Chapter 36

Chapter 36

Huqiu wanted to get a sedan chair for Lian Cheng, but Lian Cheng refused. He led his horse out himself, skillfully put on the saddle, and Huqiu stared in astonishment.

"Young Master, how do you know how to do this?"

"...I learned it in a dream." Lian Cheng said without blinking. Actually, it was because his high school had taught it. Equestrian lessons weren't part of the tuition, but the school had recruited him with all fees waived, so he could attend classes with everyone else, and he always ranked among the top in exams.

But the horses at school certainly weren't as high-grade as those in the Lian family stables.

Huqiu believed him. "Why have I never dreamt of it?"

"Your heart isn't sincere," Lian Cheng said.

Huqiu was utterly convinced, saying that when he got home in the evening, he would properly worship the Bodhisattva.

The master and servant mounted their horses and hurried out. It was the second day of the month, and there were almost no people on the streets during the day. Lian Cheng was a bit scared at first—after all, it was his first time riding a horse outside, and he'd never been this bold even in his modern life. Later, seeing few people on the road, he breathed a sigh of relief and boldly spurred his horse.

Naturally, he let Huqiu ride ahead, using the excuse of blocking the wind, but in fact, he didn't know the way.

"First, go find Li Wan." Li Wan was at least the son of a prince. Although he had no real power, he must have many connections. Lian Cheng also remembered that his father had a connection with Eunuch Wu. Wasn't Eunuch Wu in charge of the Eastern Depot? Lian Cheng thought hard while riding, almost patting himself on the back for his brains.

The prince's mansion wasn't far from the imperial city, surrounded by rockeries and green waters. The gate was majestic and imposing. Compared to the prince's mansion, the Lian family's residence was much more modest.

Huqiu went to knock on the door. A servant came out. Seeing it was Lian Cheng, he didn't even bother to report inside but directly led them into the mansion. The servant almost skipped as he walked ahead. "The little prince will be thrilled to see you."

Lian Cheng walked and looked around, his mood fluctuating. One moment he thought the landscape design was beautiful, the next he wondered if Xia Shutong was also being tortured with red-hot iron pincers, screaming miserably. Torn between these thoughts, he finally reached the main hall. Lian Cheng was first taken to meet the prince and princess. Both were elegant and dignified, impossible to tell their ages. Lian Cheng didn't linger on admiration; he exchanged pleasantries, drank tea, and was finally allowed to see Li Wan.

After walking for a while longer, Lian Cheng finally saw Li Wan. Li Wan was under a pavilion, listening to two male entertainers playing instruments and singing. He wore a crimson robe with gold embroidery, his hair tied up but without a crown or net cap, half-asleep, sprawled on a couch.

The servant announced his arrival. He quickly sat up, his eyes bright. "Minzi, why are you here?"

The two male entertainers quietly stepped aside to set up the tea table and arrange snacks. Lian Cheng sat down, but had no appetite to eat, and asked Li Wan if he knew about the Xia family matter.

Li Wan said he didn't. Lian Cheng then recounted what had happened. Li Wan, being spirited, slammed the table. "Let's go! We'll find Ruozhu and Siqi!"

After Li Wan received permission from his parents, he and Lian Cheng went out again. Going to the nearest place first, they first went to the Zhang residence to find Zhang Xian. They knocked for a long time before a servant opened the door. When told they were looking for Zhang Xian, the servant said, "Second Brother got dozens of lashes a few days ago and is now lying on the bed unable to move. I'm afraid he can't go out with you two young gentlemen to act chivalrous."

Li Wan quickly asked, "Why was he beaten?"

Knowing that these two young men were like brothers to his master, the servant said with a worried face, "A few days ago, the madam arranged a marriage for Second Brother. It was a good match—the daughter of the Right Deputy Censor-in-Chief of the Metropolitan Censorate. If Second Brother agreed, the master would write a memorial to the Emperor to make it official. Second Brother not only refused but also mocked the master, saying, 'If you like their family so much, why not bring the censor into our home—a soft beauty on one side and a sharp-tongued censor on the other, what a life!' So he got a good beating and can't go out."

The two could only ask the servant to inform Zhang Xian that they had come to visit him. If the news didn't come on its own, there was no need to tell Zhang Xian about this unpleasant matter, as it would hinder his recovery. Once they finished their business, they would definitely come to see him.

"I will do as you say, young masters."

After leaving the Zhang residence, the two didn't hesitate and headed straight for the Lu family. This time, they happened to run into Lu Zhen, who was just about to go out.

