Chapter 1: Midsummer in Jinling      1

Chapter 23 The Pacification of Calamity (Jingnan) Begins      12

Chapter 1: Midsummer in Jinling

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During the 5th year of Hongwu [], Prince of Yan, Zhu Di [] set out on a Northern military expedition, soundly defeating Köke Temür [] at the Kherlen River.

When the forces of the Yuan Dynasty withdrew in a panic, they slaughtered a group of nomadic tribespeople by the riverside. Hearing a child’s incessant cries coming from the Tujue’s Tuoba tribe grounds, Zhu Di followed the sounds of its cries and acquired a boy infant. He named the child Tuoba Feng [].

During the 8th year of Hongwu, Xu Tiande [] recalled his troops and passed through the sacred Kongtong Mountains [] where he encountered a wandering Taoist Priest.

The old Taoist invited him to a game of chess, and during the course of their game, Xu Da [5] received a letter from his family that had been sent from more than a thousand li away: His concubine had given birth to a baby boy. Xu Da was delighted at having a son at his advanced age, and hence he requested the old Taoist to bestow a name on his child.

Thus, the child received the name Xu Yunqi [].

During the 13th year of Hongwu, Zhu Yuanzhang executed Hu Weiyong [].

During the 17th year of Hongwu, Zhu Yuanzhang killed Xu Da [].

During the 23rd year of Hongwu, Zhu Yuanzhang executed Li Shanchang and purged his three clans [].

During the 25th year of Hongwu, Zhu Yuanzhang executed Zhou Dexing [].

During the 27th year of Hongwu, Zhu Yuanzhang executed Fu Youde, the Duke of Ying [].

During the 28th year of Hongwu, Zhu Yuanzhang executed Feng Sheng, the Duke of Song []. All six of the founding dukes of the Ming dynasty have perished.

During the 25th year of Hongwu, Crown Prince Zhu Biao [] passed away.

The plums are yellow and ripe [], it is midsummer in Nanjing.

The main entrance to the House of Dancing Smoke [] was tightly shut, and only the side entrance had been left open for people to pass through. There was a horse carriage parked in the small alley. The music of stringed and woodwind instruments frequently sounded from the upstairs level, and one could hear the peals of feminine laughter and cheerful chatter.

Yunqi moved his body to the side and turned after the end of the alley. He effortlessly flicked the dust off his black sleeves and raised his head towards the second storey.

“……Secretary [] drink another cup.”

“…not so loud…don’t attract the attention of those lackeys []…”

Yunqi stepped onto the narrow alley wall with one foot, and then kicked off the roof of the horse carriage as he leaped upwards. He clambered up the red columns of the “House of Dancing Smoke”, and as lightly as a falcon ascended to the second story. After which he curved his body forward to decrease his momentum as he landed steadily on one knee.

Raising his hand, he seized hold of the dangling sash on top of his imperial bodyguard’s hat to arrest its incessant swaying. He held his breath.

Yunqi entered the room in a flash. On the top of the door lintel was engraved two characters, “Chun Lan []”. He swept a glance at the surroundings, upon hearing the sound of footsteps, he tucked and rolled, hiding under the bed.

A short while later, a man appeared bearing a wine cup in one hand, embracing the House of Dancing Smoke‘s most popular entertainer, Chun Lan with the other. They laughed and conversed merrily as they entered the room. Chun Lan smiled coquettishly as she said,” The Secretary [] should return home after drinking this cup. The regulations pertaining to a period of National Mourning [] are in effect, should the Da-ye [] of the Jinyiwei catch you in the act…”

“Not a problem, not a problem…” The man responded drunkenly,” Who cares whether it is the Crown Prince or the Emperor who’s dead – this official is merely of the lower 6th grade []… Come, come, come, let’s chat on the bed…”

That man exhaled slowly, as he embraced Chun Lan and they rolled around on the bed [].

Yunqi lay under the bed, listening to the unceasing creaking sounds emitted from the bed boards. He was extremely bored as he waited for a while until that man had concluded his activities and began to snore. Yunqi shook his sleeves absent-mindedly, swinging out a little knife with a blade as thin as tinfoil. Without even glancing at it, he felt towards the bed.

From his long and elegant fingers appeared a 2 cun [] wide blade, which he lightly brushed against the other man’s neck. The other man woke up at once, covering his neck as he gained consciousness.

He yelled loudly several times as blood spurted out uncontrollably from his neck. He struggled to get off the bed, but lacking the strength, he could only fall heavily back onto the bed.

On the bed was Chun Lan, who had unexpectedly been sprayed with a faceful of blood. She clutched at her dudou [] to cover her chest as she sat up, crying out shrilly,” It’s you again! When did you get here?”

Yunqi extricated himself from under the bed, and arched his hands in greeting, replying,” While you were playing the qin.”

Chun Lan hurriedly pulled her clothes to the ground, as she raged,” You…Xu Yunqi! You’ve already killed three people on Lao-niang []’s bed this month! Aren’t you done yet?”

Yunqi took out an official notice and tossed it onto the table, as he responded,” During this period of National Mourning, those who linger in the disreputable areas of flower-strewn streets and willow alleys [] – the Emperor has said that anyone detecting this crime can execute the offenders on the spot. I can’t let him off. The space for the name on the document is still blank, when the people from the Ministry of War arrive to identify the corpse later, you can just fill his name in.

Chun Lan narrowed her eyes as she sized up Yunqi for a long while, before suddenly replying,” This grand-aunt here [] had originally wanted to ply him with wine, and then save his life. Who did this fellow get in the way of?”

Yunqi smiled at this and waved his hand without speaking. He threw a small silver ingot on the table, and said,” Woman, don’t ask anything more. This money here is for you to replace the bedsheets. I’m not coming anymore this month.”

Chun Lan spat out angrily,” It’s already the 28th! If you come again, how is Lao-niang to do any business!”

Yunqi whistled once before leaping off the railing. The lapels of his black gilt-edged robe fluttered in the wind as he vanished without a trace.

Chun Lan again waited for another while before deciding that the person must have already fled quite a distance. Having stewed in her emotions for a long time, she let loose, screaming,” Someone’s been killed!”

Yunqi walked along the western streets and carelessly broke off a tree branch, swinging it and knocking it around. He entered the palace via the side entrance, returning to the residence of the Jinyiwei – the small, red-lacquered building that was draped in white mourning cloth.

