【Under the Great Tomorrow】(58)

Author: hui329
Published: 2017/6/4 First Release
Word Count: 13755
Chapter 58 Seeing Injustice
Liu Jin gently stirred the blue-and-white porcelain teacup, about to drink a cup of fragrant tea, but only smiled at Ding Shou who had just entered
, "Brother Shou, how are your injuries?"
Ding Shou, who had passed two trials last night and was in high spirits, was puzzled as to why this old eunuch had come to his house so early in the morning
, but still answered honestly with a smile, "Thanks to your troubles, Eunuch, the beating I received is no longer a big problem."
"I think so too, otherwise you would be showing off in the capital, openly slapping my face!
" Liu Jin's voice suddenly turned cold, and he slammed the teacup heavily on the table beside him.
"Eunuch, I have tried my best to keep a low profile. The captured criminals have been handed over to the Shuntian Prefecture for processing, and I dared not reveal my
whereabouts." Ding Shou quickly explained.
"Hand it over to Shuntian Prefecture? How will Hu Fu thank you for this grand gift?" Liu Jin sneered, waving his hand
to stop Ding Shou from continuing. "Alright, consider it a stroke of luck. Yesterday morning at court, I just managed to get Hu Fu out
of Shuntian Prefecture. Now, Hu Ruli, the Prefectural Magistrate, is in charge. Let's hold off on this case for a few days and
report it as his achievement."
Ding Shou reviewed Hu Ruli's resume in his mind and tentatively asked, "Is he the former Prefect of Datong,
Hu Ruli from Ningxia?"
"That's right. Hu Liangbi was courageous and capable during his tenure in Datong, and his record was quite remarkable. It's a waste of his talent
to treat him as just a Prefectural Magistrate. This case is a good opportunity to give him a push." Liu Jin sneered, "Such a heinous act has occurred in the capital region
. It's time for someone to properly deal with it."
"Lord Hu is a fellow townsman of
Eunuch Liu, which is why he dares to hold both positions. He was known for his strict enforcement of the law during the Datong era and has a good reputation as an official. He is undoubtedly the best candidate." Ding Shou held up a teacup with both hands and served it to Liu Jin.
The Shaanxi Provincial Administration Commission in the Ming Dynasty was not the simple Shaanxi Province of later times. It encompassed
parts of the three provinces of Shaanxi, Gansu, and Ningxia, as well as parts of Qinghai, Inner Mongolia, and Xinjiang. Eunuch Liu's fellow townsmen were spread throughout the Northwest
.
"You sure know how to talk, lad," Liu Jin said, pleased with Ding Shou's words. He took the teacup, sipped
it, and casually remarked, "Yesterday, the Marquises Shouning and Jianchang reported you to the Empress Dowager
."
"Ah?!" Ding Shou had been busy all day and had completely forgotten about hitting someone's son. He
asked anxiously, "What did the Empress Dowager say? Is she going to punish me?"
"Look at you, so pathetic. Luckily, someone reminded you. We've planted a thorn between the Empress Dowager and them, so
nothing will happen for now." Liu Jin was quite displeased with Ding Shou's lack of tact. Just as
Ding Shou's heart was about to settle, Liu Jin added, "But don't be too happy yet. As the saying goes, 'the distant don't alienate the close.
' The two marquises and the Empress Dowager will be like siblings for a thousand years
. The day they reconcile will be the day you're in trouble."
"Lord Supervisor, what should I do? You have to help me!" Ding Shou's heart jumped again.
"You brat, you've been causing trouble everywhere in the capital. We're busy currying favors everywhere, and we're barely keeping up with cleaning up your messes. How
can we help you?" Liu Jin said coldly.
"Don't you care about your subordinates?" Ding Shou said with a mournful face.
"I can't stand your behavior," Liu Jin said, seemingly taking pity on Ding Shou. He beckoned Ding Shou closer and whispered, "Now
you have to use a self-inflicted injury ruse. Act pitiful to His Majesty and the Empress Dowager, and get out of this hotbed of trouble in the capital."
"No problem, I'll ask for leave and go back to Xuanfu immediately." Since he was planning to go back anyway, Ding Shou had no
objections. However, another problem arose, "But... how do I act pitiful?"
"Didn't you just receive a beating at court?" Liu Jin said with a sneer.
"But the injury wasn't serious to begin with, and it's almost healed now." Ding
Shou, who had just had a night of sexual activity, didn't intend to hide his injury.
"Easy." Liu Jin smiled lightly and suddenly struck out with his palm, directly hitting Ding Shou's chest.
Caught off guard, Ding Shou was sent flying backward, landing on the corridor where he stumbled and fell to his knees.
A sweet taste filled his throat, and a trickle of blood seeped from the corner of his mouth.
Liu Jin's smile remained unchanged as he slowly stood up. "Do you know why I hit you?"
"This subordinate acted recklessly, causing...cough cough...causing trouble for the Eunuch." Ding Shou's face was pale, his chest
tight with unspeakable frustration. This old eunuch really hit him!
"And what else?" Liu Jin slowly approached him.
"Last night, I failed to report my actions to you in time, cough cough, which prevented you from making preparations in advance, leaving you caught off guard
." Ding Shou racked his brains, honestly confessing his past transgressions.
Liu Jin walked slowly to Ding Shou's side and said coldly, "Remember this: if you ever take the Emperor to those brothels again
, I'll personally cripple you."
Ding Shou nodded with difficulty. Liu Jin reached out his hand again, and the Second Master recoiled in fear.
With a soft sigh, Liu Jin helped Ding Shou up, patted his shoulder, and said, "Go back to Xuanfu and recuperate
. Come back after I've cleaned your ass up."
With that, the old eunuch left the mansion.
********************
On the wide official road heading north from the capital, a group of people and horses traveled in a long procession.
Eight Imperial Guards led the way, followed closely by twenty Imperial Guards in round-necked armor, escorting an eight-person
-carried luxurious palanquin draped with blue curtains. This was Ding Shou's entourage, who had claimed illness and left the capital.
