Destined

In a certain sense, Ye Shi'an represented the stance of the Ye Family, while Gu Jiusi embodied Zhou Gaolang's position. Thus, after Shen Ming stepped forward, a large number of ministers gradually followed suit.

Luo Zishang stood at the forefront, his expression calm and composed. Fan Xuan looked at Luo Zishang ahead and said solemnly, "Imperial Tutor Luo, what do you have to say for yourself?"

Luo Zishang smiled faintly. "Your Majesty is the sovereign, and I am but your subject. How dare I speak out of turn? I defer entirely to Your Majesty's judgment."

His words were dignified, and if Fan Xuan had any regard for face, he would have offered Luo Zishang a way out. However, Fan Xuan merely nodded and said directly, "With talents like yours, Imperial Tutor Luo, serving as the Crown Prince's teacher is a waste. It would be better to return the jade to the treasure pavilion, allowing Lord Luo to contribute more to the court."

After a moment's thought, Fan Xuan added, "Compiling historical records is a matter of national importance. As Lord Luo studied under Master Zhang and currently serves as the Crown Prince's Imperial Tutor, this critical task shall be entrusted to you."

Great Xia largely adhered to the traditions of the previous dynasty, where compiling historical records was considered one of the ruler's key achievements. No matter how impoverished, troubled, or chaotic the nation might be, the emperor would insist on having historical records compiled. Those tasked with this duty were often later promoted to important positions, making it a political stepping stone. Compared to handling miscellaneous affairs, compiling historical records was the least prone to errors and the most likely path to advancement. Entrusting this task to the Crown Prince's Imperial Tutor was a gesture of favor toward the Crown Prince.

However, Gu Jiusi understood Fan Xuan's intentions clearly: he planned to deal with Liu Xingzhi first before turning his attention to Yangzhou. If Luo Zishang lost his foothold in Yangzhou, he would have no support in the court. Compiling historical records held no real power, making it easier to deal with Luo Zishang later.

While Gu Jiusi grasped this, most officials in the court, aside from a few seasoned veterans, remained unaware. Ye Shi'an frowned deeply, intending to offer further counsel. But before he could speak, he saw Luo Zishang kneel and say respectfully, "I am deeply grateful for Your Majesty's favor. However, though I studied under Master Zhang, I have made no achievements in the field of history. Your Majesty's desire for me to serve the court and the people is deeply appreciated. In the past, I studied some miscellaneous subjects and humbly request to be assigned to the Ministry of Works to oversee the Yellow River Renovation. I wish to use my knowledge to repay the court and seek Your Majesty's approval."

"The Yellow River?" Fan Xuan frowned.

Luo Zishang, still kneeling, retrieved a memorial from his robes. "Your Majesty, the Crown Prince has only just arrived in the Eastern Capital and has not yet had the opportunity to report. During his inspection of the Yellow River, he discovered lingering issues from the previous dynasty. Multiple sections of the Yellow River require reinforcement and repairs. This year, His Highness has already ordered the use of sandbags for temporary reinforcement, but if urgent repairs are not undertaken, a major disaster may occur in the future."

Upon hearing this, the court officials grew concerned. With funds needed everywhere and the court already stretched thin, if the Yellow River were to cause further trouble, Great Xia might face internal chaos even before launching the southern campaign against Liu Xingzhi.

Fan Xuan fell silent. After a moment, he finally said, "After the Crown Prince enters the city, you shall accompany him to the imperial study to discuss this matter in detail with me."

Luo Zishang kowtowed in acknowledgment, and no one in the court dared to raise the issue of his position as Imperial Tutor again.Everyone understood clearly that the so-called issue of teacher's ethics was merely bringing up old matters, an attempt to cause trouble for Luo Zishang while the Empress Dowager had lost power. Although Luo Zishang had a poor reputation back in Yangzhou, since becoming the Imperial Tutor, he hadn't overstepped any boundaries. Accusing him now was simply raking up the past. When he was appointed Imperial Tutor initially, these matters weren't pursued—doing so now was clearly just looking for trouble. Engaging in such blatant power struggles in the face of the Yellow River floods was something even a fool wouldn't do, as it would only bring displeasure.

When Gu Jiusi and Jiang He walked out of the court together, Jiang He wore a smile and noticed that Gu Jiusi seemed somewhat displeased. Holding his ceremonial tablet, Jiang He said cheerfully, "You didn't expect him to pull this off before accusing Luo Zishang, did you?"

Gu Jiusi glanced at Jiang He, a bit puzzled, and asked, "You knew about it?"