Lu Zhen was dressed very handsomely today. Although he hadn't come of age yet, he wore a flower in his hair.

"What are you two here for?"

"Where are you going?" Li Wan asked.

Lu Zhen opened his fan to cover his face. "My father is busy, so he asked me to deliver some gifts to pay New Year's respects to his godfather."

"That old bastard Cui?" Li Wan said bluntly.

"Eunuch Cui is only two years older than Du Heng. It's not good for you to always call him that," Lu Zhen said. "You haven't told me what's so urgent."

Lian Cheng leaned on the sedan window and quickly recounted the Xia family affair. Lu Zhen's expression changed as soon as he heard it. "Stealing imperial wood is a serious crime."

Anything with the word "imperial" on it—stealing any of it was a serious crime. Lian Cheng thought to himself, wanting to pull the slow-moving Lu Zhen out of the sedan.

"Don't rush. Let me think of a way first." Lu Zhen shook his fan a few times, then a hint of joy appeared on his face. "Why don't you come with me to see Eunuch Cui? He surely has more ways than we do."

"What can that damn eunuch do?"

"Alas, I know he is a dead eu... Du Heng, don't insult my godfather anymore!" Lu Zhen said.

"Don't play the innocent. Did you think we didn't know your true intentions?"

"Stop the infighting!" Lian Cheng pressed down on both of them. "Will Eunuch Cui help us? Even if he can't get Xia Shutong out, at least we can find out how he's doing."

Lu Zhen bit his lip. "He can help."

Although they didn't understand how Lu Zhen could be so sure, Lian Cheng and Li Wan, who had nothing to rely on, still boarded his carriage. Inside, all three wore gloomy faces, each thinking the same thing: they were three useless idiots, unable to use their family connections, and now reduced to begging from a eunuch.

-

The carriage stopped in front of Eunuch Cui's mansion. It wasn't as imposing as the prince's mansion—the gate was more refined, looking like an ordinary wealthy household. Lu Zhen's servant went to knock on the door. The person who opened it saw Lu Zhen, then the young men behind him. "This place will be lively now. The master loves liveliness most."

Lian Cheng heard Li Wan mutter under his breath, "Without balls, how can he be called a master?"

The courtyard was deep, winding paths led to secluded spots. Lian Cheng and Li Wan were settled in a small hall to drink tea and eat snacks. Eunuch Cui didn't come out; instead, he had someone lead Lu Zhen alone to his quarters. Lu Zhen was gone for a long time before returning, drained of energy, collapsing like mud onto a stool beside the octagonal table. At the same time, he slapped a token that could allow unrestricted access to the Imperial Prison onto the table.

Li Wan was overjoyed, picking up the token. "Ruozhu, you did it. You're amazing."

But Lian Cheng was worried about Lu Zhen's pale face. "Did Eunuch Cui make things difficult for you?"

Lu Zhen said sullenly, "Not at all."

No sooner had he spoken than footsteps came from outside. A wide sleeve floated into Lian Cheng's view first, followed by a tall, elegant figure. The person arriving must be Eunuch Cui. He wore a green round-collar robe with a fox-fur cloak. His face was fair and beardless, his features extremely gentle and well-proportioned, making you feel at ease instantly.

He stepped through the threshold, first bowing to Li Wan. "I heard the little prince honored my humble home. Forgive me for failing to welcome you."

Li Wan returned the bow. "Don't stand on ceremony, Eunuch—it'll just make things awkward."

Lian Cheng: "..."

After exchanging pleasantries with Li Wan, Eunuch Cui came to Lian Cheng, his gaze slightly focused, asking who he was. Lian Cheng stood up and announced his family. Eunuch Cui carefully examined him again, saying he was indeed worthy of being the young master of Princess Jifu's household. Lian Cheng asked if he knew his mother. Eunuch Cui sat down, holding a cup of tea. "She used to hold me when I was a child."

Lian Cheng was stunned and wanted to ask more, but Li Wan grabbed his wrist and started to leave in a hurry, hastily taking their leave. Lu Zhen, unable to be as rude as the other two, stood before Eunuch Cui and bowed respectfully, saying that today he was indebted to his grandfather's blessing and would come to visit again when he had free time. Eunuch Cui said to come in the evening. Lu Zhen's face turned white, and he stumbled out.

