Huangming

Chapter 518 Nighttime Conquest of Two Women, Earth Dragon's Shocking Change

After finishing the last memorial, Zhu Youxiao rubbed his throbbing temples. The sky outside the window was already dark, and the candlelight in the Qianqing Palace reflected on his slightly tired face.

The day's political affairs were numerous and complicated, from reporting on land surveys and reforming the salt administration to the Eastern Depot's investigation of treasonous reports. He had to handle everything personally. Now that he was relieved of the heavy burden of being an emperor, he found himself thinking of the women in the harem.

He originally intended to go to Kunning Palace.

Empress Zhang Yan is dignified and virtuous, and manages the harem in an orderly manner. However, she is too stubborn and has recently refused him entry to the palace several times, her reason being that she is afraid of being labeled as "jealous".

Zhu Youxiao shook his head helplessly when he thought of this matter.

As the Empress of the Ming Dynasty, she was the mother of the nation. As the emperor, it was only natural for him to be with her day and night. How could he be jealous?

Ultimately, it was because the Empress cared too much about what others thought that he, as the Emperor, had no choice but to give up the idea of ​​going to Kunning Palace.

"Set up the carriage at Chuxiu Palace."

Zhu Youxiao gave instructions to the eunuch outside the door.

Soon, Zhu Youxiao, accompanied by eunuchs and palace maids, rode in the emperor's carriage.

The imperial carriage slowly drove out of the Qianqing Palace and proceeded along the palace road.

The Forbidden City is quiet and solemn under the night sky. Palace lanterns light up one after another, and the dim yellow light shines on the bluestone road, reflecting the silhouettes of the upturned eaves and corners, adding a touch of warmth.

Before long, the outline of Chuxiu Palace came into view.

From afar, three figures could be seen standing outside the palace gate: Zhe Zhe, Hai Lan Zhu, and Bum Tai.

All three were dressed in embroidered palace attire. Zhe Zhe's dark blue palace attire was embroidered with lotus patterns, making her look dignified and elegant.

Hailanzhu's peach-pink palace dress accentuated her snow-white skin, making her stunningly beautiful.

Bumtai, on the other hand, was dressed in a light blue palace gown.

Upon seeing the imperial carriage arrive, the three women knelt on the ground in unison, their skirts spreading out like three blooming flowers, their voices soft and harmonious:

"I, my concubine, see your Majesty. Long live your Majesty. Long live your Majesty."

Zhu Youxiao stepped down from the imperial carriage, and the night breeze brushed against his dragon robe, bringing a touch of coolness.

He bent down, first helping Zhe Zhe to her feet, then reaching out to support Hailanzhu. His fingertips touched her slightly cool skin before he released her, and he spoke to Bumtai and the palace attendants who were still kneeling on the ground:

"Rise, all of you. There's no need for such formalities."

Bumtai stood up as instructed, lowered his eyes, and placed his hands in front of him with impeccable decorum.

She has been in the palace for over a year. From her initial ignorance of palace rules to her current proper demeanor, it is evident that she has put in a lot of effort behind the scenes.

Zhu Youxiao said no more and walked straight toward Lijingxuan, deep inside Chuxiu Palace.

This is where the three women live. The furnishings are elegant, and the details reveal the delicate touch of a young lady.

Upon entering the pavilion, the finest silver charcoal burned in the brazier, its warmth dispelling the chill of the night.

Inside the pavilion was a round pear wood table, surrounded by several embroidered stools, and several landscape paintings hung on the walls, exuding a sense of tranquility.

Zhe Zhe and Hai Lanzhu stepped forward in perfect unison, one fetching an exquisite teacup and the other carrying a silver teapot to pour tea, their movements practiced and natural.

The warm tea was steaming and fragrant, but Zhu Youxiao only glanced at it and did not pick it up.

It wasn't that he didn't trust them; it was just that since he implemented his new policies, he had made many enemies, and while it was easy to dodge open attacks, it was difficult to guard against hidden ones.

In the past two years, he has been very careful with his food and drink, always carrying imperial items with trusted eunuchs and never eating anything from the concubines' palaces.

Although Zhe Zhe and the other two were women from a different ethnic group, they had always behaved themselves after entering the palace and had no intention of harming anyone. However, when it comes to the emperor's actions, it is always better to be cautious. The more precautions one takes, the less risk one will face.

"It has been two months since I last visited Chuxiu Palace."

Zhu Youxiao sat in the main seat, his gaze sweeping over the three of them, his tone softening slightly.

"How are you doing in the palace? Has anyone been making things difficult for you?"

Being the emperor's woman may seem glamorous, but in reality, she is not in control of her own destiny. The deep palace is lonely, and she must be cautious at every step.

He knew this well, so although he didn't come often, he still kept their situation in mind.