"I'm not unaware of the Yellow River situation," Jiang He replied lazily, "but if I were Luo Zishang, I would have anticipated this before even entering the Eastern Capital. The Empress Dowager has fallen, Lu Yong has resigned, you've become the Minister of Revenue, and the Emperor has decided to halt the southern campaign—the next target is definitely him. Let me test you again," Jiang He raised an eyebrow, "what do you think Luo Zishang will do once he enters the palace later?"

Gu Jiusi remained silent, thinking carefully. Jiang He stretched and said, "Let me put it another way: if you were Luo Zishang, what would you do now?"

Gu Jiusi followed Jiang He's line of thought.

If he were Luo Zishang, the Emperor would surely want to replace the Imperial Tutor, fearing his continued influence over the Crown Prince. But Luo Zishang had already taught the Crown Prince for some time—any influence would have taken effect by now. Whether he remained as Imperial Tutor or not was irrelevant. The urgent matter was to gain the Emperor's trust.

After all, Luo Zishang wasn't Liu Xingzhi. If Luo Zishang demonstrated sufficient loyalty and Fan Xuan believed him, he might genuinely be valued as a minister.

"He needs to win Fan Xuan's trust."

"Exactly," Jiang He said with a laugh. "So?"

Gu Jiusi halted his steps, and after a moment, he smiled and said, "Uncle, you go back first. I need to find someone."

With that, Gu Jiusi turned around and approached Ye Shi'an, who was about to leave.

Having failed to corner Luo Zishang this time, Ye Shi'an was fuming. He had just boarded his carriage, his face cold, ready to return home, when he heard Gu Jiusi call out, "Shi An, wait!"

In a swift move, Gu Jiusi stepped up and entered the carriage, saying, "Shi An, I need your help."

"Hmm?"

"I'm taking you to the palace to have a good cry."

"Ah?"

Ye Shi'an was completely bewildered. Gu Jiusi looked him over and asked, "Can you cry on demand?"

"What exactly are you trying to do?"

"Nothing much. I suspect Luo Zishang will go to the Emperor this afternoon to sweet-talk him. We need to strike first and remind His Majesty that a wolf cub can't be tamed."

Ye Shi'an was clever; with just a hint from Gu Jiusi, he understood.

His own rank made it difficult for him to see the Emperor, but Gu Jiusi was different. As the Minister of Revenue, Gu Jiusi brought him back to the palace. After respectfully requesting an audience and being summoned by Fan Xuan, they finally arrived at the imperial study.

When they entered, Fan Xuan was reviewing memorials. He listened as Gu Jiusi and Ye Shi'an paid their respects, then told them to rise and said, "Speak your minds.""Your Majesty," Ye Shi'an dropped to his knees with a thud, kowtowing as he pleaded, "Luo Zishang must not remain as Imperial Tutor."

Fan Xuan paused his brush. After a moment, he sighed and said, "Shi An, I understand your meaning, but now is not the time to bring this up. Let us wait a while longer."

"Your Majesty," Ye Shi'an remained kneeling on the ground, speaking urgently, "with the Empress Dowager recently losing power and the court in turmoil, if we don't address this now, it will become even more difficult later. The Crown Prince represents the future hope of Great Xia. Allowing someone like him to serve as tutor poses greater danger with each passing day. Your Majesty, this man cannot remain any longer."

"Shi An," Fan Xuan rubbed his temples, "I understand your feelings, but I have my own considerations. The Yellow River flooding is the most pressing matter at hand..."

"Your Majesty!" Ye Shi'an raised his voice, "The Yellow River flooding is important, but what about the future of Great Xia? The Crown Prince's moral character? Are these not equally important?"

"Your Majesty," Ye Shi'an lifted his head, looking earnestly at Fan Xuan, "in the past, I feared Your Majesty might think my opposition to Luo Zishang was due to personal grievances, so I dared not speak too much. But since we've come this far today, I must speak frankly. Does Your Majesty still remember how my father died?"

Fan Xuan was taken aback. Ye Shi'an's body trembled slightly as he clenched his fists, his eyes reddening while staring stubbornly at the emperor. "Does Your Majesty know how many innocent commoners died unjustly during Luo Zishang's reign? How many families were destroyed? Luo Zishang has no concern for the people in his heart - he cares only for power and will do anything to maintain it. How can such a man genuinely care about the Yellow River flooding? These are merely excuses in his political games. If Your Majesty doesn't remove him now, what reason will you have to remove him later?"

Fan Xuan remained silent. Ye Shi'an straightened up, his chest heaving as if struggling to control his emotions. Normally the epitome of a refined gentleman, this rare loss of composure made the scene particularly heart-wrenching to witness.