During the Hongwu era, the Jinyiwei were arranged into groups of eight, with six teams working in shifts. With the commander and deputy commander, there were fifty members in total.

These fifty guards were all tall in stature and of handsome appearance. They dressed in fine brocade and lived within the great courtyard. Aside from the times that they were on duty, they were constantly at Zhu Yuanzhang’s beck and call.

It was just after noon, and the guards who hadn’t yet taken their shifts had just awoken. They were currently in the courtyard washing their faces. Upon seeing Yunqi’s return to the courtyard, they quickly greeted him.

“Good morning, Deputy Commander.”

Yunqi replied carelessly to the greetings, then talked to a guard who sat atop a tall colonnade with his arms around his knees. Yunqi said,” Rong Qing! Why are you still wearing the feiyufu? Come down, and change to the black [] one.”

The Imperial Bodyguard named Rong Qing smiled at this,” What did you go out to do this early in the morning – there’s a big wet patch on your sleeves?”

Yunqi swung his sleeves, leaving a few tiny red splatters on the bluestone-tiled floor.

Rong Qing immediately frowned slightly as he asked,” You killed someone again?”

Yunqi didn’t answer him, instead replying with another question,” Where’s Lao-Ba []”

Rong Qing,” He’s soaking himself in the pot.”

Yunqi asked in a gloomy manner,” When’d he go in?”

Rong Qing moaned and groaned, “He just stepped inside, then you returned. The flames are still burning vigorously, he won’t be out for another hour.”

Yunqi stood there and contemplated the matter for a bit. He’d planned to wait a little longer, but his sleeves were covered in blood and he had no choice but to walk towards the small building east of the courtyard.

The interior of the bathhouse was filled with dense clouds of steam. Yunqi removed his shoes and untied his belt, he then shrugged off the black guard’s uniform and tossed his hat aside. A large purple-black bruise was revealed, visible above his white underclothes.

With his back to Yunqi, Tuoba Feng lay half-immersed in the bathing pool. His scarred back, the color of antique bronze, was exposed above the water’s surface. Tuoba Feng spoke coldly,” I couldn’t find you in the morning. So it was because you went out. You reek of blood, who did you kill?” Yunqi took off his white clothes, balled them up, and hurled them in front of Tuoba Feng. A pale blush rippled across his features as he continued to step into the hot water. He sighed and said,” The Secretary of the Ministry of War, a lower 6th-grade official. He entered a brothel during the National Mourning period…”

Tuoba Feng asked,” How much?”

Yunqi replied,” Twenty taels of silver. At least I waited for him to finish up before I made my move. Letting him die on under the little belly of the most popular girl in that brothel didn’t wrong him.”

Tuoba Feng turned his head to the side and looked at Yunqi assessingly, he asked doubtfully,” Who was so generous as to offer that much money?”

Yunqi replied,” The position of Secretary may be junior, but it has ample opportunities for one to enrich themselves. So many people are eyeing it. There were five or six people waiting eagerly for him to die – it was absolutely essential for him to fall to misfortune.”

Tuoba Feng said,” Bring the soap over and sit over here. Your back is soaked with blood, Shixiong [] will wash it for you.

At this time, only the sounds of water could be heard. Both men’s breathing had quickened due to the hot steam filling the bathing area. Tuoba Feng hugged Yunqi, setting him down between his own legs. He rubbed his fingers over Yunqi’s back for a moment, before saying,” The listener gets a share too.”

Yunqi replied languidly,” Merely washing my back is worth five taels of silver?”

Tuoba Feng didn’t respond. Yunqi smiled as he suddenly spoke up in a severe tone of voice,” Commander-daren [], may I request that your hands not grope about in such an unruly manner.”

Yunqi was just about to get up when his throat was suddenly encircled by Tuoba Feng’s strong and sturdy arm. His breath was frozen in his chest, as he lifted his head to look at the wet ceiling.

Tuoba Feng puffed a breath of hot air by Yunqi’s ear, as he whispered,” Also take the opportunity to whore a little?” Yunqi elbowed him sharply, but Tuoba Feng neither avoided it nor did he give ground. It hit him under the center of his ribs, and he grunted in pain, loosening his grip on Yunqi.

Yunqi coughed several times before replying,” I’ve exerted myself fully already, come earlier next time.”

Tuoba Feng laughed at this as he followed Yunqi out of the bathing pool. They stood in front of the mirror. Tuoba Feng’s physique was like that of a vigorous and athletic cheetah, his muscles were filled with strength and a sense of explosive force. Nevertheless, Yunqi was only focused on putting on his inner clothes and didn’t even glance over at him.

Tuoba Feng’s long and slender fingers parted as he pressed them against Yunqi’s back, before wrapping them around his waist. He said,” The Jinyiwei all bear scars, it’s only your skin that is unblemished. It’s not good to behave so arrogantly, beware of earning yourself a beating with the punishment rods.”

Yunqi stared defiantly at the image of Tuoba Feng’s nude body in the bronze mirror, raising an eyebrow as he jeered at him,” Can you bear to do that?” Having said this, he reversed his hand to jab Tuoba Feng’s eyes with his fingers.

Tuoba Feng loosened his grip in order to meet his attack. Yunqi then flung that blood-stained guard uniform into the wooden bucket, inclining his head before turning to leave.

The Jinyiwei was formerly known as the “Ceremonial Luan [] Division”, and had also been called the “Brocade Imperial Guards Commanding Division []. Zhu Yuanzhang had personally established it during the first year of his reign without a determined structure of members under its jurisdiction. The first two batches of Jinyiwei guards were small in number but had been screened and selected in accordance with stringent criteria. Out of a hundred candidates, only one or two would be selected; all of them men below the age of twenty-five. Martial arts, literary talent, appearance, and physique were the four integral criteria, none of which could be compromised with.

The Jinyiwei had numerous duties and responsibilities within the palace; not only did they serve as the guard of honor in front of Zhu Yuanzhang’s palace, but they also took direct orders from the Emperor. They could move about the palace without being announced. There was a lot of sneaky, underhanded activity involved with this sort of official position.

In order to prevent the ‘tomcats from stealing fish’, Zhu Yuanzhang set up a special rule in place. During the tenure of a Jinyiwei:

1. He cannot enter a brothel.

2. He must not exchange amorous glances or behave flirtatiously with the concubines of the Imperial harem.

If any were to commit these two offenses, they would be punished by having their nine clans exterminated.