Zhe Zhe spoke first, her voice calm and gentle:

"Your Majesty, we are doing very well in the palace. Your Majesty is very kind to us, and we have everything we need. The Empress is also considerate of her subordinates, and no one has ever dared to make things difficult for us."

Hailanzhu also softly echoed:

"Yes, Your Majesty. The Empress is just and kind, and everyone in the palace respects her. We concubines spend our days reading, writing, appreciating flowers and tending to plants, and our lives are very peaceful."

Bumtai also raised his head and said softly:

"Your Majesty, I am doing well. Thank you for your concern."

Her voice was still a little timid, but her eyes were very clear.

Looking at the three men's rosy complexions and calm demeanor, Zhu Youxiao understood the situation.

There was no trace of grievance or fear in their eyes; they were clearly living comfortably in the harem.

In this light, it is evident that Empress Zhang Yan managed the harem with remarkable competence, managing to keep the foreign concubines from being harassed and maintaining stability in the harem, which is truly commendable.

Only with a stable harem can he implement new policies without worrying about the consequences, and without having to be preoccupied with the trivial matters of the harem.

Zhu Youxiao nodded slightly in his heart.

"As long as you're doing well, that's all that matters."

Zhu Youxiao smiled slightly, and his fatigue seemed to dissipate considerably.

"If you encounter any difficulties in the future, there is no need to hide them. Just have someone report to me, and I will take care of it for you."

Upon hearing this, the three women bowed in unison and said, "Thank you for your great kindness, Your Majesty."

After saying this, Zhu Youxiao suddenly seemed to remember something and asked casually:
"Have any messengers been sent from the Khorchin region recently? Or have your family members said anything to you?"

The question was asked casually, but it instantly made the atmosphere in the pavilion subtle.

Upon hearing this, Zhe Zhe paused slightly in her hand holding the tea tray, then resumed her composure, her face still bearing a dignified and gentle smile. As if she hadn't understood, she remained silent, her expression calm and undisturbed, revealing nothing unusual.

Hailanzhu frowned slightly, a hint of hesitation flashing in her eyes, as if she was considering whether she should speak, and if so, what she should say.

She was straightforward, but she was also aware of the connection between the grasslands and the Ming Dynasty, so she dared not speak rashly.

Only Bumtai, still retaining the innocent and straightforwardness of a young girl, instinctively spoke upon hearing this:
"Yes! Father sent a letter saying that life on the grasslands isn't as good as I'd imagined. And that Liu Xingzuo, he..."

"Bumutai!"

Before Bumtai could finish speaking, Zhe Zhe suddenly put down the tea tray and covered her mouth with his hand.

She turned to look at Zhu Youxiao, a hint of apology on her face, and quickly explained:

"Your Majesty, Bumtai is still young and doesn't know any better. He speaks without thinking and doesn't understand. Please don't take it to heart."

Hailanzhu quickly chimed in, "Yes, Your Majesty, Mutai was just saying it casually; it shouldn't be taken seriously."

Zhu Youxiao's expression remained calm, without the slightest ripple.

He already knew the situation on the grasslands to the northeast of Liaoning very well through reports from the Eastern Depot and the border army. How could he be angered by a girl's few words?
"It doesn't matter."

Zhu Youxiao raised his hand, signaling Zhe Zhe to let go.

"Let her continue; I won't mind listening."

Zhe Zhe looked at Bumtai's hesitant expression and then at Zhu Youxiao's unfathomable eyes, and hesitated again and again.

Bumtai is young and outspoken. If he says something he shouldn't, he might offend His Majesty and bring trouble to the Khorchin.

But since His Majesty had already spoken, if she were to object again, it would only make her seem guilty.

After a moment's thought, Zhe Zhe finally let go of her hand and spoke up:
"Since Your Majesty wishes to ask, I will answer truthfully."

My father sent a messenger with a message saying that General Liu Xingzuo was imposing many restrictions on the Khorchin tribe on the grasslands, forbidding us from expanding our pastures at will. He was also secretly supporting the Chahar tribe, sending them grain and ironware. As a result, the Khorchin and Chahar tribes were locked in a stalemate for a long time, and the tribes were unable to take over each other's pastures. The livelihoods of the tribes were also affected as a result.

My father wants me to tell His Majesty about this matter and then persuade him not to support the Chahar tribe.

She spoke clearly and logically, but deliberately concealed the tone of complaint and dissatisfaction in her father's letter, stating only the facts without mixing in personal emotions.

"Oh?"

Zhu Youxiao raised an eyebrow, his tone carrying a hint of inquiry.

"Why didn't you tell me this sooner?"

Zhe Zhe lowered her eyes and slowly said:
"I believe this is a matter between the grasslands and the court. As Your Majesty's woman and a concubine of the Ming Dynasty, I should abide by my duties in the inner palace and not interfere in external affairs. Furthermore, I should not complain to Your Majesty about my family's difficulties and disturb Your Majesty's peace of mind."

