The splendor of the Red Chamber, the power that reigns supreme.

Chapter 113 Ximen Qing, Sun Erniang, and Wu Song [Bonus Chapter, Requesting Monthly Tickets!]

Ximen Da Guanren toyed with his wine cup, glancing sideways at Wang San Guan'er, and asked in a low voice, "Is your mother... alright after she went back?"

Wang Sanguan was taken aback, then quickly stood at attention with his hands at his sides, head bowed low, and replied:
"Father, Mother is alright? Oh, when I came back last night, she was already asleep. But when I woke up this morning, I heard from the maids that she seemed to have caught a chill last night. Her face was pale, and she was barely breathing. She was taking in little air and exhaling a lot, and she kept moaning. They said she had some kind of ailment."

"This morning, I went to the main room early to pay my respects. Hey, Mother, you looked radiant and full of energy. You seemed to have become ten years younger. You were even chuckling from time to time! But you said that you felt a little lazy and didn't want to move. You just wanted to lie on the couch and rest."

The official nodded: "That's good!"

Although no one else could hear what the two were saying, such a scene of unequal status was like a thunderclap in the eyes of all the guests!

Although the Wang Zhaoxuan Mansion has declined somewhat in recent years, with few visitors and carriages, the golden signboard of "descendant of the Prince" is still there, and the third-rank imperial lady is still there!

Those were legitimate imperial relatives and nobles! Now, this Lord Zhao Xuan, who was protected by his ancestors, was treating Ximen Qing, a wealthy merchant from Qinghe County, who made his fortune by lending money to officials and running a herbal medicine shop, with the respect due to a son.

A suppressed buzz of discussion immediately arose in the room. Although no one dared to speak loudly, they were all thinking about something.

The banquet began, and to show off his lavish lifestyle, the high official summoned several renowned courtesans from Qinghe County to sing and entertain. In an instant, the air was filled with the melodious sounds of stringed instruments, the clinking of glasses, and the sweet, soft songs mingling with the aroma of wine and meat, creating a warm and intoxicating atmosphere in the deep mansion.

Li Jiao'er and Gui Jie'er, aunt and niece, were naturally among them. Gui Jie'er had just entered this grand mansion in Ximen and was seeing the carved beams and painted rafters, the numerous servants, the delicacies laid out on the table, and the people coming and going all the way from the county's prominent hangers-on and wealthy households. Her heart was already churning like a dumpling in boiling water.

She stole a glance at her master, who sat in the main seat, looking dashing and confident. He was dressed in a magnificent robe and jade belt, his face radiant, chatting and laughing with several respectable men. As Gui-jie watched, her gaze became fixed on him, biting her lower lip, her eyes glued to him as if she could see through his embroidered clothes to the tender intimacy under the moonlight—

Suddenly, I seemed to hear the clatter of hooves again, and my body felt as if I were sinking into that broad, warm embrace once more.

The night breeze caressed my face, and the hot breath of Ximen, carrying the scent of alcohol, brushed against my neck. I could almost smell the coarse scent of incense and sweat from that day, which made me feel numb all over and I could barely stand after dismounting.

Looking at the overwhelming wealth and grand mansion before her, she realized she would be a living person here in the future! Gui Jie felt as if her bones had become lighter, and a smile involuntarily appeared on her lips. Even the tone of her singing had a sweet tremor.

Watching her niece's infatuated state, Li Jiao'er glanced coldly at Ximen Qing, who sat smugly in the main seat. A bitter taste rose in her throat, a complex mix of emotions swirling within her. She silently sipped the cold wine in her cup; the liquid slid down her throat, tasting even more bitter than gall. She couldn't help but sigh softly.

"Aunt, why are you sighing all of a sudden?" Gui Jie'er had just finished singing a song and sat down next to Li Jiao'er. Seeing her gloomy expression, she asked in a low voice.

Li Jiao'er put down her wine glass, a thin layer of tears welling up in her eyes, but a self-deprecating sneer tugged at the corner of her mouth:

“Gui’er, look at this Ximen mansion… it’s so grand. Your aunt… should also be a person in the inner courtyard of such a mansion. Although I can’t compare to Wu Yueniang, the wife of an official, once I enter the house, I will be a respectable ‘second wife,’ adorned with gold and silver, with servants at my beck and call!”