There were so many filthy things going on outside the palace. The Founding Emperor would naturally have his own considerations which he couldn’t speak of.

It was understandable. If an unnamed Jinyiwei caught some unspeakable ailment and spread it to a concubine of the Imperial Harem, the Emperor might unknowingly turn over her plaque and select her to spend the night… Thus becoming a super spreader – one will become ten, ten will become a hundred. In no time, the three thousand beauties of the Imperial Harem would suffer from this hidden disease. Perhaps even the senior ministers of the Imperial court, and their wives might be put at risk.

As a result, all the guardsmen, regardless of age, were prohibited from engaging in sexual contact with women. After they retire from their official position, to put it succinctly – whether it’s to go whoring or marry a wife, they can do as they so please.

This was great suffering on the part of these young and vigorous guardsmen, particularly so for their twenty-year-old Commander [] who stood at the forefront.

A group of men living together in the courtyard all day long; Other than waiting for the Emperor to suddenly take it into his head to carelessly arrange some marriage, matching them with a wife [] – there really wasn’t anything else to look forward to.

Of course, Tuoba Feng didn’t care about a wife either.

Yunqi could still put up with the situation, after all, he was only 17 years old. At this time, he’d already changed into a clean set of guards’ uniforms and had something hidden within his sleeves. He cut through the garden, moving towards the Rende Palace [36], only stopping upon arriving at the Crown Prince’s study.

Through the window pane, one could vaguely make out that there was someone seated in the room. That person was currently engrossed in writing something.

Yunqi knocked three times on the window, and enunciated,” Imperial Grandson.”

Zhu Yunwen lifted his head from his work and exclaimed,” Yun-ge’er []!

Yunqi was the son of Xu Da who was of the same generation as Zhu Yuanzhang. In addition, Xu Da’s eldest daughter was married to Zhu Di. So in terms of seniority, Zhu Yunwen should call him ‘Uncle []’. However, as their ages were similar, Yunqi allowed Zhu Yunwen to address him as he pleased. He replied,” I’ve already bought that knickknack that you wanted.”

Zhu Yunwen was about to go open the door, but Yunqi said,” Just take it from me through the window.”

Zhu Yunwen asked, “The Loyal and Righteous Heroes of the Water Margin []?”

Yunqi replied,” I’m illiterate and don’t know if this pesky thing is some Water Washes Boat, you have a look and see if it’s the right book or not.”

Zhu Yunwen smiled at this, receiving the book and flipping through it. The pages of the book were yellowed, evidencing its age, and proving that it was indeed a reproduction of the original tale left behind by the folk storytellers of the Yuan Dynasty.

Of course, Yunqi could read. He’d just been trying to coax Zhu Yunwen and make him happy, thus took out another small wooden chest and handed it to him, saying,” I also bought some crystal pieces [] from the Western Regions. When you’re reading at night, hold it under the lamp and look through it to prevent damage to your eyes.”

Zhu Yunwen who had suddenly experienced his father’s death and was now facing his father’s funeral wasn’t able to pull himself together. He offered his thanks to Yunqi in a listless manner.

Yunqi noted his state and knew that the former wasn’t in a good mood, so he said,” When I went out today, I encountered an amusing matter. Should I tell you about it?”

Having said this, from the outside of the window, Yunqi said,” This morning, I went to the House of Dancing Smoke to catch a Secretary of the Ministry of War That fellow, even with death impending, was still huffing and puffing as he embraced a girl, tossing and turning, rolling about here and there…”

Upon hearing this, Zhu Yunwen showed keen interest, and asked,” Did you capture him?”

Yunqi replied in mock seriousness,” He was so difficult to capture… Listen, when your Yun-ge arrived, that Secretary was sprawled naked on the bed…” As he spoke, he rolled up his sleeves and stretched out his hands. Facing the open window, he extended his ring finger of both hands, having them represent the two people as he demonstrated,”

“That man rolled over like this, and this is how he held down the most popular girl…”

“One tugging with both arms… and the other person like this… two legs clamping around…”

Zhu Yunwen was amused by this and smiled.

Yunqi withdrew his hands back into his sleeves, and smiled politely,” It’s good to smile. Don’t hold it in, it will harm your body in the long run. I’m off. Don’t let the Grand Tutor [] see that book. Ge isn’t so free to take the rap for you.”

Yunqi was about to leave when he suddenly heard someone say from some distance away,” The period of National Mourning hasn’t yet ended, what is this ruckus?”

Yunqi muttered to himself: This is not good. He hurriedly motioned to the Imperial Grandson to make himself scarce- go back to hide the contraband. Only to see a man striding over from the end of the corridor leading in from the courtyard, a mourning hemp hood on his head, as he berated him,” Who let you come to the Crown Prince’s study?”

That person just so happened to be the current Imperial Court’s Grand Tutor, Huang Zicheng. Whenever Zhu Yunwen met Huang Zicheng, he behaved like a mouse catching sight of a cat, he was so frightened that he knocked over the brush rack and ink slab in the study with a series of clattering sounds. Yunqi instead took a few steps forward, pausing outside the study and arching his hands in a salute as he smiled at Huang Zicheng,” Greetings [] to the Grand Tutor.”

Huang Zicheng was over thirty years of age with a lean appearance. At this time his face was flushed red with rage as he scolded,” It’s you again! Without a good reason, the Jinyiwei are forbidden to enter the Imperial Harem. In addition, the period of National Mourning mandates that you wear black clothing. Xu Yunqi, what is your purpose for coming to see the Imperial Grandson in such colorful finery?”

Yunqi smiled and said,” Please quell your anger, Grand Tutor. The Commander is currently on duty and should be at the palace. This humble one was just about to relieve him and came to visit the Imperial Grandson on the way. Why don’t I accompany the Grand Tutor over?”

Huang Zicheng had been put into a difficult and embarrassing situation []. It was such a trivial matter. In any event, he wouldn’t dare kick up a fuss about it in Zhu Yuanzhang’s presence. Huang Zicheng spoke again,” The Imperial Grandson mourning his father’s loss is as painful as gouging out one’s flesh and carving one’s bones. Sorrowing due to loss is merely a part of human nature. If one does not grieve or mourn, one would be unfilial! Why do you need to worry about it? Where is the Deputy Commander? Call your Deputy Commander of the Jinyiwei over.”

Yunqi thought for a moment, and replied,” How unfortunate! The Deputy Commander resigned from his post a few days ago and returned home for matchmaking.