"Okay! Well said!"

A clear look of satisfaction flashed in Zhu Youxiao's eyes, and he couldn't help but give a word of praise.

Zhe Zhe is clear about her stance.

They were the daughters of the Khorchin, but more importantly, they were his concubines, people of the Ming Dynasty.

Being able to recognize one's own identity, not favoring one's maternal family, and not interfering in politics—this kind of character is truly rare.

Zhu Youxiao stood up, naturally putting his left arm around Zhe Zhe's waist, and reaching out with his right hand to pull Hailanzhu, who was standing next to him, to his side as well.

Two stunning beauties nestled on either side of him, their fragrance wafting around him, which eased much of his fatigue from the past few days.

"Don't worry."

Zhu Youxiao looked down at the two of them and said with a smile:

"I will personally take care of things in Khorchin."

Liu Xingzuo's actions are based on my own considerations, and I will not make things too difficult for the Khorchin.

"You are able to recognize your own place and remain impartial; this is the best outcome, and it greatly pleases me."

Of course, despite this, he had his own plans.

The "checks and balances" policy implemented by Liu Xingzuo on the grasslands was originally at his behest.

In the grasslands north of Liaodong, no single tribe should ever become dominant.

The Khorchin tribe was too powerful, so they supported the Chahar tribe to restrain it.

If the Chahar tribe rises to prominence, then other tribes will be sought to maintain balance.

Only by ensuring that the various tribes of the grasslands check and balance each other can they be prevented from invading the borders to the south, thus ensuring the stability of the Liaodong border of the Ming Dynasty.

When he has completely pacified the internal affairs, and the reforms such as land reclamation, salt administration, and the imperial examination system have taken root, the national treasury is full, and the military strength is strong, then it will be the best time to conquer the grasslands.

At that time, he would incorporate these peoples, who had been riding horses and fighting for generations and living by the water and grass, into the territory of the Ming Dynasty. Through education, trade, and land reclamation, he would make them lay down their weapons, pick up farming tools and shuttles, and transform them from brave and fierce nomadic tribes into Ming citizens who are good at singing and dancing and live in peace and contentment.

This is not only for border stability, but also for the long-term peace and stability of the Ming Dynasty, for expanding the territory to a wider area, and for establishing a lasting dynasty.

Zhe Zhe and Hai Lanzhu sensed the reassuring tone in Zhu Youxiao's voice, and the weight that had been hanging over them finally lifted. They bowed and said, "Thank you for your consideration, Your Majesty."

After saying so much, Zhu Youxiao stretched.

A warm and meaningful smile played on his lips as he glanced at the three beautiful women standing before the steps and said:
"It's getting late, ladies, why don't you come forward to serve us?"

At only ten years old, Bumtai was an innocent child and naturally did not understand the matter of serving the emperor in bed.

Wei Chao was prepared, so he stepped forward lightly, bowed, and smiled:

"My lord, this servant will accompany you to the outer side hall to rest, so that His Majesty and the two noble ladies may have a good rest."

As she spoke, she carefully took Bumutai's small hand and led her to the outside.

Although Bumtai was somewhat unwilling, pouting and looking back again and again, she knew that the palace rules were strict, and in the end she obediently followed.

Zhe Zhe and Hai Lanzhu exchanged a glance, their eyes sparkling, and their cheeks instantly flushed a rosy blush.

They are children of the grasslands, with a cheerful and unrestrained nature, unlike the shy and timid women of the Han people.

Even though they were sharing the same husband, they showed no sign of embarrassment, and tacitly curtsied in agreement, following Zhu Youxiao as he slowly entered the inner room.

The curtains hung down gently, the soft curtains embroidered with lotus patterns separating the inside from the outside, leaving only the candlelight flickering behind the curtains, spreading a warm and soft halo.

Inside the room, the incense burner emitted a delicate orchid fragrance, which intertwined with the woman's perfume to create a lingering aroma.

With a rustling sound, her clothes were gently pulled back, and as her silk sash was loosened, her elaborate palace attire gradually faded away, revealing her curvaceous figure.

Zhe Zhe is dignified and gentle, with the grace of a mature woman in her brows.

Hailanzhu's skin was as white as snow, and her eyes were full of tenderness.

Having not received the emperor's favor for two months, her heart was filled with longing. She also knew that in this nine-layered palace, only offspring could secure her position and ensure her survival. Therefore, she served him with exceptional devotion.

The candlelight flickered red, the soft curtains swayed slightly, and the room was filled with the deep affection between the man and woman.

In the outer side hall, Bumtai sat on an embroidered stool covered with brocade cushions, her hands supporting her cheeks, her small mouth slightly pouting, looking impatient.

Hearing the faint, melodious moans coming from the inner room, she wrinkled her small nose and muttered:
"Here we go again... His Majesty must be bullying Aunt and Sister!"

