong defeated Pang Laixiao and has ruled the world for eight years, wielding absolute power. The emperor was young, and the regent, as the Prince Regent, held supreme power, enjoying unparalleled prestige. However, his parents had passed away two or three years prior, an irreparable tragedy. No matter how great his power and wealth, life and death were unpredictable, and fate was cruel. The disappearance of the Purple-Robed Fairy and the disappearance of Shui Ling'er, who had a child but avoided him, further reinforced his understanding of life's impermanence and helplessness.

He sat high in the court, wielding immense power, handling numerous national and military affairs daily. Although he diligently governed and appointed capable officials, the vast country was still prone to floods and droughts. Officials were of mixed quality; even with rigorous vetting, bad apples remained. These issues concerned the lives of the people. He was benevolent and loved his people like his own children, naturally working even harder to fulfill their trust. In addition, with many beautiful women in his household, he was often preoccupied with trivial matters, keeping him constantly busy and rarely venturing out into the countryside in recent years.

One day, while missing Zi Sha, he suddenly recalled his past life and, disguised as a commoner, went to a tavern for a drink. As he lamented the irretrievable past, he heard a joke, a bizarre tale that piqued his interest. Reflecting on his years of isolation from the common people, he decided to settle his affairs of state and, afterward, travel incognito to Pingchuan County, the location of the incident, to investigate. However, upon arriving in Pingchuan, he encountered an old man who had fallen. He helped him up, only to be falsely accused of knocking the old man down. At the county court, he was ordered to pay a hundred taels of silver. Judging from the people's attitude, such fraudulent incidents were quite common; no wonder these stories had spread to the capital and become a laughing stock.

Zhu Chuanzong, accustomed to his long tenacity as an official, had never suffered such humiliation. Secondly, seeing such an absurd thing happen under his jurisdiction, he was furious and impulsively wanted to reveal his identity and start a massacre. Unexpectedly, a young lady who looked remarkably like Zi Sha appeared and saved him.

Upon seeing the face he had longed for day and night, Zhu Chuanzong was instantly captivated, his anger subsided, and he calmed down, determined to get to the bottom of the matter and clarify the whole case before rushing things. Seeing that the young lady resembled the Zi Sha he had been yearning for, how could he bear to leave her? Seeing that she was going home, he followed her closely.

The young lady named Zixian, accompanied by her maid, strangely didn't take a carriage but walked slowly out of the city. As she walked, she unexpectedly arrived at the bamboo grove she had passed earlier. Zhu Chuanzong suddenly realized, "It seems the one singing in the bamboo grove that day was this Miss Zixian. I was so foolish; I even hoped Zisha would return! But this girl looks so much like her. Could it be that she saw how much I missed her and specially sent someone to replace her? Otherwise, how could the two be so alike?"

Thinking this, he felt a surge of excitement.

At this moment, Zixian stopped in front of a courtyard, saying, "Young master, we've arrived home. Thank you for escorting us. However, we cannot accept your offer to be our servants."

After saying this, she chuckled, her beauty captivating Zhu Chuanzong, who was momentarily stunned.

Zi Xian continued, "If you feel bad about it, sir, you know where I live anyway. You can pay me back when you have some spare money later. Also, sir, you should be careful when you're out and about. If you have nothing else to say, sir, I won't bother you any longer."

Zhu Chuanzong was captivated by her charming smile and ignored her attempt to dismiss him. He suddenly asked, "Were you playing the zither and singing here the morning before yesterday?"

Seeing that he didn't know when to stop, Zi Xian frowned and nodded slightly.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "When I passed by here the day before yesterday, I heard someone singing 'The Song of the White Emperor' and was so engrossed that I couldn't help but come in to listen. But Miss had already left. I never expected to be rescued by Miss today; it's truly fate."

Zi Xian asked in surprise, "You know this is 'The Song of the White Emperor'?"

Zhu Chuanzong nodded and recited: "The four directions and eight realms are boundless and difficult to fathom. Driving light and chasing shadows, I exhaust the waters. In the quiet night of the Xuan Palace, I weave in the pavilion. The catalpa trees on Tong Peak stand a thousand fathoms straight. I cut down the catalpa trees to make instruments like zithers and lutes. The clear song flows smoothly, and the joy is inexhaustible. I come to dwell on the vast seashore. Legend has it that this is the song of the White Emperor's son..." "The song composed by Ehuang. A tale of immortals, so enchanting!"

Zixian exclaimed with reverence, "Young master, you are truly learned. I once learned this ancient melody from a Taoist priest, but he only stroked his beard and wouldn't tell me its origin; I suppose he didn't know it either! I always thought I'd never find the answer to this question in this lifetime, but unexpectedly, I've been able to glimpse its beauty today. Thank you so much. I still have a few questions about this melody; I wonder if you could enlighten me?"

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Of course, I will answer them to the best of my ability."

The two then discussed it for a while. Zhu Chuanzong was exceptionally intelligent, possessing a photographic memory. After the Purple Gauze Flying Apsaras, he developed a great interest in poetry and songs, and his knowledge of the zither, flute, and se was profound. In front of the beauty, he naturally spoke eloquently, his words flowing like pearls, leaving Zixian's admiration evident.

Zhu Chuanzong found the beautiful woman and he hit it off immediately. Moreover, she was exceptionally knowledgeable, with insightful views on poetry and literature, clearly not an ordinary person, but someone with genuine wisdom. He felt a deep regret for not having met her sooner. The two talked more and more happily, like old friends who hadn't seen each other for years, their thoughts and interests perfectly aligned, much to their surprise.

The maid, Du Juan, seeing their convivial conversation, stood at the door, unsure how to proceed. Seeing that it was getting late, and the two were still engrossed in their conversation, reluctant to part, she realized... Seeing the young lady's words and attitude, which he had never seen before, he boldly asked, "Young master, how long will you be staying in Pingchuan County? Where will you be staying? Since you two seem to get along so well, wouldn't it be better to visit again another day to ask for your advice?"

Zhu Chuanzong was in high spirits and reluctant to leave. Hearing this, his heart stirred, and he smiled and said, "To be honest, I'm new here and don't have a place to stay yet. I wonder if I could stay at your residence for a few days?"

Although Zi Xian had suddenly found a kindred spirit, she still blushed upon hearing this and said, "That's not convenient. There are no men in my household, and it would be inappropriate to ask such a question. Please understand, young master."

Zhu Chuanzong was greatly surprised, but he couldn't be so presumptuous as to ask. But how could he possibly leave this beautiful woman he had been longing for day and night? He then feigned concern, saying, "It is indeed difficult for you, Miss. I have no choice but to find a place to stay nearby, but I am unfamiliar with the area, and it would be troublesome if I encountered bad people. I am quite foolish, and if I were to encounter those who deliberately deceive me, my chances of survival would be slim. But this is fate, so I will take my leave now and visit you another day."

Zhu Chuanzong used a feigned retreat to advance, to see how she would react.

Zi Xian thought for a moment and smiled, "Judging from your words and actions, you are far beyond the reach of ordinary people, and you are also very knowledgeable and of upright and kind character. I was too bound by convention. As the saying goes, the pure are pure, and just now I was preoccupied with my own reputation and neglected you. Please forgive me. It would be my pleasure to learn from you. However, my humble abode is simple, and I hope you will not find it offensive."

She waved her hand, gesturing for him to come in.

Zhu Chuanzong found her to be elegant in speech, humble and generous, poised and graceful, and also proficient in classical music with a strong thirst for knowledge. He felt a sense of kinship with her, recognizing her good character, and his affection for her deepened.

That night, Zhu Chuanzong stayed at Zi Xian's house. The residence was not small, but it was deserted with only a few servants, and the furniture was all new, suggesting that Zi Xian had only recently moved there.

Lying in bed, Zhu Chuanzong's mind was in turmoil. One moment he saw Zi Sha dancing and singing, the next he saw Zi Xian sitting gracefully in the bamboo grove playing the zither. Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but get up and stand by the window, looking at the bright moon, thinking, "Zi Sha, do you know how much I miss you? Did you know how much I miss you, so you sent this woman, who looks exactly like you, to keep me company and ease my longing?"

The next day, after breakfast, Zi Xian had her maid invite Zhu Chuanzong to her study. The study was elegantly furnished, complete with a zither, calligraphy, and paintings. Wisps of incense smoke curled from the sandalwood burner, and the bookshelves were overflowing with books.

Zhu Chuanzong, accustomed to the finer things in life, still praised the study's refined elegance. Zi Xian smiled and said, "With your erudition, young master, you must come from a scholarly family. How could this humble abode possibly meet your standards? I'm afraid you'll find it laughable."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "A mountain is not famous for its height, but for the immortals dwelling there. This is a humble abode, but my virtue makes it fragrant. Even if it truly were a humble abode, with a celestial being like you here, it would become a paradise."

Zi Xian blushed slightly and said reproachfully, "Young master, you flatter me a little."

Zhu Chuanzong, used to joking with the maids at home, only realized her slight reproach when he saw her blush. Somewhat abrupt, he immediately retorted, "What I said makes sense. Look at many scenic spots in the world; they become famous because of outstanding people, even if the scenery itself isn't particularly beautiful. Heroic deeds and famous poets are the main reasons why a place becomes famous."

Zi Xian smiled and said, "That's true. I once passed by a pavilion that was said to be the place where the current regent once rested and inscribed a poem. It's not surprising, but it still attracted throngs of tourists eager to see it. I suppose that's the reason." She paused, realizing that saying this was tantamount to admitting that she was a celestial being and praising herself, and her face flushed again.

Zhu Chuanzong, hearing her inadvertently mention him, but seeing her shyness, changed the subject, saying, "I haven't paid my respects to your parents yet; how rude of me. How about you introduce me, young lady?"

Zi Xian's face darkened, and she said, "I lost my mother when I was young, and my father passed away last year."

Her eyes were already red as she spoke.

Zi Xian briefly recounted her family background; it turned out that her surname was Wu, and her father had previously served as a prefect. Later, she died of illness, leaving behind some property. The clan members, taking advantage of the fact that only Zixian remained as the daughter of the Wu family, all wanted to seize her inheritance.

So, with the help of a kind uncle, Zixian escaped and recently moved to Ningzhi Province.

Zhu Chuanzong, hearing this, felt great sympathy and sighed, "You, a weak woman, all alone in a foreign land, it must have been very difficult for you."

Zixian slowly calmed her sorrow and inquired about Zhu Chuanzong's family background. Zhu Chuanzong said, "You can call me Zhu Tonghao. I'm a merchant from the capital, hoping to acquire some unusual items to take back to Beijing."

Zixian smiled and said, "A merchant? Do you take me for a child? What merchant is so reckless and unreasonable? Someone like you, who doesn't know how to protect himself, how many lives can he afford to lose?" Zhu Chuanzong

knew her character and demeanor; how could she possibly resemble a cunning and treacherous merchant? Having spent so much time in the imperial court, she was unfamiliar with worldly affairs, so he smiled and said, "Miss is clever. So, guess what I do?"

Zi Xian said, "You look like a young master from a scholarly family, yet you deliberately dress like an ordinary merchant. But not only does your demeanor betray you, your behavior is even more so."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Miss's guess is spot on."

After that, Zhu Chuanzong didn't mention his background again, and Zi Xian, being exceptionally intelligent,

tactfully didn't press the matter. Zhu Chuanzong stayed at her house for two more days. As they saw each other daily, they became increasingly familiar, and their conversations grew more frequent, eventually covering everything.

They discussed matters of society and officialdom. Zhu Chuanzong discovered that Zi Xian was a very insightful woman; her understanding of certain issues surpassed that of ordinary officials. Moreover, many of her views coincided with his own. Originally, Zhu Chuanzong had been drawn to her because of her resemblance to the Purple Silk Fairy, but upon discovering her intelligence and gentle nature, he was even more impressed.

Although Zhu Chuanzong only stayed for two days, his guards were extremely anxious, and a day later, they sent someone to pay their respects.

Zhu Chuanzong understood their feelings. He came to Pingchuan County because of the Pang Yu case, and now that he had met Zi Xian, it would be inappropriate to linger here. He was called a prince, but in reality, he was like a monarch; the court could not be without a ruler for a day, so he could not stay here long. The guards had already inquired about the case; Pang Yu was indeed wronged, similar to Zhu Chuanzong's experience. The one who falsely accused him was an old woman whose son worked in the yamen. Originally, Pang Yu was to be extorted for one hundred taels of silver, but because Pang Yu disagreed with the verdict and appealed to the county, the magistrate had already accepted bribes from his subordinates and instead imposed a heavier sentence, fining him three hundred taels in compensation.

How could the common people possibly win against the officials? Seeing this way to make money, the county yamen runners all followed suit, finding idle old men and women to go to the streets and extort money from people. Those victims who knew the inside story, knowing they couldn't afford to offend them, often paid to settle the matter; those who were penniless and stubborn often suffered greatly, their fates even more tragic.

Gradually, the story spread far and wide, and the locals stopped falling for it. The group then turned to swindling merchants from out of town. Zhu Chuanzong, having just arrived, naturally became their target. Upon hearing this, Zhu Chuanzong was furious. This was no small matter; it had spread throughout the country, severely impacting social morality. He was determined to find the instigator and execute that worthless magistrate. However, even if the Ministry of Personnel didn't report it, the Censorate would surely report it. But now the whole country knew; these government offices couldn't possibly be unaware. Were they all concealing the truth? Zhu Chuanzong was utterly perplexed.

Early the next morning, Zhu Chuanzong went to find Zixian, intending to take his leave to attend to his case. But his servant said she wasn't home, that she was out doing charity work. It turned out that Zixian visited impoverished people every fifth day of the lunar month, buying them clothes or food to help them.

Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but think of Zixian, who also had a compassionate heart and loved helping the poor. Thinking, "They not only look alike, but they're also equally kind,"

she couldn't help but smile.

In the afternoon, Zi Xian returned home. Since Zhu Chuanzong knew her address, he wasn't worried about not finding her; he could come looking for her later. But business was more important, so he took his leave.

Zi Xian was initially taken aback, but quickly regained her composure and personally saw him to the door.

Seeing him to the door, Zi Xian said calmly, "Young Master Zhu, you seem to be in such a hurry to leave. What urgent matter brings you here?"

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing her reluctance to part, was pleased and said, "I will not forget your kindness and understanding, Miss. I will come again. I am going to the county town to handle an absurd case. To be honest, I am carrying an imperial decree; I am an imperial envoy sent by the court. It was inconvenient to reveal my identity at first, so please forgive me, Miss."

Zi Xian suddenly realized, "No wonder you helped that old man. So you did it on purpose, not out of ignorance. I thought you were a bookworm."

Zhu Chuanzong shook his head, "Not at all. Helping the old and weak is a tradition of our dynasty for centuries. That was just a normal action! I came here for Pang Yu's case, but I didn't expect it to be so chaotic. There's actually extortion going on, and I stumbled upon it as soon as I arrived. It shows how..." "How many people have been extorted! This matter has a huge impact, and I'm afraid that only severe punishment can appease public anger."

Zi Xian was taken aback and said seriously, "Since you are the Imperial Envoy, how could you not know the situation in Pingchuan County? Everyone knows that Pang Yu is innocent, but no one can do anything about it. Young Master Zhu, you'd better not get yourself into trouble, or you might even lose your official position!"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed and said, "Is Pingchuan not under the jurisdiction of Daliang and therefore not subject to Daliang laws? As the Imperial Envoy, am I afraid that I can't overturn these injustices?"

Zi Xian sighed and said, "Daliang's laws are also made by people, and there are some people that even the law cannot control."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Even princes are subject to the same laws as commoners. Can a few county officials and yamen runners really cover up the truth? There must be some backing they have. Tell me, what kind of powerful figures are behind them that allow them to be so disregardful?" "The law!"

Zi Xian said slowly, "It's fortunate you met me. If you hadn't known the gravity of the situation, not only would your career be hopeless, but your life would likely be in danger. Let me tell you the truth, so you don't offend anyone and lose not only your position but also your life."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "No wonder my men couldn't find out who this magistrate's backer was. It turns out he's involved a big shot. They dare not tell me. Please, Miss, speak frankly so I can restore justice to the world."

Zi Xian saw his arrogant tone and sighed, "Then I'll tell you. Judging from your age, even if you become an official, you'll only reach the prefectural level. You're probably on your way to take up a post somewhere, and this case must have been assigned to you by the court. This matter is something even the provincial inspector can only pretend not to know, let alone you. Everyone knows the powerful backer behind the magistrate who framed Pang Yu and made a wrong judgment. He is none other than the Grand Protector of the court." "Wang Dingkun, a first-rank official and the Grand Marshal of the East Sea Army, wields immense military power. The county magistrate is named Wang Dahai, a nephew of Wang Dingkun. Even if you could bring him down, would you still be able to maintain your position in the court?"

Zhu Chuanzong, upon hearing this, fell into deep thought and said, "Miss, you're not joking

, are you?" Seeing his expression, Zixian showed a hint of disdain and said calmly, "Wang Dingkun has a distinguished military record, commands the entire army, and is sworn brothers with the Regent. He's practically second only to the Regent. How could I dare to speak carelessly about this? Magistrate Wang Dahai, who makes arbitrary judgments, has always been arrogant and domineering because of his relationship with Wang Dingkun. Everyone knows this. Even if ten thousand people petitioned the provincial capital to sue him, they couldn't bring him down. Officials protect each other; that's how things are in officialdom. My father couldn't stand the darkness of officialdom and eventually resigned."

Zhu Chuanzong knew she was right. Although he had appointed capable officials and governed diligently over the years, the bureaucracy was truly complex and difficult to clean up; it was impossible to expect it to be as clear as still water. However, under his rule, the bureaucracy had improved considerably. Now, this matter was of great importance and could not be dealt with lightly. If Wang Dingkun were forced to rebel, the country would descend into chaos, and war would break out, causing suffering to the common people.

Seeing his silence, Zi Xian said, "Young Master is benevolent; you must be careful in the officialdom in the future."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and nodded, then took his leave, his mind preoccupied with this thorny case, even lacking the sorrow of parting with Zi Xian.

Zhu Chuanzong went out to meet his personal bodyguard Zhao Ying, while the others secretly followed. Upon arriving in the county town, the situation in the streets was still the same as when he had first arrived—chaotic and disorderly. On a street corner, Zhu Chuanzong happened to run into the old man who had falsely accused him of hitting someone. The old man was glancing around erratically, seemingly considering his next target. He spotted Zhu Chuanzong and laughed loudly, "Young man, it's you! What, you weren't beaten to death by your young lady when you got home, so you're here meddling in other people's business again!"

Zhu Chuanzong coldly replied, "You swindler, out here swindling people again?"

The old man glared at him and said, "You're incredibly stupid. How can this be 'swindling'? This is teaching you a lesson, making you smarter, so you won't be so foolish in the future."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "You're so arrogant, falsely accusing an innocent person. Aren't you afraid of being exposed and going to jail? At your age, it's not worth dying in prison for the rest of your life."

The old man chuckled, "You brat, go ask around and find out who I am! My nephew works in the yamen and has the best relationship with Magistrate Wang. To be honest, the magistrate also gets a share. Tell me, who can punish me? The emperor is far away, and here, only our magistrate is the most powerful. I'm letting you off the hook because of your pile of silver. Get lost! If you keep arguing with me, I'll have you arrested and brought back to the yamen, then you'll have to pay my medical bills!"

