Chapter 218: Old Zhu: Truly A ‘perfect’ Thorn! Monthly Ticket Bonus Update 25
Inside Huagai Hall, sandalwood smoke curled.
Zhu Yunwen stood with his head bowed, his heart pounding like a drum, but he tried his best to maintain a calm and respectful demeanor.
He could feel Old Zhu’s scrutinizing gaze sweep over him, as if it could penetrate his skin and reach his very soul.
Old Zhu then put down the memorial in his hand and spoke in a calm tone:
“Yunwen, what have you been reading lately?”
“Reporting to Imperial Grandfather, your grandson has recently been reading Essentials of the Zhenguan Era, and I occasionally share my thoughts and often consult Scholar Huang on classics.”
Zhu Yunwen’s answer was proper and measured, his voice clear, with just the right amount of humility.
This was something Old Zhu had instructed him to study, so he naturally brought it up first.
Old Zhu heard this without comment, but then abruptly changed the subject: “What are your thoughts on the ‘Literary Grand Ceremony’ that the court is about to organize?”
It’s here!
Zhu Yunwen’s heart tightened, knowing this was the main point of the summons today.
He took a deep breath and smoothly recited the prepared speech:
“Your grandson believes that Imperial Grandfather’s decree to organize the ‘Literary Grand Ceremony’ is truly a wise and sagacious move, benefiting the present and the future!”
He first set the tone, then slowly elaborated:
“Firstly, it can widely recruit talented individuals from across the realm, ensuring no worthy person is overlooked. While the imperial examinations are the proper path, given the vastness of the empire, it’s inevitable that some talented individuals may not achieve recognition due to limitations of background or region. This grand ceremony, by not being constrained by tradition, can rectify this.”
“Secondly, it can showcase the Great Ming’s eagerness to recruit talent and its broadmindedness, consolidating the hearts of scholars nationwide, fostering their allegiance, and greatly promoting cultural influence.”
“Thirdly, the addition of subjects like mathematics and craftsmanship demonstrates that Imperial Grandfather not only values literary and moral cultivation but also practical learning for governing the world. This is the cornerstone for strengthening the nation and enriching the people.”
Old Zhu listened quietly, his face unreadable, his finger tapping the armrest habitually.
When Zhu Yunwen finished, he asked blandly:
“Well spoken. Then, in your opinion, if a scholar from a humble background truly surpasses a Hanlin Academy Scholar in mathematics and craftsmanship at this ceremony, should they truly be granted an official position, or even… be placed above them?”
Zhu Yunwen pondered for a moment and replied cautiously:
“Your grandson believes that since Imperial Grandfather has initiated this ceremony, he should be true to his word before the world. If there is genuine talent and learning, they should certainly be employed according to their abilities.”
“As for the ranking, it should be determined by the contribution of their talents to the court, not solely by their background.”
“Only in this way can the world be convinced and talented individuals be loyal to the utmost.”
Hearing this response, a flicker of imperceptible light flashed in Old Zhu’s eyes.
This kid seems to have improved a lot, knowing how to conceal his edge and consider the overall situation.
Just then, a report came from outside the hall: “Reporting to Your Majesty! Commander Jiang requests an audience!”
“Announce him.”
Old Zhu commanded calmly.
Jiang Huan strode in, and upon seeing Zhu Yunwen present, seemed to pause for a moment. He then bowed to Old Zhu and appeared to hesitate.
“Whatever it is, just say it.”
Old Zhu’s tone was indifferent, but his gaze sharply swept over Zhu Yunwen, observing his slightest reaction.
Jiang Huan understood and reported solemnly:
“Reporting to the Emperor, regarding… regarding the investigation into the Fifteenth Year of Hongwu, before the passing of the Imperial Eldest Grandson, there has been new progress.”
Zhu Yunwen’s body tensed almost imperceptibly at the mention of ‘Fifteenth Year of Hongwu’ and ‘Imperial Eldest Grandson.’