"Your Majesty," Ye Shi'an's voice turned hoarse, "there was a time when I had both parents alive and a harmonious family. I achieved fame young and everything went smoothly. Before I took the imperial examination of the previous dynasty, my father drank with Your Majesty, saying he wanted to see my capabilities, to see if I could achieve the top three honors in the examination and uphold the Ye Family's reputation."

As Ye Shi'an spoke, tears fell. Fan Xuan watched him quietly. Ye Shi'an closed his eyes and said in a low, rough voice, "But my father never saw it. All because the Ye Family refused to bow to Wang Shanquan, all because my father wanted to preserve his integrity and wouldn't yield to Luo Zishang. Your Majesty, how can you keep such an unprincipled, ruthless man even one day longer? Aren't you afraid the Crown Prince might become another Wang family scoundrel?"

"Minister Ye!"

Zhang Fengxiang, standing nearby, interjected urgently, "How can you compare the Crown Prince to those disgraceful Wang family members? You..."

Fan Xuan didn't let Zhang Fengxiang continue, raising his hand to stop him.

He looked at Ye Shi'an, his eyes filled with recollection.

After a long silence, Fan Xuan finally spoke: "I understand what you've said. You may retire."

Ye Shi'an kowtowed forcefully before withdrawing with Gu Jiusi.

As they walked out together and descended the steps side by side, Gu Jiusi remained silent for a long time before finally saying, "Back in Yangzhou, I never imagined I would one day see you cry."Ye Shi'an listened and smiled faintly. "It was all just an act anyway, all in the past."

Gu Jiusi remained silent, choosing not to expose Ye Shi'an's words.

He had always known that Ye Shi'an wasn't someone who could put on an act.

But everyone needed to preserve some dignity. After a moment's thought, Gu Jiusi raised his hand and placed it on Ye Shi'an's shoulder, speaking cheerfully: "I've known since we were kids that you're the smartest and most capable among all the people I know. Don't worry, when our brotherhood joins forces, we'll be invincible. Forget about Wang Shanquan, Luo Zishang, or Liu Xingzhi - we'll take them all on! Tomorrow I'll bring Shen Ming with me to ambush Luo Zishang first and give him a beating. When the timing is right later, we'll capture him. Would you prefer him steamed or deep-fried?"

Ye Shi'an knew Gu Jiusi was joking. After all, Luo Zishang was a court-appointed official - how could they just beat him up as they pleased?

Understanding this was Gu Jiusi's way of comforting him, he simply said: "Thank you."

"What for?" Gu Jiusi lightly punched his shoulder. "Your problems are my problems."

The two left the palace laughing. Gu Jiusi saw Ye Shi'an onto his carriage, and just as he was about to turn away, Ye Shi'an lifted the carriage curtain and called out: "Jiusi."

Gu Jiusi turned back to see Ye Shi'an sitting in the carriage, looking at him seriously as he said: "Having you as a brother makes me very happy."

Gu Jiusi was momentarily stunned, then spread his hands helplessly: "What can I do? It's not my fault I'm so outstanding?"

Ye Shi'an burst out laughing, waved his hand, and let the curtain fall.

Gu Jiusi watched the Ye family carriage clatter away. He stood at the palace gates for a while, watching white doves soar over the palace rooftops, tracing elegant arcs against the sunlight. Smiling to himself, he returned to the Gu family carriage and departed.

Not long after they left, Luo Zishang followed the Crown Prince into the palace. Before entering the imperial study, Luo Zishang said to Fan Yu: "Your Highness need not explain or plead with His Majesty. Lord Zhou and His Majesty share a life-and-death bond. The more you speak, the more His Majesty will simply think you immature."

Fan Yu maintained a cold expression, suppressing his anger as he said: "That old man Zhou Gaolang just can't stand me having my own people. I know exactly what he's plotting - he wants to persuade Father to have another son and depose me. With Father's health, how could he possibly live long enough for that child to grow up? Then they could control the emperor to command the nobles, with no one to restrain them! Their wolfish ambition is obvious to all, yet Father remembers past affections - do they?!"

"Your Highness, please calm your anger," Luo Zishang sighed. "His Majesty is sentimental by nature. It's unwise for you to quarrel with him now. The more you speak, the more prejudiced he becomes against you. For now, it's better to comply with His Majesty. You are His Majesty's son - the world will be yours eventually. We can deal with everything when the time comes."

Hearing Luo Zishang's advice, Fan Yu finally calmed down somewhat. Luo Zishang continued: "Later, Your Highness need only repeat the words I prepared about the Yellow River flooding situation. Don't say anything beyond that."

