Chapter Seven, Yi Qing encounters misfortune

Only Zhang Cong stood solemnly, showing no signs of fear

Your Majesty, Yang Yiqing has accepted bribes during his tenure, and it must be investigated. Zhu Houzong was quite surprised upon hearing this impeachment. Although Yang Yiqing is not as upright and incorruptible as Zhang Cong, the occurrence of this matter at the time of his departure from office, given Yang Yiqing's many years of political experience, should not have led to such a mistake. Moreover, since he has already retired, could it be that Zhang Cong and others are unwilling to let the matter rest and have conspired together? Therefore, after the court session, Zhu Houzong summoned Zhang Cong to the side hall, intending to probe the truth of the matter. Moreover, since he has already retired, could it be that Zhang Cong and others are unwilling to let the matter rest and have conspired together? Therefore, after the court session, Zhu Houzong summoned Zhang Cong to the side hall, intending to probe the truth of the matter.

The young girl, realizing her mistake, felt her cheeks flush upon hearing Peng Yue's words. She awkwardly replied, "What this young master says is reasonable, and I shall remember it." Then she glanced at the scattered items on the ground and said, "As for this... I will certainly compensate you, but I was in a hurry when I came out today and did not..."

Peng Yue indeed felt somewhat ashamed of his behavior, where his anger dissipated upon seeing "beauty," but he still awkwardly explained: "Sister Ling'er, in this capital city, those who dare to ride horses recklessly must be either rich or noble. Given the current situation, we should not provoke such individuals."

At this moment, Peng Yue was already drenched in sweat, yet he noticed that Yang Jisi's enthusiasm remained undiminished, and he felt it inappropriate to say anything.

Yang Jisi cried even harder beside him, yet did not know what to say

Yang Yiqing seemed to have an epiphany: "You still think things through... You might as well sell the house, and with that money, buy a small courtyard for yourself. As for the remaining money... consider it a compensation for entrusting Jisi to you." Yang Yiqing felt an overwhelming sense of desolation

Your Majesty, I believe what Lord Li has said is reasonable. Zhu Houzong was somewhat surprised to see that it was Zhang Cong defending Yang Yiqing.

Zhu Houcong secretly sighed: "So Zhang Cong actually harbored this intention, first letting Huo Tao and others come forward to impeach, while he pretends to defend Yang Yiqing, thus forcing Yang Yiqing to retire in a legitimate manner, while also achieving the effect of winning people's hearts." Remembering that Yang Yiqing had once obstructed Zhang Cong's return to court, he knew that a reconciliation between Zhang and Yang was impossible. Moreover, Yang Yiqing was inclined towards the old officials and hesitated regarding reforms. He sighed helplessly: "Then allow Yang Yiqing to retire and grant him two hundred taels of gold."

"Father..." Looking at Yang Yiqing on the hospital bed, Yang Jisi was choked with emotion and could not speak.

Hearing that there were still ministers defending Yang Yiqing at this time, Zhu Houcong felt a slight sense of relief in his heart

"What, so soon?" Peng Yue felt a bit puzzled, "Could it be that Zhang Cong has returned already?"

Huang Zongming heard Li Shi defending Yang Yiqing and was about to retort, but was stopped by Zhang Cong with a glance

Your Majesty, Lord Yang has indeed worked hard and made great contributions. Therefore, while the remarks made by the other lords regarding Lord Yang's faults should be acknowledged, they should not lead to further accountability. Let us grant Lord Yang's wish and allow him to retire. Furthermore, I believe that Lord Yang should also be rewarded to demonstrate the Emperor's immense grace. " After finishing, Zhang Cong revealed a proud smile

"Zirui, I am filled with hatred! I have always considered myself devoted to the state, thinking of the common people, yet I never expected this would be the outcome..." Yang Yiqing sighed deeply, looking up to the sky

Upon hearing this, Yang Yiqing stood up from his chair, raised his head, and let out a long sigh: "Zirui, it is indeed the most correct decision to promote you to the court."