His eyes showed natural sorrow and a hint of confusion, as if he couldn’t understand why his deceased elder brother was suddenly brought up.
“We have investigated an old palace servant who once served in the Eastern Palace.”
Jiang Huan continued:
“She mentioned that several days before the Imperial Eldest Grandson fell ill, it seemed someone had secretly contacted the palace servants responsible for the Grandson’s food and drink, acting suspiciously.”
“However, due to the passage of time, she cannot recall precisely who it was, only vaguely recalling… it might have been related to someone from the Eastern Palace.”
Jiang Huan’s words were vague, but the phrase ‘someone from the Eastern Palace’ pricked like a needle.
Zhu Yunwen appropriately displayed a look of shock and disbelief.
He suddenly looked up at Jiang Huan, then at Old Zhu, his voice trembling slightly:
“Commander Jiang, you… you mean, my elder brother… his death, might… might not have been an accident?!”
His reaction was filled with shock, grief, and confusion, entirely befitting a younger brother who had suddenly heard that his elder brother’s death might be questionable.
There was no sign of pretense, nor any particular tension or avoidance regarding the mention of ‘someone from the Eastern Palace.’
Old Zhu and Jiang Huan stared intently at Zhu Yunwen’s every expression, every glance.
They saw pure shock and sorrow, without a trace of guilt or panic.
Old Zhu and Jiang Huan exchanged a look, unnoticed by Zhu Yunwen, and simultaneously made a judgment about him.
He truly knew nothing.
Old Zhu narrowed his eyes, and his opinion of Consort Lü also shifted.
That venomous woman, Lü, kept this matter completely hidden, not even telling her own son.
But her suspicion became even heavier because of it.
“Enough!”
Old Zhu interrupted at the right moment, his tone carrying a hint of impatience and sorrow:
“An old matter with no concrete evidence, cease your wild speculation, lest you cause more sorrow!”
Saying this, he waved his hand and said to Jiang Huan, “This matter ends here. There’s no need to investigate further. You may withdraw.”
“Your subject… obeys.”
Jiang Huan glanced at Zhu Yunwen and bowed, then withdrew.
He understood that the Emperor had received the answer he wanted.
The hall was once again left with just the grandfather and grandson.
Zhu Yunwen seemed still immersed in the shock of the news, his eyes slightly red, head bowed, silent.
Old Zhu looked at him, his heart a complex mix of emotions.
There was some comfort in confirming his grandson’s innocence, deeper disgust for Consort Lü, and regret for his prematurely deceased eldest grandson.
After a moment of silence, Old Zhu’s tone softened, as if the probing just moments ago had never happened, “Yunwen.”
“Your grandson is here.”
Zhu Yunwen quickly composed himself and responded respectfully.
“Since you have such insights regarding the ‘Literary Grand Ceremony,’ you may, incognito, go and observe it then.”
Old Zhu said calmly:
“You don’t need to reveal your identity. Just act as an ordinary scholar, observe the demeanor of talents from across the land, listen to their discussions. It will be beneficial for you to broaden your knowledge and discern right from wrong.”
Upon hearing this, Zhu Yunwen’s heart was filled with immense joy.
Imperial Grandfather was not just allowing it, but actively encouraging him to interact with the scholars.
What did this mean? It meant Imperial Grandfather might not have completely abandoned him, and might even be paving the way for him!
But he forcibly suppressed his excitement, maintaining his respectful demeanor:
“Your grandson… thanks Imperial Grandfather for his grace!”
“Your grandson will certainly remember Imperial Grandfather’s teachings, observe more, listen more, think more, and will absolutely not disappoint Imperial Grandfather’s expectations!”
“Yes, you may go. Study hard.”
Old Zhu nodded, his tone returning to normal.
“Your grandson takes his leave.”
Zhu Yunwen bowed and was about to exit Huagai Hall.