"That little Prince Zhao Xuan, the third official, still wants to seduce me? Bah! He's dreaming! He'd better obediently grovel at my feet and call me Second Madam. In the future, I might even have tea and watch plays with that third-rank noblewoman, Madam Lin, on equal footing... How glorious and respectable that would be!"

Her voice trailed off, each word piercing the heart: "But what about now? Aren't I just like you, forcing a smile and singing songs at this banquet to entertain these men? Still that prostitute leaning against the door, selling her smiles and being scorned by everyone! This figure and this voice are all the 'respect' I've accumulated in my life!" As she spoke, her fingertips dug fiercely into her palm.

Gui Jie felt a little guilty upon hearing this, and seeing the regret and resentment in her aunt's eyes, she timidly said, "Aunt... this, this is all my fault... if it weren't for the fact that my mother and I had persuaded you to receive that Wang Sanguan, things wouldn't have come to this!"

Li Jiao'er shook her head abruptly, interrupting her. Her eyes were vacant as she stared at the noisy banquet before her, as if watching a dream that had nothing to do with her: "It's not your fault, nor is it entirely Mother's fault... It's my own fault... It's my own fault for being weak and having a short life! I can't blame anyone else!"

"If I had been able to stay true to myself back then, and had stayed in the brothel after being taken in by the wealthy man, instead of deceiving him and agreeing to those few...those few times when he was so generous with his money! Instead of coveting those silver dollars and fine satins, I wouldn't have ruined my reputation."

"One lucky break leads to another, and you'll be even less likely to sway my mind with a few words from you and Mom to entertain this Wang Sanguan... On this path, one wrong step leads to another, and once you want to turn back, it's already an abyss!"

She tilted her head back and downed the remaining wine in her cup in one gulp. The spiciness stung her eyes, forcing out two streams of tears. Her voice was filled with endless desolation and resignation: "So the old saying is true—'A clay pot is bound to break by the well!' We people, whose fate is 'water,' are born to be clay pots by the well. We can dodge the first day of the month, but we can't dodge the fifteenth. Sooner or later, we'll be smashed to pieces! This is all a predetermined fate, we can't break free, we can't escape it!"

"Fate is like a brocade that has already been woven. How many feet or inches each person will receive, when they will rise in glory, and when they will fall into ruin, are all predetermined. You may struggle desperately and seem to have jumped three zhang (approximately 6.6 meters) far, but when you look back, you've only managed to do a somersault in the palm of fate!"

"Ridiculous, utterly ridiculous!"

Inside the Ximen residence, after several rounds of wine and five courses of food, Ximen Qing grew increasingly smug amidst the gazes of the crowd, which ranged from awe and flattery to scrutiny.

He raised his glass and looked around, his voice booming: "Gentlemen! I am honored to have you all gathered here today to celebrate the sworn brotherhood between Ximen and Zhao Xuanxian! This is just a simple meal and some wine; please accept my humble offering! Everyone, please enjoy yourselves to the fullest and don't leave until you're drunk!"

Xiao Wang Zhaoxuan immediately stood up, raised his wine cup high with both hands, and despite having two bruised eyes, his voice was slightly tense but very clear as he echoed, "What my godfather said is absolutely right! Today is the greatest fortune of my life! I am so grateful to my godfather for taking me in, it is as if I have been given a second life! I toast to my godfather and all my distinguished friends!" After saying this, he bowed deeply and then tilted his head back and drank the wine in his cup in one gulp.

The Earl and others in the audience cheered and applauded loudly!
Such an occasion!

The powerful and influential people of Qinghe County gathered together, and those who were unable to attend due to official duties sent their close representatives.

County Magistrate Li, Prefect Jing, Commander He, Militia Commander Zhang, Judicial Commissioner Xia, Garrison Commander Zhou, and other powerful figures in Qinghe County all sent their close associates to sit in the front row.