Zhao Yinglai, Zhu Chuanzong's personal bodyguard, couldn't stand it any longer and whispered to Zhu Chuanzong, "Sir, should I go and teach him a lesson?"

Zhu Chuanzong waved his hand, indicating no need, and walked away. The old man was still shouting from afar, "Get lost! You know what's good for you."

Zhao Yinglai and the other bodyguards were furious, but secretly they all admired the prince's magnanimity.

Zhu Chuanzong was accompanied by four bodyguards on this trip, and eight more disguised as various people lurked in the shadows. Although Zhu Chuanzong was exceptionally brave, he was a high-ranking official, so these guards were indispensable.

Zhu Chuanzong ignored the old man and had Zhao Yinglai lead the way to Pang Yu, the man involved in the infamous case.

Led by Zhao Yinglai, the two arrived at Pang Yu's house. It was a small courtyard with a half-open wooden gate, dilapidated and run-down.

Zhao Yinglai called out, and seeing no response, and with the gate still open, went inside. Inside the house, it was a mess, tattered and broken. On the kang (heated brick bed) lay a tattered quilt, and a young man lay on his back, disheveled and emaciated, staring blankly at the ceiling, muttering something incoherently.

Zhu Chuanzong asked, "Excuse me, is this Pang Yu's home? And who are you?"

He asked several times, but the man seemed not to hear him. Zhao Yinglai gently nudged the man's shoulder and said, "I'm asking you a question! Is this your home?"

The young man was startled. Upon seeing the two men, he jumped up, ran to the corner of the kang (a heated brick bed), and curled up in a ball, crying out in terror, "Don't hurt me! Don't hurt me!"

Zhu Chuanzong and Zhao Yinglai, seeing that he was a madman, were about to leave when footsteps sounded, and an old woman entered, followed by an extremely beautiful young woman.

Zhu Chuanzong exclaimed in surprise; it turned out that the young woman was Zi Xian.

The old woman came to the edge of the kang and said softly, "Yu'er, don't be afraid. These two are good people, not officials. Come and rest!"

The young man slowly lay down, muttering, "This is outrageous! This is outrageous!"

and slowly closed his eyes to sleep.

The group entered the courtyard. The old woman sighed, "I am Pang Yu's mother. I'm

sorry, gentlemen. My son is mentally challenged and it's inconvenient to wake him. I can only speak from outside. I apologize for the inconvenience." Zhu Chuanzong saw Zi Xian's bright eyes sparkle and knew that she must have told the old woman about his origins. It seemed she and the old woman were acquainted, likely out of sympathy for Pang Yu and her continued help to his family, as if she had helped him out of trouble.

Zhu Chuanzong asked, "Old lady, how did Pang Yu end up like this?"

The old woman sighed and slowly recounted the story. Pang Yu was originally a scholar, teaching at a private school while preparing to take the imperial examinations. One day, he went out and helped an old woman who had been bumped into. He took her to a clinic and even paid some of her medical expenses. However, the old woman turned around and accused him of being the one who bumped into her. The officials, disregarding the presence of witnesses, insisted that according to common sense, if Pang Yu hadn't bumped into her, why would he have taken the injured woman to the clinic? The matter was found to be true, and Pang Yu was ordered to pay one hundred taels of silver.

Pang Yu was a bookish and straightforward man, and naturally he was not satisfied. He went to the provincial capital to appeal, but the province sent the case back to the county for retrial, and he was punished even more severely.

Zhu Chuanzong asked, "Then how did he end up like this?"

Old Mrs. Pang said, "Our family has been poor for generations. How could a schoolteacher like him have so much silver? As a result, the yamen runners confiscated our house and stole all our valuables. Because of his appeal, he was dismissed from his post as a scholar and lost his teaching job. His daughter-in-law complained that he was meddling in other people's business and ran off with someone else. He spent his whole life studying the classics and only knew that doing good deeds would bring good fortune. Who would have thought that doing a good deed would lead to the destruction of his family? Just like that, a perfectly good person, in a moment of despair, was driven mad. Alas, I have suffered so much in my life, and I never thought I would encounter such a thing in my old age."

As she spoke, tears streamed down her face.

Zhu Chuanzong was heartbroken. He had ruled the empire for so many years, and the Great Liang Dynasty, renowned for its clean and honest administration, had actually witnessed such an absurd incident. This event overturned the millennia-old tradition of good deeds and virtuous conduct among the people of this land, and its consequences were extremely dire. If everyone were to turn a blind eye to those in distress in the future, Great Liang would become a ghost town. These corrupt officials deserved to be torn to pieces. Zhu Chuanzong's face was filled with rage, and a murderous intent surged within him.

Zhu Chuanzong turned to Zhao Yinglai and asked, "Do you know how many swindlers there are in the city?"

Zhao Yinglai confidently replied, "Don't worry, sir. We've already made all the arrangements and are just waiting for your order to act immediately and wipe them all out."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Good, act immediately. Meet at the county office. Also, send someone to invite a renowned doctor to treat Pang Yu's illness. No matter how much it costs, we must cure him." He

then said to Old Madam Pang, "I am an imperial envoy sent by the court. I'm sure Miss Zixian has already told you. Don't worry, old lady! Tell Pang Xiucai to take good care of himself. Once he recovers, I'll make him an official."

Without waiting for the old lady's thanks, he turned and left.

Zixian chased after him, asking, "Where are you going, sir?"

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "To the county office to handle a case. What, do you want to come and see how I handle cases?"

Seeing his confident demeanor, Zixian didn't try to dissuade him any further, nodded, and went with him to the Pingchuan County Office. Chapter Two: A Bond Forged in Adversity (

May 15th) Zhu Chuanzong's guards were all highly skilled in martial arts. After several days of investigation, they quickly apprehended seven or eight elderly men and women engaged in fraud. The old man who had framed Zhu Chuanzong was naturally among them. The guards, angered by his disrespect towards the prince, punished him severely, leaving him bruised and swollen, too afraid to utter a sound. The group arrived at the yamen (government office). One of the guards picked up a drumstick and struck the drum. A nearby yamen runner rushed to stop him, but Zhao Yinglai revealed the imperial envoy's seal, leaving the two runners stunned. Magistrate Wang Dahai of Pingchuan County was intimately embracing his concubine when he heard someone beating a drum. Enraged, he hurriedly dressed and rushed to the main hall. Sitting down, he looked down and his eyes lit up. Seeing the beautiful and charming Zi Xian, he was delighted and leered at her, saying, "Miss, what brings you here again? Do you have some grievance you wish me to redress? Rest assured, I am always wise and will certainly help you get justice." Zhu Chuanzong, seeing his lecherous face, realized he was about to die and remained oblivious. With a cold snort, he said, "Sir, we've caught some swindlers on the street and brought them here for your judgment." Wang Dahai then saw the crowd clearly: several burly men, like wolves, were escorting seven or eight old men and women—relatives of the constables who usually helped him extort money. Enraged, he roared, "Who gave you permission to bully these old folks? You've got some nerve!" He shouted, "Guards, seize these troublemakers!" The constables responded with a shout of "Yes, sir!" and drew their clubs, surrounding the crowd. Zhao Yinglai shouted, "Who dares?" He then pulled a token from his robes and tossed it to Wang Dahai. Wang Dahai picked it up and his face turned ashen. It was the token of a Censor-in-Chief. The Censor-in-Chief was responsible for supervising the administration of officials in a province; their power was immense, and they were directly accountable to the imperial court—far higher in rank than a mere county magistrate like himself. He said in a trembling voice, "So it's the Imperial Envoy. Since you have an imperial decree, why didn't you say so earlier? I have offended you before, please punish me."

Zhu Chuanzong didn't want to reveal his identity, so he carried the waist badge of a supervising censor, which was enough as a cover. He coldly snorted, "The scoundrels of Pingchuan County are swindling and extorting money, and the Pingchuan County government not only doesn't do anything about it, but also colludes with them to oppress the people. I think your official career is over!"

All the yamen runners were stunned.

Wang Dahai was sweating profusely and said, "This matter is too sudden, there are important secrets involved, please allow me to report."

Zhu Chuanzong coldly snorted again, waiting to see what else he had to say. Unexpectedly, Wang Dahai gave a wink and suddenly slammed his gavel down. Upon hearing this, the yamen runners immediately rushed forward to grab Zhu Chuanzong. Zhu Chuanzong kicked the runner in front of him, sending him sprawling, and said, "Are you trying to rebel? How dare you arrest the Imperial Envoy?"

Wang Dahai hid behind a chair and shouted, "An urgent imperial decree! Mountain bandits are impersonating the Imperial Envoy and indiscriminately murdering officials! The magistrate of Nahe County has been killed by these bandits! Men, capture the bandits! The court will surely reward you handsomely! Everyone, charge!"

Hearing the magistrate's words, the yamen runners, relying on their numbers and the clubs they wielded, swarmed forward and attacked. However, Zhu Chuanzong's guards were all seasoned martial arts masters, and these yamen runners were no match for them. In just a few moves, the yamen runners were beaten so badly they were running for their lives, lying haphazardly on the ground.

Seeing this, the arriving constables drew their weapons—knives, bows and arrows, iron chains—and attacked the guards. However, they were no match for them, and soon the ground was filled with constables crying and wailing.

Some of the old men and women who had been swindling money were the constables' parents; hearing their sons' cries, some shouted, "Father here! Mother there!"—creating chaos.

After dealing with these constables who only knew how to oppress the people, Zhu Chuanzong ordered his men to tie up the terrified Wang Dahai and take him away. Several constables who had escaped ran out, saying that bandits had rebelled and the county government had been occupied.

Seeing the people's fear and that no one recognized the imperial envoy's seal, making it difficult to explain, and knowing it was inconvenient to stay in the county government, they decided to take Wang Dahai to a neighboring county—surely not everyone would be unfamiliar with the imperial seal!

To their surprise, the group was surrounded by a large, heavily armed force just a short distance from the yamen. These soldiers, fully equipped and well-equipped, wielding swords and spears, were from the nearby army. Normally, they couldn't enter the city without orders, so they must have received word and come specifically for this purpose.

Magistrate Wang Dahai was overjoyed to see them and shouted, "Commander Zhou, you've finally come! Quickly, save me!"

The leader was none other than his drinking buddy, Commander Zhou. The two had always been in cahoots, their clandestine dealings countless times. Upon hearing that Wang Dahai was in trouble, Commander Zhou hurriedly led his men to the scene.

Upon seeing the bound Wang Dahai, Commander Zhou roared, "In broad daylight, how dare you bandits so audacious as to openly capture an official of the court! Don't you have any respect for the law? Men, charge! Rescue Lord Wang and slaughter these bandits!"

Zhu Chuanzong was both shocked and furious. He hadn't expected this man to start a massacre without even asking any questions. He was enraged, but this matter seemed suspicious; there must be a major hidden story. Otherwise, how could this commander be so bold? Why was he so certain they were bandits and determined to kill them all? Wang Dahai had mentioned the murder of the magistrate of Nahe County—what exactly happened?

Commander Zhou's army numbered three or four hundred men, all well-trained soldiers, far superior to the previous constables. Although Zhu Chuanzong's guards were highly skilled in martial arts, they had to protect Zhu Chuanzong, so they formed a circle, protecting Zhu Chuanzong, Wang Dahai, and Zi Xian in the middle. This prevented them from engaging in a chaotic battle and allowed them to utilize their superior martial arts skills, putting them at a disadvantage.

Although Zhao Yinglai and his guards identified themselves while fighting, the soldiers ignored them, relying solely on their numbers. They only wanted to capture them for merit.

Zhu Chuanzong watched the unfolding events with cold eyes, his heart filled with rage. These soldiers numbered only a few hundred. If Zhu Chuanzong were to intervene, leading his guards in a fierce battle, killing a few leaders would surely cause the soldiers to rout and flee. However, these soldiers were originally his men, and now, whether they had lost their minds or something else, they were ungrateful and wanted to wipe them out.

Zhu Chuanzong hesitated, unsure whether to unleash a massacre. Turning his head, he saw that Zi Xian's beautiful face was pale

and her expression was somewhat distressed. He assumed she thought she was about to die, so he smiled and comforted her, "Don't worry, don't be afraid. I will make sure you are safe." Zi Xian was somewhat surprised to see Zhu Chuanzong so calm and seemingly unafraid. She said, "I'm not worried about myself, sir. They want to kill you to silence you! The enemy you've offended is too powerful."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Life and death are predestined. If I can sacrifice myself for the court, it's worth it. What's there to be afraid of?"

Although Zi Xian was pale with fright, seeing Zhu Chuanzong's composure and fearlessness, like a historical hero who commanded troops with ease, she admired him greatly. She couldn't help but tightly grasp Zhu Chuanzong's hand and smiled tremblingly, "Young Master Zhu, you are a good man. If we die, let's die together."

These words were deeply affectionate. In ancient times, women often made lifelong commitments with a single word, so these words naturally implied a promise of lifelong devotion. Overjoyed, Zhu Chuanzong forgot the danger they were in and couldn't help but pull Zixian into his arms, whispering, "A bond forged in adversity is rare! To have met a confidante like you is truly a blessing."

The two nestled together, feeling incredibly sweet, their joy amidst the clash of swords.

At this moment, the guards had wounded more than a dozen soldiers, but they still couldn't break into the enemy ranks and engage in chaotic combat. Consequently, they couldn't fully utilize their superior martial arts skills and gradually became overwhelmed. Zhao Yinglai shouted loudly, "My lord, let us protect you and break through!"

Zhu Chuanzong then snapped out of his reverie and sneered, "Do these people even deserve to make me flee?"

With that, he roared at the soldiers, "Do you really want to kill the Imperial Envoy? Are you even willing to have your entire families executed?"

The soldiers were stunned, as if struck by a thunderbolt, and took several steps back. Hearing Zhu Chuanzong's words, they hesitated to advance.

Upon seeing this, Commander Zhou hurriedly shouted, "These people are all bandits, impersonating imperial envoys! Don't be fooled! Keep going and capture these bandits! You'll not only be promoted, but also richly rewarded!"

Hearing this, the soldiers charged forward again.

Zhu Chuanzong sneered and said to Zhao Yinglai, "Protect this young lady. Let me teach these fools a lesson."

Zhao Yinglai gave a wink to the guards beside him, signaling them to protect Zi Xian, and said to Zhu Chuanzong, "Allow me to fight alongside you, sir. I was born too late; it is my honor to fight alongside you today."

He was a newly appointed personal guard of Zhu Chuanzong and knew that Zhu Chuanzong was the bravest in the land. These lowly soldiers were no match for the Regent. To fight alongside the Regent would be the most boastful thing in his life.

Just as they were about to unleash their fury, they heard shouts and the neighing of horses, and a troop of men charged in from the side. Armored and gleaming, the elite troops surged forth from all directions, densely packed, numbering nearly several thousand. In the blink of an eye, they formed an encirclement, trapping everyone inside.

The leader, dressed as a civil official, shouted, "Your Highness, your subordinate Shui Fengliang has summoned elite troops to our aid!"

He then yelled at Commander Zhou, "How dare you rebel! Do you truly not value your lives?"

A military officer beside him ordered, "Arrest these traitors!"

Zhu Chuanzong recognized the civil official as his trusted confidant, Shui Fengliang, and assumed he had received the message and requested reinforcements.

At this moment, the elite troops, receiving their orders, charged towards Commander Zhou's forces. Commander Zhou's soldiers, seeing that these were elite imperial troops, and that their commander was dressed as a garrison commander—a rank higher than their own—were momentarily confused and stunned. Those who reacted quickly threw down their weapons and knelt down to beg for mercy; those who were slow-witted and didn't have time to surrender were killed or wounded, but in just a short while, they were all captured.

Commander Zhou and Wang Dahai were bound tightly and brought before Zhu Chuanzong. The soldiers dealt with the rebels, cleaned the battlefield, and dragged the corpses aside. Then they spread out and tightly guarded the surrounding streets.

Shui Fengliang came before Zhu Chuanzong, knelt down respectfully, and said, "This humble official has arrived late to rescue Your Highness, and has frightened you. Please forgive me, Your Highness."

A large group of people around him knelt down in unison, shouting, "Long live the Regent!"

Commander Zhou was dumbfounded and terrified. When he came to his senses, he was so frightened that he collapsed to the ground, unable to utter a word.

Zhu Chuanzong smiled slightly and said, "Lord Shui, you've arrived just in time!"

Shui Fengliang said, "After the Prince left the capital, I secretly protected him all the way. However, following your orders, I dared not get too close. But I suddenly learned that the magistrate of Nahe County had been murdered, and that it was done by a group of thieves impersonating imperial envoys. Fearing that this might implicate the Prince, I reported it to the Censorate while also worrying about the Prince's safety. So I didn't hesitate and asked the elite troops from the vicinity to come. If I had arrived any later, and the Prince had been frightened, I would have truly deserved to die."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed loudly and said, "You have rendered a great service. What crime have you committed?"

He then told him to get up.

At this moment, Zi Xian stepped out from the crowd, gracefully bowed, and said, "This humble woman greets Your Highness. I have been rude in the past; please forgive me."

Zhu Chuanzong personally helped her up, smiling, "Thank you for your help several times, Miss. I'm already grateful to you. Besides, you haven't done anything rude."

This wasn't the time for pleasantries, so he had her stand aside and ordered Wang Dahai and Commander Zhou to be brought in.

However, Wang Dahai and Commander Zhou had only taken two steps when they suddenly collapsed to the ground with a thud, black blood flowing from their mouths. They died shortly afterward.

The suddenness of the event shocked everyone. Zhu Chuanzong's expression changed drastically. He ordered a city-wide curfew, forbidding any leaks of information. After giving the orders, Zhu Chuanzong led everyone back to the county office to settle in. However, as they passed a pile of corpses, one of the bodies suddenly moved, pulled out a dagger, and lunged at Zhu Chuanzong. Zi Xian, who happened to be nearby, suddenly changed her expression and cried out, "Your Highness, be careful!"

She pushed Zhu Chuanzong aside and shielded him.

If Zi Xian hadn't bravely shielded him, Zhu Chuanzong, with his skill, wouldn't have been able to stab him. However, since Zi Xian had no martial arts skills whatsoever, and was blocking his way, Zhu Chuanzong hurriedly pulled her aside to dodge. But the attack was sudden, and Zi Xian was still stabbed in the inner left thigh, falling to the ground injured.

Shui Fengliang was furious, stepped forward, and stabbed the seriously wounded soldier to death with his sword. Then he knelt down and begged Zhu Chuanzong for forgiveness, saying that he had failed in his duty of protection and asking the prince for punishment. Zhu Chuanzong had no time to dwell on such matters now. He hurriedly held the bleeding Zi Xian, treating her wounds while anxiously shouting, "Quickly, find a doctor!"

Soon, a famous doctor from the city was summoned. Fortunately, no vital organs were injured, and there was no danger to her life, so Zhu Chuanzong was relieved.

Such a strange incident in Pingchuan County must have involved an extraordinary conspiracy, so Zhu Chuanzong ordered his soldiers to block the news and prevent any leaks. While ordering the investigation of Wang Dahai and Zhou Qianzong's close associates, he found nothing.

Having been away from the capital for some time, and with this incident, Zhu Chuanzong was uneasy and eager to return. He asked Zixian to go back with him, but she refused.

Seeing her lack of greed for power, Zhu Chuanzong respected her even more, but unable to force her, he set off. Zixian, despite her illness, saw him off to a pavilion on the outskirts of the city.