Suddenly, Old Zhu’s voice rang out again:
“Yunwen, what do you think of your uncles who are guarding the various regions?”
Zhu Yunwen’s relaxed nerves instantly tensed again.
This question was more sensitive and more fatal than any before.
He knew Old Zhu’s attitude towards the princes was incredibly complex, involving both reliance and suspicion, especially after his father’s death, making this balance even more delicate.
He paused, turned to face Old Zhu, not daring to show any negligence, and carefully chose his words:
“Reporting to Imperial Grandfather, my uncles are guarding the borders and protecting the state, they have contributions to the country. As a junior, your grandson naturally respects uncles who fulfill their duties and are loyal to the emperor and the country.”
Old Zhu made no comment, merely looking at him with his deep eyes and continuing to pose a sharper question:
“Then what are your thoughts on what Yunteng, some prince… ah, who ‘killed’ your father, said about ‘hatred for a father’s killer being irreconcilable’?”
Boom—!
This sentence struck Zhu Yunwen’s mind like a thunderclap.
He never expected Imperial Grandfather to so directly bring up Zhu Yunteng’s extreme and taboo remarks.
He quickly forced himself to calm down, his mind racing.
Absolutely cannot be like my third brother, shouting for a fight and war, that would seem impulsive and foolish, escalating the conflict!
But I can’t completely deny the facts either!
My father did indeed die from the ‘Red Lead Immortal Pill.’ This item originated from Prince Zhou, was presented through Prince Qin, and Prince Jin stood by indifferently. If I harbored no hatred for this, would I still be a filial son?
Imperial Grandfather values filial piety the most. At this moment, I must show the blood of a son!
I must find a way to express grief and stance, without losing composure, and differentiate between them!
In a flash, Zhu Yunwen’s face showed deep sorrow and a hint of suppressed anger.
He slowly knelt on the ground, his voice choked with sobs but remarkably firm:
“Imperial Grandfather, please see! My father died at a young age. As a son, thinking of it even now, my insides still burn, and my heart is broken!”
He first directly expressed his pain of losing his father, establishing the emotional tone.
“Third brother is young, and in his grief, his words may have been intense, but his heart… like your grandson’s, it’s all about remembering Father King, and he couldn’t control his emotions!”
He did not criticize Zhu Yunteng, but rather aligned himself and his brother, emphasizing it was ‘uncontrollable emotion.’
Immediately after, he changed his tone, his eyes becoming sharp and clear, with a restrained hatred:
“However! Your grandson dares not forget, nor can he forget! Father King’s grave illness was indeed caused by that ‘Red Lead’ substance!”
“This item… originated from Uncle Prince Zhou, was presented by Uncle Prince Qin, and Uncle Prince Jin knew and did not report it. Reflecting on the cause and effect of this, your grandson cannot eat or sleep peacefully!”
He clearly pointed out the responsibility of Prince Zhou, Prince Qin, and Prince Jin, expressing an irreconcilable hatred and demonstrating the basic stance of a son, which aligned with Old Zhu’s emphasis on ‘filial piety.’
But just as Old Zhu’s eyes flickered, expecting him to continue, Zhu Yunwen’s tone suddenly became calm and layered:
“However, your grandson also deeply understands that matters of the imperial family are interconnected and affect the foundation of the nation!”
“Uncle Prince Zhou and Uncle Prince Jin have already been punished, and Uncle Prince Qin… must have also been deceived by someone.”
“The other uncles, like Uncle Prince Yan, are guarding the border and are loyal to the country; they have no connection to Father King’s passing.”
“Although your grandson grieves for Father King’s matter, he dares not, out of personal grief, vent his anger on all the uncles who are loyal to the country, thereby ruining Imperial Grandfather’s grand strategy of ‘shielding the realm’ and shaking the foundation of our Great Ming!”
He clearly divided the princes into ‘directly involved’ and ‘not directly involved.’ He expressed unforgivable hatred towards the former and respect based on national interests towards the latter.
