Chapter 5

Aren't those two loyal dogs utterly devoted? Dongfang Fei was surprised but had no intention of probing further—"Qingyi, where did you hear that from?" He was unaware that the guard beside him was well-informed about the news in the capital, surpassing even the gossip of the most talkative aunts.

"Deputy Minister Ruan, I almost let you be deceived by this."

On the first day of the new year in the twentieth year of the Wan Jin era, after the lengthy grand court assembly concluded, the officials' palanquins were already waiting outside the Donghua Gate. Just as Dongfang Fei was about to board the palanquin, he inadvertently caught sight of a familiar figure disappearing into the heavy snow.

I think I need help. She switched to holding the rice bucket with one hand and extended her arm towards him. The snow on the ground was getting deeper, making it difficult for him to walk; he was almost stuck in place, yet he did not call out for help. This man was both similar to and different from the officials she had interacted with that year.

My lord! The Prime Minister!

"Is that your colleague, Deputy Minister Ruan?"

In the midst of the wind and snow, speaking is not easy. The two individuals were continuously accumulating snow on their bodies, and the pure white snowflakes nearly covered the entire imperial city. This beautiful scene only exists in winter, yet he remained oblivious, determined to obtain an answer

So... has he been deceived again

"Deputy Minister Ruan, you mentioned that the Jinjiang project will take another three to five years to complete. If you return to Beijing, will the project not be delayed?"

Esteemed Prime Minister, recently the Emperor has frequently summoned Cao Taixue. Just now the news has arrived that the Emperor intends to draft an edict to confer the title of Daoist to the Cao family priest on a date to be determined next year. Have you heard of this?

He walked to the front of the table, smiled at the somewhat guarded Ruan Donggu, and said

"Your Excellency, the Minister of Revenue, Deputy Ruan, is here to pay his respects to you." Ruan Dong pretended to perform a grand gesture of courtesy, and when he raised his face again, his beautiful appearance remained, yet the childishness had vanished, the boyishness had completely receded, and even the inherent stubbornness within him was no longer visible

She laughed twice, turned around to buy a bucket of rice from the boss, and then walked out of the eatery with Dongfang Fei

Ruan Dong smiled and said, "My lord, please rest assured, I trust the people under my command"

Just as he was thinking this, he suddenly saw a restaurant by the street that had not yet closed. The warm orange glow of the fire pit in the corner illuminated the scene, where people of all ages gathered around the table, chatting and laughing. Almost at first glance, Dongfang Fei spotted the figure of Minister Ruan.

There is nothing to do in the afternoon, and I do not wish to return to the old house in the alley; it is fine to just look around casually

It is not a matter of unwillingness, but of fear. "You are merely an ordinary person, and I am truly disappointed in you."

"Deputy Minister Ruan, I just saw you competing in strength with someone, and I am quite curious about how strong you really are. How about this: if you can defeat me, I will buy a bucket of rice from the boss as a reward."

"I haven't heard of it." Perhaps someone mentioned it, but he was not paying attention

The East does not pause, lazily gazing at the passersby

Who does she want to protect? That strategist? Dongfang Fei gazed at her for a long time, and suddenly instead of holding her arm, he took her icy little hand. She was taken aback, meeting his meaningful gaze.

She hesitated for a moment and shook her head. "Last year, it was my ignorance."

"No," she said decisively. "As long as the project is not completed in a day, the people in that area will not have a peaceful night. Before I return to the capital, I will ensure that the subordinate I take over will not delay any projects. Well, in fact, it is my own inadequacy; my subordinate is a very capable person, and he does much better than I do." After speaking, she smiled somewhat apologetically.

"Sir Ruan, what have you been raised on?" The crowd exclaimed: "Aren't you tired? There are already fifty people!"

Do I need to report to you when I carry out my duties

The heavy snow fell in flurries, nearly obscuring the scenery of the capital. After a moment of contemplation, Dongfang took the umbrella and said, "You all should return now." Seeing Qingyi hesitate, he impatiently added, "Everyone should go back. I will take a stroll around, no need to look for me."

A low conversation could be heard behind me

The paper umbrella cannot shield against the wind and snow, so he simply discarded it and walked slowly through the snow. Clearly, the shop doors have already been closed, and everyone has returned home to celebrate the New Year. What is Ruan Dong doing here?