Both suppressed their sorrow at parting. Zhu Chuanzong led his troops for over ten miles, but his chest felt empty, as if he had lost his heart.

Finally, he couldn't bear it any longer. He suddenly got out of the carriage, snatched a horse from a guard, mounted it, and galloped away along the same route. The soldiers hurriedly followed.

When Zhu Chuanzong arrived at the pavilion, he assumed Zixian had already gone home, but to his surprise, he saw her still standing there, lost in thought. Approaching her, he dismounted. Zi Xian's face was streaked with tears, yet her smile was exceptionally sweet.

Zhu Chuanzong gently embraced her, saying, "No matter what, even if you don't want to, I will take you with me. Otherwise, I will miss you for the rest of my life."

Zi Xian smiled through her tears, "I'll be so heartbroken if you leave. I've become so attached to you. No matter how much hardship I endure, I will stay by your side."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Silly child, how could you endure hardship? You're too busy enjoying happiness! Come back to the capital with me now?"

Zi Xian nodded obediently. Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and continued on his journey. This time, his mood was completely different; he was truly triumphant and infinitely happy.

Along the way, they ate and slept together, unwilling to part even for a moment. However, Zi Xian's thigh injury hadn't healed, so their desire to consummate their relationship was thwarted. Every night, Zhu Chuanzong watched the delicious food but couldn't eat it, which was truly heartbreaking.

That night, the two were intimate, and Zhu Chuanzong, burning with desire, could only barely suppress his urges. Unable to sleep, he tossed and turned. Zi Xian chuckled and softly asked, "Your Highness, are you feeling restless?"

Hearing her alluring voice, Zhu Chuanzong's desire intensified. He panted, "Once you're healed, I won't let you go!"

Zi Xian blushed, glanced at him, and shyly said, "Shall I serve you now?"

She lowered her head and slipped under the covers. Just as Zhu Chuanzong was wondering what was going on, a tingling, tingling sensation suddenly spread across his chest, an intensely pleasurable feeling. He couldn't help but gasp, realizing that Zi Xian was about to use her delicate tongue to serve him, and he was overjoyed.

Zi Xian's tongue was wet and soft, and licking his body felt like being brushed by a feather—a tingling, numbing, and itchy sensation, a complex mix of feelings that were difficult to describe. Zhu Chuanzong felt as if every pore on his body had opened up, as if he had eaten Laozi's elixir of immortality, experiencing a blissful, ecstatic sensation, as if ascending to heaven.

At this moment, Zi Xian changed her approach, licking and gently nibbling with her pearly teeth, tracing every inch of Zhu Chuanzong's body like a plow, leaving no spot untouched. Overwhelmed with pleasure, Zhu Chuanzong's lust surged, his groin erect as if about to explode.

Zi Xian coquettishly raised her head, glancing at Zhu Chuanzong, then shyly lowered her head, extending her tender tongue to lick the tip of his large penis before taking the entire shaft into her mouth. She then began to tease and suckle the glans, her tongue half-exhaled, circling it several times. Her tongue was agile, licking and sweeping slowly, moving up and down. She licked the enormous penis until it shone brightly, throbbing in her small hand.

At that moment, Zi Xian's lips and tongue moved in unison, sucking and licking, making gurgling sounds. One was enjoying it immensely, while the other was being sucked, licked, and kissed until her whole body went limp. After an unknown amount of time, Zhu Chuanzong let out a comfortable cry and released a large amount of semen. Zixian, as if savoring a delicious treat, swallowed every last drop, even licking her lips with her small, fragrant tongue. Then, with a charming smile, she asked, "Was it comfortable, Your Highness?"

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "It was incredibly comfortable. My darling, how could a young lady from a prominent family like you know how to serve a man?"

Zixian was mortified and said, "I've read about the Taoist secrets of dual cultivation, so I understand. I did this because I love Your Highness so much. Please don't look down on me, Your Highness."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "You're self-taught, very clever. I'm too busy praising you to look down on you!"

This made Zixian blush even more.

From then on, every night, Zixian would serve Zhu Chuanzong with her small, fragrant tongue, licking every inch of his body, leaving no spot untouched. Several days passed in this way, and Zi Xian had thoroughly explored all of Zhu Chuanzong's most sensitive spots, becoming adept at it. During her services, her tender tongue specifically targeted these areas, attending to Zhu Chuanzong with meticulous care, making him feel as if he were in paradise.

One day, after a long day of travel, they rested at an inn. After Zi Xian finished her tongue service, she said in a seductive voice, "Your Highness, I've thought of a new way to serve you. Would Your Highness like to try it?"

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and quickly agreed. Zi Xian, blushing, removed her undergarments, revealing two snow-white, full breasts. These breasts were incredibly plump, round and large, with two rosy nipples like freshly peeled chicken heads, and were firm and beautiful, resembling twin peaks. Her waist was remarkably slender, making one worry that her breasts might break it.

Zi Xian cupped her breasts in her hands, slowly bent down, and began rubbing them against Zhu Chuanzong's body.

This rubbing sent Zhu Chuanzong into a state of blissful ecstasy, as if he were ascending to heaven. Her breasts were soft and tender, smooth and alluring; as they rubbed against his body, it felt like an electric shock, a tingling, itchy, and incredibly pleasurable sensation.

Zi Xian's breasts roamed over Zhu Chuanzong's body several times, until she was panting heavily, her body drenched in fragrant sweat. Her two round, jade-like breasts were stimulated until they stood erect, revealing a cleavage between them. At this moment, Zhu Chuanzong's penis was already fully erect. Zi Xian sandwiched his penis between her breasts, her breasts pressed together, and began to stroke it.

The Empress Dowager had used this technique before, but Zi Xian used it with a different kind of pleasure. While vigorously stroking his penis with her breasts, she lowered her head and used her small, fragrant tongue to lick the bright red glans, carefully sucking and licking it. The penis made a "sizzling" sound as it thrust between her breasts, combined with the smacking sounds of her licking the glans, creating an extremely lewd scene.

Zhu Chuanzong was incredibly aroused, only concerned with enjoying himself, and before long, his penis throbbed wildly, and his semen sprayed all over Zi Xian's face. This scene of debauchery and decadence made Zhu Chuanzong feel so blissful that he lost all sense of direction.

Afterwards, Zi Xian changed her methods every few days, seemingly always finding a new way to please Zhu Chuanzong. Zhu Chuanzong was thoroughly enjoying himself, wishing he never had to return to the capital. He was indulging in daily pleasures with Zi Xian, seemingly forgetting all his worries.

Sometimes, however, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but wonder. Zi Xian's skills in bed were so diverse and proficient, surpassing even the Empress Dowager's among his many women. It was hard to believe she was a virgin. Although Zhu Chuanzong had some doubts and felt slightly annoyed, he didn't dwell on it. Such a beauty, whom only he could enjoy in the future, was already a man's ultimate pleasure.

Chapter Three: Embracing Beauty

Zhu Chuanzong and Zi Xian were inseparable throughout their journey, their passion seemingly endless. If it weren't for important national affairs, they would have loved to stay a few more days.

They arrived in the capital that day. Outside the city, Fang Zhongxi, the leader of the Imperial Guard, came to greet them. Since Zhu Chuanzong had come to power, he had gradually promoted him to an important position.

Escorted by the guards, Zhu Chuanzong entered the city, intending to take Zixian home. However, Zixian refused, claiming her lowly status and lack of official rank made her unworthy to enter the Zhu family's gates.

Although Zixian came from an official family, Zhu Chuanzong dared not easily promise to marry her, but he also feared she would be mistreated if he made her a concubine. Moreover, Zixian was used to her freedom at home and preferred a quiet place. Zhu Chuanzong, currently doting on her, naturally considered her needs and, following Xue Jinxian's example, had his men find her a secluded and comfortable residence.

Because Zhu Chuanzong had left the capital, he was unsure if anything had happened, so he sent word to several trusted officials early in the morning. They came to greet him upon receiving the message. Zhu Chuanzong listened carefully to their reports, made arrangements, and ensured the army controlled all key locations in the capital before returning to his palace.

The women had already heard that he had encountered danger outside, and they all surrounded him, showing concern and worry.

Hua Caiyun complained, "You encountered danger outside, and everyone at home was very worried. We wanted to send someone to urge you, but we didn't know your whereabouts. Why did you take so long to come back?"

Zhu Chuanzong felt guilty seeing how worried the women were while he was out enjoying himself. He said all sorts of nice things to appease them.

Among the women, Hua Caiyun, who managed the Zhu family affairs and wielded great power, had already learned through her spies that Zhu Chuanzong had brought back another beautiful woman, and that he seemed to have lingered on the road for several days because of Zixian, showing how much he doted on this woman. Although she was somewhat unhappy, she couldn't pursue the matter in front of the women.

When Zhu Chuanzong went to Guanyun Courtyard to rest that evening, Hua Caiyun was overjoyed to see him come to her first thing upon his return. She showered him with tenderness, and their intimate moments were too sweet to describe.

After their lovemaking, the two embraced and talked. Hua Caiyun asked, "Does that Zi Xian really look exactly like the princess? Are there really people in the world who look so alike?"

Zhu Chuanzong became very interested when he mentioned Zi Xian and praised her highly. Hua Caiyun said with a hint of jealousy, "Is she that good? No wonder you left us all at home and didn't want to come back!"

Zhu Chuanzong, overly excited, saw his sister-in-law was angry and quickly put his arm around Hua Caiyun's slender waist, laughing, "She is good, but she can't compare to you, sister-in-law. You are charming and alluring, becoming more and more captivating. How could that young girl compare?"

Hua Caiyun laughed, "You know how to talk."

The two were affectionate for a while before Hua Caiyun helped Zhu Chuanzong get dressed, saying, "With your current power and status, it doesn't matter how many women you marry. But with so many sisters at home, you should be considerate. Sister Shuiyue has been worried about you these days, praying to Buddha every day, and her face is haggard. It breaks my heart to see her like this!"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "I'll go see her in a little while. Don't worry, sister-in-law, I'm not a heartless person."

Hua Caiyun laughed, "I'm just afraid you're too sentimental."

Zhu Chuanzong didn't dare to reply and left with a smile.

Zhu Chuanzong had been thinking of Zixian and originally wanted to go find her immediately, fearing she might be afraid to be alone in the capital. He planned to return home in a couple of days to reunite with the women, but remembering Hua Caiyun's words, he hesitated and went to Shuyue Tower to see Zhu Shuiyue instead. However, Zhu Shuiyue wasn't there; the maid said she had gone to Shuiyue Nunnery.

Zhu Chuanzong arrived at Shuiyue Nunnery and entered the Buddhist hall, where he saw Zhu Shuiyue kneeling on a prayer mat, worshipping Buddha. She wore a grey cloth robe and no makeup, yet her alluring figure and graceful demeanor were undeniable. She was chanting scriptures with her eyes slightly closed.

Zhu Chuanzong tiptoed over and embraced her. Seeing him, Zhu Shuiyue shyly scolded, "Why are you here? Be more dignified before the Buddha."

Zhu Chuanzong saw her peach-blossom face, capable of both anger and joy, her eyes sparkling, her small lips red like cherries. Even in simple clothes and without makeup, she was still beautiful and captivating. Moreover, that beauty, brimming with spring-like allure yet forced with dignity, was truly alluring.

If they weren't in front of the Bodhisattva statue, he would have loved to go all out. Once the lustful thought arose, it was immediately uncontrollable, and the more he thought about it, the more aroused he became.

Seeing him staring at her blankly, Zhu Shuiyue was delighted and scolded, "Look at you, so impatient! You're so old, yet you act like a child."

She got up, took his hand, and led him to her boudoir.

Zhu Chuanzong embraced her slender waist, reaching under her clothes, laughing, "Who told you to be so beautiful, sister?"

Zhu Shuiyue said, "Don't be naughty... the Bodhisattva will be angry..."

Although Zhu Chuanzong was a deity descended to earth, he was still somewhat afraid of the Bodhisattva, so he had to restrain himself. Finally back in their boudoir, before Zhu Shuiyue even reached the inner room, he pushed her down onto the desk. He untied her black robe with one hand and began to suckle her lips. Zhu Shuiyue struggled a few times, then her body went limp, panting softly, her tongue darting out as she kissed her lover.

Seeing Zhu Shuiyue's flushed face, Zhu Chuanzong knew she was aroused. Her breasts were high and firm, her skin smooth and tender like blooming flowers, even more so like white jade, which stirred his heart. He pressed her alluring breasts, squeezing and twisting them vigorously until they swelled.

Zhu Chuanzong quickly removed his clothes, his erect penis already hard and hot. With a sudden thrust, he inserted his penis into Zhu Shuiyue's vagina and began to thrust.

Zhu Shuiyue felt a tightness in her groin, her soul floating away, a tingling sensation penetrating to her very bones. She hadn't been intimate with Zhu Chuanzong for many days, and her long-dormant body couldn't help but respond with all her might, arching her back to welcome her lover's thrusts, moaning incessantly—truly a blissful experience.

Zhu Chuanzong worked vigorously on the document, his lewd moans filling the air.

He thrust his penis wildly into her vagina, driving Zhu Shuiyue to the brink of ecstasy, her beautiful eyes glazed over, drenched in sweat. He lifted her legs, making her thighs face him, and continued thrusting, saying, "Sister, lift your head and see what's going in and out of you!"

Zhu Shuiyue felt as if a small mouth was biting her penis, an unbearable tingling sensation, and she moaned, "You naughty thing."

Zhu Chuanzong worked for a full hour before ejaculating a large amount of semen into her vagina. The two, naked and intertwined, were still panting heavily.

After a while, Zhu Shuiyue, blushing, finished dressing and scolded, "How dare you be so presumptuous? I'm wearing nun's robes!"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "Doesn't the Bodhisattva know the principle of 'do not look at what is improper'? When we were making love, I suppose the Bodhisattva was too embarrassed to watch, how would she know you were wearing nun's robes? Besides, the Bodhisattva is compassionate and saves all sentient beings, how could she blame us for following the proper moral principles?"

Zhu Shuiyue said, "You're just spouting nonsense."

Still feeling uneasy, she chased Zhu Chuanzong out of her room and returned to the Buddhist hall, kneeling on the prayer mat, chanting sutras to apologize.

Zhu Chuanzong was satisfied and was about to leave when he saw a beautiful woman on the road, none other than Xiao Yu, a nun with her hair still intact.

Zhu Chuanzong hadn't seen her for half a year, and knowing her temperament, he dared not disturb her seclusion. But upon seeing her now, he couldn't contain himself and involuntarily stopped.

Xiao Yu smiled and said, "I heard you went out! You've been gone for so long, have you taken a fancy to some girl again?"

Zhu Chuanzong saw that her face was pretty, as beautiful as before, and her willow-leaf eyebrows seemed even more slender than before. He felt a little guilty and couldn't help but say, "Xiao Yu, you're still so amazing."

Xiao Yu smiled mockingly and said, "I know you well, young master!"

Zhu Chuanzong was embarrassed and quickly changed the subject, saying, "How are you? Is there anything you need?"

Xiao Yu smiled and said, "I spend my days with the Bodhisattva, and my heart is filled with peace and tranquility. Although I am in the mortal world, my heart is extremely happy. I am very content and don't need anything."

Zhu Chuanzong saw that she had found inner peace, which most people cannot achieve, and he was very happy for her.

The two chatted for a while longer, and Xiao Yu said, "Young master is busy with affairs, so you should go early. I will pray for you every day before the Bodhisattva, but there is one thing I would like to ask you to help with."

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed. Being able to do something for Xiao Yu was something he couldn't ask for more than anything. He hurriedly asked, "What is it? Tell me quickly, I'll agree to anything. Do you perhaps want to marry me?"

His face flushed, and he became energetic.

Xiao Yu scolded, "Still so incorrigible, you've suffered at the hands of so many women."

Then she said seriously, "Young master, the maids around you are all my good sisters. Please treat them well. Humph, if you don't listen, I won't forgive you. Tell the Bodhisattva about your bad deeds, and let the Bodhisattva punish you."

Zhu Chuanzong readily agreed and laughed, "Aren't you the Bodhisattva? I'm terrified. I'll definitely do as you say."

Xiao Yu rolled her eyes at him, her charm captivating Zhu Chuanzong. Xiao Yu said, "Don't talk nonsense, you'll defile the Bodhisattva."

Then she took her leave.

Although Zhu Chuanzong wanted to stay with her a little longer, he knew that Xiao Yu wanted to cultivate herself, so he had no choice but to let her go.

Walking along the road, Zhu Chuanzong thought of Xiao Yu, thinking, "She still cares about me and these sisters, just in a different way."

He couldn't help but smile at this thought.

Zhu Chuanzong remembered Xiao Yu's words about treating the maids well, and thought that these maids were all getting older and it was time for them to enjoy some comfort; they couldn't always be with him.

The next day, Zhu Chuanzong went to court. Upon returning to the court, the ministers sang praises, expressing their joy. Several officials skilled in literature composed poems and essays on the spot to praise him, but Zhu Chuanzong told them not to, and to send the essays to the Prince's residence after court. Then he began to inquire about the country's military and political affairs, and seeing that the officials left behind were doing well, he felt gratified.

However, recalling the various unexpected events that had occurred during his incognito visit, he vaguely felt that this matter was no small thing. Therefore, he strictly controlled the news while sending Shui Fengliang as a special envoy to investigate the matter thoroughly.

Zhu Chuanzong dealt with state affairs and comforted the women at home for three days. Only after court did he go to see Zi Xian.

Zi Xian, being quite understanding, didn't blame him and smiled, saying, "Your Highness is a pillar of the court, with many important matters to attend to. How can you devote all your time to a woman like me? Besides, there are many sisters in the manor who all yearn for Your Highness's favor. I would be content if

I could receive even a little of Your Highness's affection." Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but embrace her and sigh, "It's rare to find someone so understanding. How can I not love you?"

Zi Xian's pretty face flushed slightly, and she whispered sweetly in Zhu Chuanzong's ear, "Your Highness, my leg injury has healed..."

Zhu Chuanzong understood her meaning and was overjoyed. He picked her up and carried her to the boudoir. Zi Xian said shyly, "Your Highness, let's eat first... then..."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "With such beauty before me, what's the point of eating? I've finally waited for this day."

Zhu Chuanzong picked up the soft, boneless, warm, and fragrant Zi Xian and gently placed her on the couch. He removed Zi Xian's clothes, revealing her snow-white body, truly with ice-like skin and jade-like bones, exuding a delicate fragrance. Zhu Chuanzong saw that her toes were white, her ankles delicate, her calves long and slender with rounded knees, and her thighs were smooth and her skin like jade. Her small, pinkish-white vulva was full and protruding, like a flower petal about to bloom. Especially striking were her two snow-white, full breasts; although Zi Xian had used them to serve Zhu Chuanzong countless times, upon closer inspection now, they were truly towering and breathtaking. Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but grasp them, kiss them twice, and laughed, "I've been toiling away in the mountains all this time; today I can finally explore the fairy cave."

Zi Xian whispered, "This humble servant is new to the world; please be gentle, Your Highness!"

Zhu Chuanzong was taken aback, half-believing, half-doubting, thinking, "She's so skilled in bed; could she still be a virgin?"

He was both excited and puzzled. Touching her delicate and alluring vulva, like a jade clam, he chuckled, "Don't worry, the pleasure of love between a man and a woman is incredibly pleasurable; I guarantee you'll enjoy it."