"Imperial Tutor," Fan Yu sighed, "if His Majesty really assigns you to the Ministry of Works, I'll truly be alone in the palace from now on.""Your Highness," Luo Zishang said gently, "I am merely going to assist Your Highness with official duties. I will always remain Your Highness's subject. Now that I am taking up duties in the Ministry of Works to oversee the Yellow River Renovation, it will alleviate some concerns when Your Highness ascends the throne in the future."

"Imperial Tutor," Fan Yu responded with some sadness upon hearing Luo Zishang's words, "if all court officials were like you, not constantly scheming for power and profit, that would be ideal."

"Your Highness is a wise ruler," Luo Zishang bowed his head, "when Your Highness's benevolence extends throughout the land, that day will surely come."

As they spoke, they arrived at the entrance of the imperial study. Fan Yu entered first. Luo Zishang glanced at the eunuch guarding the door, who whispered as he passed, "Gu and Ye just paid their respects."

Luo Zishang's expression remained unchanged, as if he hadn't heard anything, and followed Fan Yu into the study, kneeling respectfully. Hearing the greetings, Fan Xuan looked up at them, motioned for Fan Yu to rise, but left Luo Zishang kneeling.

Luo Zishang remained kneeling while Fan Xuan inquired about Fan Yu's journey. Fan Yu answered respectfully and thoroughly.

This time his responses were measured and well-structured, allowing Fan Xuan to quickly understand the situation. Fan Xuan couldn't help but glance at his son and sighed, "This trip has matured you considerably."

"Witnessing the hardships of the people," Fan Yu said steadily, "made me realize my youthful ignorance. I have troubled Father Emperor with my past behavior."

Hearing such words from Fan Yu for the first time, Fan Xuan felt greatly comforted.

Throughout his life, he had controlled everything, except for this son who had always perplexed him. Now that Fan Yu was finally showing signs of becoming the person he had hoped for, Fan Xuan said happily, "Understanding the people's struggles means you've finally grown up."

Fan Yu smiled and glanced at Luo Zishang: "It was the Imperial Tutor's teaching."

These words made Fan Xuan pause. Luo Zishang remained kneeling on the ground without saying anything. After a moment of silence, Fan Xuan said to Fan Yu, "I understand the situation now. I will assign people to handle it. You've done well this time, you may retire first."

Fan Yu hesitated briefly, then said respectfully, "Your son takes his leave."

After Fan Yu departed, only Fan Xuan and Luo Zishang remained in the room. Fan Xuan looked at Luo Zishang, took a sip of tea and said, "Lord Luo, you have taught the Crown Prince well these days. I've never seen him obey anyone so readily. It truly surprises me - Lord Luo is indeed remarkably capable."

Anyone could hear the sarcasm in these words. Luo Zishang didn't raise his head. After a long while, he slowly said, "Your Majesty, actually you could achieve the same."

"Oh?" Fan Xuan laughed, "I don't possess Lord Luo's exquisite cunning."

"Your Majesty," Luo Zishang said calmly, "making someone willing to listen doesn't require cunning methods, only genuine care."

"Are you suggesting I haven't cared enough about the Crown Prince?"

Fan Xuan frowned. Luo Zishang slowly responded, "As the Son of Heaven, Your Majesty naturally cares. But as a father, if you search your conscience, have you truly been caring enough?"

These words made Fan Xuan pause. After a moment, he fell silent.

He knew Luo Zishang was right. In Fan Yu's development to this day, he as a father indeed hadn't fulfilled his responsibilities properly.

Fan Yu's mother had passed away early. In the past, he had been too busy, always leaving Fan Yu in the care of wet nurses. By the time Fan Yu grew up, his character had already been formed."Your Majesty does not understand the Crown Prince. When matters arise, you either indulge and yield or scold and insult. Your Majesty has never genuinely acknowledged His Highness from the heart, so how can His Highness recognize Your Majesty in return? Your Majesty believes your subject is highly capable, but in truth, your subject merely exchanges sincerity for sincerity."

Fan Yu remained silent. These words struck a chord within him, and for a moment, he genuinely wished to seek Luo Zishang's counsel. Yet, unbidden, the image of Ye Shi'an kneeling with a trembling back flashed through his mind.

His heart instantly cooled, and he said indifferently, "Lord Luo was once a figure akin to a local ruler in Yangzhou. Now that you have come to Great Xia to serve as Imperial Tutor and still exert such dedication, We are deeply grateful and at a loss as to how to reward you."

Hearing this, Luo Zishang smiled slightly and replied, "Your Majesty need not reward me. If you truly wish to show consideration for your humble servant, I only ask that Your Majesty allow me to join the Ministry of Works and take charge of the Yellow River Renovation project, so that I may do some practical work for the people."

