Chapter 3: The First Glimmer of Brilliance
Qu Min pressed her finger against his lips and playfully said, "Did you save me, or did I save you? Are you truly confused, or just pretending to be?"
The main street that runs through the north and south of the outer city is called Lion Street, and it is the most magnificent of all the streets
The sound of chanting sutras resonated from the temple, drifting gently through the air. Upon hearing it, Yitu Sheng felt a throbbing headache and truly wished to leave at once
Common folk, like the servant played by Yi Tusheng, wear thick and heavy homespun garments, tied with a homespun belt, and have long hair that hangs loosely, making their movements cumbersome. However, they are relatively clean, as they are under the emperor's rule, which is quite extraordinary.
The young maid, relying on Ye Xianggao's authority, frowned slightly and refused to give way
Qu Min got into a green sedan chair, and immediately two or three matrons, four or five maidservants, and seventeen or eighteen young servants followed on foot. The bearers carried Qu Min, swaying as they headed straight for Lingguang Temple located on the outskirts of the city. Yi Tusheng naturally followed among them
In addition to these observations, Yi Tusheng also paid attention to the handsome men and beautiful women passing by on the road. He was surprised to find that the beauties of ancient times were not inferior to those of modern times. Although their clothing was cumbersome, it possessed a unique charm; however, it might not be as quick to remove as a zipper.
When the sedan chair arrived at the city gate, the sky had already turned completely dark. Qu Min suddenly shouted, "Stop the sedan!"
Yi Tusheng held her tightly, caressing her continuously, which made Qu Min feel somewhat stirred, her breathing gradually becoming heavier. "Who exactly is Tian Ji, and how can he be so arrogant? Does he not regard Minister Ye at all?"
The one-eyed dragon ran over to the approaching person, shouting: "Lord Qianhu, someone dares to openly obstruct the work of the Jinyiwei and is plotting a rebellion!"
The one-eyed dragon was momentarily stunned and stammered, "It really is—Prime Minister Ye's palanquin—I thought it was—" Tian Ji scolded, "What do you think you’re doing? Hurry over and apologize!"
Tian Ji waved his hand and smiled, saying, "Brother, you misunderstand; I merely wish to have a few words with you." Yi Tusheng coldly replied, "What could a lowly servant like me possibly discuss with an esteemed official?" Tian Ji then spoke earnestly, "You speak too harshly, brother. The current head of the Eastern Depot, Lord Wei Zongxian, is eager to recruit talent. Recently, he has hired thousands of members for the Jinyiwei and the Depot Guards. I have observed your agile skills and remarkable abilities; it would be a great waste for you to serve merely as a household servant. If you are interested, I would be willing to recommend you for a position in the Northern Pacification Office. May I ask if you would consider this?"
After adjusting his attire, Qu Min was the first to step out of the meditation room. Yi Tusheng waited until a stick of incense had burned down before he walked out.
The team arrived at the entrance of Lingguang Temple, where the monks had already been waiting. Qu Min sent her maidservants inside to make arrangements before they entered to offer incense.
Qu Min gasped and said: "You do not know, this Tian Ji is one of the 'Five Tigers' trusted by Lord Wei, and she is usually the most trusted by him. Even that old man Ye Xianggao has to give her some face. Although Ye Xianggao is nominally the head of all officials—actually—actually, I was also forced by his power to have an affair with him. The only one I truly love in my heart is you alone"
The maid asked what was the matter through the sedan curtain. Qu Min said, "Let everyone take a break!" Then she mentioned needing some fresh air and took two maidservants and Yi Tusheng to the woods
The Ye residence is located in the heart of Shuntian Prefecture (Beijing), along the main street of the Ming capital. At the entrance, two imposing giant stone lions stand guard. The main gate features three beast-headed doors, and above it hangs a vermilion plaque with golden characters inscribed, reading "Imperially Constructed Cabinet Grand Scholar Ye Residence!" Beneath the plaque, a squad of armored soldiers, equipped with spears and swords, vigilantly watches all passersby. The entire courtyard covers an area of approximately several acres, complete with pavilions, terraces, towers, and alcoves, exuding a grandeur that rivals that of a royal palace.