He then began to gently caress and kiss Zi Xian's body, licking her bright red nipples. Zi Xian gasped and moaned incessantly, her exquisite body writhing. Zhu Chuanzong probed her lower body and found it already gushing with clear fluid. Knowing the time was right, he coated his large penis with her juices, careful not to hurt her, and slipperily and gently pushed it into her opening.

Zhu Chuanzong, experienced and seasoned, found her vulva tight and narrow, clearly untouched by intimacy.

Moreover, its inner depths were layered and exquisite, truly a masterpiece among vulvas. Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and cherished the beautiful woman beneath him even more. His large penis thrust in and out, sometimes deeply, sometimes shallowly, sometimes lightly, sometimes heavily. Before long, Zi Xian was aroused, moaning and panting, moving in response.

Perhaps because of her dancing skills, Zi Xian's slender waist was incredibly flexible, like a water snake, twisting up and down, almost arching into a full moon. Her vagina was both tight and loose, the sensation indescribable.

Zhu Chuanzong was so excited that he forgot to be gentle with her, and with a thrust of his penis, he began to pound and fuck her hard. The soft bed was tilted and almost fell apart from his fucking.

Although Zi Xian was exceptionally gifted and a wonderful woman in bed, she was still a virgin, her flower delicate. After half an hour of Zhu Chuanzong's ministrations, she gradually could not withstand it and began to beg for mercy softly. Zhu Chuanzong embraced her snow-white thighs, thrusting wildly and relentlessly until she was utterly exhausted, climaxing several times before finally ejaculating. Bloodstains were visible; Zi Xian was indeed still a virgin.

The two embraced naked, Zi Xian breathing softly, saying, "Your Highness, now that I am yours, please don't betray me and abandon me in the future."

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "My darling, you're a treasure from head to toe, you're such a little enchantress. Once I've tasted you, how could I ever leave you? Even if the seas dry up and the rocks crumble, I'll never leave you."

Zi Xian was delighted, giggling shyly. After a while, she regained some strength and struggled to get up, fetching a hot towel to wipe Zhu Chuanzong. Zhu Chuanzong enjoyed her meticulous care, seeing how considerate and attentive she was—no other woman could do that—and his love for her only intensified.

From then on, Zi Xian was incredibly alluring in bed, employing many techniques that even Zhu Chuanzong had never heard of. Her skin was delicate, her body supple and boneless, allowing her to strike many wondrous positions, making the experience incredibly pleasurable. Zhu Chuanzong and she would make love until dawn every night, yet he still felt it wasn't enough; he wished he could melt into her body.

A month later, Shui Fengliang returned with a secret report, saying that all the important figures involved in the matter were dead, and there was no concrete evidence. However, judging from the clues, it was undeniable that someone wanted to assassinate the prince. From Shui Fengliang's memorial, all the evidence pointed to Grand Marshal Wang Dingkun, as only he could easily mobilize troops.

Zhu Chuanzong was displeased. Although he and Wang Dingkun were sworn brothers, it seemed that friendship was meaningless when it came to power. While there was no concrete evidence, all the suspicions were reasonable.

No one else would dare assassinate him and gain anything from it.

If Zhu Chuanzong died, with Wang Dingkun's prestige, seizing power would be easy. Moreover, his relatives were involved in crimes, potentially implicating Zhu Chuanzong, so Zhu Chuanzong must know about it and wanted to strike first.

Because the matter was so shocking, publicizing it would cause turmoil in the court. Therefore, Zhu Chuanzong ordered Shui Fengliang to keep the matter strictly confidential, and the death of Wang Dahai was to be handled discreetly.

However, for some reason, the news eventually reached Wang Dingkun's ears. Treason was no small crime. Wang Dingkun sent special envoys five times in succession, each time to resign from his post and express his desire to personally come to the capital to apologize. Zhu Chuanzong

thought this was a feigned retreat, so he sent an imperial envoy to comfort him, saying that the two had shared life and death, their bond was deep, and there was no reason for him to doubt Wang Dingkun. He was told to rest assured, not to be easily swayed by the instigation of petty people, and to focus on guarding the border.

Wang Dingkun, a seasoned official, was well aware of the importance of knowing when to advance and retreat. He was also a man of great wisdom and courage. He thought of Zhu Chuanzong, who was brave and intelligent, and commanded the army, and knew that no one could defeat him. Since Zhu Chuanzong was in danger, this matter was of utmost importance. For anyone else, the charge of confiscation of property and extermination would be enough. If he did not dispel Zhu Chuanzong's doubts, his fate would be unimaginable once Zhu Chuanzong had the opportunity to act

. Wang Dingkun was filled with fear and wrote to the court, resolutely requesting to resign.

Zhu Chuanzong was unsure whether Wang Dingkun was testing him. If they truly forced him into rebellion, even if they could defeat him, it would require mobilizing the entire nation's army. Even if they won, the cost would be immense, with many lives lost, and the country would be thrown into turmoil. Therefore, he consulted with Shui Fengliang.

Shui Fengliang suggested, "Why not send someone to bribe Wang Dingkun's advisors to ascertain his true intentions before making a decision?"

Zhu Chuanzong found this reasonable and assigned Shui Fengliang to the task. Shui Fengliang, being resourceful, obtained accurate information: Wang Dingkun indeed intended to retire.

Zhu Chuanzong then sent a special envoy to respectfully invite Wang Dingkun back to the capital, requesting the emperor to bestow upon him the title of Prince Wu, though of course, it would be a nominal one.

Wang Dingkun arrived safely in the capital without rebelling, which greatly pleased Zhu Chuanzong. He personally received him and generously rewarded him with a large sum of money before returning to his residence, satisfied.

A great weight was lifted from Zhu Chuanzong's heart. In the morning, Nuanyun served him as he dressed and ate. Nuanyun was Zhu Chuanzong's personal maid, and their relationship was different from others. Moreover, she was gentle, sweet, and lovely, and Zhu Chuanzong adored her.

After finishing his meal, Zhu Chuanzong saw Nuanyun with a smile on her peach-blossom face, her pretty face lowered, making his bed. Zhu Chuanzong remembered Xiao Yu's instructions and thought, "Nuanyun isn't young anymore. She's been with me for so many years; I should give her a proper status."

Seeing Zhu Chuanzong lost in thought, Nuanyun smiled and said, "What's wrong, young master? Weren't you going out? Your clothes are ready."

Zhu Chuanzong took her hand and said softly, "Don't rush. Nuanyun, I'll go tell my sister-in-law that I'm taking you as my concubine. You should enjoy some happiness now."

Nuanyun was stunned for a long time, then covered her mouth with her hand, and large tears streamed down her face. Seeing her happy, Zhu Chuanzong was also happy.

Nuanyun's long-cherished wish had become a reality. From then on, her status was vastly different; she had risen to a high position and become a phoenix, envied by countless people. She requested to remain in Zhu Chuanzong's room and serve him as before. However, with a proper status, her position was completely different from before. The four women were all happy for her, and also quite envious.

Nuanyun said, "You all grew up with me, serving the young master together. He instructed me to treat you well. If you have any problems, just tell me. I know your brothers and sisters are facing difficulties, but the young master said he asked me to make arrangements for you. I won't mistreat you, so don't worry."

The four women were overjoyed to hear this.

Although all the women in Zhu Chuanzong's household were stunningly beautiful, talented, or clever, he always thought of Zixian. Therefore, whenever he had free time, he would go to Zixian's place.

He spent his days indulging in pleasure with Zixian. Zixian looked remarkably like Princess Chang Le, and was proficient in poetry, calligraphy, painting, music, and chess. When she sang and danced, she was like a fairy descending to earth, a feast for the eyes. In bed, however, she was incredibly charming, with countless techniques, captivating and enchanting, truly a rare beauty in the world.

Zhu Chuanzong and Zi Xian were inseparable, day and night. He not only didn't tire of her, but his love for her only grew stronger; he simply couldn't bear to be apart from her for a moment.

Zi Xian, being shrewd and calculating, was pleased with Zhu Chuanzong's doting affection, but she also knew she had inadvertently offended his other women. The women of the Zhu family were all exceptionally beautiful and talented; if they united against her, even with Zhu Chuanzong's favor, she would suffer greatly. Therefore, she went to great lengths to please and serve Zhu Chuanzong, making him even more infatuated with her; at the same time, she subtly inquired about the other women, their personalities and interests, keeping them well-informed.

She knew Xue Jinxian was intelligent and capable, held a high position in Zhu Chuanzong's heart, and was also one of his mistresses, sharing a similar situation and common ground. Therefore, she prepared several exquisite gifts and went to visit Xue Jinxian.

Xue Jinxian welcomed Zixian into the house and scrutinized her for a while. Seeing that she truly resembled Princess Chang Le perfectly, he couldn't help but marvel at the uncanny resemblance. Moreover, unlike the princess's aloofness, this woman possessed a captivating charm that even he, a woman, found alluring. No wonder Zhu Chuanzong was so infatuated with her.

Zixian quickly bowed and said, "I've long heard of your esteemed name, elder sister, a rare and extraordinary woman. Seeing you today, I am truly humbled." Xue

Jinxian hurriedly helped her up, laughing, "Sister, you are truly a celestial being."

The two entered the house hand in hand and sat down to talk. Zixian was very eloquent, addressing him affectionately as "elder sister." She was also multi-talented and insightful, not far behind Xue Jinxian. Knowing that Zixian was Zhu Chuanzong's favorite, Xue Jinxian didn't want to offend her. The two got along extremely well.

Zi Xian glanced at the embroidery on the bedside table and asked in surprise, "Did you embroider this, sister?"

She picked it up and examined it closely. The embroidery depicted flowers, birds, and landscapes, all remarkably lifelike. She couldn't help but marvel at it, praising it endlessly. Finally, she said, "I also enjoy needlework, but compared to you, sister, my skills are utterly crude. I'd like to come and learn from you often. I wonder if you would be willing to accept me, your clumsy apprentice?"

Xue Jinxian, who was most proud of her skills, was delighted to hear this and smiled, "Sister, you're too kind. I would be delighted if you could come often so we could exchange ideas."

Afterwards, Zi Xian often used the guise of learning needlework to get closer to Xue Jinxian. Whether she genuinely wanted to learn was uncertain. However, with daily contact, her relationship with Xue Jinxian grew increasingly closer.

Zhu Chuanzong would rush to Zi Xian's place every day after court, not even returning home. He would spend eight out of ten nights at Zi Xian's. Over time, the women in the household inevitably felt dissatisfied. On one hand, they longed for Zhu Chuanzong's favor; on the other hand, they all wanted to conceive with his child. Now that Zhu Chuanzong didn't come home to spend the night, their hopes of having a child seemed even more distant.

Hua Caiyun initially thought Zhu Chuanzong was simply attracted to her because of her novelty and Zi Xian's resemblance to a princess. However, after some time, seeing that he remained the same, she went to discuss it with Zhu Shuiyue. Both women were deeply worried, wondering what made Zi Xian so charming.

Curious, the two women finally decided to visit Zi Xian to see what charm she possessed that could bewitch Zhu Chuanzong so completely. Neither of them were Zhu Chuanzong's legitimate wives, so he specially went to invite Yue Keren as well. The three women went together to pay their respects to Zixian.

Zixian was prepared, and upon hearing that the three women were coming, she calmly and unhurriedly greeted them with a smile, kneeling down to welcome them with utmost humility. Seeing her humble and polite demeanor, and her willingness to serve others, the three women did not want to make things too difficult for her, and their initial resentment vanished instantly.

Upon entering, Hua Caiyun smiled and said, "We heard that Bao'er brought back a sister who is both beautiful and talented. We were curious and came to pay our respects. Indeed, seeing is believing; she is truly captivating."

Zi Xian bowed and said, "I have long admired the three of you. Sister-in-law, you are exceptionally wise, managing such a large mansion so well; you are truly a model of womanhood. Sister Zhu is well-versed in Buddhist principles and possesses an ethereal beauty that is truly admirable. Sister Yue is an extraordinary woman who once sought justice for her father and shared hardships with the Prince. I am of humble origin, and although I admire you, I dared not disturb you. I did not expect to trouble you sisters to come first; I am truly sorry. Please do not blame me."

Zi Xian was perceptive and tactful, and with just a few words, she made the three women laugh and couldn't help but feel a sense of goodwill towards her. Moreover, seeing her humble demeanor, she seemed to be a woman who used her beauty to please others without any ambition, so there was no need to worry that she would become arrogant and monopolize Zhu Chuanzong. After a few years, Zhu Chuanzong grew tired of her and stopped spoiling her excessively. The three women were relieved and, after chatting for a while, smiled and took their leave.

Taking advantage of this opportunity, Zi Xian often bought gifts to visit in person or had her maid deliver them to the Zhu family's women. She had long since found out the women's preferences, and the gifts she gave were not only valuable but also thoughtfully chosen, perfectly suited to their tastes. The women admired her more and more, and even when mentioning her to Zhu Chuanzong, they couldn't help but praise her.

Seeing this, Zhu Chuanzong was even more at ease and doted on Zi Xian. He would stay at Zi Xian's place for ten days to half a month at a time, reluctant to leave. Although the other women in the household were dissatisfied, they couldn't say anything more.

Hua Caiyun, who was Zhu Chuanzong's sister-in-law, originally didn't care about these things, but wanting to stand up for Yue Keren and the other women, and remembering Xue Jinxian's resourcefulness, she went to discuss with her, hoping she could come up with a way to persuade Zhu Chuanzong not to always stay with one woman.

Xue Jinxian said, "Sister, don't you understand? Husband's feelings for Zixian aren't just for her alone; he's transferred all his longing for Princess Changle onto Zixian! Husband and Princess Changle are destined for each other in a past life; their love is far deeper than anyone else's. Sister, you should know this very well. To put it bluntly, if he had to choose between the two, he would probably choose Zixian, not any of us sisters. It's practically impossible for you to make him distance himself from Zixian!"

Hua Caiyun said, "Sister, your insight is truly remarkable; what you say makes perfect sense. However, to let husband become so infatuated with one woman like this, even we..." "If the sisters don't care, trouble will likely arise in the future. Beauty can be a source of trouble; such things have existed

since ancient times." Xue Jinxian smiled and said, "I think Zixian is well-educated, intelligent, and not someone who doesn't understand the bigger picture. I don't think she would harm my husband, especially with you and me here. Sister, you just need to maintain a good relationship with her and keep an eye on things; naturally, there won't be any trouble."

Hua Caiyun sighed, "That's the only way."

Chapter Four: Dividing Favor Through Sons

Time flew by, and several more years passed. Zhu Chuanzong was surrounded by beautiful women, indulging in a life of pleasure and debauchery. However, things weren't looking good in the court, as problems with officialdom were gradually emerging. As Zhu Chuanzong's rule deepened, the officials he appointed became increasingly lax, and shocking scandals frequently surfaced. One day, an imperial censor reported that Huang Ke, the magistrate of Lin'an County, had died in a brothel, but was declared to have died in the line of duty. This matter was circulating among the people, causing great harm and damaging the court's reputation. The censor requested the prince's decision.

Normally, minor matters concerning county-level officials wouldn't need to be reported to the cabinet, but since the censor had submitted a report, it seemed a major unrest had occurred among the people, thus requiring the court's intervention.

Zhu Chuanzong frowned deeply and dispatched officials from the Ministry of Personnel and the Ministry of Rites to investigate the matter and punish the relevant officials who had violated the law. The

absurdity of the political situation wasn't the most troublesome issue; the most troubling thing was that the young emperor was growing older and gradually developing his own opinions. The young emperor, Tang Hui, was naturally intelligent and had heard something about Zhu Chuanzong's affair with the Empress Dowager. Now in his teens, he was at the age of rebellion, and he harbored resentment towards Zhu Chuanzong for a long time.

Furthermore, the emperor was supposed to be the ruler of the land, enjoying unparalleled honor, while Zhu Chuanzong was merely his subject. Yet, the entire court seemed to follow Zhu Chuanzong's lead blindly, seemingly disregarding the emperor's authority. The young emperor, hot-blooded and ambitious, harbored resentment towards Zhu Chuanzong's overstepping of authority and monopolization of power.

The Peach Blossom Flood was an unavoidable disaster in every dynasty; when it occurred, it would inundate vast tracts of farmland, displace people, and cause widespread suffering. The imperial court, of course, had to address this matter. The Ministry of Revenue allocated millions of taels of silver annually to the river management office for dike repairs, but the results were minimal. This was naturally due to officials embezzling funds and river workers cutting corners.

That day at court, the emperor, emboldened, actually rejected Zhu Chuanzong's memorial on the issue of river management.

This was unprecedented, and the entire court was quite surprised. However, the officials quickly realized their mistake, knelt down, and said that the Regent Prince's words were reasonable, requesting the emperor to rescind his decree.

Seeing that the officials were all on Zhu Chuanzong's side, the emperor had no choice but to apologize to Zhu Chuanzong, approve the memorial, and then stormed off the court.

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing his son growing increasingly disobedient and opposing him, was furious and went to see the Empress Dowager the next day.

When the Empress Dowager saw him arrive, she ordered the eunuchs and maids to leave, leaving only two personal maids to wait outside the door. She smiled and said, "Your Highness, your esteemed presence is an honor. You look hurried; there must be something important."

Zhu Chuanzong coldly snorted, "Isn't it all because of your good son?" The Empress

Dowager already knew what had happened at court. Seeing Zhu Chuanzong's displeasure, she scolded, "Look at you, a father, actually picking on your own son! How narrow-minded! What kind of father are you?"

Zhu Chuanzong remained silent for a long time before sighing, "I'm just afraid he won't acknowledge me as his father. I've risked my life for the country, isn't it all for his own good? So that when he ascends the throne, he can easily govern the world. Do you think that after all my efforts, he won't appreciate it, and even worse..." "Are you going to go against me?"

The Empress Dowager nestled into his arms coquettishly, laughing, "He's just a child and doesn't understand, so please be understanding. I'll talk to him. But he's still young, and his mind is easily swayed, so we can't tell him the truth yet that you're his father. In a couple of years, when he's older, he'll know the truth and will definitely be grateful to you."

Zhu Chuanzong saw that the Empress Dowager was charming and beautiful, and although she was old, she was as radiant as a young girl. He sighed, "You're his mother, so you naturally understand him best. You handle this matter!"

Seeing that Zhu Chuanzong was no longer angry, the Empress Dowager knew when to stop and smiled through her tears. She served him like a servant, helping him take off his outer garments, bringing him tea and water, and massaging his shoulders, trying to please him.

The two chatted intimately about everyday things, and soon the conversation turned to the Emperor. Zhu Chuanzong asked, "How is the Emperor doing with his studies lately?"

The Empress Dowager replied, "Our son is exceptionally intelligent, how could he be not? The teachers in the palace all praise him highly."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "He's clever, but you should keep a closer eye on him. In court, he rejected one of my memorials and even argued with me openly. I didn't expect him to be so young, yet already so adept at vying for power."

The Empress Dowager's face paled. "He's still a child. What does he know about power? He probably harbors resentment towards you because of what happened between us. Wait until you find an opportunity to tell him you're his biological father, and he'll obediently listen to you. For now, just be more tolerant; after all, he's your only son!"

Zhu Chuanzong glanced at her and laughed, "Look how scared you are. How could I hold a grudge against my own son? Just teach him a lesson later."

