Chapter 1

"Hmph, a prosperous age?" Cheng Qi sneered, and although he was unwilling in his heart, he still drew his long sword. "If there were truly a prosperous age, you wouldn't die in a place like this."

At first, the young man seemed to be pondering how to resolve the situation, but as he walked further away, he began to recite poetry again

Through the curtain, he saw the young man suddenly stop, staring intently in this direction. He let out a chuckle, waiting to witness the splendid sight of the young man fleeing in panic

Suddenly, everyone gasped continuously

The East remained unperturbed and calm, resting his hand on his chin inside the carriage, welcoming a small interlude amidst the unexpected. The figure of the youth approached from afar, seemingly unaware that a robbery had occurred at this end of the street

"My lord, please do not be angry," the imperial physician said with a flattering tone. "I just remembered that Ruan Dongqian was on the examination list two years ago, but his ranking was not high, so naturally, he did not attract your attention. At that time, Lord Zhang had presented the list to you, and you did not object, so..." Dongfang Fei's power had grown to the point where he could act at will; he could determine the top candidates in the imperial examination, standing above all others, and even the emperor listened to him obediently, consulting him on major matters verbally while allowing him to handle minor issues as he pleased.

Do you not see the waters of the Yellow River coming from the sky, rushing to the sea and never returning? It is clearly my birthday, so why must I finish it before I can have a meal? Brother, do not be too strict

This young man does not seem too naive; it is much more enjoyable to play like this. "Young master, where are you temporarily residing? How about you accompany me to report tomorrow? Let us wager and see which one of the ten officials is in charge." After the report, he intends to have the military governor allow the criminals in this area to act freely, wanting this young fellow to see what it means to be an official

He was dressed in official robes, without a cap, his long, sleek black hair cascading down his back, and his handsome features bore a hint of innate nobility. Even if some in the palace did not recognize his face, the sight of his official attire and demeanor would reveal that he held a high-ranking position, indeed a prominent official who stood above all others.

One year later, Qionglin Garden

"Lord Guozhang, it is said that the Prime Minister has a keen interest in Ruan Dongqian. In case you intervene..."

My surname is Ruan

Whoever encounters me behaves like a dog

The East is uncertain whether to thank the youth for indirectly praising him as a reincarnation of Kong Ming, or to be angry that he has compared him to some unknown individual

... ... it's fine. The Eastern non-confirmation of Shi Gandan has returned to its place, and then I looked towards the vague figure of the young boy. ... ... What kind of extraordinary technique did he use to move Shi Gandan just now?

In the secluded corners of the garden, people continue to speak

Indeed! I have also recalled! Another imperial physician said: "Ruan Dongqian's ancestral home is in Chang County, and he is a distant relative of the former Inspector General Ruan Woqiu."

"You... you are also an official?" Cheng Qizhen asked in shock

The young man was taken aback and asked, "What do you need the bribe money for?"

The imperial physician hesitated for a moment and replied

"Your Excellency, you seem to be in a really good mood." It is simply worlds apart from just a moment ago

The smile filled with anticipation suddenly froze, as Dongfang Fei witnessed an unexpected scene.

Little brother, today is my birthday, and I invite you to a late-night snack as a token of gratitude for your life-saving kindness

With a slight smile at the corners of his mouth, he said with a sly grin: "Naturally, I will ask the officials above to handle it for you, ensuring your life. Young master, you wouldn't still naively believe that the officials above would take your report seriously, would you?"

The East did not immediately lift the curtain of the sedan chair, gazing at the slender figure of the young man as he disappeared down the street

For more than a decade, everything has been within his calculations, with nothing escaping his grasp; there are almost no events that could take him by surprise. Over time, he has come to truly believe that he is completely devoid of any connection to unexpected occurrences

I am in my early twenties this year. The young boy's face flushed slightly, clearly showing signs of guilt.