The corners of his mouth twitched, revealing a sinister smile, as Yi Tusheng kicked the Jinyiwei out.
Overall, it presents a grand and imposing aura of a great celestial empire, truly a broad avenue of brilliance
Yitu Sheng is very confident in himself; he does not believe that Qu Min's words are meant to flatter her. With his superhuman physical abilities, charming appearance, impressive muscles, and skillful sweet talk, what woman could possibly resist him
This person has a tall stature, with a square face in a purplish-red hue, adorned with thick, dark eyebrows resembling broom bristles, and two large eyes filled with laughter. Between the brows, there is a hint of composure, a touch of astuteness, and a streak of fierceness
Lingguang Temple is a grand and majestic large temple, with the main buildings arranged sequentially along the central axis facing the four gates, centered around the Mahavira Hall, presenting a complete and uniform scale
Tian Ji grabbed the collar of the one-eyed dragon and brought him to the front of the sedan chair, catching sight of Yi Tusheng at a glance
"Indeed! Lord Tian, could you show me some favor? This young servant is merely being protective of his master, so there is no need for punishment. Your subordinates have indeed gone a bit too far!" Qu Min smiled at Tian Ji, casting a flirtatious glance that immediately captivated Tian Ji's soul. Tian Ji lowered his voice and said, "So it is you—"
On both sides of Lion Street, whether shops or residences, there are large and spacious mansions, with multiple courtyards and featuring sky wells and side rooms. The residents in the alleys live in single-story row houses with tiled roofs and white walls. The main gates of the mansions are often adorned with intricately designed tiled wooden doors, surrounded by high walls and deep courtyards, with long and tidy alleys.
Yi Tusheng observed two individuals whispering to each other, while Tian Ji nodded repeatedly. He quickly pinched Qu Min's palm, straightened up, and addressed the Jinyiwei, saying: "The Fourth Lady is magnanimous and, for the sake of this official, will not pursue your offense of obstruction. Release them at once." He then swaggered over to the city gate, dispersing the civilians who were queuing to exit the city, thereby clearing a path for the incense-offering procession. He reiterated to the Jinyiwei: "The Fourth Lady is magnanimous and, for the sake of this official, will not pursue your offense of obstruction. Release them at once." He then swaggered over to the city gate, dispersing the civilians who were queuing to exit the city, thereby clearing a path for the incense-offering procession.
Tian Ji's heart was greatly shaken, secretly thinking, this is no ordinary servant's gaze; it is as if he were a general commanding thousands of troops. This person is certainly not simple
It was unexpected for Tian Ji to say such a thing, and Yi Tusheng was immensely surprised, as he was at a loss for where to find his next opportunity; work had actually come knocking at his door.
Here, Yitu Sheng is bending down to brush the dirt off his long robe, appearing nonchalant, as if the kick just now was not his at all
Tian Ji hurriedly approached and clasped his hands, saying: "Brother, please do not misunderstand, this is my intention"
Tian Ji and the One-Eyed Dragon are indeed still on duty, probably because they are working overtime to catch the assassin. Otherwise, at this time, they should have already appeared in the brothel or tavern.
Walking along the north-south main axis that runs through Shun Tian Fu, Yi Tu Sheng felt a deep sense of emotion. He thought about how he had come to this era over four hundred years ago, feeling as if he were an astronaut lost on an alien planet, suffering immensely. If it weren't for the smooth, jade-like body in the sedan chair that could constantly comfort him, he would have long since bought a block of tofu to end his life.
Tian Ji let out a cold snort and said coldly, "Is the person sitting in the sedan chair none other than the Prime Minister Ye himself?"
What puzzled Yi Tusheng was that these individuals were neither wearing the Ming Dynasty official attire adorned with various animal patterns, nor were they armored soldiers. Their arrogant demeanor resembled that of bandits who cut paths to rob, leaving one to wonder why they were so audacious
A deep gash has already been carved into the neck of the Han, with warm, sticky blood gushing out.
