Da Ming: I told you to die for your cause, why are you actually going to die?

Chapter 218 Old Zhu: Truly a 'perfect' thorn! [Bonus Chapter 25 for Monthly Tickets]

Inside the Huagai Hall, the air was filled with the fragrance of sandalwood.

Zhu Yunwen stood respectfully with his head bowed, his heart pounding like a drum, but he tried his best to maintain a calm and submissive demeanor.

He could feel Old Zhu's scrutinizing gaze sweeping over him, as if it could penetrate his skin and reach his very heart.

Old Zhu put down the memorial in his hand and spoke in a calm tone:
"Yunwen, what books have you been reading lately?"

"Your Majesty, I have recently been reading the 'Essentials of Governance in the Zhenguan Era' and have gained some insights. I often consult Scholar Huang for guidance on the meaning of the classics."

Zhu Yunwen's answer was proper and his voice was clear and bright, with just the right amount of humility.

This was something Old Zhu had instructed him to learn, so naturally he had to bring it up first.

Upon hearing this, Old Zhu remained noncommittal, but abruptly changed the subject: "What are your thoughts on the 'literary gala' that the imperial court is about to hold?"

【coming! 】

Zhu Yunwen's heart tightened, knowing that this was the real purpose of today's audience.

He took a deep breath and fluently delivered the prepared speech:
"In my opinion, Your Majesty's decree to hold the 'Literary Grand Ceremony' is a wise move that benefits the present and future generations!"

He first set the tone, and then slowly elaborated:
"Firstly, it can attract talented people from all over the country, ensuring that no talent goes unnoticed. Although the imperial examination is the proper path, the country is so vast that it is inevitable that some talented people will not be able to achieve prominence due to their background or region. The grand ceremony is unconventional and can make up for this regret."

"Secondly, it can demonstrate the Ming Dynasty's thirst for talent and its open-mindedness to all, unite the hearts of scholars across the land, win over intellectuals, and greatly promote education."

"Thirdly, the addition of subjects such as mathematics and crafts shows that the Emperor not only valued literature and morality, but also practical knowledge for governing the world, which is the cornerstone of a strong country and a prosperous people."

Old Zhu listened quietly, his face revealing neither joy nor anger, his fingers still habitually tapping the handrail.

After Zhu Yunwen finished speaking, he asked calmly:
“That’s right. In your opinion, if there really is a poor scholar in this grand ceremony who is far superior to a Hanlin scholar in mathematics and craftsmanship, should he be granted an official position, or even… ranked above him?”

Zhu Yunwen hesitated for a moment, then cautiously replied:
"I believe that since Your Majesty has established this precedent, you should gain the trust of the people. If someone has real talent and learning, they should be employed according to their abilities."

"As for their rank, it should be determined by their talents and contributions to the court, rather than simply by their family background."

"Only in this way can we gain the trust of the people and inspire the virtuous and talented to serve us wholeheartedly."

Upon hearing this report, a barely perceptible glint flashed in Old Zhu's eyes.

This kid seems to have improved a lot since then. He knows how to conceal his strength and also how to consider the bigger picture.

Just then, a voice came from outside the hall: "Your Majesty! Commander Jiang requests an audience!"

"Xuan."

Old Zhu calmly gave the instructions.

Jiang Huan strode in and, upon seeing Zhu Yunwen present, seemed momentarily stunned. He then bowed to Zhu Yunwen and hesitated before speaking.

"Please speak freely about what's on your mind."

Old Zhu spoke indifferently, but his sharp gaze swept over Zhu Yunwen, paying attention to his most subtle reactions.

Jiang Huan understood and reported in a deep voice:

"Your Majesty, there has been new progress in the investigation regarding... regarding the events surrounding the death of His Highness the Crown Prince in the fifteenth year of the Hongwu reign."

Upon hearing the words "the fifteenth year of Hongwu" and "His Highness the Crown Prince," Zhu Yunwen's body stiffened almost imperceptibly.

His eyes revealed a natural sorrow and a hint of confusion, as if he didn't understand why his prematurely deceased elder brother was suddenly brought up.

"We have discovered an old palace maid who once served in the Eastern Palace."

Jiang Huan continued:
"She mentioned... a few days before His Highness the Crown Prince fell ill, it seemed that someone had secretly contacted the palace servants in charge of His Highness's meals, and their behavior was furtive."

"It's just that it's been so long, she can't remember exactly who it was, she only vaguely felt... that it might be related to someone from the former Crown Prince's palace."

Jiang Huan's words were vague, but the phrase "former members of the Eastern Palace" was like a needle, gently pricking him.