A young man lazily propped his chin on his hand, reclining half-heartedly on the screen couch, his half-closed phoenix eyes scanning the book in his hand with little enthusiasm

What a remarkable person Ruan Dongqian is! He originally thought Ruan Dongqian was an ordinary talent, but he did not expect him to possess such integrity. In the past year and a half, what has Ruan Dongqian accomplished to rise among the corrupt officials, even taking down the nephew of that old bald donkey, the national uncle? Truly impressive!

I?" the Eastern gentleman laughed interestingly, saying: "Scholar, you must be joking. The examiner is not this official; calling me your mentor indiscriminately may displease the other gentlemen.

Eastern Fei Qingxiao: "Young brother, I have three principles for employing people: first, I do not use good people; second, I do not use foolish people; third, I do not use anyone who dares to undermine my affairs. Now, I can predict that you will surely die at the hands of your own foolishness in the future"

The eastern beauty, with her enchanting eyes, brushed against the extraordinary hues, a smile playing at the corners of her lips

Dongfang said with a disdainful smile

I did not expect that such things would happen even within the capital.

The latter part of the sentence vanished from the mouth of Eunuch Li, most likely due to a reprimand from the Grand Duke. Dongfang Fei no longer listened intently and returned to the Qionglin Banquet with a joyful expression.

"Esteemed Chancellor! Respected Mentor!" The newly appointed top scholar hurriedly caught up, bowing deeply and saying, "I hope that after entering the capital, you will continue to provide your guidance and support, esteemed mentor"

Ruan Dongqian, what will you show me? Your noble character? Or will you, like a dog, kneel before me and beg for a future?

The Emperor naturally listens to the words of the Grand Tutor. However, that tone seems somewhat insincere. Yet, even without the interference of the Chief Minister, Ruan Dongqian has an old military advisor with white hair offering strategies, and he also has personal bodyguards to shield him from blades and swords

The Eastern figure, with a handsome face, wore a smile that carried a profound meaning

The newly crowned top scholar approached him cautiously as he emerged from the back garden and said

The Qionglin banquet is organized by the Ministry of Rites; if it were not for his dual role as the Minister of Rites, who would take charge of such a tedious celebration? Upon reaching a secluded spot in the back garden, he suddenly heard someone whispering softly.

Hmph, it seems that Dongfang is merely idly seeking someone to play the role of a dog. Over time, he has even forgotten who Ruan Dongqian is. He is a favored individual in front of the Emperor, and I am the Emperor's father-in-law. Tell me, whose words should the Emperor heed

The East did not see through this person's true nature at first glance, and had no intention of expending effort on him. His position as the Chief Minister and his selection as a top scholar were not public matters; even before this newly appointed top scholar officially entered the cabinet, he had already inquired about the power dynamics within the court. The article was written in a grand and righteous manner, but that does not mean this person's character is not weak.

The two imperial physicians turned their heads and were greatly shocked, their faces pale, as they weakly knelt down, trembling as they spoke

Seven months later

Is that a ghost, Seventh Brother

Hmph, it can be said that Ruan Dongqian is quite unfortunate; who told him not to go along with the crowd. A good talent like him, having offended his superior, can only go to a remote county to serve as the county magistrate. He is a bloody example, and we must take him as a warning.

"Lord Guozhang, without the orders from the Emperor and the Chief Minister, no one can command the masters of the inner court..."

After a moment of astonishment, Dongfang recalled for a while before speaking

Upon hearing that he was an official, Cheng Qiyi initially intended to retreat immediately. However, after learning that he had already encountered his subordinates, he decisively shouted: "Drag him out and take him away"

Adult, are you referring to ... ...

The Eastern figure gently closed the folding fan, lightly grasped both ends and bent them outward, smiling as they spoke

The eastern breeze gently caresses the handle of the fan, and the graceful shape of the lips slightly curves upward

The East smiled faintly at his frustration and said, "From the tone of the young master, it seems you have just arrived in the capital"

There is a legend among the people that throughout the ages, no one can compare to the talent of the top scholar of the Wan Jin era, Dong Fang Fei. However, the officials in the court have their own clear understanding. Since the sixth year of Wan Jin, the first place has been determined by Dong Fang Fei, and he could randomly select with his eyes closed; who would dare to speak the truth?