As she was about to get up and lift the curtain to look, Wei Chao grabbed her wrist in time.

"Young nobleman, you would not dare to speak carelessly."

A kind smile appeared on Wei Chao's wrinkled face as he patiently explained:
"Your Majesty and the two noble ladies are a match made in heaven. This is an act of tenderness and affection, a joyous occasion indeed. How could it be considered bullying?"

Having spent decades immersed in the palace, he was adept at discerning the emperor's intentions.

Although Zhe Zhe and the other two were noble ladies of Mongolia, they were deeply favored by the emperor. Even though Bumtai was young, he dared not neglect her in the slightest, so he answered her questions carefully.

Bumtai tilted his head, seemingly understanding but not quite, his big eyes full of confusion:

"Bliss? But that sounds more like crying out for mercy. People only do that when they're being beaten."

She was still young and had no idea about the pleasures of the adult world; she only found the noises in the inner room quite strange.

Upon hearing this, Wei Chao's smile became somewhat embarrassed, and he thought to himself that this child was pure-hearted and straightforward.

He couldn't elaborate further, so he just chuckled and mumbled:

"Little Noble will understand when he grows up. This isn't a beating; it's the look of someone who is genuinely overjoyed."

The old man and the young man, each with their own thoughts, chatted idly.

The palace lanterns in the side hall burned quietly, illuminating Bumtai's puffed-up little face and Wei Chao's gentle features.

About half an hour later, the soft murmurs in the inner room gradually subsided, replaced by quiet breathing.

Seeing this, Wei Chao quickly stood up and bowed to wait. Bumtai also jumped off the embroidered stool and curiously looked into the inner room, but Wei Chao gently blocked him from behind and whispered:

"My dear lady, let's wait a little longer. Once His Majesty and the two ladies have settled down, I will escort you back to your room."

Bumtai pouted, somewhat unwilling, but obediently stopped making a fuss and just stared at the direction of the inner room with his round eyes, full of childlike curiosity.

Before long, palace servants tiptoed into the inner room, carrying clothes that had been prepared in advance to serve them.

Their movements were skillful and respectful, their skirts trailing silently on the ground, and in no time they had dressed Zhu Youxiao, Zhe Zhe, and Hailanzhu properly.

Zhu Youxiao was in the prime of his youth, and he practiced riding and archery diligently to strengthen his body and was full of energy. However, after half an hour of intimacy with the two women, although he felt happy and relaxed, he felt his steps were slightly unsteady when he got up, and his waist was also slightly sore.

In contrast, Zhe Zhe and Hai Lanzhu were radiant, their cheeks flushed with a healthy blush, their brows and eyes brimming with satisfied smiles, and their every move exuding a touch of gentle charm.

"Your Majesty, the bath is ready. Would you like to take a bath immediately to relieve your fatigue?"

Wei Chao bowed and asked, his eyes lowered, not daring to overstep the bounds in the slightest.

Zhu Youxiao nodded, his tone carrying a hint of languid ease:
"Very good. Oh, by the way, bring the mahjong set while you're taking a bath."

"Yes!"

Wei Chao acknowledged and withdrew, and soon instructed the palace servants to complete the task.

The bathing room at Lijingxuan was already prepared with a pool of warm water, with fresh flower petals floating on the surface. The rising steam mixed with a faint floral fragrance, dispelling the chill of the night.

Zhu Youxiao took off his clothes and stepped into the pool. Zhe Zhe, Hailanzhu and Bumtai followed him in. They met each other openly and without any embarrassment.

Zhe Zhe and Hai Lan Zhu were both cheerful and outgoing. Bum Tai was young and just thought it was ordinary water play. Only his clear eyes looked around curiously.

In the pool, Zhe Zhe and Hai Lan Zhu nestled beside Zhu You Xiao, their eyes filled with tenderness and affection.

Zhu Youxiao had already enjoyed himself to the fullest, and now he felt completely relaxed, with no more erotic thoughts, only wanting to use the hot water to soothe his muscles and bones.

"Are you still proficient in the mahjong I taught you before?"

Zhu Youxiao raised his hand and brushed across the water's surface, splashing up tiny droplets.

Hailanzhu smiled and nodded, her voice gentle and melodious:

"This invention of Your Majesty's is quite interesting."

"When there's nothing to do in the palace, my older sister Zhe Zhe, my younger sister Mu Tai, and I often play around, and we've long since become quite adept at it."

This mahjong set was commissioned by Zhu Youxiao from skilled craftsmen in the palace to be carved from warm white jade, following the style of later generations. The patterns on the tiles are clear and the surface is smooth to the touch.

It was originally just something I did out of boredom, and I wanted to provide some entertainment for the concubines in the deep palace. Unexpectedly, it became quite popular and became a favorite pastime for everyone in the harem.