The Empress Dowager breathed a sigh of relief, but still wasn't reassured. She pretended to massage Zhu Chuanzong's shoulders, pressing her ample breasts tightly against his back and rubbing them vigorously a few times. Then she reached down to his crotch, touching it a few times, and his large member stood erect menacingly. The Empress Dowager let out a soft cry, her face full of allure, caressing it with obvious affection.

Zhu Chuanzong laughed, "You little slut, your breasts have grown quite a bit bigger, haven't they? Are you craving a big cock?"

The Empress Dowager smiled seductively, "This servant longs for Your Majesty's big cock! Please, Your Majesty, quickly teach this servant a lesson!"

Zhu Chuanzong cursed, "What a slut!"

He pressed the Empress Dowager's head down to his crotch. The Empress Dowager, knowing the situation, quickly reached out and unzipped his pants.

The two were filled with lust and about to consummate their relationship when a eunuch outside the door announced that the Emperor had arrived.

It turned out the Emperor also had spies in the palace. Hearing that Zhu Chuanzong had come to the Empress Dowager's palace again, he was furious and immediately came to stop their "illicit affair."

After the two had dressed, the Emperor entered, his face grim. "The Regent is discussing state affairs with the Empress Dowager again," he said. "May I listen in?" The Empress Dowager's

expression darkened. "Perfect," she replied, "I have something to tell you!"

Embodying the authority of an Empress Dowager, she severely reprimanded the Emperor, praising his hard work and talent for governance, and for his inappropriate behavior. She then forced him to apologize to Zhu Chuanzong.

Zhu Chuanzong initially stood aside, remaining silent. Behind the Emperor were several palace maids and eunuchs. One of the maids, about sixteen or seventeen, possessed delicate features, a graceful figure, and captivating beauty. Zhu Chuanzong was momentarily stunned, thinking, "I never expected such a beautiful woman among the palace maids."

He stared at her, and she, in turn, stole glances at him. Their eyes met, and the maid lowered her head slightly, her face flushed, her eyes shimmering with affection.

Her skin, as white as snow, seemed to be rouged, her cheeks flushed, her beauty breathtaking. Zhu Chuanzong was mesmerized.

At this moment, the Empress Dowager finished speaking with the Emperor, who apologized to Zhu Chuanzong. Although resentful, he was satisfied that he had ruined their tryst and returned to his study. The eunuchs and maids followed him. The extremely beautiful maid stole a few more glances at Zhu Chuanzong, blushed, and then lowered her head.

The Empress Dowager, fearing Zhu Chuanzong would anger the Emperor, was worried about how to appease him. Seeing Zhu Chuanzong staring blankly at the palace maid's retreating figure, she was overjoyed and said with a smile, "Your Highness, have you taken a fancy to this little girl? This girl is a maidservant of the Emperor, named Wan'er, and she is very charming and lovely. If Your Highness likes her, I will have her serve you another day."

Zhu Chuanzong was somewhat tempted, but he was currently preoccupied with many women at home and his relationship with Zi Xian was at its most passionate. Therefore, he only felt a fleeting attraction and then let it go, laughing, "No one is as beautiful as you."

With too many eyes and ears in the palace and too many taboos, he was displeased and took his leave.

The argument thus passed. Seeing that even his mother had spoken up for Zhu Chuanzong, the Emperor dared not openly contradict him again.

From then on, Zhu Chuanzong was busy with state affairs, which goes without saying.

That evening, Zhu Chuanzong, after finishing court, went to rest at Zixian's place. They sat and drank wine, and Zhu praised Zixian's cooking. Suddenly, Zixian chuckled. Zhu asked why, and Zixian replied, "Today I went to the market to buy rouge and overheard people talking about Lord Shui Fengliang. They all called him 'Water Vegetable,' and I found the nickname quite amusing, hence the laugh."

Zhu Chuanzong, intrigued, asked, "Oh? That name is indeed interesting. Is there any story behind it?"

Zixian told him what she had overheard. It turned out that Shui Fengliang lived very frugally, eating only a plate of vegetables, a bowl of rice, and a bowl of water each day. Over time, this story spread, and officials and commoners alike called him "Water Vegetable." Furthermore, to save money, Shui Fengliang planted many Chinese toon and elm trees in the courtyard of the government office. In the spring, he would pick the tender leaves to eat, leaving the trees in the office bare.

After hearing Zixian's story, Zhu Chuanzong nodded in approval. Zi Xian said, "By the way, I've also heard a story about extinguishing official candles, also about Lord Shui."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Tell me about it."

The story goes that when Shui Fengliang was reviewing official documents at night, he sometimes received personal letters, such as family letters. He would order the official candles extinguished and light his own personal candles instead. Only after reading his personal letters and returning to work would he relight the official candles.

Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but slap the table and praise, "Excellent! Excellent story about extinguishing official candles, Shui Fengliang! If every official in Daliang could be as incorruptible as Shui Fengliang, how could the country not prosper, and how could the people not live a good life?"

Zi Xian, observing Zhu Chuanzong's delight, knelt down and said, "Congratulations, Your Highness, on having such a virtuous minister! The people all say that while Lord Shui is good, ultimately it's Your Highness's wisdom in recognizing and employing talent that matters. They all say Your Highness is truly a wise ruler!"

Zhu Chuanzong laughed heartily upon hearing this.

Afterwards, Zhu Chuanzong increasingly valued and trusted Shui Fengliang, entrusting him with important political affairs.

Shui Fengliang gradually rose through the ranks, and eventually, when the position of Right Chancellor became vacant, Zhu Chuanzong reinstated him. Shui Fengliang's power grew, and his diligence and integrity earned him an excellent reputation in official circles. Zhu Chuanzong once inquired of other officials about their opinions of Shui Fengliang, and they all praised him highly.

Zhu Chuanzong, surrounded by praise, and having many women, wanted to avoid neglecting them, so he spent more time with them, naturally having more time for his intimate moments with Zi Xian. Previously, although he stayed at Zi Xian's place every night, he still insisted on attending court and handling state affairs during the day. Now, he often skipped court, leaving matters to Shui Fengliang. This was truly a case of: "The spring night is short, the sun rises high, and from then on, the prince no longer attends court."

Zhu Chuanzong was infatuated with Zi Xian; although he didn't neglect his other women, he spent less time at court. Although Hua Caiyun and the others were dissatisfied, their attempts to persuade him were futile, and they couldn't keep trying. Besides, keeping Zhu Chuanzong away from Zi Xian would make him seem like a jealous woman, which wouldn't be flattering. However, Zhu Chuanzong had now reached the point of neglecting state affairs, and the women couldn't sit still any longer. After some discussion, they finally unanimously elected Xue Jinxian to advise Zhu Chuanzong.

Xue Jinxian said to Zhu Chuanzong, "Husband, you have so many women around you, each extraordinary, but now you only have Zi Xian in your eyes, neglecting state affairs and even skipping court. Are you going to abandon your ambition to benefit the world? I hope this gentle embrace doesn't become a hero's grave!"

Zhu Chuanzong, who always respected her, was moved and said, "Jinxian, you're right. But I… sigh, let me think about it some more."

Seeing that he felt guilty but still couldn't make up his mind, clearly already hopelessly infatuated with Zi Xian, Xue Jinxian couldn't help but sigh inwardly.

Hearing Xue Jinxian's words, Zhu Chuanzong recalled all the kindness the other women had shown him and the many sweet memories they shared. He realized how selfish and inconsiderate he had been; it was truly wrong of him. But one's emotions are beyond control! Zixian and Zisha were so alike; being with her was like finding solace for his longing for Zisha. Moreover, Zixian was understanding and attentive, her gentleness irresistible to any man. In bed, Zixian was a beauty unmatched by any of the other women… Leaving the other women might fill him with immense guilt, but leaving Zixian would be like a death knell!

Zhu Chuanzong pondered this, unable to make a decision. Finally, reason prevailed, and he thought, "I'll talk to Zixian today; I can't always spend time with her anymore."

To his surprise, he was stunned upon entering. Zi Xian was dressed differently than usual, in a light gauze dress and embroidered robe, her black hair styled elegantly, exuding a fragrant aroma. Her pretty face was made up, her eyebrows were like painted willow leaves, her skin was like snow, and her eyes held a captivating allure. He was momentarily speechless.

Zi Xian smiled sweetly, her charm enhanced, and said, "Your Highness is back."

Zhu Chuanzong asked, "Why are you dressed so beautifully today, Xian'er? Is it a special day?"

Zi Xian replied, "I've been preparing a dance these past few days, and I've finally mastered it. I'd like to invite Your Highness to enjoy it." She then gave Zhu Chuanzong a seductive glance and led him to sit down in the courtyard.

A low table had already been set out in the courtyard, laden with fruit, snacks, and a pot of fine wine. Zi Xian poured wine for Zhu Chuanzong and personally fed him two grapes. Zhu Chuanzong, inhaling her alluring fragrance, couldn't resist kissing her twice and laughing, "What dance have you been practicing, Xian'er? Show me!"

Zi Xian chuckled, went into the courtyard, and with a flick of her long sleeves, began to dance.

Her figure was graceful, like a willow swaying in the breeze, exquisitely beautiful. Most captivating was the sheer gauze she wore, as thin as a cicada's wing, revealing glimpses of her body—a seductive allure that made one yearn to see more yet remain elusive, even more alluring than being naked.

Zhu Chuanzong's eyes burned with desire, and he couldn't help but swallow hard. He longed to pounce on her and seize her. However, he knew Zi Xian's skills extended beyond this, so he restrained himself and continued watching.

Sure enough, Zi Xian danced faster and faster, suddenly raising her jade-like arm, one sleeve slipping down to reveal a snow-white arm. With each movement, her clothing dwindled, falling to the ground like flower petals with her dance.

Zi Xian's dance and the act of undressing blended seamlessly, as if done in one breath, without a trace.

After a short while, Zi Xian was left only with a close-fitting bodice, her two jade-like breasts trembling, revealing most of their size, their red cherries barely concealed. Her wasp waist and plump hips, her exquisite figure, were on full display.

Moreover, Zi Xian's dance at this moment was extremely seductive. She kept arching her back and lifting her legs, twisting her waist and swaying her hips, somewhat resembling the posture of lovers in the throes of passion. Her hair was loose, draped over her sweat-dampened shoulders. Her face was flushed, like a peach blossom, as red as the evening glow, her

alluring eyes sweeping over her from time to time, captivating and enchanting. Her lips breathed softly, moaning softly, like weeping and pleading. Zhu Chuanzong stood up, staring wide-eyed, waiting to see Zi Xian remove her last piece of clothing. Zi Xian, however, glanced at him with a coquettish smile, and danced as she went into the inner room.

Zhu Chuanzong was already burning with desire, laughing, "You little vixen,"

and hurriedly followed her in.

Zi Xian was already standing before the bed, giggling as she removed her silk robe. Leaning against the bed, she spread her legs wide, revealing her most exquisite parts: pink and plump, with a pink vulva opening and closing, overflowing with nectar.

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing this unprecedented position, felt his already aroused desire ignite even more. He stood before Zi Xian, embraced her slender waist, parted her dark pubic hair, and thrust his jade stem inside.

Zi Xian's legs were spread wide, her exquisite parts taut and incredibly tight. As soon as Zhu Chuanzong's jade stem entered her jade orifice, he felt a burning heat, as if a powerful vortex wanted to engulf him. He involuntarily began to thrust wildly.

Zhu Chuanzong was unusually aroused today, his large penis plunging deep into her flower, each thrust reaching its hilt. Moreover, this position and angle were different from before; the jade stem was inserted into many places in her vagina that it had never been touched before, making Zi Xian's heart tremble with excitement. Each thrust made her cry out "Ah!" in pleasure and comfort, and her lustful fluids dripped down her abdomen and thighs, forming a pool on the ground, crystal clear and sparkling like ice and snow.

The two of them continued to thrust and pump wildly, and although they were covered in sweat and panting, they did not feel tired and continued to fuck without stopping.

After about half a cup of tea's time, Zi Xian was tired and her legs were weak. She softly pleaded, "Your Highness, I can't take it anymore. Let's go to the bed."

Zhu Chuanzong picked her up and laid her horizontally on the bed, spread her legs, and thrust his penis in hard again, pumping. Zi Xian even took the initiative to arch her waist, twist her plump buttocks, and moaned continuously. The two of them were in ecstasy. After most of the night, Zi Xian was so exhausted that her body was limp. She cried and begged for mercy, and the two of them finally rested in each other's arms.

Waking up in the morning, Zhu Chuanzong was still savoring the memory, and laughed, "Last night was truly wonderful, unlike anything I've ever experienced. Especially that dance, so beautiful and alluring! My darling, you must dance for me often in the future."

Zi Xian replied shyly, "This servant belongs entirely to Your Highness. It is my blessing that Your Highness likes her."

After that passionate night, Zhu Chuanzong was utterly infatuated with Zi Xian, unwilling to part with her even for a day. He completely forgot about what he wanted to say, having long forgotten about returning to his residence.

A few days later, when Xue Jinxian again tried to persuade him, Zhu Chuanzong was speechless. A thought struck him, and he said, "I'm doing this for the sake of the Zhu family line! You've all been married to me for so many years, and none of you have conceived. I have no choice but to try with Zi Xian more often; otherwise, how can the Zhu family be left without an heir?"

Hearing this, Xue Jinxian's expression darkened, and she sighed softly, also speechless. It was an undeniable fact that none of the women had conceived. Moreover, both the Empress Dowager and Shui Ling'er had borne sons for Zhu Chuanzong, proving that Zhu Chuanzong was innocent. His shifting the blame onto the women was therefore understandable.

Xue Jinxian said, "The Zhu family has an heir! Didn't Ling'er give you a son?"

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "Ling'er has already gone far away, to the ends of the earth. I don't know if I'll ever see her again. Having a son is the same as not having one; how can it be counted?"

After a few perfunctory words, he hurriedly went to find Zi Xian.

Xue Jinxian summoned Hua Caiyun and the other women, sighing, "My husband is so stubborn; I can't do anything about it."

She then recounted Zhu Chuanzong's words.

The women exchanged bewildered glances, never expecting Zhu Chuanzong to be so infatuated with Zi Xian. Although these women were all beautiful, talented, and exceptionally intelligent—no ordinary women—Zhu Chuanzong was their husband. Faced with the man they loved most, they were all at a loss, helpless.

Zhu Shuiyue, somewhat disheartened, said, "If Bao'er still won't turn back, I'll really become a nun and spend the rest of my life with only the lamplight."

The other women felt a pang of sorrow upon hearing her words.

Xue Jinxian sighed, "The only thing we can do now is find Ling'er."

Hua Caiyun said, "That's one way, but Ling'er is living in seclusion, nowhere to be found. Where can we find her?"

Xue Jinxian smiled slightly, "I have a way."

He sighed inwardly, "Will Ling'er be angry that I disturbed her seclusion? But now there's no other way."

It turned out that Shui Ling'er and Xue Jinxian were very close. Xue Jinxian, being farsighted, had inquired about Shui Ling'er's whereabouts before she left, to prevent any future complications. Because she had promised Shui Ling'er not to reveal it to anyone else, only she knew this, not even Zhu Chuanzong.

Xue Jinxian wrote a letter explaining the current situation and asking Shui Ling'er to bring her son back.

Several months later, Zhu Chuanzong was drinking and making merry with Zixian when someone from the Zhu family came to invite him home.

Zhu Chuanzong was in high spirits and reluctant to leave, but Zixian persuaded him, "Your Highness, there might be important business at the manor. Even if it's nothing serious, you haven't been home for many days; you should go back and keep your sisters company."

Zhu Chuanzong stroked her hair and said, "Xian'er, you're so understanding."

Love can be so blinding. Even though Zhu Chuanzong had been lingering with Zixian for months, her advice to go home made him suddenly feel that Zixian was incredibly virtuous and kind, and his love for her grew even stronger. This is the truth of the saying, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

When Zhu Chuanzong arrived home, he found Hua Caiyun and the other women already there, including Xue Jinxian. The women, having suffered so much neglect, were resentful, and their expressions were rather unpleasant. Zhu Chuanzong entered, but no one paid him any attention. Nuanyun, now a concubine, was also present and tried to greet him, but Hua Caiyun glared at her, forcing her to sit back down.

Zhu Chuanzong felt guilty and forced a dry laugh, "Everyone's here. How have you been lately?"

Hua Caiyun coldly replied, "No need for Your Highness to concern yourself. What do you care about us? Who are you to us?"

Zhu Chuanzong was embarrassed and forced a smile, "Sister-in-law, why do you say that? You are all my family and loved ones; isn't it only natural for me to care about you?"

Hua Caiyun said, "We can't accept that. We're useless; we can't bear sons. You should go and be with whoever you need to be with!"

The talk about bearing sons was just an excuse Zhu Chuanzong made for himself. But now he had no choice; he absolutely couldn't distance himself from Zixian in the future. He steeled himself and said, "I've neglected you all lately, no wonder my sister-in-law is angry. But it's a fact that the Zhu family has no heir. I'm doing this for the sake of continuing the Zhu family line!"

Before he finished speaking, someone interrupted, "You pig-head! Who said you don't have a son?"

Zhu Chuanzong turned around at the sound of the voice and saw a beautiful woman standing by the door. It was none other than Shui Ling'er, who had been away from home for several years. Zhu Chuanzong could hardly believe his eyes, but in the whole world, only Shui Ling'er would dare to call him a "pig-head." He looked at her carefully and finally confirmed that he wasn't mistaken. Although Shui Ling'er was more voluptuous than before and had a more mature demeanor, exuding a mature woman's charm, her beautiful features were still unmistakable.

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and exclaimed, "Ling'er, you're back?"

He took a few steps forward and noticed that Shui Ling'er was holding the hand of a chubby, pink-cheeked little boy. He excitedly asked, "Is this our son?"

Shui Ling'er glanced at him and said, "You said yourself that the Zhu family has no descendants. This is my son. Stay away from my son."

Zhu Chuanzong felt guilty and pretended not to hear. He picked up his son and said with a smile, "Son, call me Dad."

Although Shui Ling'er was speaking in anger, she was very happy to see how much Zhu Chuanzong liked his son.

It turned out that when the child was born, Zhu Chuanzong and Shui Ling'er had discussed and named him Zhu Ze, meaning "blessing all people." However, Shui Ling'er remembered that the old Taoist priest had said that their son should not have the surname Zhu, nor should he grow up in the Zhu family. So she usually called her son Shui Ze.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Now that our son has grown up so much, it's natural that he should be recognized as a member of the family. He will have the surname Zhu!"

At this moment, all the women gathered around, touching the baby's tender face, unable to put him down. It's a woman's nature to love children, and besides, all the women had long hoped to have a child, so they adored Xiao Ze even more.

Xiao Ze was only three years old, and surrounded by so many strangers, he was a little panicked. His little mouth trembled, and he burst into tears.

(05-15
Chapter 5: Jealousy and

Rivalry) The news of the Regent's son's birth

caused a sensation throughout the court and the country. To celebrate his son's return, Zhu Chuanzong led his entire family in ancestral worship and held a grand banquet. All the officials came to offer their congratulations. Jewels and other valuables were nothing to the Zhu family, so the officials went to great lengths to send him strange and unusual gifts.

The officials surrounded Zhu Ze, their faces beaming with smiles, showering him with compliments. Some said, "The young prince is imposing and distinguished, a natural-born prince," others said, "The young prince has a full forehead, a sign of great wealth and longevity," and still others said he was a reincarnation of the God of Literature or the God of War. Regardless of how disgusting it was, they showered him with flattery.