What kind of sorcery is this? Dongfang Fei was astonished, having never witnessed such a phenomenon. Is this boy a shaman?

He merely considers himself a good official who is sympathetic to the people's plight. If he were to enter the court and encounter Dongfang Fei, would he not resemble a dog? Given his character, being able to serve as an eighth-rank county magistrate is indeed a stroke of good fortune for him

My lord, it was you, Lord Cheng, who personally requested for Lord Cheng to go at the beginning

Your Excellency... we, we did not know that you were here. At this time, you, you should be drafting the memorials in the cabinet...

"What are you doing?" the young man shouted, rushing straight over. "Daring to rob in the capital!"

The young man laughed heartily, his voice clean and pleasant: "The Ruan surname is no different from that of ordinary people; what I have, others will have as well." He glanced at the darkening sky. Since he was the only one who had witnessed the robber's appearance, it would not be good for him to remain here any longer, especially for those inside the carriage. He clasped his fists and smiled, saying: "Brother, be careful on your way back to the residence. I will take responsibility for this robbery case and will definitely resolve it within six months." After speaking, he scratched his head and slowly walked away from the night street.

The fragrance of various medicinal herbs permeated the entire pharmacy, a scent specifically chosen by the old doctor before fleeing, boasting that it could change his mood

As if it were a counterfeit. Not only that, before I got into the carriage, I also saw a young man in the corner staring at me intently. That young man must be your companion, right

The sedan chair came to a stop on the deserted street, with the shops on both sides long closed, leaving not even a single streetlight. However, under the bright moonlight, even through the curtains of the sedan chair, one could still make out the vague figures of seven or eight men.

He hasn't been this excited for a long time, nor has he been so eagerly anticipating something in a long while. Ruan Dongqian, where are you? Come to the capital! Hurry up!

It turns out that this young man is a fool with a sense of justice

No need for that," the young man said with a smile, "I am already an official, so I can handle this matter myself.

Dressed in the official attire of the Ministry of Rites, Dongfang Fei suddenly halted, cast a glance at him, and inquired: "Who is your esteemed teacher?"

The young man silently scanned the robbers in front of him, some of whom could barely hold their knives steady, while others were clearly trembling.

This old physician cannot even handle minor matters, so what purpose does she serve? Just as I was contemplating how to make things difficult for the physician, I suddenly heard officials conversing outside

"Young master, although we are robbers, we also value loyalty. We will not force you to leave your carriage; as long as you throw out the valuable items on you, we will let you go immediately"

"No, no, no," the young man smiled and declined, saying, "Since I am an official of the capital, I certainly cannot accept your gratitude, my brother. However, it is quite a coincidence that today is also my birthday." He said happily

Within the dynasty, whose power can still suppress Dongfang Fei

In the sixteenth year of the Wan Jin era, the Imperial Medical Institute.

The young man gazed solemnly at the street where they had disappeared, showing no intention of pursuing them. After a while, he stepped forward and asked, "Brother, are you alright?"

Inside the carriage, Dongfang Fei was eagerly watching the unfolding events, with no intention of stepping out to offer assistance. Typically, those with a sense of justice end up with nothing but a dead end; he had never witnessed someone being hacked to death by a mob, so he thought it would be a fitting way to celebrate his birthday by watching a life-and-death struggle.

Brother, since you have not lost anything, why not go home and get some sleep? You can wake up tomorrow and forget everything.

Be quiet

But before that, one must clarify what abilities this little boy possesses that allow Shi Gandang to float in the air

"Ruan?" Even if there are unexpected events tonight, he will no longer be surprised. He wore a cruel smile: "The Ruan surname individuals I know are all filled with a sense of justice, preferring to have their bones filled with righteousness rather than bowing their heads or bending their backs. Such people are rare to come by."