Ziling covered her ears with both hands, shaking her head and screaming in a somewhat unreasonable manner, "I won't listen, I won't listen..." However, her eyes still glanced sideways at Yang Jisi, feeling resentful that they had just been on the other side of the street, seemingly watching a show, without coming forward to intervene. Yet, she did not want to vent her anger on him, so she directed all her frustration at Peng Yue: "In any case, you are just a big pervert; none of you men... are worth anything good." As she spoke, she shot another sidelong glance at Yang Jisi. Peng Yue did not know what to say, so he could only clasp his hands in a bow and repeatedly smile apologetically.

Upon hearing this, Peng Yue could not help but smile

I suspect that it was my conversation with His Majesty today that caused him to change his mind again. Peng Yue could no longer hold back and thus recounted the events of this morning

On the second day in the court, Yang Yiqing claimed illness and did not attend, only submitting a memorial requesting retirement. Zhu Houzong showed a troubled expression, unsure of how to respond. He indeed felt hesitant about Yang Yiqing's departure for several reasons. Firstly, he considered Yang's remarkable achievements, believing that his presence would greatly benefit the handling of important matters in the court. Secondly, with Zhang Cong's rising influence, it was likely that he would return with more supporters, and Yang Yiqing could still suppress him while in the court. Thirdly, the words spoken by Peng Yue the other day had indeed prompted his reflection, and he still harbored the thought that the two could set aside past grievances and cooperate hand in hand.

However, after Yang Yiqing finished speaking, he sat down again, "Although the Emperor is currently hesitant, Zhang Cong will not keep me. I hope you can achieve something in the future to uphold the righteous listening of the sage"

Alas, it seems that even if Yang Yiqing and Zhang Cong are willing to cease hostilities and reconcile, their factions may not easily come to terms. Zhu Houzong thought to himself, recalling Peng Yue's words from that day, he felt it was even more reasonable.

Zhu Houcong sat there drinking tea, not raising his head to glance at Zhang Cong even once, yet secretly observing the changes in Zhang Cong's expression with his peripheral vision

Note: 1. Zhang Yong: A eunuch during the reign of the Ming Emperor Wuzong, Zhu Houzhao, and one of the "Eight Tigers." He collaborated with Yang Yiqing to eliminate Liu Jin, thus maintaining a close personal relationship with Yang Yiqing. After the ascension of the Ming Emperor Shizong, Zhu Houhong, the "Eight Tigers" (which had already dwindled to fewer than eight) faced repression, and Zhang Yong was implicated, stripped of his real power, and demoted to a ceremonial position, sent to Xiaoling to oversee the incense offerings. At a critical moment, Yang Yiqing stepped forward and persuaded Zhu Houhong to allow Zhang Yong to manage the Imperial Workshop and supervise the military camps.

"Adult, I think I will pass on this house..." Peng Yue seemed to recall something.

"Si'er, it seems you cannot stay in the capital for long. Once the Emperor has completed his handling of my situation, you should return to Zhenjiang Prefecture and not come back. Also, do not think about me any longer." Yang Yiqing felt both helpless and sorrowful

Looking at someone beautiful, almost getting hit by a car, and still having no temper, getting hurt... serves them right, big lecher!" Ziling spoke with a puffed-up expression, simply turning around and no longer looking at Peng Yue.

Proclaiming my decree: Yang Yiqing's official position is to be revoked, and his rewards are to be rescinded, pending further action! Zhu Houzong said in great anger

I originally thought that on the day Zhang Cong returned to the court, the Emperor would certainly not wish to keep me, but I did not expect... Alas, the will of the sovereign is truly difficult to fathom

Oh? Zhu Houzhong was somewhat surprised to hear Zhang Cong say this, and he also dispelled his doubts about Zhang Cong in his heart

Indeed, during today's morning court session, the Emperor issued a decree summoning Zhang Cong to return to the court." After saying this, he let out a heavy sigh: "However, the Emperor remains somewhat hesitant regarding my request for retirement, and to this day, he has not yet agreed to my request for resignation.

"Father, are we really going back to Zhenjiang Prefecture?" Yang Jisi still found it somewhat difficult to understand Yang Yiqing's sudden resignation.