Fan Xuan did not respond. Luo Zishang's directness caught him off guard, and he momentarily abandoned the thought of speaking in circles. Picking up a cup of tea from the side, he said calmly, "Luo Zishang, you understand Our intentions well, yet We find Ourself perplexed."

"Your subject knows," Luo Zishang replied calmly. "Your Majesty cannot comprehend why I would give up the opportunity to establish myself as a ruler in Yangzhou and come to Great Xia to serve as a mere official. Moreover, Your Majesty has always been wary of me. In Your Majesty's heart, I remain an outsider."

"Since you know this, why do you still insist on staying in Great Xia?"

"Your Majesty," Luo Zishang lifted his head and said earnestly, "if I told you that I have no choice but to remain in Great Xia, would you believe me?"

"Luo Zishang," Fan Xuan looked at him sincerely, "if you speak the truth, We can believe you once."

Upon hearing this, Luo Zishang slowly smiled.

"Your Majesty, I can tell you one thing," Luo Zishang said with a bitter smile. "In truth, I am not the former young master of the Luo family, Luo Zishang. I am merely an illegitimate son of the Luo family from back then."

"What does that have to do with your staying in Great Xia?"

Luo Zishang fell silent. For a moment, his expression grew distant, as if recalling something. After a pause, he smiled bitterly and said, "Your Majesty, given Yangzhou's capabilities, it could never stand independently and would inevitably have to rely on others." Your subject would either have to rely on Liu Xingzhi or rely on Your Majesty. I have no close relatives, so I do not wish to take up arms against my own kin."

"Your kin?"

Fan Xuan looked puzzled. "Your kin are in Great Xia?"

"Yes," Luo Zishang replied with a bitter smile. "My father is in Great Xia. Even if he may never know in this lifetime, or even if he learns of it and refuses to acknowledge me, and even if I do not wish to acknowledge him, I still hope that this sole relative of mine can live well."

Fan Xuan fell silent. After a long while, he finally asked, "Then who is your father?"

Hearing this, Luo Zishang smiled bitterly. He pressed his forehead to the ground and uttered a name in a low, hoarse voice.

Fan Xuan stood frozen in shock. Moments later, a look of sudden understanding dawned on his face. After a long silence, he said, "Then... why did you do those things back then?"

"Your Majesty," Luo Zishang smiled bitterly, "with my methods, if I had truly intended to kill, how could I have let anyone escape?""Your Majesty," Luo Zishang lowered his head once more, forehead touching the ground as he maintained a reverent posture, "In this mortal world, one cannot always act according to their will. I am aware that Your Majesty has always held reservations about what I did in Yangzhou back then, but what choice did I have at that time? If I hadn't played the villain, Wang Shanquan would have remained in power for another day, and someone else would inevitably have taken that role. Only by becoming that villain myself could I protect more people and provide everyone with a path to survival."

"I understand that many at court misunderstand my intentions, yet I still hope Your Majesty will recognize this: though I could have become a feudal lord, I came to Great Xia to serve as Imperial Tutor; though I could have pressured Your Majesty to retain the position of Imperial Tutor, I did not insist. All this was merely because I wished to secure a place for myself in Great Xia."

"Here are my family, the woman I admire, all my attachments and yearnings in this world reside in Great Xia. I could never do anything to harm Great Xia. Because after all, I am merely an ordinary man."

Ordinary men have seven emotions and six desires, love and hatred, anger and obsession.

What Liu Xingzhi could offer him, Great Xia could also provide, and Great Xia held his family.

Fan Xuan looked at the young man kneeling on the ground, momentarily unsure how to decide. After a long while, he sighed and finally said, "I will consider your words. For now, go to the Ministry of Works. I will observe over time whether what you say is true or false."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

Luo Zishang replied earnestly. Fan Xuan nodded, dismissing him. Luo Zishang bowed and rose to leave. Just before he departed, Fan Xuan suddenly said, "Would you... like me to speak with your father on your behalf?"

Luo Zishang stood with his back to Fan Xuan. After a long silence, he responded, "That won't be necessary."

His voice was low and hoarse: "It's enough for me to know they exist. I don't expect them to understand what I've done - I'm clear about it in my own heart. Speaking of it now would do no good for anyone."

Fan Xuan remained silent, knowing Luo Zishang spoke the truth. After another long pause, he sighed: "I understand."

Luo Zishang took his leave. Once outside the palace, he let out a relieved breath.

A guard watching Luo Zishang lean against the carriage asked with concern, "Master, the current situation is unfavorable to you. Should we make early preparations?"