On the carriage, Li Wan explained to Lian Cheng in detail, "I thought you knew, but it turns out you don't know anything. Your mother must not have told you. Let me tell you: in the previous dynasty, Eunuch Cui's family was very prominent. His grandfather served as Minister of War and Vice Grand Secretary. Later, they were implicated in the repeated case of the former crown prince's old officials, and the entire family was punished. He was just a kid back then; he would've been exiled, but because he was good-looking, they sent him to the palace to become a eunuch. When he said your mother held him when he was little, it must be true. Your mother used to be in the palace, and he often came and went. But I don't like this man—he's too ruthless."

"What do you mean?"

"Out of a hundred tortures in the Northern Court's prison, half were cooked up by that ball-less bastard."

Lian Cheng thought of how appearances can be deceiving. When they had faced each other, Eunuch Cui had seemed as refreshing and gentle as a clear breeze and bright moon. But never mind—Lian Xiusheng was the same. He didn't dwell on it. Lu Zhen also boarded the carriage, and they headed for the Imperial Prison. The sky above grew overcast.

The Imperial Prison was located within the Northern Court, in the northern part of the city. Whether it was Lian Cheng's imagination or not, the closer they got to the Northern Court, the more overcast the sky became, until there was a "whoa" outside, and Huqiu shouted that they had arrived. Li Wan was the first to rush out. Standing on the ground, he reached out to help Lian Cheng down.

The vermilion gate stood between tall green walls. The tiles and ridge beasts on the roof were fierce and menacing.

"Young Master, I'll wait for you outside," Huqiu said, standing with the driver.

The gate slowly opened. They entered with the token. Two guards led the way, blending into the bloody, dev

"We're lighting torches over here, and we'll give one to each of you young masters so you can watch your step and not step on any severed hands or feet, getting your shoes dirty." As he spoke, a flickering flame appeared ahead, blazing.

Li Wan boldly raised a torch, turning to Lian Cheng and Lu Zhen, saying, "I'll lead the way—don't be afraid."

Lian Cheng wasn't afraid, but his heart was heavy. He followed behind them, passing cell after cell with heavy locks. Most of the prisoners inside were barely human anymore, with festering wounds and rats crawling all over them. The cells had no windows on three sides. As the torchlight flickered in, some who could still move parted their matted hair and squinted, enjoying the light they hadn't seen in ages.

You've heard of ancient prisons, with countless wronged bones buried in the sand? Lian Cheng couldn't bear to look, keeping his eyes forward, but the stench filled his nostrils. He was almost in tears, thinking, *If I were the god of spring...*

The torture chambers had their own area. The two guards ahead chatted about something, laughing as they walked. When they reached an area thick with screams and the stench of blood, they sobered up, bowed, and turned to say, "Young masters, this cell holds the young master of the Xia family you've come to see."

Xia Shutong was thrown onto a pile of rotten straw. He struggled to open his eyes, recognized the three of them, and tears streamed down his face.

"How long will he be locked up?" Lian Cheng asked quickly.

"Don't worry, young master. Once Lord Xia obtains a pardon from His Majesty, the Northern Court will release him."

Lian Cheng searched his whole body but found nothing of value. Since he usually had Huqiu carry gold and silver for daily expenses, he had to say to the other two, "My servant is outside. I'll give you some silver later—could you help look after the Xia young master?"

They were straightforward, bowing and saying this was only natural.

Then they asked, "Lord Xia hasn't sent anyone to smooth things over. Why is the young master spending his own money?" They had already thoroughly investigated Xia Shutong's connections; he had been in the capital less than a month and mostly knew fair-weather friends. No one else would bother running this errand.

"I live to give my life for what's right—gold and silver won't change that." Lian Cheng bowed deeply in gratitude to the two men.

Entering the cramped cell, Lu Zhen quickly pulled Xia Shutong out of the straw, hugged him, and wept bitterly. Li Wan's eyes also reddened, saying, "If only I had known earlier, I might have begged my father for a lighter punishment."

Xia Shutong mumbled incoherently, "It was all for show—how could they go easy on me? Blame it on my status as the legitimate son, worth more than my older brothers, the perfect pawn for my father to prove his loyalty."

Lian Cheng felt a pang in his heart. "Your father was demoted, but not to some harsh, desolate place. You saved the whole Xia family."

Lu Zhen nodded repeatedly. "Exactly. Don't torment yourself. These are just flesh wounds—they'll heal in a couple of days."