The palace servants had already set up a small nanmu wood table by the pond and laid out the mahjong tiles neatly.

Zhu Youxiao and the three women sat around the table, soaking in a warm bath while playing mahjong.

Water occasionally splashed onto the cards, but the palace servants quickly wiped it dry, so it didn't cause any problems.

Bumtai, the youngest, was impulsive and played cards without any strategy, only interested in the novelty. After half an hour, he hadn't won a single hand, and his little face was puffed up as he pouted and complained.
"Why did I lose again! My aunt and sister both bullied me, and even His Majesty didn't help me!" Zhu Youxiao was amused by her and reached out to ruffle her hair.

"Playing cards requires luck, but even more so, it requires strategy. When you grow up a bit more, you'll be able to beat them."

Zhe Zhe and Hai Lan Zhu suppressed their laughter and deliberately let her win a few rounds, but Bumtai was still one move behind and failed to win. She had no choice but to puff out her cheeks and continue fighting.

After playing for a while, Zhu Youxiao felt the bath water getting colder, so he got up to leave.

But just as he was about to take a step, the ground beneath his feet suddenly shook violently!
"Boom~"

A muffled, loud thud came from underground, and the entire Lijing Pavilion shook violently. The hot water in the pool instantly surged up, splashing everyone's faces. The mahjong tiles on the table also rolled off the table, crashing and clattering against the bottom of the pool and the ground.

"The earth dragon is rolling!"

Zhu Youxiao's expression changed drastically as he instantly realized what was happening.

It's an earthquake!

In that life-or-death moment, he didn't have time to think. He grabbed Hailanzhu tightly and pulled her into his arms, shielding her with his own body to prevent her from being injured by the flying debris.

Zhe Zhe quickly grabbed Bumtai beside him and pressed her down beneath him, his expression flustered but still maintaining a degree of composure.

In the chaos, Wei Chao rushed into the bathhouse like a whirlwind, ignoring the mess and splashing water, and shouted urgently:

"Your Majesty! The earth is churning! Danger! Please rise immediately and come with me to a safe place!"

Zhu Youxiao nodded, released Hailanzhu from his arms, and said in a deep voice:
"Don't panic!"

Although he was anxious, he maintained the composure of an emperor and, with the help of palace servants, quickly went ashore, took his clothes, and hurriedly put them on.

Hailanzhu's pretty face flushed slightly, her hair still dripping wet, but a warm feeling welled up in her heart.

In that critical moment, His Majesty's first thought was to protect her. This gesture filled her with sweetness and made her even more certain that His Majesty had feelings for her.

Zhe Zhe also helped the still-shaken Bumtai to her feet, and the palace servants quickly stepped forward to help them put on their clothes.

Bumtai turned pale with fright, clutching Zhe Zhe's sleeve tightly, her big eyes filled with terror, but she forced herself not to cry out.

The entire Forbidden City was thrown into chaos, with the sounds of houses shaking and palace servants screaming all around.

After Zhu Youxiao finished dressing, he reached out and put his arms around Zhe Zhe and Hai Lanzhu, then took Bumtai's little hand and said in a deep voice, "Come with me!"

Wei Chao led the way, followed closely by palace attendants, and the group quickly walked toward the open space outside the palace.

soon.

The aftershocks of the earthquake gradually subsided, and the ground beneath our feet returned to stability.

Outside the Lijing Pavilion, in the open space, the palace servants were still shaken. Many of them were pale and their hands were trembling slightly, but they dared not make a sound due to palace rules. They could only glance at the emperor beside them out of the corner of their eyes.

Zhe Zhe held Bu Mutai's hand tightly. The little girl's eyes were slightly red, clearly still shaken by the shock.

Hailanzhu also pulled her slightly damp clothes tighter, a trace of fear still lingering in her eyes, but she forced herself to calm down because Zhu Youxiao was beside her.

Zhu Youxiao stood in the center of the open space, his posture as upright as a pine tree. The terrifying moment just now did not leave much of a panic on his face.

He turned to look at Wei Chao, who was bowing and standing respectfully, his tone calm and composed, without the slightest hint of emotion:

"Immediately issue my imperial edict, ordering Wei Zhongxian to personally investigate the circumstances of this earth dragon's churning."

"Investigate the extent of damage inside and outside the capital, including any casualties and collapsed buildings, and report back to me first thing tomorrow morning."

"The slaves obey the orders!"

Wei Chao dared not delay. He bowed and accepted the order, then quickly turned around and hurried out of the palace.

Zhu Youxiao slowly looked around, his gaze sweeping over the majestic Forbidden City.

The palace walls remain majestic, the halls have not collapsed, and the glazed tiles gleam coldly in the moonlight, clearly indicating that the earthquake did not cause any substantial damage to the imperial city.

But he knew in his heart that the fact that the capital city was safe did not mean that the civilian residences and counties outside the city were also safe.