"Unfavorable?" Luo Zishang opened his eyes, looking somewhat puzzled. "How come I wasn't aware?"

The guard was taken aback. Luo Zishang smiled faintly, leaned back against the carriage wall, and said no more.

When Gu Jiusi returned to his room, Liu Yu Ru was calculating accounts, her abacus clicking rhythmically. Upon entering, he remarked, "Hearing that abacus sound makes me feel like I'm hearing the jingling of silver coins clinking together."

Hearing this, Liu Yu Ru pressed her lips together and glanced up at him reproachfully. "Do you think money grows on trees?"

"Of course not," Gu Jiusi quickly responded. "I work hard every day to earn it."

"Then tell me, how much silver have you earned?"

Liu Yu Ru smiled, pressing her lips together. Gu Jiusi handed his outer coat to Munan and declared loudly, "At least several hundred taels, I'd say."

"With so much silver, why haven't I seen any trace of it?"

Liu Yu Ru watched him approach and teased, "Don't try to fool a simple woman like me."

"All that silver came from you - don't you know?"

Gu Jiusi sat down beside her, clinging to her arm like a spoiled child, resting his head on her shoulder and affecting a coy voice: "This is all the body-selling silver I earned serving Manager Liu. Has Manager Liu forgotten already?"

Liu Yu Ru found this both amusing and exasperating. She reached out and poked him: "What nonsense."

"You poked me," Gu Jiusi extended his hand. "Pay up."

Liu Yu Ru was momentarily speechless. Gu Jiusi continued: "If you won't pay, that's fine too. Considering how beautiful you are, you can pay with yourself instead."

"Gu Jiusi," Liu Yu Ru said, seeing how much he was enjoying himself, "Do you not have enough work today?"

"Before my wife, all work must make way." Gu Jiusi said with complete seriousness. "As long as my wife favors this humble servant, I would brave boiling water and scaling mountains to keep our romantic rendezvous."No sooner had the words been spoken than Liu Yuru slapped the account book onto Gu Jiusi’s face, grabbed a stack of papers, and stood up, saying, “All you do is talk big. I’m not wasting my breath on you—I’m going to find the God of Wealth.”

“Huh?”

Gu Jiusi was taken aback. “What God of Wealth?”

“Uncle promised to cover the household expenses. It’s almost the end of the month, so I’m going to check if he can still afford it. If not, it’s better to ask him to move out sooner rather than later.”

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi quickly scrambled to his feet and followed Liu Yuru. “Won’t that make us seem too opportunistic?”

“Why would it just seem opportunistic?” Liu Yuru said seriously. “We are opportunistic.”

Gu Jiusi was stunned. Liu Yuru chuckled and turned into Jiang He’s room. Standing at the door, Gu Jiusi reflected on himself. He realized she was right—he had indeed been too hypocritical lately.

He followed Liu Yuru into Jiang He’s quarters. Upon hearing their arrival, Jiang He invited them in. Gu Jiusi glanced around the room, which was filled with famous paintings, antiques, gold carvings, and jade artifacts. Four beautiful women attended to Jiang He diligently, even reading documents aloud for him. He was living in absolute luxury.

Seeing them enter, Jiang He sat up and smiled. “What brings my niece-in-law here?”

“Indeed,” Liu Yuru said softly. “It’s the end of the month, so I’ve come to report the Gu family’s expenses to you, Uncle.”

Jiang He understood immediately—Liu Yuru was here for money.

He nodded and said, “Go find Jiang Shao for the money.”

Jiang Shao was a servant Jiang He had brought with him, having served him for years. Liu Yuru acknowledged this and then asked Jiang He, “Uncle, are you sure you don’t want to review the accounts?”

“It’s just household expenses, isn’t it?” Jiang He waved his hand dismissively. “How much could it possibly be?”

“In that case, I’ll go see Mr. Jiang for the funds,” Liu Yuru said without further comment, standing up. “Rest well, Uncle.”

“Wait,” Jiang He interjected, suddenly feeling uneasy for no apparent reason. “How much was spent this month?”

“Two thousand five hundred taels.”

“What?!”

Jiang He exclaimed in shock. “How could it be so much?”

He had always considered himself extravagant, but one thousand taels a month was his limit. After all, an ordinary servant earned only two taels a month, while a high-ranking maid earned eight. Two thousand five hundred taels could hire over twelve hundred ordinary servants. Who in their right mind would employ over a thousand servants in the Eastern Capital, where land prices were so high? Where would they even house them?

Liu Yuru seemed to have anticipated Jiang He’s reaction. She picked up the expense list from the side and handed it to him. “Uncle, here is the detailed list. Please take a look.”