To be honest, Lord Ding's current entourage exceeded all regulations. Since Zhu Yuanzhang became emperor,
he had established rules for everything from eating and drinking to toileting, so naturally, he wouldn't overlook such extravagance. The practice of using human labor instead of animals in sedan chairs
was naturally forbidden by the Hongwu Emperor, who hated officials and loved the people. He stipulated that only women, officials, and the elderly and sick could ride in sedan chairs; others, like
Ding Shou, a military officer "even of the highest rank," had to ride on horseback. However, like other laws of the Ming Dynasty, this rule was increasingly disregarded over time. The Zhu family emperors 　　repeatedly emphasized this rule
, gradually relaxing the restrictions. In the seventh year of the Hongzhi reign, the Xiaozong Emperor decreed that civil officials of the third rank and above could ride in sedan chairs, limited to 　　four bearers. Just this year, the young emperor issued a special edict reiterating this rule. For someone of Ding Shou's rank, a military officer riding in a sedan chair exceeding the limit of eight bearers, was practically a death sentence. 　　Despite the rules, Ding Shou's pale and sickly appearance when requesting leave, and his occasional 　　coughing up of blood, truly terrified the two noble ladies in the palace.

Zhu Houzhao felt guilty, so the imperial court bestowed upon him large quantities of medicine. Empress Dowager Zhang felt even more sorry for her thoughtful
little fellow, secretly cursing her two younger brothers for being so unreasonable even when he was so badly injured.
Although the capital wasn't far from Xuanfu, his body couldn't withstand the rigors of riding a horse. So, she decided to take him
back in her sedan chair.
To be honest, Ding Shou hadn't intended to be ostentatious. He had already discreetly reduced the sedan chair carried by sixteen men to eight
. Since the Embroidered Uniform Guard already had duties related to the imperial ceremonies, they could manage by selecting a few strong and tall men and halving the manpower
. If they reduced it to four men, the sedan chair bearers would protest, saying, "My lord, please have mercy! This is going to
kill us!" "Cough cough..." Master Ding, now plagued by illness and melancholy, leaned 　　wearily
against the red and gold-trimmed silk cushion, looking at the two stunningly beautiful women before him. Chu Chu, in a white dress, was intently changing 　　the benzoin incense in the burner at her feet, while Du Yunniang, in a fiery red dress, brought over a bowl of medicine she had just brewed from the sedan curtain. 　　"Master, it's time for your medicine." 　　Looking at the strong medicinal smell, Ding Shou frowned and drank it all in one gulp, smacking his lips: "Bitter— 　　." 　　"Good medicine tastes bitter, doesn't it?" Du Yunniang giggled, wiping the medicine stains from Ding Shou's lips with a fragrant handkerchief 　　. She took a candied fruit from a carved lacquer box beside her and fed it to Ding Shou. 　　Ding Shou chewed slowly, trying to dispel the bitterness in his mouth, and leaned out of the sedan chair. 　　"My lord, what are your orders?" Du Xingye and Qian Ning, the guards beside the sedan chair, quickly stepped forward to ask. 　　"How much longer until we reach Xuanfu Town?" Ding Shou asked listlessly. 　　"This—?" Qian Ning wasn't a local, so he had no idea of the journey. He looked around and beckoned 　　, "Brother Wang, the master has something to ask." 　　Wang Liu, dressed in a blue robe and a small hat, responded immediately and trotted over. "Second Master, what are your orders?" 　　"Where have you been?" Ding Shou asked impatiently. 　　"I stopped for a bite at Jiming Post Station, and I ate too much, so I relieved myself by the roadside." Wang Liu chuckled foolishly. These 　　past few days had felt like a dream. The Second Master had really become rich. He lived in such a large mansion, served by many servants, and 　　all the women around him were so beautiful. The two in the sedan chair, in particular, were so young they looked like celestial beings, making one afraid 　　to look too closely. The most alluring one was the woman in the red dress, who exuded a seductive charm. Just one smile from her and you felt like 　　your bones would melt. Oh right, what's this sedan chair called again? It even has a bed inside. It's said to be the one the Empress Dowager 　　rode in. Good heavens! Did that mean Second Master slept in the same bed as the Empress Dowager? I dared not think any further 　　. I silently apologized a few times and stole glances at the guards around me. They were all officials. These past few 　　days, they had all been calling me brother. The storyteller always talked about how even a seventh-rank official could not stand before the prime minister. Although 　　I didn't know how far Second Master's position as a vice-prefect was from that of a prime minister, it was probably not lowly. Sixth Master should be someone important in the future, right? Haha 　　, from now on, when I eat chicken, I'll eat one and throw it away, right in front of those beggars from the Beggars' Sect, and they won't be allowed to pick it up 　　. Wang Liu was immersed in his wild fantasies about his future life and ignored Ding Shou's questions. 　　Seeing Wang Liu's eyes darting around, seemingly lost in thought, Ding Shou snapped, "What are you thinking about? I'm asking you a question 　　!" 　　"Huh!?" Wang Liu exclaimed in surprise, "Second Master, what did you ask?" 　　Qian Ning whispered to Wang Liu, "Brother Wang, the master asked how much longer it will take to reach Xuanfu Town?" 　　"Second Master, we've been past Jimingyi for nearly forty li, and we should be home in another twenty li." 　　Wang Liu, now fully awake, wasn't too slow to react. 　　"Lower the sedan chair," Ding Shou ordered. 　　Qian Ning quickly waved, signaling the sedan chair bearers to lower the chair to the ground. He carefully lifted the blue curtain and asked, "Master 　　, what are you doing...?" 　　"Just getting some fresh air," Ding Shou said, stepping out of the sedan chair and stretching his limbs. He then turned to the two women behind him 　　and said, "How about riding a horse with me for a while?" 　　"Master, can you ride a horse now?" Chu Chu asked worriedly. 　　"My buttock injury is long gone," Ding Shou said with a wry smile. Liu Jin's palm strike had disrupted his internal energy and hindered his flow of true qi 　　, but the actual injury wasn't serious. He instructed, "Prepare two horses for me. You can follow behind slowly 　　." 　　