Zhu Chuanzong, remembering his disobedient father, saw that Zhu Ze was clever, obedient, and well-behaved. Although he disliked being flattered, he found the more his subordinates flattered his son, the more he enjoyed it, and at the most delightful moments, he couldn't help but laugh heartily. Seeing Zhu Chuanzong's delight, the officials flattered him even more enthusiastically.

It seemed utterly absurd that a group of high-ranking officials, who appeared superior to the common people and dignified in the court, were fawning over a three-year-old child. However, the officials present did not find it absurd at all; on the contrary, they all felt honored. Those who couldn't squeeze in watched from afar, filled with envy for their colleagues who had the opportunity to flatter the young prince.

Shui Fengliang was also in the limelight today. He was Shui Ling'er's adoptive father. Although he had great power before, he was ultimately just Zhu Chuanzong's subordinate, his rise and fall entirely at Zhu Chuanzong's whim. Now, he was the young prince's godfather, and his relationship with Zhu Chuanzong was far more extraordinary. Seeing the shift in the wind, the officials naturally rushed to curry favor.

When the Empress Dowager heard about this in the palace, she was somewhat worried. Zhu Chuanzong had another son, and her son's position in Zhu Chuanzong's heart was likely to decline. Matters involving power and the empire had many bloody stories throughout history. The Empress Dowager was exceptionally intelligent, and the more she thought about it, the more worried she became. However, now that things had come to this, she dared not neglect Zhu Chuanzong's only legitimate son.

To please Zhu Chuanzong, the Empress Dowager issued an edict bestowing upon Zhu Ze the title of Marquis of Chengping, granting him a thousand acres of land and a fief of ten thousand households.

Upon hearing the edict, the guests at the banquet were in an uproar. Most people, after a lifetime of struggling in the officialdom and accumulating countless merits, couldn't even obtain a minor title. Yet Zhu Chuanzong, a mere three-year-old child, had been granted a title, and a very high one at that. His future succession to the throne was practically a certainty.

Those with discerning eyes could see that the Empress Dowager was currying favor with Zhu Chuanzong. Regent Zhu Chuanzong held immense power, truly the most powerful man in the world!

The Zhu family's celebratory banquet lasted for three days before finally concluding.

Shui Ling'er had given birth to an heir for the Zhu family; her status had naturally changed because of her son. Hua Caiyun, the eldest sister-in-law, urged Zhu Chuanzong to quickly marry her and give her a formal title. To everyone's surprise, after Zhu Chuanzong spoke to Shui Ling'er, she not only refused to marry into the Zhu family, but also wanted to take her son out of the mansion to be raised.

Shui Ling'er had always been very opinionated, loved freedom, and didn't want to be a man's appendage. Moreover, she remembered the fortune teller's words that Zhu Ze shouldn't bear the surname Zhu and shouldn't grow up in the Zhu family. Now that one of those rules had been violated, she absolutely couldn't take any more risks. Therefore, she made up her mind. Zhu Chuanzong couldn't persuade her otherwise, so he had no choice but to find her a house outside the mansion.

Upon hearing this, Shui Fengliang was greatly anxious and personally came to persuade Shui Ling'er, saying, "Silly child, you insisted on leaving back then, and no amount of persuasion could change your mind. I thought you'd come back this time and understood, but why are you still so stubborn? Now, thanks to your son, you are undoubtedly the rightful principal wife, and wealth and honor are within your grasp!"

Shui Ling'er replied, "Father, you watched me grow up. Am I the kind of person who craves wealth and honor? If I had a choice, a free and secluded life would suit me better."

Shui Fengliang said, "But you should also think about your son. He is already a marquis, and his future is limitless. He should stay in a family like the Zhu family..." "You're teaching him how to be an official, how to associate with high-ranking officials and nobles at home. Do you really want him to grow up with those ignorant commoners?"

Shui Ling'er sighed. "Is being an official really that good? I'd rather my son be a commoner his whole life. Father, weren't you also from a commoner background? Didn't you initially respect the people the most, founding the Laozi Sect with the ideal of benefiting them? I feel you've really changed. Is power and wealth so important that they can change a person?"

Shui Fengliang angrily retorted, "What do you, a woman, know! I'm an official now, for the sake of the people."

Father and daughter parted on bad terms.

Shui Ling'er lived among the common people and asked Zhu Chuanzong not to disturb her easily. She brought Xiao Ze back to the mansion every two days. Zhu Chuanzong adored his son and, wanting to see him, had to stay at the mansion often, no longer staying at Zi Xian's place for ten days or half a month without returning as before.

Zhu Chuanzong complained to Shui Ling'er, "I never thought even seeing my own son would be so difficult."

Shui Ling'er said, "You complain when you don't see your son for two days. I heard that the ladies in the manor often don't see you for more than a month. Have you thought about how they feel? They are all women of exceptional talent and beauty. Because they love you, they followed you without regard for status. Do you think they'll be left alone every day in return?"

Zhu Chuanzong felt ashamed. He used to be so infatuated with Zi Xian that he wouldn't listen to any reason. But now he had poured a lot of affection into his son and was no longer obsessed with Zi Xian. His mind had suddenly become clear. He was stunned for a long time, then sighed, "I've wronged them. Ling'er, you're right to scold me. I don't know how I can make up for what I've done to them."

Shui Ling'er smiled and said, "The ladies love you so much, how could they really be angry with you? Just spend more time with them, and it will be fine."

Zhu Chuanzong nodded repeatedly. Suddenly, he smiled and said, "I haven't spent time with you, Ling'er, for many years. Let's start making up for it with you today."

After saying that, he picked up Shui Ling'er and carried her to the bed. Shui Ling'er struggled a couple of times, but eventually gave in.

Shui Ling'er, having been celibate for a long time and having given birth, possessed a mature charm that was incredibly alluring. The two made love passionately, their night filled with unparalleled ecstasy.

Zhu Chuanzong had reformed his ways, and although he still spent more time at Zi Xian's place, he tried to make time for the women in his household. Xiao Ze was also clever and adorable, and he enjoyed playing with the children with the other women, living a carefree life.

Among the women, Yue Keren was beautiful and strong-willed, a truly outstanding woman. However, compared to the other women in the Zhu family, she seemed ordinary. Hua Caiyun was shrewd and capable, managing all the affairs of the household. Zhu Shuiyue was well-versed in Buddhism, Zhu Chuanzong's sworn sister, and they had grown up together, sharing a deep bond. Xue Jinxian possessed exceptional skills and profound knowledge. Zi Xian was both beautiful and talented. Shui Ling'er was highly skilled in martial arts and had now given birth to Zhu Chuanzong's son. Surrounded by so many outstanding women, Yue Keren felt immense pressure, and with Zhu Chuanzong preoccupied, he inevitably neglected her somewhat. Although Yue Keren was broad-minded, she couldn't find true happiness.

One day, Hua Caiyun came to Yue Keren's room and, seeing her troubled expression, pressed her for the reason. Yue Keren forced a smile and said, "I was just a lowly commoner, but now I'm a concubine of the Prince, living a life of luxury. What is there to worry about? Sister-in-law, you're overthinking it."

No matter how Hua Caiyun pressed, she remained silent.

Hua Caiyun was exceptionally clever; though Yue Keren didn't speak, she had a pretty good grasp of her thoughts. Ultimately, Yue Keren felt she was too ordinary among the women, and that Zhu Chuanzong didn't pay her much attention.

Hua Caiyun found an opportunity to speak with Zhu Chuanzong about this matter. Zhu Chuanzong said, "Keren has been through thick and thin with me. My feelings for her are genuine. How could I not care about her?"

Hua Caiyun said, "What's the use of telling me? Who told you to neglect us sisters! If you don't appease Keren, we sisters will never forgive you!"

Zhu Chuanzong thought and thought, but couldn't come up with a way to please Yue Keren. Helpless, he had no choice but to ask Hua Caiyun for advice. Hua Caiyun tapped his forehead and said, "Have you forgotten how you met Keren? She went through life and death to come to the capital to seek justice for her father. This shows her deep affection for him. Her filial piety is truly profound."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "But her father is reluctant to leave his homeland. What can I do?"

Hua Caiyun said, "What kind of prince are you? Can't you think of a way?"

Zhu Chuanzong thought for a long time, then his eyes lit up, and he had an idea.

After that, Zhu Chuanzong deliberately avoided Yue Keren and visited her even less often. Yue Keren sighed with self-pity, secretly grieving.

More than a month passed in the blink of an eye. It was June 13th, the birthday of Yue Keren's father, Yue Yiming. Unable to personally travel to her home a thousand miles away to celebrate her father's birthday, Yue Keren laid out fruits and dishes in the courtyard and offered prayers towards her hometown, wishing her father a long life.

Suddenly, a servant came, saying that the Prince had invited her. Yue Keren, unsure of what was happening, followed him to the main hall.

Her eyes lit up with candlelight, and several tables were set with food and drink. All the women of the household were present, and in the main seat sat her father, Yue Yiming, whom she hadn't seen for several years. Yue Keren was stunned.

Yue Yiming stood up, extended his arm, and said with tears streaming down his face, "Keren, my good daughter."

Yue Keren went forward, and at that moment, a young man in his twenties came over—her younger brother, Yue Xiaoshun. The three of them embraced each other excitedly.

It turned out that Zhu Chuanzong had specially sent people to bring Yue Yiming and his son to the capital before Yue Yiming's birthday. Yue Yiming initially didn't want to come, but after hearing that Keren was ill, he rushed over.

The birthday banquet began. At the banquet, Yue Yiming praised Zhu Chuanzong endlessly. He said emotionally to Yue Keren, "Daughter, the Prince said he would take care of me in my old age and bought me a large house in the capital. Your younger brother has also been sent to study at the Hanlin Academy, and his future is secure. I can never repay this kindness. You are truly blessed to have found such a good husband!"

Yue Keren held Zhu Chuanzong's hand tightly, her face full of a happy smile.

After the banquet, Yue Keren and Zhu Chuanzong went to their room. Yue Keren looked at him tenderly and said, "Husband, you are so good to Keren!"

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and said, "Now do you believe in my feelings for you?"

Yue Keren nodded vigorously. Zhu Chuanzong said, "Then you must promise me one thing tonight."

As he spoke, he leaned close to Yue Keren's ear and whispered a few words.

Yue Keren blushed crimson and spat, "My husband is too naughty, this is so embarrassing..."

Even as she said this, she sat on the bed, her face flushed, and shyly removed her clothes, her beauty exquisite; her expression clearly indicated her agreement. Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed. He

was quite pleased with himself after a night of passion.

Zi Xian, with her shrewd mind, naturally wouldn't neglect someone as influential in the Zhu family as Shui Ling'er. Having inquired about Shui Ling'er's address early on, she brought gifts to visit.

Zi Xian was very eloquent and adept at reading people's expressions and understanding their thoughts; her words always pleased people, making them feel naturally fond of her. However, Shui Ling'er was different from women like Hua Caiyun; she didn't care much for formalities and disliked flattery. Although Zi Xian was highly intelligent and talented, all her talents were used to please and serve Zhu Chuanzong. Shui Ling'er didn't approve of such a woman.

Later, Shui Ling'er said to Xue Jinxian, "I think Zi Xian is no simple woman. If someone is so shrewd and agreeable, always trying to please everyone, they either have ulterior motives or are very cunning. I think my husband's infatuation with her the other day wasn't just about lust."

Xue Jinxian nodded and said, "Sister, you're right. Actually, I've also noticed it, but I've tried to persuade my husband many times without success. Fortunately, you've returned, and I think my husband has become much more aware now."

After that, both of them tried to persuade Zhu Chuanzong to pay more attention to state affairs. Zhu Chuanzong also realized his neglect of state affairs and was very remorseful. From then on, he attended court every day.

However, the differences between the emperor and Zhu Chuanzong increased, and Zhu Chuanzong became increasingly dissatisfied. Although he showed no sign of displeasure and always did as Zhu Chuanzong said, he was, after all, the emperor, and he often inadvertently revealed his dissatisfaction, which Zhu Chuanzong could not ignore. He caused Zhu Chuanzong a lot of trouble, and Zhu Chuanzong was also very annoyed.

One day, while discussing matters with the Empress Dowager, Zhu Chuanzong sighed, "Why is Hui'er so disobedient? Ze'er is much more well-behaved than him."

Hearing this, the Empress Dowager felt uneasy and deeply worried.

She summoned the Emperor and repeatedly admonished him not to oppose Zhu Chuanzong. The Emperor replied, "I am the ruler, he is the subject. Why should I fear him? Now he is abusing his power to oppress me, but in the future…" He

snorted coldly and left.

The Empress Dowager's face paled upon hearing this. She feared that the Emperor would anger Zhu Chuanzong and cause a great disaster. Previously, Zhu Chuanzong only had the Emperor as his son, so she naturally tolerated him and wholeheartedly supported his rule. Now, with another son, Zhu Ze, what if he, in a fit of anger, deposed the Emperor and gave the throne to his other son… The Empress Dowager grew increasingly fearful.

While trying to appease the Emperor, she racked her brains, trying to find a way to please Zhu Chuanzong.

One day, the Empress Dowager invited Zhu Chuanzong to the palace. After a brief intimacy, Zhu Chuanzong became aroused and wanted to make love. The

Empress Dowager feigned alarm, saying, "Oh no, my period has started today, I cannot serve Your Highness."

Zhu Chuanzong said dejectedly, "Why didn't you say so earlier?"

He was now aroused and struggling to suppress his desire.

The Empress Dowager smiled seductively, "Your Highness, don't be angry, I'll find someone to help you relieve your heat."

She clapped her hands, and a person emerged from behind the curtain, head bowed and shy. She was an extremely beautiful palace maid. Zhu Chuanzong recognized her immediately; she was Wan'er, the emperor's personal maid.

The Empress Dowager said, "Wan'er, sit with the prince for a while."

She smiled at Zhu Chuanzong and turned to leave.

Zhu Chuanzong had been greatly impressed by Wan'er when he first saw her in the Empress Dowager's palace and had been unable to forget her. Later, the two had met a few more times from afar, exchanging glances and developing feelings for each other. However, Wan'er was the emperor's personal maid, and the emperor and Zhu Chuanzong were not on good terms, so Zhu Chuanzong could not find an opportunity to approach her.

Zhu Chuanzong took the blushing Wan'er into the inner room, spoke to her with a smile, and asked her why she had come.

Wan'er said shyly, "The Empress Dowager ordered it, and this servant has admired the prince for a long time, which is why I have presumptuously come to meet you. I hope the prince will not look down on me."

After speaking, she gently pulled open her sash, revealing her fair and delicate body.

She had stripped down to only a red bodice, revealing a large expanse of skin, white and delicate, like a snowball. Her body was petite and exquisite, with curves in all its right places, and her pretty face was slightly flushed, exuding an indescribable shyness and cuteness.

Zhu Chuanzong reached out and pulled her into his arms, saying, "I've long admired you too." He

then embraced Wan'er tightly from behind, kissing her hair first, then her ears, and finally her pink lips. Wan'er was clever and obedient, her small lips especially alluring. A kiss from her was both soft and firm, fragrant and sweet, bringing her immense pleasure.

Wan'er was a young palace maid, inexperienced in matters of the heart, having seen few men. Zhu Chuanzong's embrace made her weak all over, and this kiss further stirred her heart. Her face flushed, and she involuntarily closed her eyes, letting Zhu Chuanzong kiss her. The hot, red lips on her face felt incredibly good; each kiss and suckle stirred her heart, sending shivers of pleasure through her.

Zhu Chuanzong kissed her for a long time, then pinched Wan'er's chin and examined her closely. Her face was flushed, her eyes almond-shaped, her eyebrows arched like willow branches, and her gaze was full of allure. With her head lowered, she was even more captivating. Zhu Chuanzong was deeply moved. He removed his clothes, and the two went to the fragrant bed.

Zhu Chuanzong ripped off Wan'er's bodice, revealing her incredibly beautiful figure, her fair skin like jade, her breasts high and firm, her legs long and slender, and her private parts covered in lush pubic hair. Zhu Chuanzong, like a starving man, embraced Wan'er's body, pressing and kneading her breasts, occasionally sucking on them. Wan'er was a virgin and could not resist such treatment. Soon, her body went limp, her eyes glazed, and she was panting softly. Her lower body secreted a sweet nectar, wafting with fragrance.

Zhu Chuanzong continued to fondle her, his heart burning with desire, unable to restrain himself. His penis became erect and hard as iron. Upon seeing this, Wan'er felt timid and pleaded, "This servant is still a virgin, please have mercy on me, Your Highness."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Don't be afraid, it will feel good in a moment."

He spat out some saliva and smeared it on his jade stem, rubbed it against the entrance of her peach blossom cave a few times, and then thrust hard, penetrating more than an inch.

Wan'er's vulva was newly opened, her little hole incredibly narrow and tight, and the penetration of his penis felt like burning. She couldn't help but moan softly, crying out in pain. Zhu Chuanzong was gentle and tender, his penis remaining still, slowly grinding against her. After a while, Wan'er's little hole was overflowing with honeyed fluid, and the passage became much wider. Her slender waist swayed gently, and she breathed heavily.

Seeing her passionate appearance, Zhu Chuanzong knew the time was right and thrust forcefully. Wan'er felt excruciating pain, like being stabbed by knives and spears, but after a while, she gradually felt her jade hole becoming smooth, the pain completely gone, her heart leaping with joy, her whole body feeling relaxed, her starry eyes sparkling with tenderness and sweetness, letting Zhu Chuanzong thrust and pounce as he pleased.

Zhu Chuanzong unleashed his full power, thrusting vigorously, his large penis plunging in and out of her jade-like opening, splashing her juices everywhere, accompanied by constant squelching sounds. Wan'er initially groaned in pain, but gradually found pleasure in it, wrapping her two white legs around Zhu Chuanzong's waist, her buttocks arching to meet his thrusts, her waist swaying gently like a willow in the breeze.

Seeing her alluring, intoxicated state, Zhu Chuanzong became even more aroused, each thrust penetrating to the very root, each stroke striking her tender bud like a storm. Wan'er was driven mad by his penetration, feeling as if she were floating on clouds, only knowing to cling to Zhu Chuanzong, yielding to his pleasure. After a short while, she suddenly let out a soft moan, her beautiful eyes rolled back, her body tensed, and then she collapsed onto the bed like water, releasing herself in a frenzy.

Zhu Chuanzong felt a tight contraction in her vagina, as if there was a rotating suction force in her flower core, making his large penis feel incredibly comfortable. He thrust in and out dozens of times, ejaculating forcefully, filling her flower core to overflowing.

The two embraced naked, whispering sweet nothings. Zhu Chuanzong remembered something and asked with a smile, "When did you fall in love with me?"

Wan'er replied shyly, "Your Highness is a pillar of the nation, skilled in both literature and martial arts. Which of the sisters in the palace doesn't secretly admire you? To even catch a glimpse of Your Highness from afar is a blessing. From the first time I saw Your Highness when I was thirteen, I... I was already hopelessly in love with you."

As she spoke, her face turned as red as fire.

Zhu Chuanzong found her shy demeanor utterly adorable, and his groin hardened again. Wan'er was terrified and pleaded, "Your Highness, I can't take it anymore. Please serve you again next time."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Don't be afraid, you have many more wonderful features."

He guided Wan'er's small hand down to his large penis. At first, Wan'er was very shy, but later she found it amusing and laughed, "So big and hard."