Furthermore, what concerned him even more was not the destructive power of the earthquake itself, but the potential political turmoil it might trigger.

In this era, feudal superstition was deeply rooted, and the concept of "interaction between heaven and man" was deeply ingrained in people's minds.

The people firmly believed that natural disasters were signs of Heaven's anger, and that Heaven's anger must be due to the ruler's lack of virtue and the failure of the government.

His new policies have already threatened the interests of countless vested interests. While those people dare not openly resist, they have been secretly looking for opportunities.

This earthquake has given them a perfectly legitimate excuse.

The new policies went against the natural order and angered the heavens, which is why disasters were sent as a warning.

They will definitely seize the opportunity to incite public opinion, criticize the new policies, and may even jointly petition him to abolish the new policies and punish the officials who implemented them.

Zhu Youxiao frowned slightly, quickly searching his mind for relevant historical memories.

In the third year of the Tianqi reign, according to the original historical trajectory, there was no earthquake of such a scale. It is likely that this was just a small-scale, shallow earthquake with limited destructive power, and would not cause too much casualties or property damage.

This realization eased his worries about the disaster itself, allowing him to focus on dealing with the subsequent public opinion storm.

"It was just a small earthquake, it has subsided, it's nothing to worry about."

Zhu Youxiao withdrew his gaze and spoke gently to the three women, raising his hand to pat Hailanzhu's shoulder and then ruffling Bumtai's head.

"Relax, everyone, come back to the pavilion with me to rest."

Seeing the emperor's composed demeanor, Zhe Zhe and Hai Lan Zhu's fear gradually dissipated, and they bowed in unison in agreement:
"As Your Majesty commands."

Bumtai nodded, her little hands tightly gripping Zhe Zhe's sleeve, but she was no longer as panicked as before.

The group re-entered Lijing Pavilion. The mess inside had been quickly cleaned up by the palace servants, but there was still a trace of moisture and dust in the air.

Zhu Youxiao felt a heavy weariness wash over him.

During the day, dealing with mountains of official business, from reporting on land surveys to reforming the salt administration and investigating those who secretly reported on rebellious parties, had already taken a heavy toll on his mind.

In the evening, he spent time intimately with Zhe Zhe and Hai Lan Zhu, his energy being fully exhausted. Now, disturbed by the earthquake, he was even more physically and mentally exhausted and in dire need of rest.

As for the potential public opinion turmoil caused by the earthquake and the opportunistic attacks by opponents, he was too lazy to think about it for the time being.

When emperors govern a country, they must both plan ahead and maintain a balance between strictness and leniency.

Now that night has fallen and I am mentally and physically exhausted, even if I force myself to devise a plan, I may not be able to come up with a comprehensive solution.

It would be better to rest well and recharge first, and then convene the ministers tomorrow morning to discuss countermeasures and deal with the situation calmly.

Attended by palace servants, Zhu Youxiao lay on a bed covered with thick brocade mattresses, with Zhe Zhe and Hailanzhu nestled on either side of him. The warm fragrance of the bed gradually relaxed his tense nerves. Bumtai was also arranged to rest in a side hall and was already fast asleep.

The moonlight outside the window was like water, spilling into the tranquil palace, and the Forbidden City returned to its former peace.

Zhu Youxiao closed his eyes and soon fell asleep. Only the hidden political turmoil was still brewing quietly in the night, waiting to erupt after dawn.

Time passes slowly.

Before we knew it, it was the second day.

Before dawn, while the night still enveloped the Forbidden City, the East Warm Pavilion of the Qianqing Palace was already brightly lit with candles.

Zhu Youxiao, dressed in casual clothes, sat upright behind his desk. There was no trace of the languor of a hangover in his eyes, only a deep and sharp gaze.

Although the earthquake last night has subsided, he knows that an invisible storm may have just begun.

After waking up in Chuxiu Palace, he immediately prepared to travel to the East Warm Pavilion.

When he stepped into the East Warm Pavilion, Wei Zhongxian, the director of the Eastern Depot, and Luo Sigong, the commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, were already bowing and waiting below the steps.

The two men, dressed in their official robes, their dark fabric gleaming coldly in the candlelight, immediately knelt and bowed upon seeing Zhu Youxiao enter, their voices ringing out in unison:

"Your Majesty, this humble servant greets you! Long live Your Majesty!"

"Flat body."

Zhu Youxiao raised his hand in greeting, his tone getting straight to the point without any pleasantries.

"The earth trembled last night. What is the situation in the capital? Is there any major disaster?"

Wei Zhongxian was the first to stand up, bowing half a step forward, his tone respectful and cautious:
"Your Majesty, I have investigated thoroughly overnight. The earthquake was of very low magnitude. Only a few old houses in the southwest corner of the city collapsed. There were no casualties. Government offices and the imperial city were intact and did not cause any major damage."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Youxiao slowly nodded, lightly tapped his fingertips on the imperial desk, and said in a deep voice:

"Very good. It's fortunate that the disaster wasn't severe."