Zhang Yongqi, a treacherous and cunning individual, caused turmoil in the court during the reign of Emperor Wuzong. Fortunately, thanks to Your Majesty's wisdom, at the beginning of your ascension, you cleared away the remaining treacherous and sycophantic officials, yet unfortunately, one Zhang Yong was left behind

I have a different opinion. I believe that Yang Daren has served the country and the people, and is indeed a meritorious minister. What the esteemed officials have just said is not true. The speaker is Li Shi, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Rites.

The young girl, seeing that Peng Yue was trying to excuse himself, felt a sense of gratitude in her heart. She raised the riding whip in her hand and said, "We shall meet again... next time I will definitely compensate you." As she spoke, she spurred her horse and rode away

According to what I know, Yang Yiqing accepted two hundred gold pieces from Zhang Yong's brother, Zhang Rong, under the pretext of writing a tombstone for Zhang Yong. Zhang Cong said, raising his head to observe Zhu Houzong's expression, and noticed that Zhu Houzong seemed to be moved when Zhang Yong was mentioned

Well, there is no need to rush. We can stay in the capital for a while longer and explore more here. This time we go, it is likely that we will not return again. Yang Yiqing spoke with a certain calmness and ease; perhaps he has grown somewhat weary of the intrigues and deceptions of the officialdom

"My lord, rest assured, I will strive to eliminate treachery for the court. You need not worry excessively; perhaps the Emperor, recalling past favors, will soon revoke the decree." As he spoke the last words, Peng Yue's own confidence began to wane.

Thank you, Brother Yun! Zi Ling smiled sweetly and quickly took out a handkerchief to wipe her sweat.

The young girl originally carried a hint of apology, but upon hearing Ziling's shout, her tone also carried some irritation: "The sound of hooves is so loud, if you don't have ears, why blame me?" As she spoke, her confidence seemed to wane a bit: "Besides, I did rein in the horse in time, and I didn't hurt you."

"No, I will not." Peng Yue said firmly. Initially, he had no intention of opposing Zhang Cong, knowing that Zhang Cong had a reputation for integrity and was keen on reform, even though his measures were somewhat radical. However, he has now seen Zhang Cong's narrow-mindedness, his inability to tolerate dissent, and his nature of retaliating against personal grievances. Out of respect for Yang Yiqing's recognition of his talents, he could not remain indifferent.

Your Majesty, I have a memorial to present. Huo Tao took the lead in launching an attack, impeaching Yang Yiqing

Ziling pouted her small lips, looking quite displeased. She stamped her foot and shouted at the girl on the horse: "In the midst of a bustling market, riding so fast, don't you know it could hurt someone?"

There is no need for that, it is not worth much. Young lady, you should go ahead and attend to your own matters first. " Peng Yue cupped his hands and said, "Until we meet again

Furthermore, Si'er, let this residence be left to Ziru; do not sell it. Yang Yiqing glanced at Yang Jisi, then pointed at Peng Yue with his finger. He subtly signaled to Yang Jisi, who understood and discreetly retreated with a group of servants.

Peng Yue would never dare to forget the favor of the esteemed one's appreciation. Indeed, Peng Yue has always harbored gratitude, and he understands that at this moment, he is no longer merely a pawn in Yang Yiqing's heart

While listening, Yang Yiqing, who is usually adept at concealing his emotions, did not hide his astonishment this time and occasionally let out an exclamation of admiration

On the second day, Yang Jisi indeed took Peng Yue, Ziling, and a group of subordinates to the capital city, preparing to purchase more local specialties to bring back to Zhenjiang Prefecture

Yang Yiqing helplessly waved his hand and said, "I hope you do not forget what you said today"

Ziling was about to continue her argument when she was stopped by Peng Yue: "Sister Ling, it is not the right time to provoke trouble." He then turned to the girl and offered a smile: "Miss, please do not take offense. It is just that my little sister was indeed frightened just now. We will certainly be more careful when walking on the road next time, and I hope you will also be cautious to avoid hurting yourself in the future"

In a moment of distraction, he suddenly heard a series of "clop clop" sounds from behind. Peng Yue instinctively turned to look, only to see a black steed raising its front hooves, and with just a few more steps, it seemed it would trample onto his shoulder. Peng Yue quickly pulled Ziling towards the side of the street, and Ziling, likely startled as well, dropped everything she was holding all over the ground

Then tomorrow I will go to the city to exchange for some unique items from the capital. Yang Jisi thought to himself that this was the only way.