She was even more frightened, thinking that her vagina was so small, yet it could accommodate such a huge thing. It was unbelievable.

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Come, lick it for me, this big penis is delicious."

Wan'er dared not disobey, and suppressed her shyness as she lowered her head. She first licked the head of the penis with her small tongue, then swallowed it whole, sucking on it with smacking sounds, as if she were eating something delicious.

Zhu Chuanzong felt that her little mouth was wet and hot, incredibly smooth, and tasted wonderful. He unconsciously reached down to Wan'er's lower body, parted the pubic hair, and revealed a thin slit with a red bean growing at the tip, which was quite cute. Zhu Chuanzong inserted his fingers into her vagina, gently thrusting in and out, then licked her erect nipple with his tongue. Wan'er trembled all over, panting heavily, her vagina opening and closing, releasing streams of nectar. Zhu Chuanzong, aroused, pressed Wan'er down onto the bed, spread her legs, and began to thrust again.

This time, he was skilled and experienced, and Zhu Chuanzong fucked her with abandon. His jade stem thrust in and out of her vagina, making Wan'er moan softly, as if crying and laughing. The two of them made a "slap slap" sound as their flesh collided. Wan'er, on the bottom, swayed her head from side to side, her hair loose, her breasts bouncing on her chest like two lambs running happily.

Wan'er cried out, "Your Highness, dear brother, good brother, I'm going to die!"

Zhu Chuanzong, panting heavily, said, "Sweetheart, are you feeling good now? There's more to come!" He then

thrust even harder.

After about half an hour, Zhu Chuanzong held Wan'er tightly in his arms, their mouths pressed together, his body barely moving. He then thrust forcefully, releasing his pent-up desire. Wan'er cried out, her body trembling violently. She felt as if hot oil had been poured into her vagina, scalding her until she was dizzy and disoriented, her mind reeling.

Her eyes remained closed. After their lovemaking ended, Zhu Chuanzong stroked her smooth skin, reluctant to let go, and said, "How about I ask the Empress Dowager to take you out of the palace to my residence?"

Wan'er said, "I am a palace maid. If I go with the prince, wouldn't that damage his reputation? I only ask that the prince take some time to see Wan'er when he has free time; that would be enough for me."

Zhu Chuanzong knew she had a point and nodded, "Don't worry, I won't forget you."

The two were affectionate for a while before reluctantly parting.

Wan'er and Zhu Chuanzong were in love, and her long-cherished wish was fulfilled; her heart was completely devoted to him. After returning home, she thought of him day and night, as if she were absent-minded. Later, Zhu Chuanzong gave her a hairpin, which Wan'er treasured. She carried it with her all day long, and sometimes, when she had nothing to do during the day, she would take it out and stare at it, smiling foolishly.

When the emperor saw it, he laughed and said, "It's just an ordinary hairpin; what's so special about it?"

He also gave Wan'er a hairpin.

It turned out that the emperor was just beginning to experience love, and he gradually developed different feelings for this incomparably beautiful personal palace maid. He regarded Wan'er as his own possession and planned to take her as a concubine in the future.

The emperor bestowed gifts upon Wan'er, and naturally, she dared not refuse. However, her heart belonged to Zhu Chuanzong, so even though the hairpin the emperor gave her was far more valuable than the one she already owned, she wore the one Zhu Chuanzong had given her every day.

The emperor, being exceptionally intelligent, eventually sensed something amiss. Several times, he saw Wan'er returning from outside, her face flushed and her eyes brimming with desire. He thought, "Could she be having an affair?"

and flew into a rage. Men were strictly forbidden from entering the palace, and he wondered which palace guard was so audacious as to seduce a maidservant close to the emperor.

When the emperor learned the truth, he was furious. He already harbored resentment towards Zhu Chuanzong, and this incident with Wan'er only fueled his hatred. However, heeding the Empress Dowager's advice, he dared not openly oppose Zhu Chuanzong, but secretly cultivated his own confidants, waiting for the opportunity to seize power.

Chapter Six: Heaven's Helplessness

Governing a country is an incredibly difficult task. Zhu Chuanzong was exhausted, dealing with his officials and the troublesome affairs of river management and salt administration. Fortunately, he was surrounded by beautiful women, which helped alleviate much of his fatigue. Thus, the wheel of history in the Great Liang Kingdom moved forward a few more years. Now, it was Zhu Chuanzong's sixteenth year as regent; he was almost forty years old, while the emperor was almost eighteen, approaching adulthood.

In recent years, there had been no major upheavals, and natural disasters were few. When Zhu Chuanzong first came to power, he was deeply saddened by every incident that harmed the people. However, as his rule lengthened, he gradually became accustomed to such reports, which came almost daily. As long as no major natural or man-made disasters occurred, he was no longer saddened.

Zhu Chuanzong's power shook the world, and the country enjoyed a long period of peace. According to reports from various regions, the Great Liang Kingdom had enjoyed favorable weather, national prosperity, and the people living in peace and contentment—truly a golden age. Officials from the Ministry of Rites compared the current political achievements with those of previous dynasties, calling it an unprecedented and historically rare golden age. Upon seeing these memorials, Zhu Chuanzong felt that his ideal of bringing prosperity to the people had finally been realized. Although there were still many imperfections, nothing in this world is perfect, and this thought filled him with pride.

Seeing his joy, the ministers showered him with flattery, praising Zhu Chuanzong as "a gift from heaven to the Great Liang, the greatest wise king of all time," and saying that his "achievements are unparalleled, his blessings will last for millennia"—in short, he was unmatched in heaven and earth.

However, after so much flattery, the same few phrases were used repeatedly, lacking originality. The ministers racked their brains to curry favor with Zhu Chuanzong, and some risked turning to auspicious omens from heaven.

Auspicious omens were strange signs sent by heaven to commend the ruler for his good governance. Ancient books described auspicious omens as having five grades: auspicious, great, superior, medium, and inferior. For example, in ancient legends, seeing a dragon, phoenix, or qilin was considered the highest level of auspicious omen. A white fox appearing in the mountains was a medium-level auspicious omen. More common sights like lingzhi mushrooms or double-eared rice were considered lower-level auspicious omens.

The first person to come up with this idea was a magistrate of a small county in the northern border province. He presented the court with a bundle of *xi he* (喜禾), meaning rice with several ears on each stalk, a sign of a peaceful and prosperous era, indicating a bountiful harvest.

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed, offering the auspicious rice to the Imperial Ancestral Temple, praying to Heaven, and ordering the magistrate to be promoted two ranks and awarded one hundred taels of silver.

When Zhu Chuanzong was in power, he was most opposed to using natural phenomena for flattery and sycophancy, believing only incompetent and obsequious officials would do such things. Therefore, in recent years, no official dared to offend him. Now, seeing the county magistrate's good fortune, the officials were extremely envious, regretting that they hadn't seen through the prince's intentions sooner. Therefore, they rushed to report auspicious omens from all over the country, sending reports like snowflakes to the capital.

Everyone was eager to be the first to report. One report said that conjoined trees had appeared in their jurisdiction; another immediately said that they had unearthed a sweet spring while digging; there were also reports of blue birds, red geese, white bears, and white deer. Auspicious omens that were once extremely rare now seemed to spring up like mushrooms after rain, appearing everywhere. Zhu Chuanzong rewarded them all and held a ceremony to worship Heaven, praying for blessings.

Upon hearing this, Shui Ling'er advised, "These officials are truly shameless! The 'Lianli Mu' (连理木) is simply saplings tied together with rope; after a while, they grow together—you know that too! Even if you don't punish them for such deception, you shouldn't reward them either! Have they become so pampered and complacent over the years that they've lost their minds?"

Xue Jinxian added, "My lord, the sage said, 'The Master did not speak of strange phenomena, physical prowess, disorder, or spirits.' True auspiciousness comes from a clean government, transparent officialdom, and the people living in peace and prosperity. Heaven will naturally bless the world with peace. These fabricated tales about ghosts and gods are nothing but fabrications by officials; they are utterly unbelievable."

Zhu Chuanzong smiled and explained to them, "How could I not know what you're saying? However, since I took office, the Great Liang Kingdom has enjoyed peace and prosperity. Although there are still many unsatisfactory aspects, it has achieved unprecedented success." "There are prosperous times, that's a fact! It's not surprising that Heaven sends down one or two auspicious omens. Besides, even if these omens are fake, they can still boost morale, which isn't a bad thing, is it? The people are happy to hear such things."

Shui Ling'er said, "The people are happy because they hope for favorable weather and abundant harvests. But even with plenty of grain, it can't satisfy the officials' desires. You don't know how ruthless the officials are in exploiting people! Actually, the people's lives aren't as good as you imagine. What the officials say in their reports may not be true; they're deceiving you!"

Zhu Chuanzong was greatly disappointed and angrily said, "Am I that incompetent? Don't I know the importance of things? I understand the affairs of the court and have my own ways of handling them. You are in the inner quarters and don't know the inside story. Governing a country requires both kindness and severity; it's not as easy as you think."

He was displeased. Reflecting on his years of governing the country, he realized he had exhausted all his efforts, yet still couldn't achieve a clean and transparent officialdom. It seemed many things were ordained by fate, beyond human control.

Shui Ling'er and Xue Jinxian tried to persuade him several times, but seeing Zhu Chuanzong's displeasure, they dared not continue. They were getting older and less impulsive than in their youth, and could only exchange bitter smiles. Shui Ling'er said, "The once-cleaned bureaucracy has now deteriorated to a certain extent. I doubt he'll believe it. If I hadn't been constantly traveling among the people, I wouldn't have believed it either. Is it really true that there are no good people in the world? Those officials who swore to uphold justice for the people have all changed over time."

Xue Jinxian said, "My husband is a very good official in his dealings with the common people, and he shows no mercy to corrupt officials. Compared to the honest officials of history, he is no less than them. However, he must have the art of managing people, otherwise the situation in the court will be difficult to control. He has his reasons. People's hearts are too difficult to control; you can't be too harsh or too lenient. I think my husband is also suffering."

Shui Ling'er sighed, "Sister is right. Perhaps my expectations are too high."

Xue Jinxian said, "We women don't understand matters of state. We only sympathize with the weak, but we have no way to ensure that they all receive fair treatment. This is what they call fate!"

Shui Ling'er was bewildered; these questions were too complex, beyond her comprehension, so she stopped thinking about them. Thinking of her beloved son, she felt a sweet warmth in her heart and went off to play with him.

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing all the women so serious, worried that he wouldn't be able to govern the country properly. But the country was so vast, with so many officials and so many complex matters; how could he possibly govern it well and truly achieve peace in a short time? Displeased, he rarely visited them. He only felt truly relaxed and happy at Zi Xian's place. Zi Xian was incredibly understanding and would never pressure him. Being with Zi Xian was always so easy and joyful; she always served him with such meticulous care, without the slightest hint of disobedience. What man wouldn't like such a beautiful, gentle, and considerate woman?

One afternoon, Zhu Chuanzong, having dealt with many political affairs and feeling somewhat exhausted, remembered that he hadn't seen Zi Xian for several days, so he took a sedan chair to her courtyard. Upon seeing him arrive, the servants hurriedly tried to report, but he waved them off, inquiring that Zi Xian was enjoying herself in the garden. He then went to see her himself.

As he entered the garden, a gentle breeze carried the sound of a soft song into his ears. Zhu Chuanzong's heart skipped a beat, recalling the first time he saw her, when he had only heard her voice. Now it was the same again, as if he had returned to those days.

He listened intently for a while, then suddenly chuckled, wondering if he was getting old and always reminiscing about the past. He shook his head and then stepped into the garden. The maids inside the garden hurriedly greeted the prince upon his arrival.

Zhu Chuanzong, however, was only focused on the singing Zi Xian. He instructed the maids not to make a sound and walked straight inside.

He followed the singing to the back hall pavilion, where he saw a rockery at the end, with a wisp of green bamboo hidden among the trees. Zi Xian, dressed in a yellow blouse, sat on a rock, her face turned away, playing the zither and singing. Her voice was melodious and clear, the zither music lingering, perfectly complementing her sweet voice. Her slender waist, her two black temples adorned with two hairpins, and a long strand of hair falling over her shoulder, made her appear gentle and serene, like a fairy.

She turned her face slightly as she sang. Zhu Chuanzong found Zi Xian strikingly beautiful, with a unique charm. He quietly stood on the steps, leaning against the railing, listening to her sing. When

the song ended, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't help but exclaim, "What a beautiful song!"

Zi Xian, startled by the voice behind her, turned around quickly and saw it was him. She smiled, pursing her lips, and said, "How long have you been here? You haven't said a word, making me feel embarrassed."

Zhu Chuanzong, hearing her voice, thought it sounded like the chirping of dragons and phoenixes, and laughed, "If your voice is embarrassing, is there any sound in the world worth listening to?"

Zi Xian teased, "Your Highness is always making fun of me. If my sisters were here, you wouldn't dare say that."

Zhu Chuanzong saw her beautiful eyebrows, rosy cheeks, and smiling cherry lips, and felt instantly captivated. He laughed, "They are nothing compared to you. If they were here, I would say the same thing."

Zi Xian smiled, "Your Highness is so majestic and outspoken, but this humble woman dares not accept such praise." "!"

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing her charming shyness, laughed, "Little beauty, what is there to be afraid of?"

Amidst their laughter, the two entered the house together. Zhu Chuanzong sat on the soft bed and gestured for Zixian to sit beside him, asking, "What song did you sing just now? I've never heard it before."

Zixian replied, "It was 'The Song of a Prosperous and Peaceful Era.'"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "The lyrics are truly beautiful; it's a wonder you remembered them. The world is at peace now, isn't that a prosperous and peaceful era?"

Zixian smiled, "This is all thanks to Your Highness."

She then got up to pour a cup of tea—the finest Biluochun. Biluochun tea leaves are slender, curled like snails, covered in fine hairs, and emerald green in color. After brewing, it has a fresh and invigorating taste, a fragrant aroma, and a clear, green liquor. As Zhu Chuanzong drank, he admired Zixian's appearance. She was beautiful with full hair and fair skin, as white as jade. Because of her sudden arrival, she hadn't had time to change her clothes. Wearing a small red jacket, half-open, revealing a glimpse of a bright green bodice and a hint of cleavage,

she looked incredibly alluring. Zhu Chuanzong finished his tea and handed her the empty cup. Zi Xian reached out to take it, noticing her delicate, fair, full, and slender fingers. Just as Zi Xian was about to take the cup, she suddenly felt Zhu Chuanzong reach out and grasp her hand.

Zhu Chuanzong pulled her into his arms, looking down at her breasts. Zi Xian was both surprised and delighted, but she kept her head down, too shy to lift it.

Seeing the barely visible cleavage, Zhu Chuanzong's lust was aroused. He reached out and bit open her bodice, taking her two white, tender breasts into his mouth and devouring them completely.

Zi Xian blushed and said in a coquettish voice, "Don't do this."

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Then what should I do?"

He took the opportunity to push her down, freeing his right hand to caress her jade-like buttocks, while asking her if she missed him.

Zi Xian couldn't help but chuckle, only saying, "I've been longing for you day and night!"

Her pink cheeks blushed crimson. Zhu Chuanzong laughed heartily and said, "Since that's the case, then I'll let you experience the prince's methods."

At this moment, the maid who was always by his side understood, closed the door, and quietly withdrew. Zhu Chuanzong impatiently embraced Zi Xian and became unrestrained, and for a moment, the spring scenery was boundless.

Zi Xian was a natural beauty, with an innate charm. She was dignified in appearance, but in bed she was extremely wanton, comparable only to Empress Dowager Zhang Duanyi. However, the Empress Dowager was mindful of the emperor and the prestige of the royal family, and rarely saw Zhu Chuanzong, so Zi Xian had the upper hand. Zhu Chuanzong was deeply in love with her and could not bear to be apart from her. Whenever he had free time, he would go to her residence to listen to her play the zither, flute, and sing. Zi Xian was truly learned and had a remarkable memory; she knew many songs, singing one today and another tomorrow. Zhu Chuanzong never tired of listening, and his heart was captivated. He spent most of his time in Zi Xian's room, often not returning to his own residence.

Zi Xian dared not interfere with Zhu Chuanzong's affairs of state and incur the opposition of the other women, so she often advised him to pay attention to state affairs. Zhu Chuanzong listened to her and often took memorials to her residence to review and reply.

Zi Xian was not only understanding and good at serving people, but also possessed a certain allure. Although all the women were beautiful, Zhu Shuiyue and Xue Jinxian were known for their chastity. Whenever Zhu Chuanzong spent the night in their rooms, he had to follow a set routine; otherwise, they would become coy and he wouldn't be able to fully enjoy himself. Nuanyu and Yue Keren, though sweet and charming, were gentle and tender, but lacked initiative and simply allowed Zhu Chuanzong to do as he pleased. Only Zi Xian, not only alluring and captivating, but also actively seeking to please Zhu Chuanzong, brought him the greatest pleasure. Each time Zhu Chuanzong favored Zi Xian, the pleasure lingered for days, and he also greatly admired her intelligence and obedience. If it weren't for his busy schedule, he probably would have preferred to be with her every day!

One day at court, Zhu Chuanzong received an impeachment from an imperial censor. It turned out that farmers in a certain area of Cheng'an County were required to obtain a "stalk-laying certificate" before harvesting corn. Furthermore, Xu Jing, a seventh-rank clerk in the Ministry of Rites, had embezzled 30,000 taels of silver during the construction and renovation of a school. The Ministry of Personnel's investigation revealed that he had given the money to his son. In the Ministry of Justice's court, Xu Jing explained that regarding the money given to his son, he stated, "I believe this is also for cultivating talent for the court, a kind of contribution."

Zhu Chuanzong was furious and ordered the Ministry of Justice to investigate thoroughly and punish those responsible severely. He also ordered the strict punishment of those who blatantly harmed the people.

Despite Zhu Chuanzong's diligence in governing the bureaucracy and his strict discipline of officials, an unexpected and significant case arose.

Three officials secretly submitted a memorial impeaching Wu Kexing for corruption and abuse of power. Wu Kexing was a minister deeply favored by Zhu Chuanzong, and along with Shui Fengliang, he was one of his trusted confidants and trusted generals. He held the position of Minister of Works, and a future promotion to Grand Secretary was anticipated. Zhu Chuanzong's appointment of him as Minister of Works, along with his involvement in water conservancy projects and bridge construction, demonstrated his high regard for him. Zhu Chuanzong's father had also served as Minister of Works, giving him a special affinity for the title.

However, the memorial, delivered at great personal risk by the three officials, detailed Wu Kexing's corruption and presented substantial evidence.

Over the years, Wu Kexing abused his position, employing various fraudulent methods to embezzle large sums of silver from the national treasury; he used collateral to pawn funds and grain, then fraudulently issued them; he colluded with silversmiths to forge official seals for approvals; and he also falsely collected over 500,000 taels of silver in land taxes, surcharges, and miscellaneous taxes from thirteen prefectures and counties, including Kuhao Prefecture.

This wasn't all; there was also collusion between officials and merchants to embezzle funds from over a dozen projects, involving more than one million taels of silver. Zhu Chuanzong examined the case closely, his face turning pale and then purple. One water conservancy project, originally intended to be built along the riverbank, was diverted because a fortune teller had predicted that passing through a propitious location would guarantee Wu Kexing wealth and status. Wu Kexing ordered the project to be rerouted, with a dam built ten miles from the riverbank. The following year, a massive flood occurred, drowning thousands of people. To cover up the crime, the prefectures and counties colluded and failed to report it to the court.