He abruptly changed the subject, his eyes suddenly sharpening.

"But what I want you to do is not just to investigate the disaster. In the next three days, you must closely monitor the words and deeds of all civil and military officials. Anyone who conspires in private, makes irresponsible remarks about the government, or uses the earthquake to make a fuss must be recorded and reported to me immediately."

He had long anticipated that the old forces opposing the new policies would not let go of this excuse of "interaction between heaven and man".

Instead of reacting passively, we should take the initiative, keep a close eye on the movements of those clowns, and capture them once they reveal their true colors.

"This servant obeys!"

Wei Zhongxian and Luo Sigong bowed in unison to accept the order, their expressions becoming increasingly solemn.

As Zhu Youxiao had predicted, the next three days unfolded exactly as he had.

Memorials poured into the Qianqing Palace like snowflakes, covering the imperial desk.

Some ministers advised against postponing the new policies such as the land reclamation and salt administration, saying that "the new policies are too harsh and will anger the heavens."

Some requested a change in the governing strategy, returning to the "way of benevolence and forgiveness".

Others jointly petitioned His Majesty, earnestly requesting him to go to the Temple of Heaven to offer sacrifices to Heaven, "to thank Heaven for its grace and appease its wrath."

Zhu Youxiao flipped through these memorials, his face remaining calm throughout. He neither replied nor summoned the submitters, as if the earthquake had never happened and these remonstrances were nothing but meaningless nonsense.

His silence was like an invisible pressure, making it even more difficult for those secretly watching to understand the emperor's thoughts.

But behind the scenes, the turmoil was escalating.

The secret agents of the Eastern Depot reported that many officials who opposed the new policies were secretly colluding and frequently meeting, and the person in charge was none other than Liu Yiju, the Vice Premier of the Cabinet!
This regent, who was known for his integrity, was clearly dissatisfied that the new policies had touched the interests of too many old nobles and powerful families. He wanted to use the earthquake as an excuse to unite the other ministers to put pressure on His Majesty.

What enraged Zhu Youxiao even more was that the private newspaper called "Yanjing Daily" also made a big fuss about the earthquake.

The latest issue of the private newspaper confiscated by Wei Zhongxian was still dominated by vulgar and explicit erotic pictures and pornographic novels. However, in a very inconspicuous corner, a short article was published with the title "The Earth Dragon Rolls Over, a Warning from Heaven Against Tyranny!"

The article is sharp in its language, attributing the earthquake to the "overly harsh and contrary to the way of heaven" new policies implemented by Zhu Youxiao, saying that "heaven is angry and people are resentful, hence the disaster." The article is signed "Beizhai" at the end.

Zhu Youxiao slammed the private report onto the imperial desk, scattering the papers all over the floor. The erotic pictures and vicious words on the paper were particularly glaring.

He looked up at Wei Zhongxian, who was bowing and standing respectfully, his tone icy:

"We've been investigating this private report for so long, and we still haven't found its source?"

Wei Zhongxian froze in fright, his forehead instantly covered in a fine layer of cold sweat, his knees buckled slightly, and he immediately knelt down and kowtowed:
"Your Majesty, please calm down! This servant has already dispatched more manpower from the Eastern Depot to investigate. Following the trail of ink, paper, and printing workshops, we have made some progress and will soon find the mastermind behind it all!"

"Soon?"

Zhu Youxiao sneered, his anger growing even stronger.

"How many times have you said 'soon'? Now they dare to openly slander the government and defame me under the guise of the earthquake, and you're still saying 'soon'!"

He slammed his hand on the imperial desk, causing the memorials on it to tremble slightly.

"I'm giving you three days! Within three days, you must find out the printing location of the Yanjing Daily, the mastermind behind it, and all the people involved. Don't miss a single one!"
If the truth cannot be found within three days, I will hold you accountable!

"This servant understands! This servant obeys!"

Wei Zhongxian kowtowed repeatedly, his forehead striking the gold bricks with a crisp sound.

"This servant will immediately mobilize all forces and dig three feet into the ground to find these traitors. Within three days, I will give His Majesty an explanation!"

Seeing his terrified expression, Zhu Youxiao's anger subsided slightly, but his tone remained stern:
"Get up. Remember, what I want is not an 'explanation,' but a result. If you dare to be perfunctory, you know the consequences."

"Yes Yes!"

Wei Zhongxian quickly stood up, his back already soaked with cold sweat. He dared not say another word, bowed and retreated hastily, clearly intending to immediately throw himself into the investigation.

Inside the East Warm Pavilion, only Zhu Youxiao remained.

He picked up the copy of the Yenching Daily, his gaze falling on the two characters "Beizhai," his eyes deep.