Du Xingye, worried about his safety, was about to offer some advice, but Qian Ning stopped him. "I will obey your orders, sir." 　　"Master, you only want two horses. Are you going to leave one of us sisters behind?" Du Yunniang covered her mouth and chuckled 　　. 　　Ding Shou grinned, mounted his horse, and, amidst Chu Chu's exclamation, lifted her in front of him. "Let's make a bet. 　　Whoever arrives in town last will have to stay home alone tonight." 　　"Master is sharing a horse with Chu Chu. It's obvious you're favoring her," Du Yunniang said, extremely dissatisfied. 　　"Master is helping you. Two people sharing a horse, you're getting a great deal. Still not satisfied? Are you going to bet or not?" Ding Shou 　　teased, inhaling the fragrance of the beauty before him. 　　"A bet." Before the words were even finished, Du Yunniang landed on the horse like a red cloud, and the horse immediately 　　galloped away. 　　"You cheated." Ding Shou laughed loudly, put his arm around Chu Chu's slender waist, held the reins in one hand, and lightly kicked the 　　horse's belly. The horse neighed loudly and chased after him. 　　"Why didn't you stop the lord?" Du Xingye complained to Qian Ning. 　　"Our lord's temperament is never at rest. He's probably been itching for a break these days. Let him be. 　　" Qian Ning shook his head and said. 　　"If there are any more complications, how can we explain to the Governor?" Du Xingye said solemnly. 　　"I say, Master Du, we certainly can't disobey Eunuch Liu's orders, but we can't disobey Lord Ding's orders either 　　," Qian Ning smiled at Wang Liu beside him. "In short, we're all acting under orders, which makes perfect 　　sense, right, Sixth Master?" 　　Wang Liu immediately shrank back, "I can't 　　accept such a formal address from you, sir. It's like you've unjustly deprived me of my fodder." "Sixth Master, you're too kind. You're a close confidant of Lord Ding, no ordinary person. If you ever rise to prominence, don't forget to help your brother out," Qian Ning said warmly 　　, 　　putting 　　his 　　arm around Wang Liu's shoulder 　　. ********** ...

Zhu Yuanzhang, emulating the Spring and Autumn period's policy of respecting the king and
repelling the barbarians, enfeoffed nine princes—Liaoning, Ning, Yan, Gu, Dai, Jin, Qin, Qing, and Su—from the northeast to the northwest to guard the borders, implementing a system of "princes guarding the borders," gradually eroding Mongolia's territory.
Frankly, Zhu Yuanzhang was much happier than Li Shimin, and wouldn't lament, "It's better to have a wolf than a sheep."
His sons were born in a chaotic era, grew up in the military, and many were both literary and martial talents,
skilled in poetry and music, archery and horsemanship, and capable in battle. They caused considerable trouble for the remnants of the Northern Yuan, who had retreated to the grasslands. No wonder
Emperor Jianwen, after ascending the throne, was wary of these uncles, dealing with several, forcing one to rebel, and ultimately losing his empire.
The newly enthroned Zhu Di (Emperor Taizong of Tang) certainly wouldn't give his brothers the chance to repeat his mistakes. He
relocated the princes of Liao, Gu, and Ning to the interior, and gradually abandoned the garrisons north of the Great Wall. Zhu Di's plans differed
from his father's; rather than gradually encroaching, he preferred to take the initiative, personally leading five campaigns against the Mongols in the north. He attacked whichever Mongol tribe was the strongest,
thoroughly ravaging the grasslands beyond the Great Wall. In the end, when he finally launched another campaign, he couldn't even find a worthy opponent. He died in frustration on the northern expedition. Afterwards,
Emperors Renzong and Xuanzong died young, and Emperor Yingzong was embroiled in the Tumu Crisis. The Mongols gradually invaded southward, and the fortresses along the Great Wall
were once again exposed to the Tartars' blades. If Emperor Taizong knew this in the afterlife, one wonders what he would think.
"Master, the walls of Xuanfu are so thick and sturdy. No wonder they were able to withstand the Oirat army during the Tumu Crisis," Du Yunniang
exclaimed, looking at the tall walls.
The three men and two riders slowed down upon reaching the city walls. Ding Shou, not wearing official robes, didn't want to be mistaken for
a Tartar and shot dead by the guards.
"These walls are made of rammed earth and covered with bricks. They were rebuilt during the Zhengtong era," Ding Shou replied, downplaying the seriousness of the situation. After the construction,
Esen had taken Emperor Yingzong hostage and ordered Xuanfu to open the city gates to welcome him. Governor Luo Hengxin stood on the city wall with his sword, declaring, "All
those who surrender and those who invade the city will be killed without mercy. I swear to live and die with the city and forever protect the Ming Dynasty."
This forced Esen to retreat westward. However, it was difficult for the second master, now a civil servant, to say such things about the late emperor. Looking down at
Chu Chu, whose fair cheeks were flushed from the rapid ride, he asked tenderly, "Were you frightened just now?"
Chu Chu shook her head and smiled, "I'm glad you enjoyed yourself, sir."
Ding Shou chuckled, dismounted, and led the two women's horses through a winding path before finally entering the Changping Gate in the south of the city.
After the Yongle reign, Xuanfu Town was converted into a city with four gates, each surrounded by a barbican, and outside the barbican was a semi-circular
fortress. The semi-circular fortress was arc-shaped, with both ends connecting to the city wall. The gates of the semi-circular fortress faced the same direction as the city gates, but were offset from the gates of the barbicans,
preventing attackers from advancing directly into the city. Even those who entered the city had to take a roundabout route.
As a major town in the north, it was naturally densely populated. Sitting on her horse, Chu Chu gazed at a towering city gate, about
nine zhang high, and leaned down to ask, "Master, what is that city gate?" "
That's the Zhenshuo Tower," Ding Shou replied, following Chu Chu's pointing finger. "The General of Xuanfu holds
the seal of the General of Zhenshuo, hence the name."
Seeing the longing look on Chu Chu's face, Ding Shou smiled and said, "Would you like to climb up and take a look?"
Chu Chu nodded, then immediately shook her head. "This is a military stronghold; I'm afraid it's inappropriate."
"I have the Embroidered Uniform Guard's token; even General Zhang Jun would probably give me some face," the Second Master
boasted in front of the beauty, leading his horse towards the city.