Zhu Yunwen's face showed a timely expression of shock and disbelief.

He suddenly looked up at Jiang Huan, then at Old Zhu, his voice trembling slightly:
"Commander Jiang, you...you mean my elder brother's...his death might...might not be an accident?!"

His reaction was filled with shock, grief, and confusion, exactly how a younger brother would react upon suddenly hearing that the cause of his brother's death might be questionable.

There was no pretense, nor any particular tension or avoidance regarding the reference to "former members of the Eastern Palace".

Old Zhu and Jiang Huan stared intently at Zhu Yunwen's every expression and every glance.

What they saw was pure shock and sorrow, without the slightest bit of guilt or panic.

Old Zhu and Jiang Huan exchanged a silent glance, simultaneously making their assessment of Zhu Yunwen.

He truly was unaware of it.

Old Zhu narrowed his eyes, and he formed a new judgment about Lady Lü.

That wicked woman, Lady Lü, kept this matter a complete secret, not even telling her own son.

But this only increased suspicion against her.

"enough!"

Old Zhu spoke up at the opportune moment, his tone tinged with impatience and sorrow:

"These are old stories, and there's no evidence to support them. Don't make any more wild guesses; it will only cause you more pain!"

After saying that, he waved his hand and said to Jiang Huan, "This matter ends here. There's no need to investigate it further. You may leave."

"I... obey your order."

Jiang Huan glanced at Zhu Yunwen, then bowed and withdrew.

He understood that the emperor had already obtained the answer he wanted to know.

The grandfather and grandson were left alone in the hall once again.

Zhu Yunwen seemed still reeling from the shock of the news, his eyes slightly red, head bowed, silent.

Looking at him like this, Old Zhu felt a complex mix of emotions.

There was some relief at confirming his grandson's innocence, but also a deeper disgust for Lady Lü, and even more grief for his eldest grandson who died young.

After a moment of silence, Old Zhu's tone softened, as if the previous probing had never happened: "Yunwen."

“Sun Chen is here.”

Zhu Yunwen quickly composed himself and respectfully replied.

"Since you have this opinion on the 'Literary Festival,' you can go there incognito to take a look."

Old Zhu said calmly:
"There's no need to reveal your identity. Just go and observe the talents of the world as an ordinary scholar, listen to their discussions. This will broaden your horizons and help you distinguish right from wrong."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Yunwen was overjoyed.

Grandfather's permission was not just a permit, it was practically an encouragement for him to associate with scholars and intellectuals.

What does this mean? It means that his grandfather may not have completely given up on him, and may even be paving the way for him!

But he forcefully suppressed his excitement and remained respectful:

"Sun Chen...thanks to His Majesty's grace!"

"I will certainly keep in mind my Imperial Grandfather's teachings, observe more, listen more, and think more, and I will never let my Imperial Grandfather down!"

"Okay, go ahead. Study hard."

Old Zhu nodded, his tone returning to normal.

"Sun Chen takes his leave."

Zhu Yunwen bowed, preparing to leave the Huagai Hall.

Suddenly, Old Zhu's voice rang out again:
"Yunwen, what do you think of your uncles who are stationed in various places?"

Zhu Yunwen's relaxed nerves tensed up again instantly.

This problem is more sensitive and more fatal than any of the previous ones.

He knew that Zhu Yuanzhang's attitude towards the princes was extremely complex, both relying on and distrusting them, especially after his father's death, when this balance became even more delicate.

He paused, turned to face Old Zhu, and carefully considered his words, not daring to be negligent in the slightest.

"Your Majesty, all of you princes have rendered meritorious service to the country by guarding the borders and protecting the nation. As a junior, I naturally respect my princes who are dedicated to their duties and loyal to the emperor."

Old Zhu remained noncommittal, simply looking at him with his deep eyes and continuing to hurl even more pointed questions:

"Then what do you think of what you said to Yunwen, about the vassal king... well, that he 'killed' your father, and how he declared that 'the hatred for the murderer of one's father is irreconcilable'?"

boom--!
These words struck Zhu Yunwen like a thunderbolt.

He never expected that his grandfather would so bluntly bring up Zhu Yunwen's extreme and taboo remarks in public.

He quickly forced himself to calm down, his mind racing.

[We absolutely must not act like our third brother, shouting for violence; that would appear impulsive and reckless, and would only escalate the conflict!]

However, we cannot completely deny the facts!

[My father did indeed die because of the 'Red Lead Elixir,' which originated from the King of Zhou, was presented to him by the King of Qin, and the King of Jin stood idly by. If he felt no resentment about this, wouldn't he be unworthy of being a son?]