Under the clear blue sky, right under the emperor's nose, so many officials were colluding internally and externally, engaging in corrupt practices—it was truly outrageous! Zhu Chuanzong was furious, barely suppressing his anger, before sending for a few trusted ministers to discuss the matter.

He had them circulate the memorial and then asked them to offer their opinions.

Although many officials were skilled in corruption and bribery, and the ministers were well-versed in official corruption, they were still deeply surprised that Wu Kexing, as the Minister of Works—a high-ranking official and a favorite of the prince—would dare to act so brazenly, committing crimes for such a long period, involving such a wide range of people.

Since assuming power, Zhu Chuanzong had paid close attention to officialdom, but for the sake of his rule, he was sometimes lenient with his close subordinates on minor matters.

Zhu Chuanzong showed some favoritism; the officials below him were all ordinary people, and it was inevitable that they would show favoritism as well. As a result, the atmosphere in officialdom gradually became corrupt.

Wu Kexing was a minister whom Zhu Chuanzong greatly favored. They were all secretly wondering what Zhu Chuanzong would think, even though the case was very serious. What if he decided to downplay it? If they said something unfavorable, and it reached the ears of the person involved, wouldn't they be getting themselves into trouble without even catching the fox?

The ministers looked at each other, none of them willing to speak first.

Zhu Chuanzong, glaring at the silent ministers, was inwardly furious, but his displeasure was evident on his face. He said, "Gentlemen, you are all learned men, some even high-ranking officials of several dynasties. Normally you are eloquent and persuasive, quoting classical texts and offering insightful commentary. Have you all taken some kind of poison to silence us today? Why are you all so quiet?"

After a moment of silence, one minister spoke up, "A traitor like Wu Kexing dares to commit such crimes and embezzle in the capital region. He is driven solely by greed, daring to disregard the laws of our Great Liang and the rules of the state. I believe we should further..." "Investigate the facts thoroughly, punish severely, and make an example of one to deter others."

Zhu Chuanzong was overjoyed and said, "That's absolutely right. Then, who do you think should be sent to handle this matter?"

After discussing for a while, everyone said, "The Court of Judicial Review is the highest appeals body in the country, forming the Three Judicial Offices together with the Censorate and the Ministry of Justice. This case is particularly serious, so why not send the Three Judicial Offices to enforce the law jointly?"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Then let's appoint Huang Tianyou, the Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, as the Imperial Commissioner, who will be fully responsible for handling this matter and will have the power to act first and report later. What do you think?"

Everyone was overjoyed and agreed. Huang Tianyou was always upright and famous throughout the land. Because of his advanced age, he rarely tried cases personally anymore. This time, he was chosen to handle this major case, which showed that Zhu Chuanzong really wanted to investigate corruption.

The aura of the Three Judicial Offices dazzled the officials who had committed the crimes. They worked together swiftly and decisively, giving the offenders no chance to breathe. In addition, they blocked all avenues for leniency, leaving many without time to destroy evidence.

After more than twenty days of arduous work, the case was quickly clarified. Huang Tianyou wrote down the details and sent a report to Zhu Chuanzong.

Zhu Chuanzong accepted the memorial. Having heard the previous memorial, he was somewhat prepared, but reading this one still shocked him with the audacity, wickedness, and ruthlessness of Wu Kexing and his group of officials. Suppressing his anger, Zhu Chuanzong finished reading the memorial, his face turning ashen, his voice trembling: "These...these officials, disregarding the law, are incredibly audacious, corrupt and unscrupulous, resorting to any means necessary! It's truly outrageous!"

The civil and military officials below, having not seen the prince so enraged for a long time, were all silent, trembling with fear, daring not to utter a word. But Wu Kexing was no ordinary official; he was Zhu Chuanzong's confidant, and one he had personally promoted. If they offended the prince now, they would suffer the consequences.

However, they couldn't ignore Wu Kexing's feelings, otherwise, what would become of the prince's reputation? An official stepped forward from the ranks and said, "Your Highness, please calm your anger. Wu Kexing and his ilk are indeed hateful, but please consider Wu Kexing's years of tireless service to the court and his great contributions. I beg Your Highness to show leniency..."

Before he could finish, Zhu Chuanzong interrupted, "The Minister of Works is a high-ranking official of our dynasty. His conduct should serve as a model for other officials. He should be strict with himself and his subordinates. Now, such a major case has occurred, and I was completely unaware of it. This is truly reprehensible! My dear ministers, such dereliction of duty—if you are treated leniently, where is the law? How can our Great Liang dynasty be protected?"

Zhu Chuanzong approved an immediate execution. The other officials involved were either killed or exiled. After the proceedings were completed, Zhu Chuanzong requested to resign from his position as regent.

Upon hearing this, all the civil and military officials were greatly shocked and voiced their opposition.

The emperor personally and tactfully advised Zhu Chuanzong, repeatedly refusing to approve the decision. He even visited Zhu Chuanzong's residence to inquire about his situation. Only then did Zhu Chuanzong request a six-month salary deduction before being reinstated.

Zhu Chuanzong severely punished corrupt officials. Hearing of the court's punishment of such a high-ranking official, the people rejoiced, while officials were filled with fear. The atmosphere of officialdom was instantly renewed.

Zhu Chuanzong felt somewhat relieved.

Chapter Seven:

The Wu Kexing case was temporarily quelled. Zhu Chuanzong, reflecting deeply on his mistakes, decided to launch a large-scale anti-corruption campaign. He issued strict orders, commanding the Ministry of Personnel, the Ministry of Justice, and the Censorate to rigorously investigate officials. Within just over a month, numerous corruption cases were uncovered. Among them were several of Zhu Chuanzong's trusted confidants and favorites, including Wang Daniu and Zhang Laowu.

The first official impeached by the censor was Wang Daniu, a fourth-rank official and Vice Commissioner of the Court of Judicial Review, for accepting bribes. Wang Daniu, originally a servant of Zhu Chuanzong, was an illiterate farmer. When he first became an official, he solved many corrupt cases and helped the people seek justice, earning him a good reputation as an honest official.

Therefore, Zhu Chuanzong naturally didn't believe him, but he sent officials from the Ministry of Justice, the Censorate, and the Court of Judicial Review to investigate. The evidence was indeed conclusive.

After his arrest, Wang Daniu actually said, "My bribes were taken from the people and used for the people; it's not illegal!"

He further argued, "I accepted bribes and then gave them away; it's doing good deeds, which is cleaner than those corrupt officials who only line their own pockets. I'm wholeheartedly for the people; you don't even commend me, why are you prosecuting me?"

The three judicial departments all knew that Wang Daniu was originally a servant of the Regent Prince, so they dared not judge the case, but simply reported the matter truthfully to Zhu Chuanzong for his decision.

Zhu Chuanzong, after reading the case file sent by the Censorate, was so angry he almost vomited blood. Wang Daniu had once been a simple, impetuous man; now, as a high-ranking official, he had become so corrupt and depraved—it was truly outrageous! How could he betray the emperor's favor and face the people?

Zhu Chuanzong, though pitying the roughneck Wang Daniu and knowing that even if the boy was corrupt, would be willing to risk his life for him, saw this as a matter of national importance. If he were to act out of personal favoritism, how could the court govern the country in the future? Therefore, he instructed the officials to severely punish him.

But before this matter was settled, many more cases emerged.

These officials involved in the case were all promoted by him and could be considered his confidants. Among them, Zhao Laosi, as the prefect of Beinan Prefecture, actually helped a merchant raise ten million taels of silver from the people in the name of the government. Later, the merchant failed in business and absconded with the money. Tens of thousands of people demanded their money back from the government. Zhao Laosi had no choice but to say, "We in Beinan Prefecture were also cheated. Since it's business, there are gains and losses. Business is risky. Who can we blame?" Despite

the government acting as guarantor, the government completely shirked responsibility after the incident. Naturally, the people were indignant and surrounded the government office for several days. Finally, the army was mobilized, and thirteen people were killed to quell the riot. However, the people's resentment was not appeased. They went to the capital to appeal to the emperor, and have been appealing for three years, but the case has been suppressed.

Zhang Laowu, the vice-prefect of the capital, had previously colluded with merchants to get farmers to buy fake seeds when he was a county magistrate, causing a poor harvest that year. Later, he compensated some farmers with grain in the name of the government. However, six people starved to death that year, and the people's complaints were covered up.

Qian Laoliu, the acting head of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, ordered all government departments to buy wine produced in his hometown every year. Qian Laoliu profited from

this, accumulating tens of thousands of taels of silver over several years. When Zhu Chuanzong received these reports, he felt dizzy and nearly fainted. He was heartbroken. He had devoted himself to the country for years, believing it to be a time of peace and clean governance. But over the years, those honest and upright commoners he had promoted, who initially served the people well and were very incorruptible, had gradually become corrupt. How could this be?

Zhao Laosi, Zhang Laowu, and others were all from poor peasant backgrounds, nameless before becoming officials. Now, holding high positions, they all had illustrious names and should know the suffering of the people. For the people, for the court, and to repay Zhu Chuanzong's kindness, they should have worked diligently for the people! But instead, they became so greedy and ruthless. Such is the state of human nature; it is truly disappointing!

Zhu Chuanzong, seeing that his life's hard work had ultimately amounted to nothing, and that his so-called achievements were nothing but illusions and castles in the air, felt that life was truly meaningless. At this moment, eunuchs and palace maids arrived; it turned out that the Empress Dowager wanted to summon him to the palace to discuss something.

Due to public opinion, Zhu Chuanzong couldn't always see the Empress Dowager, so her summons must mean she had something to discuss.

Upon entering the palace, Zhu Chuanzong saw that the Empress Dowager, Zhang Duanyi, was still as beautiful as ever, with a graceful figure and fair skin. Zhu Chuanzong hadn't seen the Empress Dowager for many days and had missed her dearly. His mood was already low, but seeing his old lover again, with her unchanged appearance, made him feel old himself, and he couldn't help but sigh with regret.

The Empress Dowager smiled and said, "Your Highness doesn't look too well. Why do you look so dejected? Are you unhappy to see me?"

Zhu Chuanzong replied, "How could I be unhappy to see you? It's just that there have been many problems in the court recently. My old subordinates who followed me through thick and thin have been involved in numerous corruption scandals, undermining discipline and becoming utterly corrupt. It's a small matter if it damages my reputation, but the losses to the court are much greater. Thinking about all my hard work over the years, I've toiled in vain. What have I gained from my life's busyness? You are still as beautiful as ever, while I have grown old! I have truly accomplished nothing and have nothing to show for it." "What a waste!"

The Empress Dowager laughed, "Look at what you're saying! You're in your prime, the perfect age to make your mark, how can you say such discouraging things? It's just a few corrupt officials! What dynasty hasn't had them? A few corrupt officials are just a minority. Have you not seen me for many days, so you're resenting me? You're surrounded by beautiful young women, you don't care about this old woman anymore!"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Look at what you're saying! You bore me my beloved son and are my closest confidante. If you were always by my side, I wouldn't care about anyone else." "Where is the woman?" The Empress Dowager

nestled into his arms and said, "You still remember we have a child? Then how can you say you've accomplished nothing! You've built this empire for our child, leaving him a legacy for ten thousand years, isn't that enough?"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "It's precisely because I've built this empire that I lament my failure to govern it well!"

The Empress Dowager smiled charmingly and said, "Ah, look at what you're saying, Your Highness. These are all trivial matters, why let such unrelated things bother you? I'm sorry for making you suffer the pain of unrequited love. Perhaps the maids around you don't understand your feelings." "Your position is too high now, you don't have a single confidant! It would be so nice if you could talk to me more often!

It's a pity I have no choice but to do this. For our son, for the sake of the royal family's reputation, you've suffered all these years.

A few days ago, I told our son about our situation."

Zhu Chuanzong was taken aback and said, "Such a big matter, why didn't you discuss it with me? No wonder he's been much more obedient lately, and not as cold to me as before. That's good!"

He was greatly pleased, seeing the Empress Dowager's arched eyebrows and fair face, still as beautiful as she had been in her youth. Holding her warm jade in his arms, surrounded by her fragrance, her delicate, pink skin, her alluring charm, was just like the stunning beauty he had felt when they first met.

Zhu Chuanzong embraced the Empress Dowager, about to become intimate, when a palace maid knocked on the door, announcing that the Emperor had come to

pay his respects. The two were reluctant to separate, and the Empress Dowager comforted him, saying, "I invited the Emperor. It's rare for you father and son to meet privately; you should exchange a few heartfelt words." At this moment, the Emperor entered, exceptionally respectful, his face full of smiles. He said with a smile, "Hearing of Your Highness's visit to the palace, I came especially for you. Your Highness has rendered great service; you must take care of your health."

Zhu Chuanzong sighed, "Speaking of health, is it truly the years that catch up with me? Lately, I've only felt backaches and aches, as if I've aged."

The Emperor quickly said, "Your Highness, is it recently..." "I'm too busy, I'll be fine after a few days of rest. I'm young and incompetent, I can't help Your Highness much, it makes me both ashamed and worried!"

Zhu Chuanzong said, "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. Today I received a secret report from my subordinates that several officials I personally promoted were actually greedy, which makes me extremely fearful and ashamed. I have let down the people of the world! After I deal with these officials myself, I will personally apologize to Your Majesty. Your Majesty, you are already eighteen years old, it is time for you to assume personal rule."

The Emperor, having experienced many things over the years, thought to himself, how could he assume personal rule so easily? He said, "Your Highness, you don't need to take it to heart, you should take care of your health. You have worked hard and made great contributions, the restoration of the Great Liang was all thanks to your life-risking efforts. Now some corruption cases have occurred, but it is not a big deal. The people all praise Your Highness for your wisdom and martial prowess, Your Highness should not blame yourself too much."

The Empress Dowager was also pleased to see that the Emperor handled the situation appropriately, and showed an approving look.

Zhu Chuanzong was also very pleased, saying, "It's rare for Your Majesty to be so understanding and kind to me. Your Majesty should treat the people of the world in the same way in the future."

He then asked what books the Emperor was reading and what books he should be reading.

The Emperor thought to himself, "You always treat me like a child. Humph, just wait until you see how powerful I am."

The Emperor was very reluctant to listen to Zhu Chuanzong's nagging, and after a long period of patience, he finally found an opportunity and said with a smile, "Your Highness, you have been busy with state affairs. It's not easy for you to come and visit the Empress Dowager. Please have a good chat with her. I won't disturb you any longer."

In the past two years, as the Emperor had grown older, he had become more and more tactful in his dealings and had become more and more respectful to Zhu Chuanzong, probably because he knew that Zhu Chuanzong was his biological father and had truly helped him establish the empire.

Zhu Chuanzong watched the Emperor leave, feeling very gratified.

Zhu Chuanzong and Zhang Duanyi spent some time together, confiding in each other, and Zhu Chuanzong did not return home until evening.

The following day at court, Zhu Chuanzong dispatched the Court of Judicial Review, the Censorate, and the Ministry of Justice to investigate the case of Zhao Laosi and others. These officials were renowned for their impartiality and were trusted advisors to Zhu Chuanzong. They reported directly to Zhu Chuanzong. Although the case involved many high-ranking officials, under the personal supervision of the Regent, the entire case was quickly uncovered.

Just as the truth was about to be revealed, new evidence and shocking news emerged: Zhao Laosi, Zhang Laowu, and others had hidden letters of rebellion in their homes. The three judicial departments dared not conceal this and had to forward the information to Zhu Chuanzong.

Originally, even the most serious crimes of embezzlement wouldn't warrant the execution of their entire families and the extermination of nine generations of their relatives. However, with the discovery of this evidence, they were found guilty of treason, deserving not only the extermination of their families and the confiscation of their property, but also the execution of nine generations of their relatives! This major case immediately shocked the court and the public.

Zhu Chuanzong was initially furious and didn't want to see these ungrateful scoundrels, but the case took such a dramatic turn; he never expected these people to unite in rebellion.

When Zhu Chuanzong suddenly heard about this, he almost fainted. These trusted confidants he had personally promoted, even if they were corrupt, shouldn't be rebelling against him? Were they truly heartless and treacherous? The more he thought about it, the more illogical it seemed, and his suspicions grew. After pondering for a long time, a thought suddenly struck him, recalling a case from years ago.

He had also faced a major legal case, but on Wu Siyuan's advice, he risked using the tactic of rebellion. The then-Emperor Mingzong, however, believed it was a case of two factions framing each other and fighting amongst themselves, and that one faction shouldn't be allowed to become too powerful and difficult to control, so he didn't punish them severely.

Zhu Chuanzong sensed something amiss and decided to personally interrogate Zhao Laosi and his associates.

Upon seeing Zhu Chuanzong, Zhao Laosi, Zhang Laowu, and the others burst into tears. Zhu Chuanzong angrily retorted, "You've embezzled and broken the law, and you even dared to rebel against me! How

dare you show your faces before me? If you had any conscience, you would have committed suicide to atone for your sins!" The men replied, "Our corruption is unforgivable, and we have failed your painstaking efforts in nurturing us. We were originally willing to atone with our deaths. However, the thought of leaving you alone, young master, would likely lead to your downfall at the hands of treacherous officials. Therefore, we risked the execution of our entire families to come see you one last time and tell you our innermost thoughts."

Zhu Chuanzong saw them... They addressed him as "Young Master," a term still used in the past. Recalling those bygone days, they sighed deeply. He said, "Speak your mind. You're all incredibly audacious, plotting to usurp the throne."

They all exposed their arms and legs, covered in wounds, and cried, "If we hadn't resorted to this, we probably would never have had the chance to see Your Highness again. We're warning Your Highness to be wary of the treacherous officials around you."

Zhu Fuzong, seeing them being tortured, was secretly alarmed. Officials were above the law; even the Three Judicial Offices wouldn't dare use torture against them.

Zhu Fuzong's expression was uncertain, filled with doubt. He coldly sneered, "So you're all being framed?"

They all cried, "We're not entirely wronged, but we've failed Your Highness's kindness. Even dying a thousand times wouldn't repay your patronage."

They slowly explained their situation. It turned out that when they first became officials, they were wholeheartedly devoted to the people. However, matters of the government were not always handled well by even the most honest officials. Officials' salaries were low, enough to live on, but not enough to support their clerks, servants, stewards, and maids. Moreover, if they were too incorruptible, no official would dare deal with them, making it impossible to accomplish anything, and they couldn't complete the tasks assigned by the court.

Gradually, in order to make a name for themselves, these men had no choice but to adapt to local customs and interact with these officials. However, these interactions required money, so they slowly began to take kickbacks and embezzle funds. As

their official positions rose higher, although they achieved many good deeds for the people, they were gradually deceived by their subordinates and began to merely go through the motions, which led to their current predicament.

Zhu Chuanzong angrily said, "There are indeed bad habits in officialdom, but if you weren't of poor character, could you have committed so many corrupt acts?"

The men tearfully admitted their mistakes, kowtowing repeatedly, but in the end, they all insisted that there were treacherous and wicked officials in the court who needed to be eliminated, cutting off the prince's right and left hands, and finally dealing with the prince.

Zhu Chuanzong pressed them to reveal their identities, but none of them dared to answer, saying, "If Your Highness were to keep a close eye on things, a secret investigation would easily reveal all."

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