These hooligans and hangers-on were quite discerning; they didn't dare to scream like the brothel owner.

The astonishment, envy, jealousy, and speculation of other celebrities and powerful figures were like drops of boiling oil, making a crackling sound.

"My God... this... is this real?" A wealthy businessman nudged an acquaintance next to him, his eyes almost popping out of their sockets.

“Absolutely true! I heard that yesterday even a third-rank noblewoman personally brought her son, Zhao Xuan, with generous gifts to our door, and kowtowed to acknowledge him as her father in front of many people!”

The person next to him lowered their voice, their tone filled with disbelief.

"This Master Ximen... does he have connections to the heavens? Even someone like him..."

They all gasped in astonishment. "Tsk tsk, even if Zhaoxuan Prefecture is down on its luck, it's still a giant! Ximen Qing has really climbed the social ladder! From now on... he's going to soar to great heights!"

"Tsk tsk tsk, incredible! Master Zhao Xuan actually recognized Ximen the great official as his adopted son! Such an extraordinary honor, Qinghe County has not seen anything like it in decades!" Li, the pawnshop owner, clicked his tongue, his old jealousy already boiling over.

He recalled how his family had donated money to become a student of the Imperial Academy, spending it like water. When they met minor officials, they still had to put on a face full of wrinkles and say things like "This lowly person deserves to die" and "This humble servant is showing respect."

Look at Ximen Qing. In the blink of an eye, he has become a "young master" of an official family. Although his "official status" is still nominal and he is still a merchant at heart, this status is a high branch that people like him who are rolling in the stench of money could not obtain even if their ancestors' graves were to emit auspicious smoke for eight generations!
Compared to them, Ximen Qing only needed to straighten his clothes, stand up straight, and bow slightly to the official in charge, or even one of higher rank, saying calmly, "I have met you! This student has met you!" and that would be the end of it!
These few words, though seemingly insignificant, weighed a ton in the ears of these merchants! The difference between them was beyond what silver could buy. The dignity of shedding their "lowly" merchant status, the respect of finally being able to stand up straight and hold their heads high—just thinking about it made their very bones ache, itching and aching, making them restless and unable to sit still.

The guests, regardless of their true thoughts, could only cheer and raise their glasses in celebration. Congratulations and flattery flooded towards Ximen Qing, who sat at the head of the table.

The news spread like wildfire. Before the banquet at the Ximen residence had even ended, the news that "Master Ximen of Qinghe County has adopted Wang Zhaoxuan as his godson" had already spread like wildfire throughout the streets and alleys of Qinghe County.

In teahouses, taverns, and brothels, everyone was talking about this. The power of Master Ximen was instantly shrouded in a mysterious and terrifying aura in the hearts of the people of Qinghe.

But a few days later...

As Mrs. Lin's correspondence was delivered to the capital.

This news spread with astonishing speed into the elite circles of the capital. Although the Zhaoxuan Prefecture had long been a marginalized figure in these circles, its inhabitants rarely visited, the fact that a prince, even in his decline, still had a third-rank noblewoman who had recognized a local wealthy merchant as her godfather was, in any case, an extremely novel and illogical occurrence!

"Which Qinghe County? Ximen Qing? Who is this man?" A duke who was listening to a folk song put down his snuff bottle and frowned.

"I heard he was a wealthy man from Qinghe County, Shandong? He owned a herbal medicine shop? That guy from Zhaoxuan Prefecture... has he really fallen so low that he's recognizing such a merchant as his father?"

One of the retainers, chatting idly with his other guests, spoke with a tone full of disdain and incomprehension: "Something's definitely fishy! That Ximen Qing must have extraordinary abilities, either he's incredibly influential, or… he has some kind of powerful backer?"

Some shrewd young nobles began to speculate. Suddenly, the name "Ximen Qing" stirred up a small ripple of curiosity and disdain within the elite circles of the capital.

The conspicuous title of "Xiao Wang Zhaoxuan's adoptive father" brought the name "Ximen Qing" into the ears of the powerful and wealthy in the capital for the first time in an extremely bizarre way.

Even Zhai Qian, the head steward of Cai Jing's mansion who was used to seeing all sorts of things, heard such gossip.