[My imperial grandfather values ​​filial piety above all else; now is the time to show the true colors of a son!]

We must find a way to express our grief and stance, while maintaining composure and differentiating between different situations!

In a flash, Zhu Yunwen's face revealed deep sorrow and a hint of suppressed anger.

He slowly knelt down, his voice choked with emotion yet unusually firm:
"Your Majesty, please understand! My father passed away at a young age. As his son, I still feel my heart burning with grief and pain when I think of him!"

He first directly expressed his grief over the loss of his father, setting the emotional tone.

"My third brother is young, and in his grief and indignation, his words may have been harsh, but his heart... is the same as Sun Chen's; both of them are thinking of their father and are unable to control their emotions!"

Instead of criticizing Zhu Yunwen, he brought the two brothers together, emphasizing that they were "unable to control their emotions."

Then, his tone shifted, his eyes becoming sharp and clear, carrying a restrained hatred:

"But! I dare not forget, nor can I forget! My father's serious illness was indeed caused by that 'red lead' substance!"

"This item... originated from the hands of the King of Zhou, and was presented by the King of Qin. The King of Jin knew about it but did not report it. I, your humble servant, often think about the cause and effect of this matter, and it keeps me from eating or sleeping!"

He clearly pointed out the responsibilities of the King of Zhou, the King of Qin, and the King of Jin, expressed his unyielding hatred, and demonstrated his basic stance as a son, which was in line with the 'filial piety' that Zhu Yuanzhang valued.

But just as Old Zhu's eyes flickered, waiting for him to continue, Zhu Yunwen's tone suddenly became calm and nuanced:
"However, Sun Chen also knows that matters of the imperial family are interconnected and affect the whole country!"

"The uncles of the King of Zhou and the King of Jin have already been punished, and the uncle of the King of Qin... must have been deceived as well."

"The other princes, such as the Prince of Yan, guarded the border and were loyal to the country. Their deaths had nothing to do with their father's death."

"Although I am deeply saddened by my father's passing, I dare not, out of my own grief and indignation, take my anger out on all my uncles who have served the country loyally, thus undermining the great cause of my grandfather's 'protection of the vassal states' and shaking the foundation of our Great Ming!"

He clearly distinguished between the vassal kings who were "directly implicated" and those who were "not directly implicated," expressing unforgivable hatred towards the former and respect for the latter based on national interests.

It demonstrated both courage and political maturity and strategic vision.

Finally, he kowtowed and said:

“Sun Chen clearly distinguishes between public and private matters, as well as gratitude and grudges!”

"Personally, the hatred for my father is irreconcilable, and I will never forget it!" "Publicly, I will remember my grandfather's teachings and prioritize the well-being of the nation and the people, maintaining harmony within the imperial family and ensuring that my loyal uncle will not be disheartened!"

"The torment I endured can only be described by Heaven!"

These words, delivered with emotion, reason, restraint, and a clear stance, almost perfectly answered this deadly question.

He neither recklessly made enemies like Zhu Yunwen, nor was he so weak as to forget the hatred for his father's murder, thus presenting a complex image that combines filial piety, hatred, and political wisdom.

Old Zhu looked quietly at his grandson kneeling on the ground, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes.

There is empathy for his grief over losing his father, some recognition for his courage to express hatred, and even more profound consideration for his ability to differentiate between different situations and prioritize the overall picture.

After a long silence, Old Zhu finally spoke, his tone revealing little emotion, but less probing coldness than before:

"You clearly distinguish between gratitude and resentment... You do not forget your father's revenge, nor do you forget the foundation of the nation. It is very good that you can think this way."

Instead of criticizing Zhu Yunwen's hatred, he affirmed his "clear distinction between gratitude and resentment" and his "never forgetting the foundation of the nation."

"Get up."

Old Zhu waved his hand.

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

Zhu Yunwen secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

He knew he had narrowly escaped this ordeal, so he stood up respectfully.

But his back was already soaked with cold sweat.

"We were just talking about your third brother, remember to go and see him."

Old Zhu then shifted the topic to brotherly love and respect: "That kid is too obsessed. We need to guide him to prevent him from going astray."

"Sun Chen obeys the imperial decree! Sun Chen takes his leave!"

Zhu Yunwen bowed again, and this time his steps as he withdrew were both more steady and more hurried than before.

He needed to leave immediately to process the dangerous situation he had just dealt with.

Watching Zhu Yunwen's figure disappear outside the palace, Old Zhu's gaze was as deep as an abyss.