A rough hand grasped the sedan curtain, just as it was about to be lifted, when the night breeze carried a faint, almost imperceptible murmur

Can a mere guard stand up to a master from the inner court

Nonsense! Seventh Brother, I truly saw him walk out of a very luxurious mansion. The clothes he was wearing could sustain us for a month! I have never seen him; he must not live in the capital. How could he go out without any money?

This name sounds somewhat familiar, but I can't recall where I have heard it before. The Eastern figure almost bowed down to the ground, showing no interest in the relationship, and turned away to walk into the back garden.

Interesting things

The sedan bearer had long since disappeared without a trace. Dongfang Fei, gently touching the handle of the fan, spoke softly.

How old are you this year? When did even a young lad manage to attain an official position?

"Silence!" shouted the young man known as Seventh Brother, stopping his subordinates from continuing to reveal their long-term residence in the capital. He gritted his teeth and said, "Young Master, wealth is but an external possession; do not force us to take action, as it would be detrimental to both of us"

Dongfang was taken aback, staring at the underdeveloped body of the young man, and questioned: "Are you an official?"

Your Excellency, we spoke without thinking at that moment

The young boy rushed to the front of a wealthy family, not appearing to be fleeing. Before Dongfang Fei could contemplate the significance of the boy's actions, he saw the stone guardians floating in mid-air on either side of the wealthy household.

I, I remember it was a brightly lit house, Seventh Brother, I didn't see anyone wearing official robes...

Ruan Dongqian, a handsome man, slightly focused his mind and reacted to this unusual surname

In his early twenties? Tonight, I was repeatedly taken aback, all thanks to this young man. Looking at his figure, he is both short and thin. Although I cannot see his appearance clearly through the curtain of the sedan chair, I still feel that he must be quite young. Where on earth did this official come from? Why do I have no impression of him at all?

Even if you have thousands of loyal dogs by your side assisting you, I still wish to personally engage with you and see how long your spirit can endure

"The top scholar, this year the chief examiner is Lord Zhang. If you insist on identifying me as such, then you are deliberately trying to frame me. I have been in the court for many years, and this is the first time I have encountered someone who starts to trouble me before officially taking office. You are the first person to do so."

Is the public security in the capital usually like this? I was wondering why it became so quiet at night; it turns out there are robbers on the loose

Dong Qian. I am Lu Dong Qian, an official.

Indeed, I just arrived today. The young man clasped his fists and smiled at the sedan chair, saying: "Brother, since it is not peaceful around here, let me escort you back."

Yuan Dongqian, due to his lack of empathy for the people's plight, faced a natural disaster in Dezhi County. The court dispatched officials to open the granaries for relief, but Yuan Dongqian refused to cooperate with the court officials, delaying the opening of the granaries by three days. As a result, after the report was submitted, he was demoted to the position of deputy county magistrate in a lower county

The Minister of Revenue, taken aback by the young man known as Seventh Brother, immediately glared at his subordinates and asked in a low voice, "Is he really from the official's residence?"

"Are you saying that you let them go? Such mercy from a woman." Despite the rebuttal, the dark eyes within the sedan chair gleamed suspiciously. "Do you think that by letting them off the hook, they will turn over a new leaf?" Where did this little fool come from? Both foolish and upright, it stirred excitement within him.

Indeed, my brother Yilang is the smartest person in the world, and he is truly worthy of being compared to Zhuge Liang reborn. The young man's tone was filled with envy. You and he can see through each other in the blink of an eye, unlike me... He shook his head and secretly made a face.

He took a deep breath, feeling unexpectedly refreshed, yet instead, he was troubled as if thousands of tiny insects were burrowing into his heart.