"So it turns out he is a colleague of Minister Ruan, also from the Ministry of Revenue?" said Uncle Huang

How much effort did Ruan Dongqian actually expend to maintain his original intention and not to have strayed from that idealistic youth he once was

"Ruan Dongqian, Lu Dongqian, hum, what difference does it make?" He chuckled, disregarding the gradually intensifying wind and snow, and walked back to the cabinet without looking back

"Deputy Minister Ruan, is the gift I sent you last year still with you?"

Prime Minister

No, I just saw Lord Ruan walking across the street

I reside in the East-West Alley, in a dilapidated house. Just two days ago, I repaired the roof, though I am uncertain if it can withstand this heavy snowstorm. If it is not too much trouble for you, my lord, please follow me.

"Deputy Minister Ruan, if you wish to deceive me, you must truly succeed in your deception. If you dare to fabricate, your future days will not be easy." Their faces were extremely close to each other. He noticed that not only was her beauty exquisite, with distinct eye color, but her skin was also excessively delicate. He was secretly astonished, his gaze falling on her slightly curved vermilion lips. Before he could regain his senses, with a 'bang', his arm lay across the table.

Ruan Dong cautiously took it, remaining silent.

Indeed. Hastily reporting: "Last year's newly appointed top scholar, Lu Dongqian, although he has entered the cabinet, is wholeheartedly seeking to replace the position of the Chief Minister. In recent months, he has been getting very close to the Grand Tutor..."

Foolishness? Haha, last year you were eager to gnaw on my bones and blood, yet this year you can laugh and talk with me. What about next year? The year after? What kind of appearance will you take on then? Will you go with the flow? What exactly has changed you?

"It only becomes interesting when something goes wrong. Let's go back." His tone carried no authority, yet no one dared to follow him.

The beautiful phoenix eyes stared at her

As the winter snow fell in flurries, Dongfang Feigang stepped out of the Wenyuan Pavilion and walked back to the Cabinet along the eaves covered with yellow glazed tiles. Along the way, an official hurriedly rushed past.

No need. Dongfang Fei said softly, "There is no need to mention him again in the future."

Is it true that Ruan Dongqian is so famous in the capital that everyone knows him? Dongfang Fei felt something was amiss and shouted:

Hidden arrow

Master Ruan, dressed in plain clothes, does not appear to be here for the New Year greetings

The act of coming to relay information is certainly not out of loyalty, but rather out of fear that their backer may lose power. Since he began to interfere in the cabinet's affairs, it is inevitable that one day others will replace the position of the chief minister. They are absolutely reluctant to relinquish power, unwilling to retreat into the background and content themselves with being mere clerical officials. The old bald donkey and Lu Dongqian are merely using each other... ? ... Dongqian, hum, how can two people with the same name be so vastly different... ? In his eyes, Lu Dongqian is nothing more than a dog that flatters and seeks favor, while Ruan Dongqian, however, is... The cabinet, since he began to interfere in its affairs, will inevitably see others replace the chief minister in the future, and they are absolutely reluctant to relinquish power, unwilling to retreat into the background and content themselves with being mere clerical officials. The old bald donkey and Lu Dongqian are merely using each other... ? ... Dongqian, hum, how can two people with the same name be so vastly different... ? In his eyes, Lu Dongqian is nothing more than a dog that flatters and seeks favor, while Ruan Dongqian, however, is... ...

Alright, Uncle Huang, if you lose, you'll be the fiftieth, and Boss Zhang will have to give me a bucket of rice for free! The refreshing laughter was filled with joy, carrying a hint of youthful clarity, pleasant and comfortable.

"All thanks to you, my lord." She smiled and said, "Last year, your words in the dungeon changed my perspective. I have too many weaknesses, so without great power, I cannot protect those I wish to protect."

The East, however, did not agree with this view

Great! Once the construction in Jinjiang is completed, I will be able to report here every day! For now, I just need a bowl of rice. Come on, everyone gets a bowl, let's share the rice.

"Deceive?" She said in surprise, quickly adding, "I would not dare to do so."

Thank you for your humility, my lord she said with a soft laugh

She was momentarily taken aback, raised her head, and saw him smiling warmly as he walked back in front of her

"Do you look down on us people from the capital? You won't even pretend to be a little tired." Others laughed and scolded.

