chapter 97

Chapter 97: Revelation

Shen He, tugging on his horse's mane, anxiously awaited the outcome.

Zheng Xuezhe sneaked several glances at him before looking into the distance, noting, "The Prefect of Jingzhao has arrived."

The Prefect, without noticing Shen He and his group, dismounted and entered the office. Qi Yanbing tried to soothe Shen He's fury: "With the Prefect intervening, if Chen Yuejiang has any sense left, he should realize he's offended someone significant and apologize."

Shen He gritted his teeth, declaring, "I don't want an apology. I want him imprisoned."

The others exchanged furtive glances, sharing a silent sigh.

With the Prefect's intervention, there was a possibility that Chen Yuejiang might apologize and compensate. But sending him to prison? Not without their direct involvement.

The pent-up frustration in the young man was palpable, especially with Chen Yuejiang resorting to such devious tactics as arson. It was evident that Shen He wouldn't let it slide easily.

The events of the previous night, where they had only sought to intimidate and create a ruckus, were a testament to Shen He's restraint, a measure to prevent the matter from reaching the Crown Prince's ears.

As they waited outside, Qi Yanbing leaned in to fan Shen He, trying to soothe him. "Calm down, Shen. Don't let such insignificant people ruin your mood."

He felt that ever since Shen He left the Eastern Palace, his temper had grown more volatile. Chen Yuejiang's actions were adding fuel to the fire.

With a taut expression, Shen He quietly inquired, "Brother, is Chen Yuejiang's elder brother highly regarded by the Second Prince?"

Qi Yanbing replied, "Chen Yuesi is indeed talented. The Second Prince values him highly. I've heard that after the demise of Chen Yuesi's wife, the Second Prince is considering offering his cousin, intended for his own primary wife, to Chen Yuesi as a second wife. But rest assured, Shen, no matter how much the Second Prince values him, we can handle him. There's no one in the capital we can't handle."

After speaking, Qi Yanbing looked to Liu Zheng and the others for affirmation, "Right?"

Liu Zheng, assuming Shen He was wary of causing trouble for the Crown Prince, reassured him softly, "Shen, this misconduct was entirely Chen Yuejiang's doing. Chen Yuesi wouldn't dare involve the Second Prince and would instead come to us to apologize on behalf of his brother. Don't worry."

Good, very good.

Shen He thought bitterly, it's great that he's connected to the Second Prince and even better that he's valued by him.

The matter was bound to reach the Crown Prince sooner or later. Shen decided to vent his frustrations fully, ensuring the Second Prince felt equally vexed!

The Second Prince would then have a choice: support his underling and clash with the Duke's Mansion and Prince Heng, or abandon him and make him swallow his pride.

Shen hoped the Second Prince cared as little for his subordinate as he did for his own brother and wouldn’t mind if Chen Yuejiang rotted in jail forever.

……

Inside the public hall.

Chen Yuejiang was momentarily shocked by the sudden arrival of the Prefect of Jingzhao.

He was briefly flustered, considering the Prefect's significant stature in the capital, before whom even his brother showed respect.

However, he quickly composed himself, believing that the Prefect, being a man, would understand the nuances of maneuvering under the imperial shadow and the subtleties of officialdom.

His brother was affiliated with the Second Prince. Offending him was akin to offending the Second Prince himself.

Chen Yuejiang regained his confidence, smiling as he approached, "Greetings, My Lord..."

The Prefect of Jingzhao gave him a fleeting glance.

The county official hurriedly rushed down from above, inviting the Prefect of Jingzhao to take a seat, his heart brimming with joy.

As for what remained, it had nothing to do with him anymore.

Both parties began by repeating their previous arguments. However, this time, Chen Yuejiang and his servant had a complete change of attitude. Once arrogant and proud, they now wept bitterly before the Prefect of Jingzhao, acting as if they were the ones who had been grievously wronged.

Zhao Yongseng, a tall man, was seething with anger but felt helpless.

He wanted to act shamelessly like that servant, crying out loud, but he couldn't muster a tear after trying for a while.