"Master, there are people blocking the way ahead," Du Yunniang, who had been keeping a close eye on the surroundings, warned.
"What's going on?" Ding Shou was puzzled; was someone trying to intimidate him?
"They're not after us, just a group of people gathered together, doing something?" Du Yunniang sat up straight, craning her neck
to look up. 　　A group of people stood in a circle, pointing and whispering. 　　Inside the circle, a richly dressed young man, accompanied by several servants, was 　　flirting with a tall, slender girl.
" 　　Miss, don't be in such a hurry to leave. It's fate that we met. Come and have a few drinks with this young master ," the young man, who looked no 　　more than ten years old, said with a frivolous grin. 　　The girl was also quite young, her head wrapped in a cloth, her slender figure concealed by a white floral dress. She had 　　an oval face, thin lips, and bright, lively eyes. Her expression showed more anger than fear as she coldly said, 　　"Young master, please have some self-respect." 　　"Self-respect? I really don't know how heavy I am. Come, come, miss, come and hug me to see if I'm heavy 　　," the young man said, opening his arms as if to embrace her. 　　The woman took several steps back, turned to leave, but was blocked by several unruly servants. "Young lady, don't be in such a hurry to leave. 　　It's a blessing you earned in your past life to keep our young master company." 　　Forced to retreat by the servants, the woman hurriedly turned around, only to bump into the young man's arms. The young man 　　grabbed her slender waist and laughed loudly, "If you won't hold me, then I'll weigh you." 　　The woman struggled desperately, but the young man wouldn't let go. In the heat of the moment, a "slap" was heard as the woman raised her hand and slapped 　　the young man across the face. 　　The young man suddenly released his hand, covering his cheek, half surprised and half angry, and said, "You dare hit me?" He raised his hand to 　　strike back. 　　The young woman was terrified, her face pale, and she closed her eyes tightly. But before the slap could land, she opened her eyes to see a handsome 　　young man in a brocade robe grabbing the young man's raised hand. 　　The young man winced in pain at his wrist and cried out, "Let go! You villain, let go!" 　　Ding Shou released his hand, coughing lightly a few times. 　　The young man stumbled back a few steps, shaking his wrist, and looked at the three people opposite him: a pale-faced sick man and two 　　beautiful women. He couldn't help but laugh, "Young master, I didn't catch any weasels today, but I caught three 　　mermaids! What a 　　stroke of luck!" A servant approached and flattered, "Young master, you're truly blessed with good fortune! You've struck it rich!" 　　The young man shouted, "What are you waiting for? Quickly invite the three beauties over to drink with me!" 　　At this moment, Chu Chu put her arm around the young woman's arm and gently comforted her. Ding Shou ignored the few vicious dogs and servants rushing towards him 　　and nodded to Du Yunniang. Du Yunniang gave a charming smile and went to greet them... 　　The nine-tailed fox's skills were a waste of a few servants. In an instant 　　, the unfortunate group of people were lying on the ground. Strangely, the young master showed no fear whatsoever. 　　"Well done, well done! This sister has excellent skills. Come to my manor and teach me!" The young man clapped his hands and cheered 　　, his eyes sparkling as he looked at Du Yunniang.

Du Yunniang looked at the boy, old enough to be her grandson, staring at her with a dazed expression, and chuckled, then
looked pleadingly at Ding Shou.
Ding Shou coughed lightly, asserting his authority: "It seems—she's someone from my household. You seem to be
overstepping your bounds, don't you?"
The boy rolled his eyes. "Then give her to me. Name your price, and I, the young master, will have no objections."
A crisp "slap" rang out, and the boy received another slap on the cheek.
"The women of my household are not commodities, and you can't afford them," Ding Shou
said softly, exchanging a smile with Du Yunniang.
The boy's eyes widened in shock and anger, and he shouted sharply, "You dare hit me? Do you know who I am! Do you know who my
father is!"
Ding Shou scratched his head; the line sounded familiar. "Young master, your father's surname isn't Li, is it?"
"Huh?" The abrupt question startled the boy, who shook his head in denial.
"Then it's alright." Ding Shou grinned, revealing a set of white teeth, and raised his hand
to slap the boy again, making him spin around on the spot. You little bastard, in broad daylight, you dare to harass an innocent woman in the street
? This is something Second Master has always dreamed of doing but hasn't had the chance to do yet. How did you beat me to it?
The boy was completely stunned. After regaining his senses, he sat down on the ground and burst into tears, pointing at the servants around him and saying
, "He hit me! Are you all blind? Did you
just watch me get beaten?" This made Ding Shou feel a little embarrassed. Had he bullied a child? Seeing
the servants who had been knocked down struggling to their feet and surrounding the little tyrant, he turned and walked to Chu Chu. "This
young lady, you were frightened just now. Please go home quickly."
The girl's expression had just calmed down, and she gave a graceful bow. "Thank you for your help, young master. However, this person's identity is
extraordinary. You have gotten yourself into big trouble. It would be best to get out of here as soon as possible."
Ding Shou stared intently at her and saw that there seemed to be water flowing in the woman's eyes. Her appearance was also very beautiful. He couldn't help but be a
little lost in thought. The girl's cheeks burned under his gaze, and she lowered her head shyly. He was unaware of this until Chu Chu
gently touched him, bringing him back to his senses.
With a dry cough to cover his embarrassment, Ding Shou smiled and said, "Thank you for your guidance, young lady, but a man should have a clear conscience before heaven and earth
. How can I let a weak woman like you bear the responsibility for me?"
The young woman was moved and was about to say something more to persuade him when suddenly they heard the sound of gongs clearing the way. The woman urged anxiously
, "The officials are coming! Young master, you should hide quickly!"
Ding Shou smiled but remained silent. He didn't care who it was. Even if the governor of Xuanfu, Che Ting, arrived, what could he do? He had finally
gotten the upper hand and didn't want to hide.
The onlookers dispersed, revealing a large contingent of officials and soldiers surrounding an official sedan chair. Behind them were mounted riders in gleaming armor
, and the escorting soldiers held up ceremonial plaques, one reading "Governor-General of Xuanfu and Datong" and the other "Right Vice Censor-in-Chief
. "
Seeing the official sedan chair and the entourage, the young man cried even more miserably. A servant ran to the sedan chair to greet it.