This demonstrated both fortitude and political maturity and perspective.
Finally, he kowtowed:
“Your grandson’s heart distinguishes between public and private matters, and between favors and grudges!”
“Privately, the hatred for my father’s killer is irreconcilable; this resentment cannot be easily dispelled!”
“Publicly, your grandson remembers Imperial Grandfather’s teachings and must prioritize the empire and its foundation, maintaining harmony within the imperial family, so that loyal princes do not become disheartened!”
“Only heaven can bear witness to this torment!”
This speech, filled with emotion, reason, restraint, and a clear stance, almost ‘perfectly’ responded to this fatal question.
He neither made enemies of everyone like Zhu Yunteng, nor was he so weak as to forget the hatred for his father’s killer. He presented a complex image of filial piety, hatred, and political wisdom.
Old Zhu quietly watched his grandson kneeling on the ground, a highly complex emotion flashing in his eyes.
There was empathy for his grief over losing his father, some approval for his courage in expressing hatred, and a deep consideration for his ability to differentiate and prioritize the overall situation.
After a long while, Old Zhu finally spoke, his tone not betraying much fluctuation, but lacking some of the probing coldness from before:
“Clear distinction between favors and grudges… not forgetting a father’s vengeance, nor forgetting the nation’s foundation. It is good that you can think this way.”
He did not criticize Zhu Yunwen’s hatred, but instead affirmed his ‘clear distinction between favors and grudges’ and his ‘not forgetting the nation’s foundation.’
“Get up.”
Old Zhu waved his hand.
“Thank you, Imperial Grandfather.”
Zhu Yunwen secretly breathed a sigh of relief.
He knew he had narrowly passed this test and respectfully stood up.
But his back was soaked with cold sweat.
“We were just talking about your third brother, remember to go see him.”
Old Zhu shifted the topic to brotherly affection: “That child is too fixated; he needs guidance to prevent him from going astray.”
“Your grandson obeys! Your grandson takes his leave!”
Zhu Yunwen bowed again, and this time his steps as he retreated were steadier, and more hurried.
He needed to leave here immediately to process the dangerous response he had just given.
Watching Zhu Yunwen disappear beyond the hall, Old Zhu’s gaze was as deep as an abyss.
This kid Yunwen… has indeed improved. He knows how to hide, and he knows how to act.
His attitude towards the princes aligns with what a ‘virtuous’ Crown Prince should possess, much stronger than that scoundrel Yunteng.
However… does he truly think this way, or is he just saying it for my benefit?
Old Zhu would not easily trust anyone’s surface-level actions, especially concerning an heir at the core of power.
But at least, from his reaction just now, Zhu Yunwen has demonstrated considerable composure and adaptability in handling such complex and sensitive issues.
This may not be a bad thing for an Imperial Grandson who might inherit the throne.
As for Yunteng…
Thinking of his third grandson, filled with hatred and acting impulsively, Old Zhu frowned again.
If that kid were to ascend, he would probably initiate a bloody purge of the princes almost immediately, which would be a catastrophe for the Great Ming.
“Sigh…”
Old Zhu rubbed his temples, feeling a wave of exhaustion.
The son is dead, and the grandsons are also giving no peace.
This glorious Great Ming, with its countless people, to whom will it ultimately be entrusted so that he can rest assured?
His gaze involuntarily shifted outwards from the hall, as if able to penetrate the heavy palace walls and see the figure of the ‘madman’ struggling and stirring up trouble in the mire of the Grain Transport.
【 Zhang Biao… do you know how much trouble you’ve caused us? 】
Old Zhu shook his head, suppressing these chaotic thoughts.
What was more important now was the potential mastermind behind everything, the truth of Biao’er’s, Sister’s, and Xiong Ying’s deaths.
He picked up the vermilion brush again, focusing his attention on the mountain of memorials.
But Zhu Yunwen’s ‘perfect’ answer just now, like a fine thorn, remained in his heart.