Xia Shutong said tearfully, "I knew the capital was a den of trouble; once in, it's hard to leave unscathed. I only came back because I missed taking care of my mother. Who knew I'd face such disaster within a month? My father is truly ruthless—scheming in every way, even plotting against me."

The three remained silent, listening quietly to his ramblings. When he got tired, his head lolled to the side and he fell asleep. Lu Zhen gently laid him down and leaned against the wall. The three exchanged glances, then wordlessly rolled up their sleeves and began cleaning up the cell, stuck the torch into the door.

"I've long heard that the Imperial Prison never sees daylight, and the Imperial Guard Office rules it with an iron fist. Seeing it today, it's truly terrifying," Lu Zhen said.

"This is nothing," Li Wan said. "Chaoyang got off lightly. With someone else, they'd have been skinned alive."

Then he asked Lian Cheng, "Why aren't you talking?"

Lian Cheng was panting from exhaustion. "If everyone talks, who does the work?"

After everything was arranged, Lian Cheng generously took off his cloak, spread it flat over the straw, and Li Wan, who knew a little martial arts, lifted Xia Shutong onto it. Lu Zhen stood aside crying. "Poor Chaoyang." When he raised the torch to look, it wasn't much better than what Li Wan had described—both legs were bloody.

No one guided them out. The three held their torches, feeling gusts of eerie wind, and ran out amid wails and howls.

At the gate, the two guards were eating melon seeds, staring at the emerging Lian Cheng.

Lian Cheng knew what they were waiting for. He took all the silver from Huqiu—about seventy or eighty taels—and gave it all to them. They thanked him and said they would look after the Xia young master well in the coming days. They looked much friendlier now. They asked if he drank and said they should grab a drink together sometime.

Lian Cheng didn't refuse, but didn't agree either, saying he could only go if his mother back home allowed it.

The two guards smiled without further comment, saying, "Take care."

-

The carriage dropped Li Wan off first. He hated to say goodbye to Lian Cheng but finally let go. The carriage then headed toward the Lian residence. Taking advantage of the quiet, Lian Cheng said softly to Lu Zhen, "Eunuch Cui is as deep as an abyss. Be careful in your dealings with him."

Lu Zhen had cried in the prison earlier, his eyes still red. Now, at Lian Cheng's words, he couldn't hold back his tears again.

"..." Lian Cheng was stunned, not knowing what he had said wrong.

Lu Zhen cried for a good while before stopping, using a fan to cover most of his face. "Minzi, don't laugh at me."

"I'm not laughing at your tears. But can you tell me why you cry every time I mention Eunuch Cui?"

Lu Zhen then explained the whole story to Lian Cheng. It turned out that Lu Zhen's father was only a commander of the Five City Patrol Office, a fifth-rank post—not a big official by any means. Besides, many tasks that could yield great merit belonged to the Imperial Guard Office, so they were almost no different from low-level clerks. Thus, Lord Lu had taken Eunuch Cui as his godfather, occasionally gaining some benefits.

But acknowledging a godfather wasn't simple. If you're useless, who would take you as a son? Especially when the other party was Eunuch Cui, the favorite of both the current emperor and Eunuch Wu. Fortunately, Lu Zhen had caught his interest. As long as Lu Zhen went to sit with him for a while now and then—adding another "adult son"—Eunuch Cui didn't mind.

About this "sitting," Lu Zhen didn't elaborate, but Lian Cheng guessed. Otherwise, why would he cry?

Lian Cheng was stunned for a long time, almost swore out loud, but held it back and turned it into a sigh. "Lu Zhen, keeping company with a eunuch is like sleeping with a tiger."

Lu Zhen waved his fan indifferently. "We're both guys. Besides, he's got no balls—what do I lose?"

"...If you can see it that way, I'm relieved to hear that."

When Lian Cheng reached home, he had lost his cloak and was shivering from the cold. He wouldn't take Huqiu's cloak, rushing straight into the courtyard.

Penglai Pavilion immediately bustled with activity—heating water, brewing tea, searching for clothes.

"Master, don't go to your room yet! You're carrying bad luck from the prison. Go wash off in the bathhouse first!" Qiong Hua shouted.

Lian Cheng had to turn around and head to the bathhouse.

He just happened to pass Lian Xiusheng, who had come to see him. Lian Xiusheng couldn't grab him in time, only catching Huqiu, asking why Third Brother had lost his coat in such cold weather.

Huqiu laughed cheerfully. "The young master's a real saint—he gave his cloak to Young Master Xia to use as bedding."