After reporting to the sedan chair for a while, the sedan chair landed, the curtain was lifted, and an official dressed in a brocade robe with a pheasant embroidered pattern stepped out.
"Who dares to commit violence in the street? Seize him!" The official stroked his long beard and commanded sternly.
Before the soldiers could respond, a clear voice rang out: "No need for trouble, Commander Liu.
It's unexpected to meet you again on the road to Xuanfu after our parting in the capital. We are truly destined to meet."
Liu Yu frowned upon hearing the voice, looked up and saw the newcomer, smiled slightly, and stepped forward: "I wondered who dared to be so
bold, but it turns out to be Vice Commander Ding. Why is Lord Ding not at the Northern Garrison Command?"
As he passed the boy sitting on the ground, the boy pitifully called out "Father." Liu Yu's brows furrowed
, and he scolded: "You unfilial son, get up and apologize to Lord Ding."
The boy's tears were still visible, and hearing his father scold him made him feel even more wronged. He burst into tears again
.
Liu Yu felt a pang of heartache at the sight, but forcibly turned his head away and ignored him, saying to Ding Shou, "My son Liu Ren has offended you
, sir. I apologize on his behalf."
"So it's your son. It's truly a case of the flood washing away the Dragon King's temple. It's all a misunderstanding. Please forgive my insolence, Your Excellency
." Ding Shou bowed respectfully. This official was the most powerful among Liu Jin's men, so he had to give him face.
"At such a young age, you don't know the immensity of heaven and earth, causing trouble everywhere. You deserve to be beaten." Liu Yu smiled insincerely
. "I heard that Vice Commissioner Ding was flogged in court because of his entanglement with Shuntian Prefecture. I wonder if he has recovered?"
Ding Shou's expression changed. Was the old man lecturing his son or him? He laughed heartily, "Thank you for
your concern, sir. The severity of court flogging cannot be easily healed. Therefore, I have requested leave to return to my hometown to recuperate
. I hope you will take good care of me under your jurisdiction in the future."
"Of course, of course." Hearing Ding Shou address him as "your humble servant," Liu Yu was even more convinced that this kid had fallen out of favor and been banished from the capital
. He sneered inwardly. Without the protection of the Emperor and Liu Jin, it would be a piece of cake for him, the Governor-General of Xuanda, to deal with a fourth-rank military officer. Even
beating a dog requires... no, beating a son requires considering the father's feelings. He had to
vent his anger for his own son.
"Although my son has acted improperly, committing violence in the marketplace is still against the law. Xuanfu, though a border city, is still under the rule of the Ming Dynasty
. In front of so many people, the perpetrator should be brought to justice." Liu Yu spoke with a smile, as if
discussing something with Ding Shou.
"Does Governor Liu mean to arrest me for questioning?" Ding Shou asked, his smile undiminished.
"That's not quite right. We're colleagues; wouldn't this damage our harmony?" Liu Yu quickly shook his head, then
turned to the three women and said, "These women are all involved in the case and need to be taken back to the yamen for further investigation. I hope Vice-Prefect Ding will
understand."
The girl in the cloth skirt paled upon hearing this, and Ding Shou's expression turned cold. "What if I don't comply?"
Liu Yu said arrogantly, hands behind his back, "I uphold justice. If Lord Ding refuses to cooperate, then we'll have to use force
."
Upon hearing this, Liu Ren, who was still sitting on the ground, jumped up and shouted, "Guards ! Seize
him!"
"Who dares?" Ding Shou and Du Yunniang stepped forward, protecting the two women behind them.
"Vice-Prefect Ding is also a member of the public service; he should know that openly defying the law is tantamount to treason."
"Of course I know, but when did you, Liu Zhida, begin to speak of the law of the Ming Dynasty?" Ding Shou sneered
.
"Insolence!" Liu Yu shouted.
"Bold!" Ding Shou stood firm.
Tensions were high on both sides when suddenly another commotion erupted, with the crowd clamoring and whispering.
Liu Yu angrily demanded, "Who's causing this disturbance?"
"Father, someone has overstepped the bounds by riding in an eight-person sedan chair." Liu Ren wasn't ignorant; he knew perfectly well what was permissible
and impermissible in the Ming Dynasty.
Liu Yu stared intently and saw a group of Imperial Guards carrying a large sedan chair approaching. His heart skipped a beat. Could
it be the Emperor? But wait, why hadn't he received any official notification from the capital? Besides, even if the imperial sedan chair was carried out simply outside the capital, it should still be
carried by sixteen people. Who could it be?
The Imperial Guards approached and alighted from their palanquins. Qian Ning quickly stepped forward, bowed, and reported, "My lord, we are
late. Please forgive us."
"You've come at the perfect time." Ding Shou flicked his sleeves and turned to the girl in the cloth dress, saying, "Please get into the palanquin, young lady. I'll
give you a ride."
"Lord Ding, please wait." Liu Yu's expression was somewhat unpleasant, sensing that something was amiss.
"Commander Liu, I'm in a hurry to go home to visit my family. Please excuse me. If you wish to arrest someone, I will await your arrival at home
." Ding Shou continued walking, leading the women onto the palanquin. "
Lord Ding, you flatter me. I was merely joking." Liu Yu took a few steps, and when he saw
the dragon and phoenix patterns carved on the palanquin beneath the gauze curtain, his pupils constricted.
Dragon and phoenix patterns were reserved for the imperial family, though not strictly forbidden for commoners. A bride's sedan chair could be used as an exception, and even the groom
could ride a horse, wear official robes, and be called "the groom." But Ding Shou didn't look like he was taking a wife at all
. To dare to overstep his bounds like this, unless he was courting death, there was only one possibility: imperial permission. So this kid
not only hadn't lost the emperor's favor, but it was even greater. Liu Yu inwardly groaned; he'd kicked a hornet's nest this time.
"A joke?" Ding Shou leaned out of the sedan chair window.
"Of course, it was just a joke." Liu Dutang nodded repeatedly. "You and I are both confidants of Eunuch Liu. How could we
turn against each other and become a laughingstock?"