She looked puzzled, yet did not ask further questions

The East did not immediately open its handsome eyes, meeting the surprised gaze of Ruan Dong who had turned around.

"How could you forget? How did you return to Beijing?" Dongfang Feilong furrowed his brows, watching her body that dared not stand straight.

The happiest days for Qingyi were last year

What happened? asked Dongfang Fei

He is eager, truly eager! This sense of anticipation excites him far more than the prospect of Old Bald Donkey's power growing and being toyed with again

He recalled that his first encounter with Ruan Dongqian was on this street in the capital last year. At that time, he thought the young boy was quite foolish for daring to confront a robber with bare hands. Later, he discovered that Ruan Dongqian had a broad mind, being both stubborn and noble. If he had removed this boy's severed finger last year and allowed Ruan Dongqian to continue his reckless ways in the court, perhaps today he would still find some enjoyment in it

I dare not, I dare not! The officials of the Ministry of Revenue are both bowing and crying out in grievance: "Your Excellency, today Prince Kang is hosting a night banquet, and Minister Ruan just happened to return, saying he wanted to broaden his horizons, so, so..." How unfortunate, Prince Kang is the favored son-in-law of the state, and yet he has run into the head of the cabinet.

Without listening further to the Eastern non-verbal communication, he directly walked through the snow towards the Ministry of Rites

"Deputy Minister Ruan, after work... Prime Minister, I did not notice your presence..."

"Boss Zhang, what about me?" Ruan Dong protested with a laugh, "I also like the food at your shop!" Amidst a chorus of exclamations, she effortlessly subdued the man's strong arms.

Adults, the streets of the capital at night have always been restless; in case something happens...

Is this the Ruan Dongqian that he has been thinking about day and night for the past year

How is the flood control in Jinjiang going?" Dongfang suddenly blurted out

As soon as he stepped out of the sedan chair, the oiled paper umbrella immediately shielded him from the strong wind and snow

Today, I shall present you with another item

The delicate white lotus arm gently brushed against him, and he frowned, suddenly whispering in her ear

She was taken aback and quickly replied, "I dare not, Your Excellency."

"Dare not? Look at your worthless self, actually bowing to others. Tell me, what benefits did you gain from attending the night banquet of Prince Kang?"

After taking a few steps, I turned around and saw Ruan Dongqian and another official standing respectfully on the left, bowing and not daring to raise their heads. Has he truly grasped the nuances of such hierarchical etiquette? I should not have been so harsh last year, for it has rendered this young man unable to return to the upright Ruan Dongqian of the past

Speaking of the flood in Jinjiang, this morning I saw Deputy Minister Ruan of the Ministry of Revenue returning to the Ministry... Upon seeing Dongfang Fei's astonished glare, the young eunuch immediately fell silent

The official, Lord Ruan, walked towards Changxi Street

It will take at least three to five years to complete the work. I have taken leave to come to the capital this time, and I would like to return to the Ministry of Revenue to greet the officials... Sir?

"Is this trivial matter also called a hidden arrow? Once a person enters the court, their ambitions grow larger, which is not surprising. Within the cabinet, who does not wish to replace me as the chief minister? Of course, this includes you as well." Dongfang Fei said dismissively.

The nineteenth year of Wan Jin

Sir, would you like me to escort you back to your residence

Stop the sedan

Dongfang glanced at the official and said: "What? Am I hindering you from speaking while I am present? Just speak your mind, or are you conspiring against me with Minister Ruan?"

Sir, it is said that your two sworn brothers have remained in Jinjiang and have not returned to the capital

"Qingyi, you have been by my side for a long time. What is the happiest thing for you?" he casually asked

Ah ... ...

He is of the same faction as the national uncle. Now that the national uncle's power has grown, why did you secretly allow Cao Taixue to enter the palace last year

The smile on his handsome face held no warmth, as he casually glanced at her and raised an eyebrow, saying

Prime Minister ... ...

"Your Excellency, I have an important matter to report." The official at the head of the cabinet, with others as assistants, spoke. The official who was speaking was one of the assistants, and he glanced towards the young eunuch beside him, who was holding the books of the Wenyuan Pavilion, hesitating to state his purpose.

"I will take you to see it, Deputy Minister Ruan. Why are you looking at such things?"