The dim light cast a glow on Qu Min's delicate, peach-like complexion, making her appear even more enchanting. However, Qu Min seemed quite melancholic, with a hint of tears glistening in her eyes, for she was about to part ways with Yi Tusheng.
The one-eyed dragon, who had just reached out his hand, suddenly seemed to be struck by an oncoming train, his body violently flying backward, falling to the ground in a disarrayed manner, and spitting out a mouthful of fresh blood
Yi Tu was pondering how to live in the future
After the sedan chair arrived outside Yongdingmen in the southern part of the city, it was suddenly blocked by a group of imposing men in brocade uniforms.
"Stop the carriage, stop the carriage! Who are you? Do you not know that there is an assassin in the city today?" Two or three burly men drew their swords, charging forward like rabid dogs, roaring fiercely.
It was precisely the phrase 'The morning bell and evening drum awaken the infatuated men and resentful women of the world' that startled Qu Min awake. She hurriedly pushed Yi Tusheng away, stamping her foot and said: 'You've doomed me; we'll be discovered. That old man is not to be trifled with; just wait for your demise!' She gently poked him on the forehead.
Tian Ji was dressed in a scarlet flying fish robe, with a narrow and long embroidered spring knife at his waist, and riding a powerful and imposing chestnut Mongolian warhorse, charging forward with great vigor
"Stop, do not act rashly!" Suddenly, a rapid sound of hooves came from a distance, and the group of men turned their heads in unison. Someone shouted, "It is Lord Tian Ji!"
Stop the car! The one-eyed man, oblivious to the situation, foolishly ran out, shouting with a hoarse voice.
This brave man, what just happened was a misunderstanding, please release my subordinate
A word is a promise
The wealthy men here resemble the four great talents of Jiangnan portrayed by Stephen Chow, dressed in exquisite silk robes, wielding folding fans, walking with a swagger, their expressions affected and somewhat ostentatious. When they meet, they always greet with cupped hands and engage in a lot of meaningless chatter
Yitu slapped her ample hips hard and said: "Dare to argue? Speak the truth, am I better or is he better!"
Tian Jideng was momentarily taken aback and stammered, "So—so it turns out to be—Madam Four—"
Seeing Yi Tu hesitate for a moment, Tian Ji immediately said: "If you are interested, I will appoint you to the position of 'Foreman' right away. Although the foreman of the Jinyiwei is not a high-ranking official, the monthly salary is five taels. As a servant for a year, you would earn only ten taels of silver. Could you consider this?"
The cold light in Yitu's eyes shone brightly, like a steel blade unsheathed, pressing upon others with intensity
Yi Tusheng frowned and said, "You clearly know this is the sedan chair of Minister Ye, yet you still want to obstruct it. What is the reasoning behind this?"
A dangerous glint flashed in Yi Tusheng's eyes. As an agent, he was first and foremost a calm killer, so when he struck, it was with a ruthless move, like a sword released from its sheath, leaving no room for retreat. It was truly a miracle that the Jinyiwei he had just captured was still alive at this moment
Since the Jin Dynasty, Shuntian Prefecture has served as the capital of the regime for nearly three hundred years, and it has long become the most prosperous and densely populated metropolis in the country
Yi Tusheng embraced her slender waist, feeling an infinite affection for this enchanting woman, and coldly said: "I just saved you; how will you repay me?"
When passing through the city gate again, the young servants and maidservants were frightened and dared not lead the way. Yi Tusheng volunteered, striding forward confidently and swaggering to the city gate.
Yitu Sheng knew that he had aroused suspicion, and quickly said: "I am not an ordinary servant, but a guard servant of the Ye residence!" Tian Ji let out a cold laugh, noncommittal.
After the entire incense offering and vow fulfillment ceremony was completed, the sun had already set in the west. The western sky was adorned with a fiery sunset, resembling a splendidly blooming pear blossom, enveloping the entire capital city.