Huang Zicheng spoke angrily,” Don’t try to deceive me. Who is the newly appointed Deputy Commander? I will not let today’s events go easily. You can wait here together with me while we send someone to summon…”

Yunqi spoke very earnestly, “The new deputy commander is…”

Huang Zicheng,”?”

Yunqi,”…me”

Huang Zicheng,”……”

Huang Zicheng inhaled deeply several times, and just as he was about to open his mouth to teach Yunqi a lesson, several Jinyiwei passed by. Coincidentally, it was Rong Qing and three other Jinyiwei walking together side by side. They inclined their heads towards Yunqi in respect.

”Hello, Deputy Commander. Hehe.”

Yunqi said,” Be more serious!”

The group of Jinyiwei unanimously put on serious expressions as they chimed in,” Hello, Deputy Commander. Hehehe…”

From the room came the sounds of Zhu Yunwen desperately trying to hold back his laughter. Yunqi spoke,” This lowly one will get going now, together with the Grand Tutor…together we will go meet the Emperor?” Having spoken, he hurriedly put his arm on one of the Jinyiwei’s shoulders and slipped away.

The group of imperial bodyguards turned around a corner and laughed. Rong Qing asked,” Why was the long-winded Grand Tutor trying to teach you a lesson?”

Yunqi responded with derision,” He was lonely.”

As they were speaking, the group arrived at the Chamber of State Affairs []. Tuoba Feng stood outside the chamber and glanced at the sundial. Upon seeing Yunqi, he was startled and asked,” You…why didn’t you change to the black clothes?”

It was only at this time that Yunqi was jolted to wakefulness by this. His black clothes had been stained by blood and hadn’t yet dried after being washed. He’d actually worn his feiyufu over – had it not been for Tuoba Feng being the one on guard outside, entering the chamber in those clothes would have resulted in him being beaten to death on the spot. Having nearly committed a grave mistake, he hurriedly asked,” What time is it? I’ll go back and borrow a set to wear.”

Tuoba Feng replied,” It’s wei-shi [], you don’t have enough time.” Having spoken, he drew Yunqi to an area hidden behind the building pillar and reached out to unbutton his own collar.

Yunqi understood at once and loosened his own belt. The two exchanged their guard uniforms behind the pillar.

Tuoba Feng took the feiyufu but didn’t put it on. He lowered his head to help fasten the black belt for Yunqi, before telling him,” The Emperor’s mood isn’t good today, and I fear that he’ll want to flog the Remonstrance officials at court [] later… you must be attentive…”

Yunqi said,” A public flogging in court again?”

Tuoba Feng replied,” It had to do with the Crown Prince’s posthumous title – it was merely a matter of adding or removing a few words… It’s a Remonstrance official named Zhuang Lu, his family just had someone send over some silver, and requested that the person handling the flogging be a little more lenient, and not injure his ligaments and bones…”

Yunqi jeered,” Have them look for whoever accepted the money.”

Tuoba Feng’s shoulders tensed up, and his voice was hoarse as he lowered his head slightly. He said,” Shixiong accepted the money.”

Yunqi and Tuoba Feng looked at one another in silence. Tuoba Feng’s figure was slender and tall, a good half-head taller than Yunqi. He was dressed in his inner unlined clothes, as white as freshly fallen snow below the antique bronze skin of his neck with its clean lines.

Their bodies were very close to one another, and even the rhythm of their breathing was attuned. Their breaths mingled together, as their lips almost came into contact with one another.

The leather drum sounded lightly, signaling that the Jinyiwei were to change shifts. Tuoba Feng relaxed his grip and watched as Yunqi entered the Chamber of Political Affairs.

The eight Jinyiwei’s footwork was orderly and uniform. Within three steps, they had arrived at their positions. The original guard on duty bowed, before turning towards the columns and exiting from the side entrance.

Yunqi inhaled gently, his eyes downcast [] as he stood to one side of Zhu Yuanzhang’s dragon desk, watching Zhu Yuanzhang’s every move out of the corner of his eye.

Zhu Yuanzhang’s hair and beard were entirely white, and his eyes were clouded with age. It was evident that his son Zhu Biao’s death had affected him greatly.

Having to bury and grieve the death of his child [], finally revealed this callous and merciless monarch’s true state. Yunqi glanced at him, feeling that this was merely an old and frail man in his twilight years.

Zhu Yuanzhang lifted his brush and circled something on the list of people to be executed by beheading, before coughing several times.

The Eunuch Supervisor hurriedly presented a handkerchief, also coming over to gently rub Zhu Yuanzhang’s back in a soothing motion.

Within the hall, there were two senior officials kneeling with their backs straight; one was a Remonstrance official, and the other was a Civil official. Both their expressions were cold, and it appeared that they’d already knelt on the ground for several hours. There were large patches of sweat on the backs of their official robes. More beads of sweat dripped along their cheeks, falling to the ground.

Zhu Yuanzhang merely turned a blind eye to this as he took a sip of his tea. He said,” Yunqi.”

Yunqi felt a chill in his heart as he responded,” This subject is present.”

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

Translator’s Note:

Some of the dialogue is more archaic and concise, so it’s pretty challenging to translate. I’ll ponder on it a bit more, and maybe take a stab at Ch 2 to decide if I will continue to translate this novel. There are also a lot of court terminology and historical figures involved, so there will probably be a lot of footnotes.

Author’s Note:

This thing that is called history, is like a little girl that anyone can dress up.

Don’t take it too seriously, just take it as a novel.

Chapter 23 The Pacification of Calamity (Jingnan) Begins

If there are no upright officials in the Imperial Court, and there are treacherous and rebellious dissidents within coercing the Emperor, the Princes must raise an army to punish and quell them, in accordance with [1].

–Zhu Yuanzhang:  [[2]]

“What 清 君 侧 [1]?”

Xu Wen buried her head in a book as she flipped through it, and replied unconcernedly, “ These are rules set by the former Emperor himself. If there is no integrity behind the name,  what is said will seem unreasonable; if what is said is unreasonable, then nothing will be accomplished [3]… Since you intend to ‘attack the tyrant and alleviate the common people’s suffering [4]’–  you’ll need a basis for justification.”

Zhu Di smiled, “This is not so; it is not attacking the tyrant to alleviate the common people’s suffering [4]. At this time, the four seas are at peace [5] and the Son of Heaven is in place – what manner of suffering do the people face? This husband is learning from Kong Rong [6] and my aspiration is ‘to pacify calamity [7]’.”