[Yunwen, that kid... has really improved. He knows how to hide his feelings, and he knows how to act.]

His attitude towards the princes was in line with what a 'virtuous' crown prince should be like, much better than Yunwen's reckless behavior.

But... is that really what he thinks, or is he just saying it for our benefit?

Old Zhu would not easily believe anyone's words on the surface, especially when it came to the successor who was at the core of power.

But at least, judging from his reaction just now, Zhu Yunwen has already demonstrated considerable composure and adaptability in handling such complex and sensitive issues.

This may not necessarily be a bad thing for a grandson of the emperor who might inherit the throne.

As for Yun-tung...

Thinking of his third grandson, who was full of hatred and acted impulsively, Old Zhu frowned again.

If that kid were to take the throne, he would probably launch a bloody purge of the vassal kings immediately, which would be a catastrophe for the Ming Dynasty.

"Ugh……"

Old Zhu rubbed his temples, feeling a wave of fatigue.

The son is dead, and the grandsons are causing trouble too.

To whom can one entrust this glorious Ming Dynasty and its hundreds of millions of people in peace?
His gaze involuntarily drifted out of the palace again, as if he could penetrate the layers of palace walls and see the figure of the 'madman' struggling and stirring up trouble in the muddy waters of the canal.

Zhang Biao...do you know how much trouble you've caused us?

Old Zhu shook his head, suppressing these chaotic thoughts.

Right now, what's more important is the truth behind the possible mastermind behind the deaths of Biao'er, Meizi, and Xiong Ying.

He picked up his vermilion brush again and focused his attention on the mountain of memorials.

But Zhu Yunwen's 'perfect' answer just now remained like a thorn in his heart.

Meanwhile, in the side hall and courtyard of the North Fifth Palace.

Zhu Yunwen sat alone on a stone bench in the courtyard. Although he held a copy of the Records of the Grand Historian in his hand, his gaze did not fall on the words and sentences. Instead, he looked through the pages at a withered grass trembling slightly in the autumn wind in the corner of the courtyard.

His back was ramrod straight, as if he were silently resisting the invisible pressure around him.

Old Zhu's suspicions, awkward position, feeling of being imprisoned with restricted movement, and his obsessions all made him mature prematurely at a young age.

"Little brother! Little brother!"

A series of crisp, somewhat reckless footsteps broke the silence of the courtyard.

Zhu Mingyu, dressed in a pale yellow palace gown, rushed in like a gust of wind.

Her cheeks flushed with excitement, and her almond-shaped eyes sparkled with barely contained excitement, a stark contrast to the desolate courtyard behind her.

"Second sister, slow down, be careful not to fall."

Zhu Yuntong put down his book, a gentle yet weary smile on his face.

In this cold palace, his two older sisters were among the few people who could bring him genuine warmth.

Zhu Mingyu rushed to the stone table, placed her hands on the cold surface, leaned forward, and lowered her voice impatiently, her tone full of barely suppressed excitement:
"Teng'er! What wonderful news! I just heard from my mother's former palace maid that our maternal uncle, Duke Lan Yu of Liang, has been summoned back by the Emperor! He's even been appointed as the Crown Prince's tutor!"

Her eyes sparkled, as if she could already see the clear sky after the dark clouds had dispersed:

"Our maternal uncle is our own maternal uncle! He was a capable general of our father during his lifetime, and his achievements were outstanding!"

"With him back in the capital and having gained favor with the Emperor, if he's willing to say a word for us, your confinement might be lifted immediately! Let's see who dares to look down on us then!"

Zhu Mingyu became more and more excited as she spoke, naively believing that her powerful maternal uncle was the most effective weapon to break the deadlock.

She was used to being straightforward and lacked sufficient understanding and vigilance regarding the intricate political calculations and profound imperial strategies of the previous dynasty.

However, after listening, Zhu Yunwen's gentle expression quickly faded, replaced by a solemnity and vigilance that was completely out of character for his age.

He did not immediately refute Zhu Mingyu, but remained silent for a moment before speaking calmly:
"Second sister, I understand your intentions. But precisely because of this, we cannot rely on our uncle's help."

"Not only can we not, but from this day forward, we must be even more careful with our words and actions, especially reducing contact with our maternal clan."

"When it comes to news about your great-uncle, just listen and let it go. Never take the initiative to inquire about it, and never show any joy in public."

"Why?!"

Zhu Mingyu's excitement froze instantly, turning into deep confusion and a hint of misunderstanding:

"My maternal uncle is family. He holds significant military power and is highly influential. He is also favored by the Emperor. If he could help..."