Under the blazing sun, Yang Jisi was still tirelessly strolling with the servants. Ziling was also carrying quite a few items, following closely behind, wanting to wipe the sweat from her face but unable to free her hands. Seeing this, Peng Yue hurriedly took the things from Ziling's hands

Although she appeared to be only around fourteen or fifteen years old, not much older than Ling'er, her innate charm was indeed... Peng Yue thought to himself, and his anger had dissipated by more than half.

Zhang Cong, this petty person, actually plotted against me in such a treacherous manner! Upon hearing the decree from Zhu Houzong, Yang Yiqing, a veteran in the political arena, could no longer endure and fainted.

Immediately thereafter, Fang Xianfu and a group of officials all impeached Yang Yiqing

Zhu Houzhong also thought that now that Yang Yiqing had proposed to retire, there would surely be people who would take advantage of the situation to add insult to injury

On the surface, it appears that Lord Yang, at the time of his resignation, made such an unwise act of accepting bribes; however, I believe otherwise

Upon hearing this, Zhu Houzhong could not help but feel somewhat indignant

Peng Yue could not help but feel a surge of anger. Just as he was about to erupt, he saw a person on horseback turn around, revealing a delicate face, with a wind-swept hairstyle that exposed her temples, and her lightly brushed eyebrows framing eyes that seemed to hold the essence of spring. The soft light highlighted her skin, which was smooth and warm like jade. Her cherry-red lips, naturally tinted, appeared alluringly vibrant. Two strands of hair by her cheeks gently brushed against her face in the breeze, adding an extra touch of enticing charm.

"Zhang Aiqing, what is your opinion on the bribery case involving Yang Yiqing?" Zhu Houzong asked calmly

Peng Yue watched as the young girl rode away on horseback, but was abruptly struck on the arm by Zi Ling: "If you keep staring, your eyes are going to pop out of your head." Peng Yue came back to his senses, awkwardly grinning and scratching the back of his head in embarrassment

After Zhang Yong's death, Yang Yiqing personally composed an epitaph for him, commemorating his achievements. He promoted Zhang Yong's younger brother, Zhang Rong, to the position of Deputy Commandant of the Jinyiwei, overseeing affairs in the main hall of the guard. He also elevated his elder brother, Zhang Fu, to the position of Deputy Thousand Household of the Jinyiwei.

I understand, it is not that Your Majesty does not wish to remove him, but rather that Yang Yiqing has interceded on his behalf, and Your Majesty, out of consideration for his feelings, has no choice but to comply. Zhang Cong continued, "Yang Yiqing has left Zhang Yong in power as a eunuch, thereby forming connections with the close attendants. Now that Zhang Yong has passed away and Yiqing has lost his position, at this juncture, Yang Yiqing intends to accept two hundred gold from Zhang Yong's brother. What could be Yang Yiqing's intention? I dare not speculate recklessly!" As Zhang Cong spoke, he bowed deeply.

Sigh... Yang Yiqing let out a long sigh, "Nowadays, it is only your lingering thoughts that keep me restless. I... can only do this, fearing that... my days may be numbered!" Yang Yiqing's tone was filled with an indescribable sorrow

At this moment, Zhu Houzhong was filled with rage. He recalled that Yang Yiqing had previously prevented him from eliminating Zhang Yong, which had already displeased him. Now that Zhang Yong had passed away, Yang Yiqing was also on friendly terms with his brother. Moreover, although Zhang Cong's words were vague, they seemed to imply something. In his fury, he followed the line of thought suggested by Zhang Cong, considering that Yang Yiqing might have ulterior motives.

"Zirui, I have submitted my request for retirement to His Majesty in the court today." Yang Yiqing's expression was somewhat somber