"It's rare that you, Dutang, still remember this. You should know better than I who the governor here is working for. Your son's
behavior is giving others a handle to use against him..." Ding Shou sneered, not finishing his sentence, and ordered, "Raise
the sedan chair and make way for Liu Dutang."
Liu Yu waved his hands repeatedly, "Lord Ding, you're too kind. It's only right that I give way."
"Liu Dutang is a high-ranking official, while I am merely a powerless and idle person. How dare I be so ignorant
and cause trouble—" Ding Shou deliberately dragged out his words, glancing sideways at Liu Yu.
Liu Yu's face turned pale and uncertain, looking quite unsightly, provoked by his barbed words.
With
the Imperial Guards clearing the way and pedestrians giving way, the spacious sedan chair moved smoothly through the streets of Xuanfu. Ding Shou leaned back
on the cushions, observing the plainly dressed girl with great interest. Her features weren't particularly delicate, but together they
possessed an indescribable allure. He hadn't noticed such a beauty when he was in Xuanfu.
The girl huddled awkwardly in the corner of the sedan chair, stealing glances at the gold and silver decorations adorning the walls.
Two jade-handled whisks hung on the walls, and wisps of smoke rose from a gilded incense burner, making her feel as if she were in a dream.
"Sister, don't cower there, come and sit down," Chu Chu invited, extending her hand.
The girl shook her head, feeling somewhat ashamed of herself upon seeing the two women's magnificent attire and stunning beauty.
"Miss, where do you live? I'll take you there," Ding Shou asked with a smile.
"No, no, thank you, young master, oh no, thank you, sir and ladies
. I'll alight here and return home on my own, so my family won't worry," the girl hurriedly declined.
Peering through the curtains at the sky, Ding Shou nodded. "Very well. I live in the south of the city. If you have time, may I invite
you to my residence for a chat?"
"The Ding residence in the south of the city? Is that the Ding family that brews 'Drunken Liu Ling'?" the girl asked, her eyes wide.
"Indeed," Ding Shou replied with a smile.
The girl bit her lower lip, remaining silent. The sedan chair landed, and she silently stepped out alone.
"Miss..."
the girl turned, and Ding Shou peeked out, smiling. "I haven't yet asked your name?"
The girl lowered her head, remaining silent, and walked silently in the opposite direction from the others. No one knew that two lines of clear tears were currently streaming down her face
.
Seeing Ding Shou's bewildered expression, Du Yunniang chuckled, "Master, why are you in such a hurry
? How can a young lady casually reveal her name to a strange man?"
"If I don't ask, does she think she'll just tell me?" Ding Shou said dejectedly.
"If it were me or Chu Chu asking, at least she'd be more likely to tell you the truth," Du Yunniang said, climbing onto Ding Shou's shoulder
with a beaming smile.
Ding Shou slipped his hand under Du Yunniang's skirt, regretting, "You slut, why didn't you think to ask earlier?"
Du Yunniang felt the hot hand already touching her garden below. Even through the thin silk trousers,
the friction of the hand against her petals sent shivers of pleasure through her. She breathed softly, "How could I have known that you, sir, were lustful again..."
Ding Shou stole a glance at Chu Chu, whose jade-like face was flushed, and lewdly said, "Then I'll have a good time...
" He flipped over and pinned Du Yunniang beneath him...
Before he could even undress Du Yunniang, Wang Liu outside the sedan chair called out, "Second Master, we're home..."
**********
A group of soldiers arrived at her door. Yue Xian had already received the report and, already on edge
, thought something terrible had happened. She arrived at the gate with a trembling heart, only to find her brother-in-law with a wicked grin.
"Sister-in-law, it's been a year since we last met, and I've missed you terribly. I wonder if you've missed me too?"
The double entendre made Yuexian blush immediately, but Yu Nu retorted sharply, "We've been thinking about our little
brother, but unfortunately, that big-headed brother has no conscience. He hasn't come back to visit in over a year."
Ding Shou awkwardly raised his hands in apology, letting the women tease him. Yu Nu looked at the entourage of the Imperial Guards behind them and asked
, "Young Master, you've become a high-ranking official. How high?"
"Incredibly high! Look at that big sedan chair, that's the Empress Dowager's. Even the Governor-General didn't
dare block Second Master's way just now!" Wang Liu emerged from behind, gesturing excitedly. Yu
Nu gasped. In their eyes, the Governor of Xuanfu was a god-like figure. A few days ago, some Governor-General came
and even managed the Governor-General—that was like heaven above heaven! Even the Governor-General had to defer to the young master; wasn't that
like punching a hole in the sky?
Qianniang, who had been smiling and watching the commotion with Meilian, suddenly changed her expression upon seeing Wang Liu.
Xiaotao stepped forward and scolded, "Wang Liu, you treacherous servant, how dare you come back?"
Yunu was furious. "So you're the scoundrel who absconded with the money! You've made us sisters suffer
so much!" Over the past year, she and Yuexian had developed a deep sisterly bond and felt deeply indignant about their ordeal.
Seeing Wang Liu now filled her with disgust, and she immediately slapped him.
The blow wasn't heavy, but Yu Nu's sharp fingernails left five bloody marks on Wang Liu's face.
The boy grimaced in pain, but dared not retaliate. He knelt down and kowtowed several times to Yue Xian,
pleading, "Madam, I was inconsiderate and have caused you so much suffering these past few years. Please, have mercy and spare my lowly
life."
Wang Liu cried miserably, and Yue Xian felt a pang of pity. She looked at Qian Niang, who was pale-faced. If she spared him, would she
be pushing Qian Niang into this hellhole? She looked at Ding Shou with a troubled expression.
Ding Shou kicked Wang Liu from behind, "Stop talking nonsense, hand over the thing."
"Yes, yes, yes," Wang Liu replied repeatedly, crawling a few steps on his knees to Qian Niang, and took out a
piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to her, "This is from home... oh no, Qian Niang, keep this safe."
Qian Niang took it and looked at it, exclaiming in surprise, "A letter of divorce?!"