Xu Wen laughed as beautifully as a sprig of fluttering flowers, as she said, “Don’t spout nonsense. How can one compare himself to that fellow? ‘Rong [6] had limited talent with far-reaching ambitions, he didn’t achieve success [8]’. Did you return this sentence to your Teacher [9]?”

Zhu Di squinted as he replied slowly, “Furen ah…” Translator SassyStrawberryDOTcom

“Reporting to Wang-ye, General Wang of Huizhou [10] is outside the residence requesting an audience.”  A servant entered the room and said.

Zhu Di was thrilled as he exclaimed, “They’ve finally arrived!”

Xu Wen didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, “Lao-Shiqi [11] has really invested a great deal of capital [12]this time, even lending you his personal guards.”

Zhu Di left with a gust of wind, and in a moment, he came hurriedly sprinting back, “ Furen, guess how many subordinates did Zhu Quan summon with that letter?”

Xu Wen gave Zhu Di a half smile. Zhu Di exclaimed, “Ten thousand people! Tonight this Prince will start flinging bricks! I’ll fix that Zhang Bing and Xie Gui and show them how powerful your husband is – – “ As he spoke, he rolled up his sleeves, and rubbed his fists, itching for a fight.

Xu Wen said, “Wait, wait! You can say what you want, but let Lao-Shiqi go first. Imprisoning your younger brother in your own home, how can that be justified?”

Zhu Di said, “ Furen don’t bother yourself with that. Our family’s obedient [13] little Quan-er has always liked being bound.”

Xu Wen didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, as she cried out angrily, “How can I not bother? All the matters in this residence are managed by Laoniang! That fellow who eats twelve large baozi still hasn’t been sent away, and now there’s an additional mouth to feed!”

“Zhu Quan, that fellow only drinks first-grade Laojunmei [14] tea, and the snow-melt water [15] used to brew it with must have been stored the year before. If he wants to eat pastries – it must be a tribute cake [16]. When feeding him a slice of watermelon, the seeds must be picked out first! He’s so difficult to wait upon – how is one to live like this [17]?

Zhu Di grimaced as he said, “If I allow Lao-shiqi to return to Huizhou at this time, I fear that he’ll only encounter the Imperial Envoys who have come to announce the reduction of the feudatories, and the Duoyan Sanwei [18] will be seized and incorporated into their own forces. The loss of soldiers is a small matter, but if Zhu Quan enters Nanjing – his fate is fraught with grim possibilities… That crowd of acrimonious and pedantic people around Yunwen are full of wicked ideas [19]. Amongst my brothers…”

“…Zhu Quan and I have the best relationship, how can I not bother?”

Zhu Di smiled apologetically, “Let him go for now. Help me review this soldiers’ registry once; Furen has always had an eidetic memory, remember the names of the sergeants [20] and accompany me to the military camp tomorrow, please.”

Zhu Di tried every possible method to persuade her, “When we get back I’ll buy a stick of Tanghulu for you.”

Xu Wen spat out, “Who eats that kind of plaything that only little girls like.”

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

By this time the exterior was dark and the lights in the residence were lit, Xu Wen still hadn’t eaten her dinner. She held a brush as she ruminated over the book of soldiers’ names. She set an elbow on the desk, supporting her head as she dozed off.

Tuoba Feng stood by the table and stretched out his neck to peer at that soldiers’ registry.

That soldiers’ registry listed the Prince of Ning’s personal guards – a veritable sea of humanity.

Xu Wen lifted her head and met the gaze of the approaching Tuoba Feng, as she asked coldly, “What is it? You’ve nothing to do so you’re here to bother this Grand-aunt [21]?

Tuoba Feng clenched his fists, bowed respectfully, and asked excitedly, “Grand-aunt [21], are we going to rebel yet?”

Xu Wen inhaled deeply. Read on the original site and not on aggregators.

Tuoba Feng displayed the eagerness of a monkey as he questioned again, “When are we going to rebel? I want to go fetch Yunqi.”

“…” Translator SassyStrawberryDOTcom

Xu Wen placed a hand on her forehead, and violently flung down the brush, screaming hysterically, “Zhu Di! Quickly come and sort out this evildoer [22]for this wife!!!”

The afternoon of that same day, Zhu Quan’s personal guards totaling 10,000 arrived at Beiping in grand style.

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

However, the scenery in Nanjing was entirely different at this time; the winds swept through the towers, heralding the rising storm in the mountains – as they foreshadowed events to come [23].

Yunqi sat within the carriage, meditating quietly to himself. This matter about the reduction of the feudatories [24] – should I want to do something about it, what can I do about it? I’m not a minister of the Imperial Court; my words do not have any weight before Zhu Yunwen. No matter how high the position of the Jinyiwei is, no matter how trusted they are, their jurisdiction is limited to the palace grounds, when they stand within the magnificent golden palace – he is merely a stake under someone’s command.

The Jinyiwei haven’t accumulated sufficient power to be able to influence the Emperor’s decisions. If he could be like Jiang Huan, who was able to speak a few words before Zhu Yuanzhang… Yunwen and himself…Jiang Huan and Zhu Yuanzhang… Yunqi’s eyebrows knit together; What if he asked Jiang Huan to step forward again? No, Fang Xiaoru and the rest would definitely not give the Jinyiwei any face.

“We’ve arrived?” St0len Translation.

Sanbao lifted the carriage curtains a crack, and smiled as he answered, “The Donghua Gate [25].”

Yunqi unexpectedly discovered that gazes towards himself from the soldiers on guard duty were now different. They no longer quivered with fear when they glimpsed the Jinyiwei. Instead, there was an almost imperceptible sense of gratification; the sort of “sitting by and looking on as a tall building collapses” delight in another’s misfortune.

The entirety of Nanjing was under martial law. In comparison to when he’d left the capital city, there were now triple the number of sentries patrolling the city.

Yunqi instructed the carriage driver, “Don’t return to the palace. Head toward Plum lane first.”

Sanbao asked, “I’ll bring the carts filled with the things back to the palace first?”

Yunqi shook his head, saying,” No, you accompany me for a bit, I’ll take you to my Niang-jiu [26]’s home.”

When Sanbao discovered that Yunqi’s ‘Niang-jiu’ ‘s home was actually a place named the ‘House of Dancing Smoke’, all the fine hairs on his body stood on end.