All he could do was grit his teeth, glare at the servant, kneel down and plead with the Prefect of Jingzhao, "My lord! All these are lies concocted by him! Our family has been in business in the capital for many years, pioneering many new novelties. Everyone knows it! Suddenly, this imitator appears, slandering us. I implore your discernment, sir!"

The Prefect of Jingzhao was still pondering who had invited him here.

Upon hearing the pleas, he cast several glances between the owner of Tangxinfang and Zhao Yongseng.

Of course, he knew who in the capital had introduced new novelties over the years, but evidence is essential, and mere words won't suffice.

He signaled for the witnesses held by Tangxinfang to be brought forward. The go-between sneaked glances at Chen Yuejiang, trying desperately to convey something with his eyes. But sadly, Chen Yuejiang misunderstood, thinking the man wanted more benefits at this crucial moment.

Feeling somewhat annoyed, Chen gave a subtle nod.

If he wants benefits, so be it. Just don't let him spill any secrets.

The master and servant exchanged puzzled looks for a while, and the go-between, thinking Chen understood his message, immediately started confessing tearfully in detail.

Naturally, he omitted certain facts, downplaying his involvement. As for the arson, he claimed he was already captured by then and knew nothing about it. Despite the Prefect of Jingzhao's repeated questioning, he remained ignorant.

Upon hearing this, Chen Yuejiang's face changed dramatically, filled with uncontrollable rage!

The scoundrel had betrayed them!

He immediately shot his servant a fierce glare.

The servant cried out, "My lord! This is nonsense! While it's true that this man worked for us, he was dismissed a fortnight ago for misconduct. Who would have thought he'd make such baseless accusations now? He's truly ungrateful and utterly despicable!"

The go-between was utterly stunned.

So was Zhao Yongseng, who couldn't believe the audacity of this man, crafting lies so effortlessly on the spot!

He hastily gathered evidence, pulling the shopkeeper and the assistants as witnesses.

That servant was silver-tongued, constantly shifting topics, always finding a loophole for his cunning arguments.

As things progressed, even Zhao Yongseng began to doubt if their self-striking clock was indeed a creation of their young master—had he not personally seen it seized with his father's own hands.

Pillar, that cowardly fellow, knelt on the ground. After receiving a couple of kicks from an exasperated Zhao Yongseng, he merely looked around and stubbornly kept silent.

He didn't recognize Shen He, nor did he grasp the intentions of the middleman. Seeing Chen Yuejiang's group having the upper hand, he thought it best to remain quiet.

After all, the deed was done, and his words wouldn't make a difference now. By staying silent, perhaps the high-ranking official present might favorably intervene on his behalf.

No, no, no, they would certainly intervene.

After all, he held leverage!

The Prefect of Jingzhao's brows furrowed deeply.

He glanced at the servant, "Do you have evidence to back your claims?"

The servant was unfazed; they had prepared this narrative in advance, anticipating such a scenario.

Soon enough, someone presented the so-called "evidence."

……

Outside, Shen He's anxiety grew.

Unable to stay still on his horse, he dismounted, pacing restlessly and eventually kicked at the wall in frustration.

Just a moment ago, Liu Zheng had thought to himself how much Shen He had matured. But seeing him now, he couldn't help but smile at the childlike behavior.

Shen He peeked several times, and as officials finally emerged, his eyes lit up seeing Zhao Yongseng's group. He was about to approach with a friendly face, hoping to learn how Chen Yuejiang and his group were dealt with, when he saw them confidently striding out.

Shen He almost choked in disbelief.

Qi Yandisease immediately exclaimed, "How did they let that scoundrel out? Shen He, let's confront him and see how he managed to sweet-talk his way out of the Prefect of Jingzhao's judgment!"

Shen He replied, "Let's go home."

Qi Yandisease rolled up his sleeves, "Alright, let's... wait, go home?"

Shen He swiftly mounted his horse, seized the reins, and turned away, his face set in a rigid expression.

Zheng Xue followed suit, turning his steed around. Liu Zheng remarked to Qi Yanbing, "Shall we depart? Do you really want to face off with Chen Yuejiang in court at this moment?"