The sedan curtain was lowered again, and a large crowd followed the swaying sedan out of the city
Yitu Sheng found it amusing and said sternly, "One-eyed dragon, haven't you had enough of being beaten yet"
The gazes of the two individuals clashed in the air like crossed swords
Their skin is delicate, their figures graceful, and their features beautiful. Once they gather their hair into a bun, a mature and distinctive charm emanates, making it hard for you to control your emotions and causing your heart to race.
"Revolt!" The Cyclops turned over and jumped up from the ground, panting and cursing: "These people have rebelled, capture them all and bring them back to the Northern Pacification Office for questioning! Go!"
Yi Tusheng stared fiercely at her chest and said, "Just say it directly, have you had an intimate relationship with Lord Tian?" Qu Min was so frightened that she screamed, clutching her delicate chest, her pretty face flushed with embarrassment. She glanced outside the door and pinched Yi Tusheng's arm hard, saying, "Don't talk nonsense, that person is completely devoted to you, not even a mountain of gold could make them change their mind"
In front of the Grand Hall, there is a vast square, measuring a hundred feet, constructed of white stone and surrounded by white stone carved railings. At the center of the square stands a golden statue of Manjushri Bodhisattva, riding on the back of a golden lion, approximately two feet tall. Beside the niche are the three Buddhas of the past, present, and future: the Medicine Buddha, Shakyamuni, and Amitabha. The colorful sculptures and gold adornments are quite impressive. In front of the Bodhisattva, the incense offerings are abundant, with curling smoke rising gracefully. It is evident that there were many worshippers just moments ago, likely dispersed because the family of the Prime Minister was coming to offer incense.
Yi Tu's heart was filled with the sweet thrill of stealing hearts
Walking in the line for incense offerings, Yi Tusheng could not help but glance sideways at this new world
Stopped the sedan chair
The entire street is a remarkable forty zhang wide, constructed entirely of large white stones. It is not only grand in scale but also impeccably clean, giving one an extraordinary sense of comfort with each step taken, instilling a sense of pride in being Chinese. To prevent water accumulation, drainage ditches are set up on both sides of the main street within the city, as wide as small streams, with stone bridges laid at the intersections where the ditches converge. On either side of the road, lush trees provide shade, while the center is bustling with traffic, and pedestrians flow like fish crossing a river, ceaselessly. Compared to modern Beijing, it surpasses it in every aspect.
"Is it Lord Tianji? Do you still recognize this humble servant?" As the curtain of the sedan chair was gently lifted, a breathtakingly beautiful face was revealed.
The sickle-shaped waning crescent moon hangs in the western sky
Dozens of monks in red robes and over a hundred young novices were all chanting scriptures in Baishi Square, while only the abbot was attending to matters in the main hall! This act is sufficient to demonstrate Ye Xianggao's authority, second only to the emperor, in the Ming Dynasty.
Qu Min tightly wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned close to his ear, saying: "You—are the best"
Tian Jixi said: "It is settled with a word"
As he passed by Tian Ji, Tian Ji suddenly said: "Brother, it is too much of a waste of talent for you to be a servant!"
The leading maid immediately blocked their path, scolding, "How audacious! Have you eaten the gall of a leopard, that you do not even recognize the sedan chair of Minister Ye!"
This move is a technique from the Chinese Tan Tui martial arts. With his current level of skill, Yi Tusheng could easily deliver a lethal kick, but he did not dare to act recklessly, so he only used seventy percent of his strength. The right-side Imperial Guard had just raised his knife to strike when Yi Tusheng kicked him at the wrist, instantly shattering the bones. The knife flew out of his hand, and Yi Tusheng deftly caught it with his right hand, placing the waist knife against the neck of the burly man, shouting, "If anyone dares to take another step forward, I will kill him!" A cold, fierce light shot from Yi Tusheng's eyes, and it was clear to everyone that he was not joking.