Chun Lan cried out, “ Xu Yunqi! You returned to Beiping but you didn’t bring any novel or fun playthings for Laoniang. Yet you have the cheek to come to ask for information?”

Yunqi sat down and declared, “Gu-niang [27], serve the tea. Da-ye wants to whore you.”

Chun Lan, “…” Read on the original site, sassystrawberryDOTcom

Chun Lan glanced at Ma Sanbao and conveniently took the opportunity to pour tea for him. She picked up her handkerchief in an orchid finger gesture [28],  her tone displeased, “ You’ve played so much that you’ve lost your head! Yesterday, bearing the Imperial edict, the six divisions of the armies left from the four different city gates – north, south, east, and west. This news has been spread throughout the city causing much uproar…”

Yunqi said, “He doesn’t whore. Don’t frighten Sanbao.”

Chun Lan gnashed her teeth as she reached out to pinch Yunqi. Yunqi hurriedly avoided her whilst laughing, and asked again, “Who’s been goading them on?”

Chun Lan considered for a moment before responding, “Huang Zicheng, Qi Tai, Li Jinglong, and Fang Xiaoru – these four fellows jointly submitted a written petition.”

Sanbao’s mouth gaped slightly. He had the vague misconception that he’d entered the wrong place. Wasn’t this place a brothel? Why did it feel like he’d somehow absentmindedly entered the Privy Council [29]?

Yunqi seemed to have guessed Sanbao’s thoughts, and grinned slightly as he explained, “You had no idea that the world’s most well-informed place is none other than the House of Dancing Smoke.”

Sanbao didn’t fully understand, and Chun Lan whispered again, “Let’s not talk about this first. I received the news three days ago, hired a carriage, and sent someone to Beiping to report to you, Wang-ye and Furen. Did you receive it?”

Yunqi shut his eyes and shook his head, answering, “Perhaps we missed one another on the road. Since the Emperor wants to keep me in the dark about the reduction of the feudatories, he’d have calculated the dates exactly – how would he let someone leak out the news?”

Chun Lan rested a hand on the red railing, casting a coquettish glance down at the horse carriage that had stopped outside the lane. Yunqi asked, “Who’d you hear it from?”

Chun Lan replied leisurely, “The Ministry of War’s Vice Director, the Secretariat’s Office Manager Li… everyone who came said that your family is about to be toppled.”

Yunqi smiled, “My family has long fallen, only leaving an empty shell since –  there’s no need for that crowd of fifth-grade or sixth-grade Daren to bother themselves with it.”

Chun Lan spoke again, “ The Supervising Secretary even said that the Emperor intends to withdraw the Jinyiwei organization – you’d best ease off a little.”

Yunqi felt that something was amiss, as his voice shook, “What? You sure you listened carefully?”

Chun Lan didn’t respond. She glared mock angrily at Yunqi, and as if intending to make a scene, cried out unreasonably, “Then what’re you going to do? Xu Yunqi, you agreed to marry Laoniang, when the time comes don’t shirk your responsibility like a scoundrel.”

Yunqi cried out angrily, “Tell me the truth! This is important! If the Jinyiwei are to be withdrawn, Laozi’s enemies are spread throughout the Imperial Court – I expect that it won’t be long before I lose my head!”

Chun Lan was taken aback when she realized the severity of the matter. She stuttered, “Then…then…that Huang Yili… the youngest gongzi of the Huang family… he was speaking nonsense, speaking nonsense. Aiyo, Commander Xu, Ai, You are a noble person [30], you’ll be fine, you’ll be fine.”

Yunqi waved his hands, “Alright, alright, that’s enough! Da-ye did not say I was going to marry you, I only said that I’ll find someone to marry you off to…”

Chun Lan replied, “It’s all the same. You decide what’s best.”  She got up after speaking, intending to send off her guests. The Spring night is worth a thousand pieces of gold [31], therefore she hastily went to receive her customers.

The master and servant duo left the House of Dancing Smoke. Yunqi smiled as they walked, “Sanbao, my Jie asked you to keep an eye out for any gu-niang by my side, did I guess correctly?”

Sanbao nodded awkwardly, and corrected him, “It wasn’t Wang-fei, it was Wang-ye.”

Yunqi was rather surprised but didn’t think too much about it. He explained to Sanbao, “Chun Lan wants to marry someone, but doesn’t want to really marry someone.”

Sanbao’s expression indicated his lack of understanding.

Yunqi didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, as he chuckled at himself, “Look what nonsense I’m spouting… Chun Lan wants to follow a man in the status of a wife, but doesn’t want to actually be someone’s wife.”

Sanbao was surprised, “The women from this House – I fear that their reputation wouldn’t be too good.”

Yunqi quipped, “That’s not necessarily the case. The mother of the wang-fei and I, was the number one beauty Wen Yuehua – she originally came from this House, otherwise, why would I refer to it as my niang-jiu’s home. ”

It was only at this that Sanbao came to his senses, and busied himself confessing and apologizing for his blunder. Nonetheless, Yunqi was open-minded and generous about it.

“In any case, she just desires a fake marriage, no giving birth to children and all that. She’s accumulated enough savings from entertaining customers that she just wants to live happily on her own.”

Sanbao sighed, “Once a girl has reached a certain age they should be married, it’s also not a viable plan to always remain an old gu-niang.”

Yunqi scratched his head and laughed, “For a man to marry a stonefish [32] and raise it at home – it’s no easy task.”

As he spoke, he abruptly recalled Xu Da and Wen Yuehua. If he seriously evaluated his own father – he was definitely someone of importance; Xu Da’s position was not comparable to that of an ordinary man. When the Great General Tiande’s armies entered Nanjing, he actually took the most popular girl from the House of Dancing Smoke as his concubine – he must have encountered a lot of obstacles on the way.

If he gets the chance, he must be sure to ask his Da-jie how their parents got together.

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

While speaking, they arrived at the palace. Yunqi presented his waist token, and communicated to the gatekeeper, “This fellow is new to the Jinyiwei, and there wasn’t enough time to craft his token.”

The gatekeeper glanced distrustfully at Yunqi. Yunqi then smiled as he slipped some silver coins into the gatekeeper’s hands. That gatekeeper spoke reluctantly, “Don’t flout the rules next time.”

Yunqi nodded, arched his hands, and said, “Thanks to these two xiongdi then.”