With a touch of resignation, Qi Yanbing replied, "Indeed, it would be beneath my stature. Let's go."

When they had initially requested the Prefect of Jingzhao's presence, they hadn't revealed their identities. Thus, the Prefect was left in the dark, riddled with questions.

He discerned something was amiss, but without the true mastermind from Tangxinfang stepping forward, he was unsure of how to proceed.

After dismissing both parties, the Prefect promptly sent agents to gather information.

But the more he probed, the murkier the waters became, with no one apparently knowing who was backing the situation.

Could it be that there was no real power behind the scenes, and Chen Yuejiang had simply been fortuitous in his rise in the capital?

The Prefect of Jingzhao felt something was not right.

Before he could draw a conclusion, news came the next morning that officials from the Dali Temple had unexpectedly stormed the residence of the Tai Pu Temple's official in the North City, detaining his younger brother, Master Chen.

The Prefect of Jingzhao was dumbstruck. Realizing his oversight, he hastily donned his attire and rushed out.

He thought, "This is a disaster!"

*

With Shen He's newfound resolve to face whatever came his way, he appeared more composed and less irate.

He, along with Liu Zheng and others, ensured that the shop and workshop employees were well taken care of. Based on the list provided by Zhao Yongseng, they dismissed some workers suspected of disloyalty.

Fortunately, these workers weren't involved in the core processes, so their departure wasn't detrimental.

For those who remained, they were compensated and reassured. Plans for rebuilding the workshop and other follow-up matters were entrusted to Zhao Yongseng and his team.

Zhao Yongseng appeared uneasy and glanced at the young master several times, stammering, "Young master, it was my... my inability to speak up that led to Chen..."

Shen He interrupted, "It's not on you. We'll handle it. Rest assured."

Zhao Yongseng nodded, took one last look at the other young masters present, and awkwardly bowed before taking his leave.

As soon as Zhao Yongseng left, Shen He's face fell. "Brother! What did the Dali Temple say?"

Qi Yanbing smugly fanned himself, picking up a piece of osmanthus cake. "With me involved, how could the Dali Temple not act?"

Zheng Xue chuckled, "The Dali Temple has always been at odds with the Ministry of War, and the Tai Pu Temple has its fair share of disputes. Chen Yuesi is the chief of the Tai Pu Temple; considering the misdeeds of his younger brother under his influence, it's only right for the Dali Temple to thoroughly investigate."

Qi Yanbing clapped, "Exactly my point!"

Still laughing, Qi Yanbing added, "I've also sent someone to pay a visit to their hometown. Given Chen Yuejiang's audacity here in the capital, I wonder how many misdeeds he's committed in his own territory."

Shen He felt considerably relieved. In his mind, once Chen Yuejiang was imprisoned, they couldn't spare Chen Yuesi either.

The grander the spectacle, the better. If it could vex Qi Leyong, that would be perfect!

Shen He pondered the relationships. The chief of the Tai Pu Temple had ties to the Ministry of War. As Qi Leyong sought power and would likely rebel, he would undoubtedly vie for military control. Chen Yuesi would be one of his assets.

Eliminating a chief from the Tai Pu Temple might pull out more associated with him. The more allies Qi Leyong lost, the harder his eventual rebellion would become.

It wasn't enough for them to act in isolation.

Shen He resolved to use all the resources at his disposal; if not now, then when?

Shen He immediately headed to the Duke's mansion, shedding tears before his grandparents. After venting his grievances there, he headed to the Liu family.

Shen He had never been bullied as a child nor had he ever sought solace from his elders.

The last time the elders worried about him was when he had a brawl with some young nobles at the Linjiang Pavilion. They knew he felt triumphant then, unlike his downtrodden demeanor now.

Returning home to voice his complaints signified that it wasn't a trivial matter; he must have faced significant injustices.

Shen He contemplated visiting the palace but decided against troubling his aunt. After seeking help from the Liu family, he didn't want to unduly worry her further.

Qi Yanbing and Zheng Xue also returned home to rally their contacts, aiming to create a stir.