When Yi Tusheng had Qu Min in disarray, a sudden sound of a bell rang from outside the door
This metropolis has a total of twelve north-south streets and fourteen east-west streets, intricately intersecting to divide the outer city into dozens of districts
Upon seeing the sedan chair of the Ye residence, Tian Ji immediately understood what was happening. His expression darkened suddenly, and he slapped the one-eyed dragon's cheek twice, cursing loudly, "You scoundrel, don't you recognize the sedan chair of the Prime Minister Ye? Have you grown the audacity of a leopard? Get out of my sight!"
It is well known that Yi Tusheng is fully aware of the situation; the relationship between Tian Ji and Qu Min is quite extraordinary, and they might very well be a pair of lovers. It seems that Ye Xianggao has indeed been wearing a green hat quite often.
Tian Ji extended his hand and grasped the arm of the Jinyiwei. The Jinyiwei, having likely lost too much blood, felt his body weaken and fainted.
A group of burly men cornered two young maidservants against the wall with their gleaming broadswords. The one-eyed dragon approached with a cold smile, intending to lift the curtain of the green sedan chair.
Upon following the procession of incense offerings to the outside of the Ye residence, one truly realizes the grandeur of the Ye estate
The mansions of the wealthy are undoubtedly luxurious and towering, while the shops, restaurants, and even brothels on either side are also exquisitely adorned, with bracket sets extending from the eaves
Taking advantage of Qu Min's trip to the restroom, Yi Tusheng pulled her into an empty meditation room. Qu Min was so frightened that her face turned pale: "You really have some nerve; you wouldn't be thinking of doing it here, would you?!"
Both maids were trusted confidantes. After being dismissed by Qu Min, they hurriedly took out a jade pendant and a stack of silver notes, handing them to Yi Tusheng. With tears in their eyes, they collapsed into his arms, sorrowfully saying: "I hope we can meet again in this life if fate allows!"
Five or six strong men rushed towards the sedan chair. Yi Tusheng swiftly stepped in front of the sedan door and, with remarkable speed, seized one of the man's wrists using a grappling technique. With a slight exertion, the man's long knife slipped from his grasp. Following this, a powerful left hook struck another Jin Yi Wei's chin, the crisp sound of bone cracking clearly audible. Two Jin Yi Wei approached from both sides, and Yi Tusheng suddenly turned, letting out a light whistle. He leaped high into the air, executing a beautiful flying kick that landed on the neck of the Jin Yi Wei on the left. With a muffled groan, the left Jin Yi Wei fell heavily to the ground, frothing at the mouth. Two Jin Yi Wei approached from both sides, and Yi Tusheng suddenly turned, letting out a light whistle. He leaped high into the air, executing a beautiful flying kick that landed on the neck of the Jin Yi Wei on the left. With a muffled groan, the left Jin Yi Wei fell heavily to the ground, frothing at the mouth.
Seeing that he did not speak, Qu Min unexpectedly burst into tears. Yi Tusheng thought to himself, could this fickle woman have developed genuine feelings for me? He could only comfort her with kind words before parting with tears.
Yi Tusheng turned his eyes and smiled, saying: "Since Lord Tian has such earnest intentions, if I were to decline again, it would be somewhat ungrateful. It is better to comply than to refuse. After I bid farewell to the steward tonight, I will take up my post at the Northern Town Pacification Office tomorrow"
In the Great Han, there was a one-eyed dragon who sneered, saying: "We are here under the strict orders of Lord Wei to apprehend the court's wanted criminals. No one is allowed to enter or exit at will. Even if Chancellor Ye were to arrive, he would have to dismount and be inspected!"
After the incense offering was completed, the monks in the temple arranged a guest room for him to rest. The monks near the guest room were all sent away, mainly out of concern for any potential romantic entanglements. Little did they know, Ye Xianggao already had quite a few green hats.
Thirty or forty strong men were unexpectedly intimidated by his imposing presence, and no one dared to step forward even half a step.
"Hmm, come here—" Qu Min gently waved her hand at him. Tian Ji's face lit up with joy as he stepped forward a few paces and leaned down.