Jiang He snatched the list and scanned it from top to bottom. Most expenses seemed normal, except for the last entry, which read, “Gu Jiusi Exclusive Recuperation Fee,” followed by an amount of two thousand taels.

“What is this?” Jiang He immediately pointed at the fee and demanded an explanation.

Liu Yuru smiled. “Oh, that’s a special service prepared just for you.”

“What?”Jiang He was somewhat bewildered. Liu Yuru pulled Gu Jiusi aside and said to Jiang He, "Uncle, Yuru knows you're under a lot of pressure and need to vent. Jiusi is thick-skinned and sturdy—you can hit him as much as you want without any issues. You can discipline him freely every month, feel free to beat or scold him without holding back. After all, you've already paid for it. Jiusi is now the Minister of Revenue. I've calculated that his monthly worth should be around two hundred taels, including compensation for lost work..."

"I get it," Jiang He stared at Liu Yuru, a mocking smile spreading across his face. "Are you seeking revenge for your husband?"

"How can you say that, Uncle?"

Liu Yuru looked up, her expression gentle and smiling as she replied, "We're all businesspeople—buying and selling is perfectly normal, isn't it? Jiusi is my person now, so if you want to hit him, naturally, there should be some cost involved. If you think it's too expensive, we can still negotiate."

Jiang He remained silent. After a moment's thought, Liu Yuru added, "Uncle, are you trying to renege on payment? If you can't afford it, that's alright. I've looked into your former residence, and currently..."

"Alright, alright," Jiang He waved his hand dismissively. "I understand what you mean. I won't hit him anymore from now on. You little lady, always talking in circles—it's so tedious."

Liu Yuru smiled without responding. Jiang He glared at Gu Jiusi and said, "Hurry up and leave before your wife drives me out again."

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi couldn't help but laugh and said to Jiang He, "Uncle, next time, kick me a few more times. Come back often!"

"Get out!"

Jiang He grabbed a pillow from nearby, and Gu Jiusi immediately interjected, "One hit costs a hundred taels."

Jiang He froze mid-action. After a moment, he roared, "Get out, get out, get out!"

With that, the attendants swarmed in and pushed the couple out.

Standing outside the closed door, Liu Yuru glanced at Gu Jiusi and cleared her throat softly. "Was I too harsh?"

"What's harsh about that?" Gu Jiusi immediately retorted. "He's been harsh for many years!"

From inside, Jiang He overheard the young couple's conversation and bellowed, "Go farther away if you're going to talk!"

Gu Jiusi pouted and, taking Liu Yuru's hand, swaggered off.

Once they were out of the courtyard, Gu Jiusi burst into laughter, hugging Liu Yuru and saying, "You're really something. Otherwise, he'd keep bullying me."

"It's not that I'm something," Liu Yuru smiled. "It's because you cherish me, and Uncle is just giving me face."

Hearing her words, Gu Jiusi held her tightly, overjoyed. "No matter what, having a wife who cares for me makes me happy."

Liu Yuru smiled faintly, linking her arm with his and whispering with a soft laugh, "Keep your voice down. If others hear, they'll say you're being childish."

Chatting and laughing, the two walked away. Meanwhile, Jiang He lay on his couch, a beautiful woman fanning him beside him. Resting his head on his hands, he lamented with despair, "Ganging up to bully an old man—how utterly excessive."

The woman beside him stifled a laugh. Jiang He stared at the ceiling for a long time before finally sighing with envy, "I want to marry a wife too..."

Gu Jiusi and Liu Yuru had gone to Jiang Shao to apologize, and now they were returning together.

Liu Yuru shared her idea of establishing a dedicated route for transporting goods. Gu Jiusi listened, then took the map from her and examined it. "Your thinking is quite thorough. Is there anything you need my help with?"

Yes, there is—a very big problem.She needed money, and she needed someone to help navigate relationships in various regions.

This route had eleven stopping points, and at each location, she had to establish warehouses. Once built, maintaining good relations with the local authorities was crucial.

But she didn’t mention any of this. Instead, she smiled lightly and said, “It’s nothing. I’m just making preparations right now. Don’t worry.”

Gu Jiusi was taken aback. How could such a significant matter require no help from him? As the Minister of Revenue, countless people sought his assistance, yet Liu Yuru hadn’t asked him for anything.

He quickly understood her concerns but didn’t press further. Instead, he asked, “How are the talks with Mr. Lu’s people going?”

“Mr. Lu has some funds,” Liu Yuru replied with a smile. “I’ve presented several projects for his investment, and he’s still deciding.”