However, their efforts paled in comparison to Shen He's tearful pleas.

The first to be enraged was undoubtedly the old Duke.

It seemed the chief of the Tai Pu Temple had stepped into a minefield.

The old Duke immediately set out to meet his old comrades. After making his rounds among friends and former subordinates, any lingering sympathy for Chen Yuesi evaporated.

The Liu family had limited dealings with the generals, but their roots were deep and widespread. They contemplated more profoundly than the elder Duke, yet managed to keep their actions discreet. They simply penned a letter, sending it beyond the capital.

Shen He was unaware of these covert actions. The first he learned was of Chen Yuejiang being incarcerated. Two days later, officials from the Ministry of Justice came to inform Shen He that Chen confessed, admitted his guilt, and intended to repay the stolen silver, including damages. A large chest of silver was brought into Shen He's residence.

When they arrived, Qi Yanbing and others were present, eagerly awaiting the release of the official announcement.

Gazing at the shiny silver in the chest, Shen He couldn't help but smile, remarking, "That's more like it."

Liu Zheng teased him, "After all your lamenting, this satisfies you? I thought you'd only feel vindicated if Chen Yue took his brother to jail with him."

Shen He felt slightly embarrassed. He wouldn't admit outright that he had thought exactly that. Apart from seeking revenge, another motive was to agitate Qi Leyong.

As much as he wanted to voice it, Qi Leyong was a prince. Shen He had to be discreet, especially as he was harboring an unrequited love. He didn't want to reveal his intent to help Qi Zhuoyun.

As Shen He pondered, he realized that even if he voiced his thoughts, no one would know of his affection for Qi Zhuoyun. They'd just assume he wanted to repay the Crown Prince's kindness.

With this realization, Shen He felt deflated.

He glanced at Qi Yanbing multiple times, wondering why he'd never asked him about a suitable retirement place with handsome men, something he'd been meaning to ask.

Maybe... he should seize the opportunity and ask soon?

Better to plan early!

Munching on a pastry, Qi Yanbing mumbled, "Hmm... Shen He, hasn't my imperial uncle visited you lately? Given our recent escapade, he should've heard about it. Aren't you upset he's not more concerned about your grievances?"

Shen He lowered his gaze and fidgeted.

Qi Yanbing had indeed touched upon Shen He's most sensitive point.

In the past few days, Shen He had been seeking retribution and deliberately avoiding this question. Hearing Qi Yanbing raise it, his heart tightened and felt a pang of sorrow.

He replied softly, "He must be busy. I've heard the emperor hasn't been well. Living outside the palace now, it's not like before when I could see him easily at the Eastern Palace."

Under the table, Zheng Xue stepped hard on Qi Yanbing's foot.

Qi Yanbing's face twisted in pain, nearly spitting out his pastry!

No! He realized he misspoke, but did they all have to step on him?

He subtly turned his head, looking towards Liu Zheng, who nonchalantly held his teacup, then to Zheng Xueze, whose indifferent expression and dark eyes gave away little emotion.

He swiftly pulled both his feet back!

Qi Yanbing lamented quietly, "My elder brother is returning. In a few days, I might not be sitting here chatting with you all."

Shen He's attention was immediately diverted, "Your elder brother? The Crown Prince?"

Shen He widened his eyes in curiosity, "The Crown Prince is returning?"

Shen He had never met Qi Yanbing's elder brother.

The Crown Prince was over a decade older than Qi Yanbing. It's said that he had been stationed in a southern military camp since his teenage years, much like Shen Yan's trajectory.

Considering the age, the prince must be in his early thirties by now.

Qi Yanbing wore a distressed expression, making it seem like the returning figure was not his dear brother but an executioner.

"You all don't understand. My brother is so ruthless, killing without blinking. I sometimes fear that one day he'll find me displeasing and carve me up with a knife!" Qi Yanbing added with a shiver.

Once Qi Yanbing began voicing his grievances, he went on relentlessly, painting a barbaric image of his brother, determined to tarnish his reputation among outsiders.