At the same time, in the side hall of the Northern Five Offices, a small courtyard.
Zhu Yunteng sat alone on a stone bench in the courtyard. Although he held a scroll of 《 History Records 》, his gaze did not fall on the words but seemed to penetrate the pages, looking at a withered grass plant in the corner of the courtyard trembling slightly in the autumn wind.
His back was straight, as if silently resisting the invisible pressure around him.
Old Zhu’s suspicion, the awkwardness of his position, the feeling of being caged by restricted actions, and the obsession in his heart, all made him, at his already young age, mature prematurely.
“Little Brother! Little Brother!”
A clear, somewhat unrestrained sound of footsteps broke the silence of the courtyard.
Zhu Mingyu, dressed in a goose-yellow palace gown, rushed in like a gust of wind.
Her cheeks were flushed from her haste, and her almond-shaped eyes sparkled with excitement that seemed about to overflow, forming a stark contrast with the desolate courtyard behind her.
“Second Sister, slow down, be careful not to fall.”
Zhu Yunteng put down his book, a gentle but clearly weary smile on his face.
In this cold Imperial Palace, his two sisters were among the few people who could bring him genuine warmth.
Zhu Mingyu rushed to the stone table, placing her hands on the cold surface and leaning forward, eagerly lowering her voice, her tone full of irrepressible joy:
“Yunteng! Amazing news! I just heard from an old palace servant of Imperial Consort that our great-uncle, the Duke of Liang, Lan Yu, has been summoned back by Imperial Grandfather! He’s even been appointed Grand Tutor of the Crown Prince!”
Her eyes sparkled as if she already saw a clear sky after the clouds had dispersed:
“Great-Uncle is our own relative! He was a capable general during Father King’s life, with distinguished achievements!”
“With him back in the capital to hold the fort, and having gained favor with Imperial Grandfather, if he speaks a word for us, your confinement might be lifted immediately! Let’s see who dares to look down on us then!”
The more Zhu Mingyu spoke, the more excited she became, her simple mind believing that a powerful great-uncle was the strongest weapon to break the deadlock.
She was accustomed to being straightforward and lacked sufficient understanding and vigilance regarding the complex political machinations of the previous court and the profound strategies of emperors.
However, after hearing this, the gentle expression on Zhu Yunteng’s face quickly faded, replaced by a solemnity and alertness utterly unsuited to his age.
He did not refute Zhu Mingyu immediately but remained silent for a moment before speaking in a steady tone:
“Second Sister, I understand your intentions. But precisely because of this, we must not rely on Great-Uncle’s power.”
“Not only that, but from today onwards, you and I must be even more cautious in our words and actions, especially in reducing contact with our maternal relatives.”
“Regarding the news of Great-Uncle, once heard, it is enough. Do not actively inquire, and absolutely do not reveal any hint of joy outside.”
“Why?!”
The excitement on Zhu Mingyu’s face instantly froze, turning into deep confusion and a hint of wronged feeling at being misunderstood:
“Great-Uncle is family. He holds great military power, has a high position, and is now favored by Imperial Grandfather. If he can help…”
“Precisely because he holds a high position and great military power, he is even more of a sword hanging overhead!”
Zhu Yunteng interrupted her, his voice not loud but with a chilling clarity:
“Second Sister, though we have not interacted much with Great-Uncle, his temperament is fierce, and his reputation for arrogance has long been known throughout the court.”
“Imperial Grandfather’s suspicion of him is likely far greater than his reliance.”
As he spoke, he slowly stood up and walked to the withered grass, his gaze seeming to penetrate the palace walls and see the turbulent currents of the court:
“What is the situation now? Master Zhang is fighting for his life in court, the Grain Transport case involves several princes, and the old affairs of the Eastern Palace are shrouded in suspicion!”