The young woman in blue nodded slightly and walked alongside the sedan chair

An official came out of the Ministry of Revenue, and upon seeing her silhouette, exclaimed joyfully:

Indeed, I am an official of the Ministry of Revenue. Within the court, one recognizes authority rather than individuals; those outside the court are only aware that court officials are at work, yet they remain oblivious to the fierce competition and struggles that occur within that realm.

The court operates as usual without Ruan Dongqian; however, without Ruan Dongqian, there is simply no joy to be had. The court is corrupt, and even the most upright of individuals have succumbed to weakness. His only pleasure lies in waiting for the day when Ruan Dongqian returns to court, so he can personally break Ruan Dongqian's bones and erase the stubbornness and righteousness from his youthful face

He remained silent, gazing at her for a long time, and when he finally spoke, there was no enthusiasm left in his voice

"This official is merely seeing the world..." She suddenly stopped while holding the small rice bucket, turned back to look at the lagging Dongfang Fei, blinked her eyes, her expression slightly twisted, and then finally couldn't help but turn her face away and chuckle lightly. After regaining her composure, she asked in a normal tone: "My lord, do you require this official's assistance?"

"Deputy Minister Ruan, you possess great strength. No, no, let me take on the challenge!"

During the New Year, if one does not stay at home, it means they are going out to pay New Year visits. He has encountered such officials many times.

How can we frighten the common people?" He leaned beside her, who was bowing and scraping, and whispered, "How many high officials and nobles can a commoner see in the capital after so many years? Do you wish to scare them?" He then straightened up and laughed, saying, "Minister Ruan, why don't you introduce me?"

It has been a year... He has also been bored in the court for an entire year. Every time he thinks of Ruan Dongqian's hard character in the dead of night, he always feels a mix of excitement and reluctance. Last year, he should not have let him handle the flood disaster in Jinjiang. Since then, they have been separated from the capital, and even if there is a response, it is merely a document regarding the flood disaster.

Ruan Dongqian? The Ruan Dongqian he knows would never take the initiative to stop him and greet him. The Ruan Dongqian he knows hates him to the bone

East is foolish and dull, not quite understanding... By the way, the yellow book...

A clear yet composed laughter sounded behind him, and Dongfang Fei paused for a moment before slowly turning around

In this matter, I shall take great care to preserve it and would not dare to cause any damage

No, this official merely passed by and chatted with the common people at the rice shop, how could Your Excellency's esteemed self...

What is going on? Who allowed such loud shouting and reckless running in your palace?

Ruan Dong happily laughed and said: "I am in great shape today; if we were to compete again, I wouldn't be afraid!"

Qingyi followed the gaze and looked back, saying: "My lord, should I go and invite Lord Ruan to come over?"

He is merely a minor eunuch; if he has the courage to report, I would be quite pleased indeed

"I only present gifts that are appropriate," he said, gently applying force, causing the fan in his hand to fold in two. "I shall give you this broken fan."

Ruan Dong casually extended his hand and said, "I never carry a money pouch when I go out."

"Deputy Minister Ruan, you have accepted quite a bit of bribes"

No need! The Eastern lady clearly has a smile lingering at the corners of her eyes and brows, yet she is so obsequious towards him, which is quite infuriating. Suddenly, I became interested and thought of visiting your home.

"Just send it!" a middle-aged man patted his chest and shouted, "Anyway, no one is coming to buy food today. Come on, whoever wins against Minister Ruan today, I, Old Zhang, will treat you to a meal for the next month!"

The servant only knows that Minister Ruan has just returned to the capital and reported to the Ministry of Revenue, but is unaware of anything else

She opened her mouth to speak, but after scanning the high spirits around her, she had no choice but to roll up her sleeves again and compete with him

The Eastern official lowered his head to glance at his official robes, and with an amused smile, he said

"Deputy Minister Ruan, you seem quite happy. Since your sworn brother is not in the capital, are you here to celebrate the New Year with the common people?"