Shen He listened with great interest, but as the stories continued, some sounded oddly familiar.

This sense of déjà vu was fleeting, and unsure of its origins, Shen He set it aside, focusing on Qi Yanbing's tales.

Liu Zheng teased, "I bet you're worried that if you fail the exams, the Crown Prince will return just in time to settle scores with you."

Qi Yanbing immediately defended himself, "What are you talking about? How could I possibly fail? I will definitely succeed! How dare you underestimate me!"

Zheng Xueze cast a silent, mocking glance at Qi Yanbing.

Qi Yanbing was seething with indignation throughout the mansion!

His voice could be faintly heard even outside the residence.

As Qi Zhuoyun entered the main gate, Zhong Hong whispered behind him with a chuckle, "Your Highness, the young prince and his friends are here."

Qi Zhuoyun remained silent, continuing to walk forward. His deep, dark eyes were inscrutable, and no one dared to speak as he passed.

Hence, Zhong Hong also stayed silent, following the prince closely and discreetly.

It's unclear whether the Crown Prince is pleased or irate.

Having served beside the Crown Prince for years, he still couldn't grasp the Prince's true intentions.

These past few days have been particularly perplexing.

On another note, not only the Crown Prince but also the young prince had astonished him.

The shop run by Tang Xin in the capital is quite renowned, selling rare and curious items at high prices. It's all the rage in the city, and the revenue it generates must be staggering.

A few years back, his subordinates had investigated and after probing for a while, found some links to the young master Zheng's maternal relatives. After that, no further inquiries were made.

Who would've thought that such a large enterprise was built primarily by the young master and his cousins?

Considering his age, the young master began his business endeavors at merely twelve or thirteen.

Though this matter isn't enormous, it's not insignificant either. Yet, the young master never mentioned it to the Crown Prince, keeping it concealed.

Zhong Hong felt concerned for the young master.

Royal relationships are intricate. One major reason the Crown Prince has been close to the young prince for so long might be the latter's transparency and simplicity.

Now, discovering that the young prince has hidden such significant dealings from him, the Crown Prince's trust might waver.

However, a part of Zhong Hong felt slightly elated.

If the Crown Prince were to harbor some resentment against the young prince, would he let him go...?

Qi Zhuoyun strode into the courtyard, spotting a jovially smiling young man seated beside the stone table in the pavilion.

Even though it had only been a few days since they last met, there was an uncanny sensation of a long gap.

Qi Zhuoyun's emotions were tumultuous. Amidst the whirlwind of feelings and thoughts, it seemed like he had none, as his deep black eyes looked on emotionless.

Qi Yanbing was exclaiming, "What are you all even...” His words trailed off, abruptly shifting to, "Uncle... Emperor's brother!"

Qi Yanbing hastily stood up, thinking that speaking of the devil, he was just mentioning that his imperial uncle hadn't visited Shen He, and here he was!

Everyone promptly rose, offering their respects to Qi Zhuoyun.

Shen He hesitated for a moment as he stood up, torn between rushing forward to affectionately call out "Brother" as he did before moving out of the palace, or offering a formal bow.

Bowing seemed strange, but reverting to old ways felt oddly inappropriate too.

Ultimately, suppressing his confusion, Shen He murmured, "Brother..."

The expression doesn't seem too favorable.

Is it a reprimand coming his way?

For hiding such a significant matter from his family?

Typically, elders do offer a lesson or two in such situations, right?

Shen He fidgeted with his fingers, feeling an overwhelming sense of grievance. Despite his efforts to suppress it, he couldn't. After calling out "Brother," he pursed his lips.

Acting all parental, yet when he felt so wronged this time, there was no guardian to defend or comfort him.

Waiting two days before showing up, the moment had already passed.

Alongside the rising feeling of grievance, guilt also crept in.

Alright, he had indeed kept secrets, and not just that – he even contemplated secretly running away with the money.

If a reprimand was due, so be it. He was prepared. Surely Qi Zhuoyun wouldn't resort to physical punishment!

Qi Zhuoyun instructed the other three, "You may leave."