“Imperial Grandfather is like a taut bowstring at this moment; any movement of military power, any hint of suspicion of a relative by marriage colluding with important officials, could invite thunderous wrath!”
As his words fell, he suddenly turned and looked directly at Zhu Mingyu, his voice carrying an unprecedented sternness:
“At this juncture, if Great-Uncle makes any misstep in his actions, or is framed by someone, it will be utter ruin!”
“At that time, not only will I not be saved, but it will also tarnish the spirit of Imperial Consort in heaven and bring down the entire Chang Clan!”
“Even… dragging Elder Sister and Second Sister into enormous disaster!”
Zhu Yunteng’s analysis was calm and brutal, completely shattering Zhu Mingyu’s naive fantasy.
Her face instantly turned pale, and her lips trembled slightly.
Although she did not have a deep understanding of the dangers of court politics, the words ‘disaster befalling the entire family’ were like icy water poured over her head, giving her a bone-chilling coldness.
She murmured:
“But… but are we just going to sit here and wait to die, and watch?”
“Compared to relying on Great-Uncle, this uncertain and dangerous gamble…”
Zhu Yunteng’s tone softened, but his eyes became even deeper.
He walked back to Zhu Mingyu and said in a low voice, “What worries me more now is Master Zhang’s safety!”
Mentioning Zhang Biao, a complex emotion flashed in his eyes: care, worry, and even a trust that was almost like faith.
“Second Sister, do you know that Master Zhang… he almost always risks his life to stop certain people and to clarify the court.”
“He disrupted the Crown Prince selection court session twice. Although he didn’t say it explicitly, I know that in his heart… he cares about me, his unworthy student.”
After speaking, his voice became somewhat hoarse, with an imperceptible choke.
Zhu Mingyu also had an indescribable feeling towards that ‘madman’.
She knew that when Zhu Yunteng was at his most isolated and helpless, when everyone avoided him, that ‘madman’ appeared in Zhu Yunteng’s world, not only subverting his worldview but also planting the seeds of ‘self-reliance,’ ‘perseverance,’ and ‘courage to resist’ in his heart.
“However, Second Sister, compared to that illusory position of Imperial Grandson, what I want to do more now is to investigate the true cause of Father King’s death!”
Zhu Yunteng composed himself, with a resolute air, clenched his fists, his knuckles making a slight cracking sound, his eyes burning with the flames of hatred.
“The three Uncle Princes of Qin, Jin, and Zhou might just be pawns used by others, providing the poison that indirectly caused Father King’s death.”
“But the main culprit, hiding in the deepest part, meticulously planning, sending the ‘Red Lead Immortal Pill’ into the Eastern Palace and causing Father King’s death… I swear, I will make him pay blood with blood!”
At this moment, the determination and hatred bursting from the young man sent a shiver through Zhu Mingyu.
She finally understood.
What her brother carried in his heart was far more than personal honor or disgrace; it was the heavy burden of national and familial hatred.
Zhu Yunteng took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his surging emotions, and instructed the still-shocked Zhu Mingyu:
“Second Sister, in the future, if you hear any clues in the palace regarding Master Zhang, or the Grain Transport case, or the old case of Father King, remember them and tell me.”
“As for Great-Uncle and our maternal relatives… it’s best to stay away for now.”
“What we need now is to lie low, to wait, to be more patient than anyone else.”
He sat back down on the stone bench and picked up the scroll of 《 History Records 》, but his gaze was now deeper and sharper than before, as if he could see through all the conspiracies and schemes in the world.
He believed that Master Zhang Biao was outside, stirring up trouble in his unique way, pursuing the truth.
And he, even if imprisoned, must not give up.
He would accumulate every ounce of strength, waiting for the day of thunderous upheaval, and then, working in concert with his master, he would surely drag out the mastermind who killed his Father King and tear them limb from limb!
The courtyard was silent, and a gentle breeze brushed past.
The flames of revenge in the young man’s heart burned silently and intensely.
Seeking monthly tickets~