"I know I am of shallow virtue and not worthy of you, from now on you are free." Wang Liu's words were so
sincere.
The women all turned to look at Ding Shou. Ding Shou chuckled dryly, "Wang Liu feels he has betrayed his master and harmed his wife, and is unworthy of a good match,
so he wrote a letter of divorce. Considering his sincere repentance, let him off the hook."
Even as he said this, Ding Shou secretly admired his servant. When he presented this letter of divorce, which was practically a confession
, he had planned to use both soft and hard tactics. But this guy didn't even bother with a kiss; he immediately signed it,
decisively and confidently, even stating: "My wife was arranged by the old master. If the second master had been straightforward
, there would have been no need for force. Whenever he felt like it, Wang Liu would have packed her up and sent her to bed." This loyal and
carefree demeanor earned Ding Shou's sincere praise: "So forthright!"
Ding Shou was now the pillar of the Ding family. Since he had spoken, what could the others say
? After all, it had been a year since they last met, and the women were overjoyed. They arranged a banquet, and the whole family drank heartily to welcome
Ding Shou and his entourage.
************
While the Ding family was filled with jubilation, the Governor's Mansion was in chaos.
"I'm not going! He hit me! Why should I apologize?" Young Master Liu threw an old book he was casually flipping through
onto the desk, glaring at his father.
Sitting behind his desk, Liu Dutang earnestly advised his son, "This matter arose because of you.
Go and apologize. Considering my influence with Eunuch Liu, he probably won't dare to make things too difficult for you."
"Since you have such great influence, why do I need to apologize? Just take the case to Liu Jin and
see if he protects you, the governor-general, or favors that fourth-rank military officer," Liu Ren
said, reclining on a bamboo chaise longue with his legs crossed.
"My dear, he has more than just Liu Jin behind him." Liu Yu was glad he brought this son to Xuanfu,
otherwise who knows how much trouble this son would cause in the capital. If Liu Dutang knew the term "troublemaker," he would
definitely agree wholeheartedly. This guy is a complete troublemaker. He took a deep breath and patiently explained
, "Although Ding Shouguan is not a high-ranking official, he enjoys the Emperor's favor. Looking across the court, how many can directly enter the palace? Just consider it swallowing a
fly and suffer this once."
There was something Liu Yu didn't say: behind Ding Shouguan was Empress Dowager Zhang. That woman was notoriously protective of her own
, and she would cry, make a scene, and even threaten suicide. She wouldn't reason with you at all. If you angered her, not even the Emperor could cover it up, let alone Liu Jin
.
Lord Liu believed he had thoroughly explained the situation to his son, and that his son should understand his good intentions. He
figured a simple apology would be enough to settle the matter. As for the rift between him and Ding Shou, that could
be mended later; after all, they had no conflict of interest. He figured the boy understood the importance of making friends and avoiding enemies in officialdom.
However, Liu Yu had seriously underestimated his son's tendency to cause trouble.
"Why should I suffer? I'm not trying to be mean, but you, as his father, are doing worse than anyone else, and
now that your son is being bullied, I have to suffer in silence? Why don't you just kill yourself…"
Young Master Liu lay there, grumbling about his father, when suddenly he sensed something was wrong. He turned to see
his father, his beard twitching, pacing around the study, searching.
"Old man, what are you looking for?" Liu Ren asked curiously.
Liu Yu, his face ashen, searched for something to use, but couldn't find anything. He grabbed a scholar's knife from the table .
As the saying goes, "A man in the martial world can't be without a knife." A gentleman is always armed, and scholars are never short of knives—tea knives,
paper cutters, letter openers, scholar's knives, and so on. Whether they can kill someone depends on your determination.
Lord Liu flung off the scabbard, brandishing the ivory-patterned scholar's knife, and lunged viciously at his son. Liu
Ren, terrified, tumbled from his recliner. "Old man, are you crazy? I'm the only son in the Liu family! Do you want to die out?" "
Killing you, you unfilial son, will make me live longer." Having missed his first strike, Liu Yu charged again, knife in hand
.
Seeing that things were serious, Liu Ren scrambled towards the flower hall. A gentle woman in a light green gauze dress
walked gracefully towards him. Liu Ren cried out, "Sister, save me! The old man has gone mad! He's going to kill me!"
His words terrified the woman. Seeing her father indeed rushing out of the study with a knife, she believed
him and shielded Liu Ren behind her, collapsing to the ground and weeping, "Father, if my brother has done anything wrong, I'm willing to take
the blame. Please remember Mother's early..." "Let him go this time."
Seeing his usually obedient and gentle daughter's sorrowful and heartbroken state, Liu Yu, whose anger was boiling over
, gradually calmed down and sighed, "Shan'er, get up. It's all my fault for spoiling this boy; it has nothing to do with you."
Seeing that her father had stopped yelling at her younger brother, the girl slowly rose with Liu Ren's help. "Father,
why did you punish my brother so severely?" The girl was Liu Ren's daughter, Liu Shan, and knew how
much her father valued this only son of the Liu family.
Liu Yu sighed deeply and explained the whole story. Liu Shan frowned upon hearing this, "This Ding Shou is truly..."
"Can we offend him?"
"If he were a gentleman, we could offend him, but Ding Shou..." Liu Yu shook his head and smiled bitterly, "He doesn't follow
any rules, and he's vindictive. Weng Taibei tried to impeach him but failed and ended up in prison; Princess Renhe only punished him by making him kneel,
but soon after, she used the 'seditious rumors' case to frame the Qi family and imprison them. He's a complete scoundrel. If we offend
someone like that, we'll never have a peaceful day again..."
Liu Shan pondered for a moment, "Father is right. There's no such thing as a thief who can be caught a thief for a thousand days. If we don't quell
this matter, we might face retribution later. " "A plan." He paused, then continued, "But Father is, after
all, a high-ranking official in charge of a region. If he were to lower himself to such a position, public opinion would be terrible, and it would be detrimental to Father's reputation..."
Liu Yu sighed. "That's why I wanted your younger brother to go. He's not in officialdom, so he doesn't have so many ties
. But he... sigh!"