Witnessing this scene, Ma Sanbao couldn’t help grumbling to himself – Isn’t Xiao-jiu-ye the Emperor’s favorite? Why is he in such miserable straits?

Yunqi behaved as if he hadn’t noticed, and stated, “First we’ll get you familiarized with the routes; the palace is really large, and there are several places that are off-limits…”

“Who goes there! Wandering about and trespassing in the palace!”

They were met with a man leading dozens of Meridian Gate guards as they hastily came forward with five or six leashed hunting dogs; the dogs were menacing with their masters’ backing – upon catching sight of Yunqi and Sanbao, they began barking murderously.

Ma Sanbao had merely assumed that these were Yunqi’s subordinates and that the Jinyiwei had come to receive them. Unexpectedly, these people stood before them but were extremely rude as they ridiculed, “I was wondering who it was, so it was Commander Xu returning to the palace. Only a few days away and you can’t even recognize where you live? What are your intentions in breaking into the Imperial Gardens?”

On normal days, let alone the guards of the palace, even when the court ministers met Yunqi they would still nod in greeting, or greet him with a respectful “Commander Xu”. Looking at the current situation, although he’d only been away from Nanjing for two months, the formerly powerful Jinyiwei whose influence had once surged upwards towards Heaven were now as beaten down as a floundering dog in water [33]. Only Heaven knows how many people were currently gloating over their misfortune.

After some deliberation, Yunqi smiled faintly, “Commander Huyan, hope you’ve been well? Yunqi grew up in the palace, and glimpsing these things reminds me of the people associated with them, hence I wanted to stroll around a bit more. If one day I’m relieved from my office, I won’t be able to see them anymore. I’ve given offense, and will return now.”

These words were spoken by the Meridian Gate Commander Huyan Ke. His eyes darted stealthily onto Ma Sanbao as he continuously assessed him from top to toe, and asked, “Who is this young fellow? Commander Xu has another lover [35] now?”

Ma Sanbao pushed up his sleeves in anger. Yunqi held him back imperceptibly, as he smiled, “ Commander Huyan, this statement is incorrect. What do you mean by another lover? Yunqi doesn’t understand your words, tomorrow he’ll be so bold as to ask the Emperor.”

Whether Yunqi had indeed fallen from favor was yet to be seen, weighing the pros and cons, if he indeed were provoked to bring his complaint to the Emperor – it would be difficult to deal with. Huyan Ke had no alternative but to let Yunqi off at this time, saying, “The Emperor has summoned you to present yourself.”

Yunqi thought that it would be just right if he brought Ma Sanbao before the Emperor and had Zhu Yunwen consent to his presence – then they wouldn’t need to sneak about. He followed Huyan Ke through the Meridian Gate and waited outside the Imperial Study.

Zhu Yunwen was currently in the midst of a discussion of state affairs with a gaggle of senior ministers, therefore Yunqi and Ma Sanbao were obliged to wait quietly outside the Imperial Study.

Yunqi noticed that Ma Sanbao appeared rather uncomfortable, and quietly consoled him, “The Emperor’s temper is very good, don’t be afraid.”

Ma Sanbao replied affirmatively “Yes,” but his heart was ruminating on another matter. Word had it that the Jinyiwei were domineering and behaved arrogantly within the Imperial Palace, ranking first amongst the 22 guard divisions. Yunqi is a Commander and can look disdainfully at others in the capital city –  He is the head of the almost one thousand guards within Nanjing.

But now it seems that this famed glorious reputation is entirely nonexistent; on the contrary, he resembled a dog that had been abandoned by its owner – in order to meet the Emperor, he had to wait outside.

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

It was currently noon. Before the Imperial study bloomed a mass of luxuriant flowers. The spring sun shone down warmly on them. Yunqi stared at the flower garden in a daze; his heart thinking of Tuoba Feng – when he’d been ten years old, they’d often come to roll amongst the flowering shrubs, or they’d sneakily run into the Imperial Study and lie behind the bookshelf to take an afternoon nap.

The sunlight would shine through the skylight in the Imperial Study, the rays converging into a beam of light with fine dust motes shrouded within as it fell onto Little Tuoba Feng’s face.

Little Yunqi would carefully study the wolf’s head tattoo on Little Tuoba Feng’s back, manipulating him such that his limbs sprawled out in all directions, then turning him over face down again.

The sound-asleep Tuoba Feng was completely unguarded towards Yunqi; when they’d been young it had been so, and now that they’d grown up it was still the case.

Yunqi was extremely curious; when the two of them slept together – How did Tuoba Feng identify that it was himself who was touching him? What if by chance, it was an assassin who wanted to kill him?

It seemed as if he possessed an innate instinct that allowed him to differentiate between safety and danger.

Little Yunqi scrutinized Little Tuoba Feng’s fast-asleep features and took the initiative to kiss his eyelashes. He was hugged by Little Tuoba Feng as the sounds of Zhu Yuanzhang’s voice spread to his ears.

Regardless of the time, Zhu Yuanzhang’s voice had always been icy cold – Imperial Court…Northern Yuan…Kill…Extermination of the nine clans…

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

Huang Zicheng exited the study and shut the door. He cast a glance at Yunqi, his gaze eloquent and meaningful as he smiled provocatively.

“Grand Tutor Huang, I trust that you’ve been well,” Yunqi spoke indifferently.

Huang Zicheng grunted coldly as he raised his hand and drew it across his neck, miming a beheading, before folding his hands behind his back and departing.

Yunqi put away his smiling expression, before licking his lips and saying, “Sanbao, you wait here. If the Emperor happens to summon me, casually find an excuse to stall him for a little, and I’ll be right back.”

Sanbao agreed. Yunqi watched Huang Zicheng’s back view as it disappeared behind the corridor, and hastily sprinted in the opposite direction.

Yunqi cut through Fengtian Hall [36], sprinting towards the front of the hall. Once he’d reached the top step, he performed an exquisitely graceful sideways drift and hid behind a pillar. He listened for the footsteps and counted within his heart – Three, two, one…

He then extended one of his legs outward.

The clear skies were vast, an expanse of cloudless blue.

Outside Fengtian Gate, several teams of Imperial guards were practicing ceremonial drills. In full sight of everyone present, Grand Tutor Huang, like a vicious dog flipping over, was sent flying down from the forty-nine steps.

Huang Zicheng screeched miserably, “Ah– -”

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

“The Emperor summons Yun-ge’er into his presence.” A eunuch came out of the study, and emphasized the three words “Yun-ge’er”. Noticing that there was only a youth that he didn’t recognize standing outside the study, he frowned slightly and asked, “Who are you?”