Is there any connection between Liu Yizhu and his ministers, who colluded to smear Liu Yizhu in private and in public?

Who exactly is this "Hokusai"?
He gently stroked the pages with his fingers, having already made up his mind.

This uproar triggered by the earthquake is both a crisis and an opportunity.

This is a perfect opportunity to thoroughly purge the opposition forces in the court, to warn those wavering officials, and to make everyone understand that the new policies cannot be defied, and the emperor's authority cannot be challenged!
The candlelight flickered, illuminating Zhu Youxiao's cold profile; an even greater storm was quietly brewing.

the other side.

Deep in Baishun Hutong, the lights of Manchun Courtyard were not yet completely extinguished. The hustle and bustle of the night had faded away, leaving only a few flickering lamps swaying under the eaves, reflecting the mess on the ground.

Inside the second-floor private room, the aroma of alcohol and cosmetics mingled to create a decadent atmosphere. Shen Lian was shirtless, his skin flushed with the aftereffects of alcohol and covered in fine beads of sweat, his brows showing a hint of weariness after indulgence.

On the bed, a prostitute lay limp, her hair disheveled, tears still clinging to the corners of her mouth, her voice hoarse and barely audible, clearly having been thoroughly tormented.

Shen Lian glanced at her, his eyes devoid of any pity, only a numb emptiness remained.

After completely giving up on Zhou Miaotong, he plunged into a life of pleasure, trying to numb his empty heart with wine and women.

Su Mei of Jin Feng Lou, Cui'er of Yan Chun Yuan, Yu Yao of Mei Xian Yuan...

He selected all the famous courtesans in the capital.

His former tenderness and chivalry had long been forgotten. At this moment, he only knew how to take and vent, as if he wanted to pour all his disappointment and resentment onto these soft bodies.

Even so, the emptiness in my heart not only did not fill, but became even more intense.

These women, whether charming, gentle, or alluring, none could match even a fraction of Zhou Miaotong's beauty.

That stubbornness beneath the aloofness, that light hidden in the eyes, is something these women of the night can never imitate.

"That's it, that's all."

Shen Lian murmured to himself, shaking his head violently, trying to banish Zhou Miaotong's image from his mind.

She has never cared about herself, so what's the point of thinking about her now?

It's just adding to your troubles.

Feeling the effects of the alcohol and with a bloated bladder, Shen Lian grabbed a robe and draped it over himself before staggering out of the room.

The wind under the eaves carried a chill, making him shiver, but it also cleared his muddled mind a little.

He followed the shadows in the corner of the wall, intending to find a secluded spot to relieve himself, but just as he reached the stairwell, he vaguely heard a strange sound.

The sound was neither the usual sounds of lovers in a brothel, nor the noise of patrons, but a muffled "thump-thump-thump," regular and rapid, as if something was repeatedly striking a wooden board.

"Ok?"

Shen Lian's heart stirred, and his urge to urinate was instantly replaced by curiosity.

It was already past midnight, and the Manchun Courtyard was quiet. How could there be such a strange sound?

He walked slowly down the stairs, following the sound, his footsteps making a slight creaking sound on the wooden stairs, which was drowned out by the "thump-thump" sound.

The sound came from the west side of the first floor.

Shen Lian followed the wall and found that it led to a dead end with only a locked wooden door and some abandoned tables, chairs and other odds and ends behind it.

He frowned, bent down and lay face down on the ground, pressing his ear against the cold bluestone slab.

"Thump thump thump...swish, swish..."

The sounds became clearer, and in addition to the rhythmic thumping, there was also the soft rustling of paper rubbing together, and the hushed conversations of several people.

"Hurry, hurry, hurry! Be quick! Once we've printed these 10,000 copies, pack up and move to another location immediately!"

A rough, hoarse voice urged, its tone carrying an obvious sense of urgency.

"What's the rush? Eunuch Wei's men won't be able to find this place anytime soon."

Another voice sounded somewhat mocking.

"Why don't you go upstairs and find a young lady to have some fun? I guarantee you'll be able to print everything when you come back down."

"Happiness my ass!"

A hoarse voice cursed.

"Have you forgotten what we're printing? This is a job that could cost us our lives! If word gets out, none of us will survive!"

"I know, I know, look at you, such a coward..."

The words that followed gradually became blurred, but as Shen Lian lay on the ground, his heart pounded wildly, and his eyes instantly flashed with a burning light.

print?

Ten thousand copies?

A job that could cost you your head?

He suddenly remembered what the Embroidered Uniform Guard had been busy with these days.

The Eastern Depot and the Embroidered Uniform Guard are investigating the rebels who privately printed the "Yanjing Daily." The newspaper is full of vicious remarks that slander His Majesty and undermine the new policies. His Majesty has given a death order that the mastermind behind it must be found within three days!
Could it be... could this be the place where the Yanjing Daily was printed?

(End of this chapter)