Liu Shan saw her younger brother pouting, looking unwilling, and felt sorry for him. "Father, you
know my brother's temperament. He can't stand being wronged. If he gets into an argument while apologizing, it would be counterproductive. It's better to—"
"—Let the daughter do it."
"You—, no, no, absolutely not." Liu Yu shook his head repeatedly like a rattle-drum. "
What kind of manners would it be for a girl like you to come and apologize? How will you choose a husband in the future?"
"Father—" Liu Shan said coquettishly, explaining, "I'm not going to see Ding Shou. I heard that
there are several women in his house. Why don't I become close friends with them and apologize on their behalf? Because
of this relationship, I think Ding Shou won't make things difficult for you and my younger brother anymore."
Liu Yu thought this was a good idea. "Alright, I'll prepare some top-quality jewelry and have you send it
out. Sigh, Shan'er, if you were a man, I would save myself a lot of trouble."
Liu Shan smiled slightly: "My younger brother is still young. He'll understand when he's a few years older."
The young master Liu snorted and turned his face to the other side.
Liu Dutang, however, felt a pang of heartache. He had spent a fortune on sending his sons out to other places, and before he had even recouped his investment
, another batch had to be sent away. With this spendthrift son, he was truly burning through money.
************
The night grew deeper, and Chu Chu tossed and turned,
unable to sleep. Since losing her virginity, she had experienced nightly pleasures. While the pleasures of lovemaking were tolerable before, once
she tasted the forbidden fruit, she had become addicted and found it sweet. This night alone in her room felt more unbearable than a thousand years.
Chu Chu thought to herself that her master was probably resting in Du Yunniang's room. She could shamelessly go to her master's room and be mocked
, but that was better than suffering alone here. With that thought, she got up, put on her clothes, and left her room.
There was no light in Du Yunniang's room across the hall, but faint sounds of panting and moaning could be heard coming from the main room,
sounds that seemed to be both pain and pleasure. Chu Chu, newly married, naturally knew what these sounds meant. She instinctively squeezed her legs together
and quietly went to the window of the main room, gently poked a hole in the paper window, and looked inside.
A delicately carved scarlet gauze lantern hung high from the ceiling. In the light, Yu Nu lay naked on the bed, her plump
, smooth skin still damp with sweat, her cheeks flushed, resting with her eyes closed. Beside her was
Qian Niang, whose body was still trembling slightly, her beautiful eyes half-open and filled with a dazed look, her jade-like skin a bewitching
pink.
At this moment, the mistress of the Ding residence, Yue Xian, was kneeling on a hardwood armchair, her whole body twisting and arching,
thrusting her plump, white buttocks back to meet the continuous thrusts of the disheveled man behind her, letting out soft moans and gasps
.
Her maid, Xiao Tao, was also completely naked. She bit her lip, remaining silent, suppressing her
surging desire as she pushed the man's hips, helping his massive member thrust and pound inside her mistress
.
Suddenly, the man straightened up, gathering his long hair back to reveal his face, which shocked Chu Chu. It was
her master! Could it be that her master and sister-in-law were having an affair? The sight was unacceptable to Chu Chu, who came from a prestigious family
. She turned to leave, but then saw a figure in a red dress standing before her in the moonlight.
Just as Chu Chu was about to cry out in surprise, a delicate hand gently covered her mouth.
Looking closely, she saw it was Du Yunniang. Du Yunniang glanced through the window and teased, "Little girl, are you feeling the heat of spring, peeking at your master's pleasure?"
Chu Chu, embarrassed and annoyed, whispered, "Sister Du, you're talking nonsense! I never imagined my master would commit adultery with his sister-in-law! These
women are truly shameless!"
"Food and sex are the greatest desires of humankind. They are women too, needing men to comfort them. As long as my master treats us
well, what does it matter who he likes or who he's with? Good sister, think of the pain you felt when you were alone and helpless
; you'll understand their plight." Du Yunniang, having experienced the ways of the world, possessed a unique perspective.
Chu Chu was startled by her words, as if she understood something. Encouraged by Du Yunniang, though knowing it was inappropriate, she pressed
her eyes against the window again.
"Uncle...ah...no...no...it's...it's over...I'm going to die..."
At this moment, Yue Xian's head shook wildly, her hands and feet flailing and stretching, her body twisting and turning even more frantically
, her mouth uttering soft, wanton moans.
Chu Chu, watching, felt her body burning with desire, a warm current flowing between her legs, her breathing becoming heavier
. Suddenly, she felt a smooth, jade-like hand slip inside her clothes. Her body tensed, and turning her head, she saw Du Yunniang,
her eyes filled with allure, smiling gently. Chu Chu's heart fluttered, and she involuntarily relaxed, letting that cool, smooth hand
grasp her breasts...
Inside the room, Ding Shou suddenly increased his speed, thrusting forcefully, so fast that even Xiao Tao couldn't support his waist. Yue
Xian, stimulated by this sudden surge, trembled all over, her eyes widening suddenly, her jade buttocks thrusting back, each time the massive member reached its hilt,
her jade buttocks twisting rapidly. And the thrusts grew faster and faster, the sounds of their bodies colliding against each other relentlessly. Her jade-like buttocks
swayed like a millstone. Suddenly, Ding Shou roared, his hot, thick member plunging deep inside, spurting out a
stream of scalding liquid that splashed into her indescribably wonderful depths. The thrust caused Yue Xian's beautiful eyes to roll back, her whole body trembling violently,
screaming repeatedly. After a frenzied, convulsive orgasm, she climaxed again, her body limp and slumped against the chair back,
trembling uncontrollably.
Xiao Tao, suppressing the burning sensation in her chest, saw the Second Master withdraw his wet, enormous member from the young lady's body
and quickly grabbed a towel to clean their genitals.
Outside the window, Chu Chu, disheveled, seemed to have entered a state of blissful ecstasy under Du Yunniang's teasing, and in a daze heard…
The master's voice said, "You've been watching the show for so long, come in." In a daze, she was pulled into the main bedroom
. Her beautiful eyes, half-open, shyly caught sight of Ding Shou's spread limbs. Instantly, her eyes were fixed on the enormous,
hard penis that had grown strong and erect again under the care of Xiao Tao's lips and hands…

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