Indeed, I just arrived in the capital today to report for duty, and I will assume my position tomorrow," the young man said cheerfully

Brother Ichiro

The eastern sky is not yet bright, waiting for the curtain of the sedan chair to be lifted. Where will he be taken? Tomorrow, he will not be present in the court or in the cabinet; how many people will be alarmed? How many will deal with him in private?

Dong Fang did not rise, and impatiently waved his sleeve, saying: "So much nonsense, do you want me to cut off your tongues first? Who is Ruan Dongqian? Did I not say that whether there is a surname Ruan in the court is decided by me? Who has the audacity to allow someone with the surname Ruan to enter the court as an official?"

Dongfang narrowed his eyes slightly, sitting up straight in surprise

Well, that is truly wonderful. In order for him to escape unscathed, he must be generously rewarded for the responsibilities of the five military governors overseeing this area

The gloom of these past few months was instantly dispelled. It is rare to encounter someone like Ruan Dongqian, who claims to be unyielding; if he does not take the time to enjoy himself, it would be a disservice to his own self.

"Brother, you are calm and intelligent, quite similar to my brother Yi Lang," the young man laughed in surprise and delight.

"You are thinking too negatively about the officialdom," said the young man with a frown, then smiled and added, "Even if there are corrupt individuals, among ten officials, there are always five or six who are good officials."

Do you think those people would turn back to rob again? They are local residents, often mingling among the common folk, and no one knows they are robbers. It must be that some wealthy individuals from the capital encountered them and were so frightened that they wet themselves and obediently handed over their valuables. In my opinion, aside from the leader who has a bit of courage, the rest are just a rabble... Suddenly, the tone halted, realizing that the young man in moon-white clothing was gazing intently at him.

Retreat! Cheng Qi gritted his teeth and ensured that all his subordinates had escaped before swiftly disappearing into the night

Do you not see the waters of the Yellow River coming from the sky, rushing to the sea and never returning? Do you not see... What is it that you do not see? At half past three in the middle of the night, if one truly saw something, it would surely be a ghost. Indeed, even the cheap noodle shop at home is not open... The clear and bright voice floated through the cold night streets, appearing quite abrupt and eerie

In fact, they also ... ...

That Ruan Dongqian has such audacity! He actually dared to personally oversee the execution of my own nephew. I must make him pay with his life!

"How is it? Do I have to report everything I do to you two?" Dongfang Fei felt annoyed at their obsequiousness. "What were you just saying? Who acted like a dog in front of me?"

Esteemed teacher ... ... No, no, my lord, Dong Qian has absolutely no intention of opposing you! The newly appointed top scholar is sweating profusely, desperately bowing and saluting! Anyone can be offended, but one must never offend Dong Fangfei!

The handsome man, sensing interest, quickly turned over and sat up, lifting the warm curtain lazily as he inquired:

The eastern part is slightly gathered at the center of the eyebrows. "Wait, what did you say your name is?"

Indeed, it is quite clever, too clever. The Eastern figure, not restraining the young man's silhouette, inquired: "What is the surname of the young master?"

The young master should be more concerned about himself. You have already seen their appearance; if you are determined to expose them, it would be quite easy. Even if that group of robbers is timid, in order to save themselves, they would first kill you to silence you. How about this: to prevent further banditry in the capital, you should report them and add a bit of bribery.

The East smiled unpleasantly and said

There is no need to appoint him as a county magistrate of the eighth rank; instead, demote him directly to the ninth rank as a chief clerk. Immediately send someone to hurry over on horseback. If he is willing to accept a bribe, then let him return to court and don the official robes of the fifth rank; if he is unwilling... very well! Let him be demoted all the way down!

The newly crowned top scholar was momentarily taken aback and blurted out: "But isn't it you, my esteemed teacher, who is grading this year?"

The moon hangs high in the sky, casting a soft light over the streets of the capital at night

The young man, who was not calm at all, smiled and said, "I have no money at all, how can I pay?"