Gu Jiusi nodded. They chatted casually as they returned to bed. Just before falling asleep, Gu Jiusi said, “Your birthday is coming up soon. How would you like to celebrate?”

“There’s no hurry,” Liu Yuru said with a laugh. “Let’s focus on your crowning ceremony first.”

Gu Jiusi acknowledged her words but said nothing more.

He drifted into a restless sleep and attended court the next morning. There, he noticed something unusual about Luo Zishang—his position in the assembly and the color of his official robe were both off. The Crown Prince’s Imperial Tutor originally held a second-rank position and wore purple robes, but now Luo Zishang was dressed in crimson.

Gu Jiusi glanced at him and immediately understood. It seemed Ye Shi’an’s emotional outburst the day before had yielded results.

After court adjourned, Gu Jiusi went to the Ministry of Works to inquire and confirmed that Luo Zishang had been transferred there as a Vice Minister.

The transfer order had been issued quietly, clearly because Fan Xuan did not want to draw attention to it. Since the emperor remained silent, no one else dared to make a fuss. Nevertheless, news of Luo Zishang’s transfer to the Ministry of Works soon spread.

That evening, upon learning of the news, Fan Yu stormed into Fan Xuan’s bedchamber. Struggling to contain his anger, he said in a low voice, “Father, why have you transferred Imperial Tutor Luo to the Ministry of Works?”

“This was not my decision,” Fan Xuan replied calmly. “Lord Luo requested the transfer himself.”

“Father, there’s no need to brush me off with such excuses,” Fan Yu said anxiously. “Everyone knows you don’t trust him and wanted him removed. Why would Imperial Tutor Luo willingly go to the Ministry of Works? Don’t you understand? He did this to reassure you. He has already retreated to such an extent—are you still not satisfied?!”

Fan Xuan lowered his head, gazing at the rippling water in the foot basin. His reflection showed a weary face as he listened to Fan Yu continue, “The Imperial Tutor advised me not to argue or dispute with you. I know I can’t change your decisions, but I must say this.”

“Father, Imperial Tutor Luo is a good man. He doesn’t deserve to be misunderstood like this.”

With those words, Fan Yu turned and stormed out.

After he left, Fan Xuan sighed deeply.

Who was good and who was evil—even he couldn’t be certain. How could he expect a young man not yet twenty to understand?

After Luo Zishang’s transfer to the Ministry of Works, everyone waited to see him become a laughingstock.

The Ministry of Works already had two Vice Ministers. Since no one could be displaced, a third Vice Minister position was created specifically for him, tasked with overseeing the repairs of the Yellow River this year.Such a sudden appointment would inevitably cause discontent among others in the Ministry of Works. Moreover, with no established foundation, it was unlikely he could accomplish much. Thus, everyone waited to see what Luo Zishang intended to do.

However, within a few days, they received a plan for the Yellow River Renovation drafted by Luo Zishang.

This plan was based on the records he had compiled while accompanying the Crown Prince on an inspection of the Yellow River. It clearly outlined the problems and their solutions, even including a detailed budget for expenses.

After the Ministry of Works consulted with experts, everyone expressed great satisfaction with Luo Zishang's proposal, except for one remaining issue: the plan required an enormous amount of manpower.

While Luo Zishang was drafting the plan, for some unknown reason, a rumor began to circulate in the Eastern Capital, claiming that the Yellow River would inevitably flood that year.

As a result, the topic of Yellow River Renovation became a hotly debated issue in every street and alley.

Thus, when the plan was finalized, although the Ministry of Works knew it would be extremely costly, they gritted their teeth and submitted it anyway.

After all, if no plan were proposed, the blame would fall on the Ministry of Works. But once a plan was submitted and there was no money to fund it, the responsibility would shift to the Ministry of Revenue.

The plan was submitted, and the Minister of Works, Liao Yanli, praised it highly, saying to Fan Xuan, "Your Majesty, if the Yellow River is renovated according to this method, it will be free from disasters for a hundred years. This is truly a rare and excellent strategy."

Fan Xuan nodded and looked over at Gu Jiusi, who had been standing nearby the whole time, asking, "What does Jiusi think?"

"Sounds great."

Gu Jiusi stared at Liao Yanli, his smile not reaching his eyes, and said, "Shall we start by confiscating assets from Minister Liao's household?"

"What?"

Both Fan Xuan and Liao Yanli were taken aback. Gu Jiusi picked up the memorial, pointed at the budget, and said to Liao Yanli, "Minister Liao, are you unaware of how much silver is left in the national treasury? Since we have no money at the moment, why not start by confiscating from your household?"