Dongfang let out an impatient hum

The happiness of the adult is the happiness of the young. Last year, when you mentioned Lord Ruan, he was delighted, and naturally, the young were pleased as well

She raised her eyes to look at him for a moment and smiled

What does "Deputy Minister Ruan" and "the Chief Minister" mean? Lu Dongqian is a member of the cabinet, while you are an official of the Ministry of Revenue; they are fundamentally two different individuals

"The servant does not dare," the young eunuch hurriedly replied, bending his body as much as possible to express his loyalty, hindered by the heavy book in his arms

No, no, I am merely concerned that the esteemed one may face many obstacles in court, not to mention that hidden dangers are difficult to guard against

Dongfang let out a hum, his gaze falling on her uniform, always feeling that today's Ruan Dongqian was somehow different from that tough young man of last year... What exactly was different... Was it the overly respectful tone, or... Suddenly, his eyes landed on the badge at her waist. In the capital, officials all wore badges for convenience in entering and exiting. Last year, her badge tassel was merely a simple blue-red thread, but this year, it was adorned with a string of small pearls.

After a while, Dongfang Fei looked out from the carriage window and saw that the snow was falling heavier and heavier. Most of the shops on both sides of the street had already closed, and although it was not yet evening, the sky was already a dull gray.

I told you not to mention Ruan Dongqian, didn't I

Dressed in a moon-white cloth shirt, with a black belt tied around the waist, there is no difference from last year, except that the figure is more slender and graceful, and the black hair, which is tied up, has grown a bit longer.

"Yes." The young woman instructed the bearers to lift the sedan chair and then asked, "Sir, shall we return to the residence?"

Qingyi, can you guess how many people are waiting in front of the Eastern Mansion to pay their New Year’s greetings? Every year is the same, and the days hold no surprises. Let’s take a few laps around the city, and when the snow becomes too much to walk through, we can head back.

His right arm ached faintly, and even though he had witnessed her tear off the iron chains with one hand last year, he could hardly believe that her strength was truly so terrifying. He maintained a calm demeanor as he adjusted his sleeves, though his arm felt as if it might split in two; he nonetheless forced himself to act as if nothing was amiss

In the not-so-distant east, she closes her phoenix-like eyes and quietly listens to her clear and pure laughter.

Dongfang was not staring at Ruan Dong, and asked, "Is that so, Minister Ruan?" Seeing her face show difficulty, he disdainfully curled his lips, waved his sleeve, and turned to leave.

Indeed. Ruan Dong, taken aback, said: "Does the esteemed sir still remember this official?"

Yes

"The adult, Qingyi, was heard on the street"

The Eastern figure smiled lightly, glancing at Ruan Dongqian, who barely reached his shoulder.

During the grand court assembly, all the civil and military officials were present, but Ruan Dongqian had taken leave and was not required to attend. He felt suspicious and recalled that in recent days, Ruan Dongqian had been frequently entering and exiting the Ministry of Revenue. However, he had long since dismissed this individual and had not paid particular attention to him.

I will do what I say! Minister Ruan, you have eaten my food, and I guarantee that you will report to me, Old Zhang, every year when you return to the capital!

I want to pretend to be tired, wouldn't that make the uncles let their guard down? I can't bring myself to deceive... Oh, Boss Zhang, are you really giving me this bucket of rice?" She was filled with surprise and did not hide it at all

Ruan Dong hesitated for a moment, then followed him into the restaurant. He exuded an air of elegance, and with his official attire, the common people quickly stepped aside. She hurriedly stepped forward to reassure them with a smile, saying: "He is my colleague Dongfang, here to see me"

"Deputy Minister Ruan, I truly thought I could not fathom you any longer. Last year, I saw you unwilling to bow your head; this year, you have learned to flatter and ingratiate yourself. Yet, in the dining hall, you still resemble that young man from last year. Now tell me, Deputy Minister Ruan, if it were last year's Ruan Dongqian, would he walk alongside me on the street?"

Has Ruan Dongqian returned? Why didn't I see him at the morning court?

Oh? How is it that those two dogs are not following him?

Uncertain whether it was the rekindling of excitement, when Dongfang Fei saw her joyful smile, his heartstrings trembled slightly. Upon seeing her expression change as she was about to approach and bow, he let out a soft grunt and walked over slowly.

Dong Fang, with an unhappy expression, said: "Aren't you afraid of causing trouble by not being on-site to supervise?" In the past, Ruan Dongqian would always be vigilant and on duty; when did he become no different from the officials in the court?

"Deputy Minister Ruan, if you have the ability, then take me away."

Last year? The voice in the car carried a hint of surprise. I cannot recall any good fortune you encountered last year