"Precisely because he holds a high position and wields great power, he is a sword hanging over his head!"

Zhu Yunwen interrupted her, his voice not loud, but carrying a cold, penetrating power:

"Second sister, although you and I have not had much contact with our great-uncle, his reputation for being strong-willed and arrogant has long been known throughout the court and the country."

"Grandfather probably distrusts him more than he relies on him."

As he spoke, he slowly stood up, walked to the withered grass, and his gaze seemed to penetrate the palace walls, revealing the turbulent history of the previous dynasty:
"What is the situation now? Master Zhang is risking his life in the imperial court, the Grand Canal transport case involves many princes, and the old affairs of the Crown Prince are shrouded in mystery!"

"At this moment, the Emperor is like a taut bowstring. Any slight movement of military power, any suspicion of the Empress Dowager's relatives associating with important officials, could provoke his wrath!"

As soon as he finished speaking, he turned abruptly, looked directly at Zhu Mingyu, and spoke with unprecedented sternness:
"At this critical juncture, if Uncle makes even the slightest mistake, or if someone takes advantage of the situation to frame him, then he will be doomed!"

"At that time, not only will it not save me, but it will also tarnish my mother's spirit in heaven and drag down the entire Chang family!"

"Even... my eldest and second eldest sisters were dragged into this catastrophic disaster!"

Zhu Yunwen's analysis was calm and cruel, completely shattering Zhu Mingyu's naive illusions.

Her face turned pale instantly, and her lips trembled slightly.

Although she didn't have a deep understanding of the dangers of the court, the phrase "disaster will affect the whole family" was like ice water poured over her head, sending a chill down her spine.

She murmured:

"Coco, are we just supposed to sit here and wait to die, watching helplessly?"

"Compared to relying on my maternal uncle, this is an uncertain and risky move."

Zhu Yunwen's tone softened, but his eyes became even more profound.

He walked back to Zhu Mingyu's side and whispered, "What I'm more worried about now is Master Zhang's safety!"

When Zhang Biao was mentioned, a complex emotion flashed in his eyes, a mixture of concern, worry, and an almost religious trust.

"Second sister, do you know that Master Zhang... he almost always risks his life to stop certain people and to clear the court of wrongdoing."

"He disrupted the court meeting on the establishment of the heir twice. Although he did not say it outright, I know that he... has me, his good-for-nothing student, in his heart."

After he finished speaking, his voice was a little hoarse, with a barely perceptible sob.

Zhu Mingyu also had an indescribable feeling towards that 'madman'.

She knew that the 'madman' appeared in Zhu Yunwen's world when he was most isolated and helpless, and everyone avoided him. He not only overturned Zhu Yunwen's values, but also planted the seeds of 'self-reliance,' 'tenacity,' and 'daring to resist' in Zhu Yunwen's heart.

"However, Second Sister, compared to that elusive position of Crown Prince, what I want to do now is to find out the true cause of Father's death!"

Zhu Yunwen composed himself, his fists clenched with a resolute air, his knuckles cracking slightly, and his eyes burning with hatred.

"The three kings of Qin, Jin, and Zhou may have been mere pawns used by others, providing poison and indirectly harming my father."

"But that wicked villain who hid deep within, meticulously plotted to send the 'Red Lead Elixir' into the Eastern Palace, causing my father's death... I swear, I will make him pay for his crime in blood!"

At that moment, the resolute determination and hatred emanating from the boy made Zhu Mingyu feel a pang of fear.

She finally understood.

What the younger brother carried in his heart was far more than personal honor or disgrace; it was the heavy burden of national and familial hatred.

Zhu Yunwen took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his turbulent emotions, and instructed the still-shocked Zhu Mingyu:
"Second sister, if you hear any clues about Master Zhang, the Grand Canal case, or Father's old case while you are in the palace, please pay close attention and tell me."

"As for my maternal uncle and maternal relatives... let's stay away from them for now."

"What we need now is to lie low, to wait, and to be more patient than anyone else."

He sat back down on the stone bench, picked up the volume of "Records of the Grand Historian," and his gaze became even more profound and sharp than before, as if he wanted to see through all the conspiracies and intrigues of the world.

He believed that his master, Zhang Biao, was outside, stirring up trouble in his own unique way, and pursuing the truth.

Even though he was imprisoned, he could never give up.

He would gather every bit of strength, waiting for the day when thunder would strike, so that he could work with his master to find the mastermind behind his father's death and tear him to pieces!

The courtyard was quiet, with a gentle breeze blowing.

The flame of revenge in the boy's heart burned silently and fiercely.

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(End of this chapter)