He has been in office for many years and understands human nature profoundly. This young man with yellow hair, upon seeing a robbery, will surely turn and flee; it remains to be seen whether this so-called Brother Seven dares to strike decisively.

Indeed. I am in a very good mood because I have encountered something interesting. It is precisely because I am in such a pleasant mood that I am willing to lower myself and speak a few words with this new dog before me

"Not having killed before does not mean you won't be the first person to do so," Cheng Qi said calmly, his heart racing and his palms sweating

"Do you seven dare to cause chaos in the capital? Are you locals?" The young man, having confirmed that the people in the sedan chair had not been harmed, angrily exclaimed: "Is this the flourishing era of the dynasty? What is the commander of the five armies doing? Allowing you to rob within the city?"

Upon thinking of this, he immediately recalled that tyrannical old bald donkey, who dared to secretly send skilled assassins from the inner palace to eliminate his beloved possession, which compelled him to hasten out of Qionglin Garden and head straight for the imperial palace

I see. Dongfang, with a beaming smile, asked again: "Who is in charge of the relief food distribution?"

I have been searching for someone who cannot be broken by me, or rather, I should say, there is no bone in this world that I cannot break; it is merely a matter of time. Scholar, you are someone who does not even need to be broken. However, there are certain individuals whom I can break with a single forceful attempt; if the first attempt does not succeed, the second will surely break them. "Crack!" With that sound, the folding fan was instantly split in two. He laughed heartily and handed the broken fan to the astonished scholar. "I only give gifts to those who are worthy; this fan shall be yours."

"Is your surname Ruan... Hmph, there is one Ruan Woqiu, one Ruan Dongqian, and now another with the surname Ruan. Is it possible that those with the surname Ruan are all different from others? In my hands, they will all be the same, without exception," Dongfang Fei said quietly.

So it turns out he is a distant relative of the righteous Ruan Woqiu, no wonder there is a Ruan Dongqian who refuses to accept bribes. Very well, very well, I am quite bored at the moment, tell me, for what reason was he demoted

Dongfang let out a hum and said

Today is his birthday, and all the officials are lavishly celebrating him, flattering him with gifts of women and treasures to offer their congratulations. However, at this very moment, which is the last hour of his birthday this year, he unfortunately encounters a robber.

The young man stared at Cheng Qi and asked in a deep voice, "Have you killed someone?"

Is this true... Cheng Zidao? Isn't he just a corrupt official? Ruan Dongqian shows no compassion for the people's plight. Hmph, being able to fabricate such a charge likely means that this Ruan is too compassionate towards the people, unwilling to collude with Cheng Zidao. It is already a stroke of good fortune for the county's people to have their grain released in just three days, encountering a foolish official. Dongfang Fei couldn't help but feel increasingly delighted, laughing aloud: "Good! What noble character! To be unafraid of the powerful in the court, sacrificing oneself to protect the people, I haven't seen a good official who isn't like a dog in a long time. I wonder, when he is demoted again, will he still be able to maintain his noble character?"

Is it the strategist beside him offering advice? It doesn't matter, even if Ruan Dong has hundreds of loyal dogs by his side, he will not give up on this interesting person

Little brother, has no one told you whose luxurious mansion that is? I just came out from the Minister of Revenue's office; if you dare to rob, it will be a dead end for you

"Stop right there!" Cheng Qili immediately shouted, "If you dare to take another step forward, do not blame me for being merciless!"

It is naturally you, the Prime Minister!

The East is not squinting. ... Ruan Dongqian ... ! ... Sharing the same given name but different surnames as the newly crowned top scholar, that's right. ! He remembered now, he is a distant relative of Ruan Woqiu. More than a year ago, out of curiosity, he had sent someone to persuade him, but he later forgot about this trivial matter.

"Are we really going to fight? Should we give it a try?" the young man asked earnestly

I have no reaction? It seems somewhat familiar. A couple of years ago, the chief examiner seemed to have mentioned something, and he casually responded, and someone with the surname Ruan just entered the court like that? How interesting