Ma Sanbao’s eyes gleamed as he lowered his head. He raised his voice somewhat as he responded, “Gonggong [37], Commander Xu has gone to rest. He had me wait here for the summons, this lowly one will go call him.”

“No need!” From inside the Imperial Study came Zhu Yunwen’s voice with a trace of anger. Through the layer of the door and windows, he questioned again, “ Is Yunqi not feeling well?”

Ma Sanbao didn’t respond.

The sound of footsteps rang out, and Ma Sanbao and the eunuch both knelt down. The eunuch replied, “To reply to the Emperor, Commander Xu has made an exhausting journey, presumably he’s also…”

Sanbao didn’t dare raise his head, only to hear Zhu Yunwen’s slightly displeased tone of voice, “Never mind. Let’s go.”

The eunuch hastily got up and accompanied Zhu Yunwen to leave, the guards inside the study also withdrew in succession.

Ma Sanbao sighed quietly. Read on SassyStrawberryDOTcom

Yunqi hummed a song as he swiftly rushed [38] back. He stuck his head into the Imperial study and asked Sanbao quietly, “Did the Emperor summon me?”

Sanbao smiled as he answered, “He didn’t.”

Yunqi nodded and folded his hands in his sleeves as he continued to wait.

As the sun gradually moved towards the west, Yunqi waited for a very, very long time. The door to the Imperial Study was still shut, all the way until dusk and the lamps in the Imperial Palace were lit. Sanbao stood until his legs were unbearably sore. Yunqi sighed helplessly, and abruptly caught sight of a eunuch leaving the room and closing the door behind him.

Yunqi pulled at that young eunuch and asked, “Where’s the Emperor?”

The young eunuch was surprised, “Commander Xu came back? The Emperor already left.”

Yunqi, “…”

Yunqi pressed his lips together, unable to guess what Zhu Yunwen was thinking, and had no choice but to bring Sanbao home with him.

Translator: 🍓SassyStrawberry | http://www.sassystrawberry.com

The Jinyiwei’s great courtyard was cold and quiet, with the several carts of goods that Yunqi brought back with him placed by the door.

Winter was gone, and Spring had come; this courtyard was the picture of verdant Spring scenery. There were still a few tattered kites by the walls, with paper fragments from the New Year firecrackers that hadn’t yet been swept away – they’d been rained on by the spring showers and fanned across the floor, adding to the air of desolation.

Yunqi shouted, “I’m back, brothers.”

“Oh, my Ye [39] – -!” Rong Qing led a herd of Jinyiwei as they rushed out hastily.

“You’ve finally returned!”

“Yun-ge’er!” Don’t read on aggregat0rs.

This loud shout startled the guards still in their rooms, as the doors opened upstairs and downstairs in unison, and dozens of people raced out only to cling onto Yunqi without letting go.

Numerous incomparably familiar faces all spoke one after another, and some of them clamored indignantly. It was evident that while Yunqi had been absent, the Jinyiwei had been suppressed to a miserable state. There were even some people whose eyes reddened as they spoke, unable to control their emotional states as they clenched their fists – startling Ma Sanbao into backing up slightly.

Yunqi smiled, “Sanbao went to keep a lookout. Everyone find a spot to sit down. One by one, you can speak now.”

“You’re still in the mood to smile!” Tu Ming voiced his frustration, “These days have really been intolerable.”

Yunqi soothed, “We’re all in the same situation, I just stood for the entire afternoon outside the Imperial Study. Everyone’s brothers here, let’s not behave as if we’ve encountered enemies, alright?”

As he said this, Yunqi abruptly realized something was amiss. He asked seriously, “Who was on duty outside the Imperial Study, this afternoon? Why didn’t I see any Jinyiwei?”

Rong Qing sighed, and answered, “The Emperor wants to withdraw the Jinyiwei and revise the palace staffing structure. All the brothers are currently idle and have had nothing to do for the last three days.”

“By the Emperor’s orders, the forty-eight of us are not to leave the courtyard to avoid stirring up trouble. Yun-ge’er, you teach us what we should do. Our lives and future are all in your hands.”

Yunqi had already prepared in advance for the worse; it was the reduction of the feudatories which would lead to him falling from favor. Nonetheless, Zhu Yunwen would presumably take into account their former friendship and not make life difficult for the Jinyiwei.

But now it appeared that Zhu Yunwen had restricted the Jinyiwei’s movements, only waiting for him to return… Could it be that the tides of fortune have turned, and the general situation has really deteriorated to this extent?

Even before Yunqi had managed to come up with anything, from outside the courtyard came the sound of, “The Emperor has arrived – – !”

“…”

The entire courtyard of Jinyiwei was stunned as all of them turned to look toward Yunqi.

Yunqi quivered with excitement, but regardless, he couldn’t find it within himself to be happy. He cried out flusteredly, “Rong Qing, go open the door, everyone kneels down! To welcome the Emperor! Sanbao, go into the room to hide! Quick!”

The red lacquered door was pulled open, revealing Zhu Yunwen’s pale and fatigued visage.

“These subjects greet the Emperor!”

Yunqi led the entire courtyard of Jinyiwei to kneel on one knee as they clasped their hands in salute.

Zhu Yunwen sighed but didn’t speak. He gazed at Yunqi for a while, before asking, “Beloved subject [40] Xu, where is the ring that Zhen gifted you?”

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Translator’s Note:

The 1st year of Jianwen (1399)

- During the 4th month of the 1st year of Jianwen:

Zhu Bai, the Prince of Xiang (12th Prince) commits suicide by self-immolation.

Zhu Fu, the Prince of Qi (7th Prince) & Zhu Gui, the Prince of Dai ( 13th Prince) are deposed due to criminal behavior.

- During the 6th month of the 1st year of Jianwen:

Zhu Pian, the Prince of Min is deposed for crimes.

From the timeline of the Ming Dynasty The Jianwen Era – contains spoilers.

Notes

[←1]

qīng jūn cè (清君侧) It refers to eliminating cronies and rebellious ministers around the monarch. A political term. It has been used by rebellious ministers to usurp the monarchy, and there have been four such military operations in Chinese history, but only one succeeded.

[←2]

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Midsummer in Jinling      1

Chapter 23 The Pacification of Calamity (Jingnan) Begins      12