A thought suddenly struck him, and he remembered the wealthy man who had recently sent him a very satisfactory "door bag"—it was none other than Master Ximen from Qinghe County! Such a coincidence caused even the shrewd steward to hesitate, unsure whether he should report it to his master.

Cai Jing was standing before a large rosewood painting table, holding a fine wolf-hair brush, fully dipped in thick ink, about to begin his work. The ink was from Huizhou, top-grade soot ink, fragrant and creamy as ointment, with a single, plump drop of ink clinging to the brush tip, about to fall. Cai Jing frowned slightly, as if he found the ink too thick.

With a furrowed brow, a maidservant dressed in a gossamer-thin, light green gauze dress approached with quick, delicate steps. She was beautiful, with cherry-red lips as tender as newly blossoming petals. Reaching the table, without waiting for a command, her knees buckled, and she silently knelt on the scarlet velvet carpet. Raising her head slightly, she parted her lips, her breath sweet as orchids, and carefully placed the ink-stained brush tip into her mouth!
With a slight movement of her cheeks and a deft flick of her teeth, she nibbled away the excess ink with practiced ease. Her movements were so fluid and skillful, as if she had rehearsed them a thousand times. A few drops of ink stained the inside of her lips, making them appear even more luscious and inviting, yet also conveying an indescribable sense of submission.

Once the brushstrokes were no longer sluggish or dripping, she lowered her head and eyes, covered her mouth with her sleeve, and silently retreated into the flickering shadows of the candlelight, like a fine vessel that had been used.

Another maid, already waiting, dressed in the same style of pale yellow gauze dress, immediately and silently took her place like a shadow. She stood respectfully beside Cai Jing, holding her breath and waiting for her master's next command. She lowered her eyes and remained as quiet and unassuming as the warm, smooth jade paperweight on the table, her existence seemingly only meant to be reached when her master needed her.

From beginning to end, Cai Jing's gaze never left the Xuan paper on the table, as if the erotic yet humiliating scene just now was nothing more than brushing away a speck of dust from his brush. His expression was calm, even with a hint of satisfaction with the perfect state of his brushstrokes at that moment. With a light flick of his wrist, he began to write with flowing, dynamic strokes on the snow-white paper.

The room was filled only with the scent of ink, the rustling of brushstrokes across paper, and the barely audible breathing of the maidservant who stood there like an exquisite doll. This extreme extravagance and disdain for others were ingrained in his very being, becoming an unmistakable part of his every move.

Cai Jing looked up and saw Zhai Qian standing below the hall with a strange expression, so he casually asked, "What's wrong?" Zhai Qian dared not hide anything, so he stepped forward and briefly told him about the rumors circulating about Ximen Qing, as well as the matter of him giving gifts before.

A meaningful smile appeared at the corner of his lips: "Heh...how interesting." His gaze was as still as a deep well as he looked at the steward. "This small merchant from Qinghe County...his money is a bit more 'refined' than that of ordinary people? You...have you opened a crack in the door for him?"

Zhai Qian's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly bowed: "Reporting to your master, I... I have already told him the date of your birthday."

"Hmm." Cai Jing nodded slightly, picked up another piece of plain paper, as if he had only dealt with a trivial matter, and said in a calm tone, "I understand. On my birthday, remember to remind me to take a look at the gift list he sent..."

"Yes, sir," Zhai Qian replied, bowing his head, already understanding. The door was now firmly open; how wide it would be depended entirely on the "etiquette" of the high-ranking official from the west gate of Qinghe County.

At this moment, Master Ximen had no idea how much shock and astonishment this matter would later bring to the nobles of the capital.

The lively atmosphere of the banquet receded like the tide, leaving behind only a room full of messy cups and plates and the greasy aroma of leftover food.

Under the eaves of the side hall, the moonlight was as cool and clear as water.

Zhou Tong stood with his hands behind his back, gazing at the splendidly dressed and spirited Ximen Qing amidst the bright lights and bustling crowd in the hall. He then surveyed the ornately decorated Zhao Xuan Mansion, filled with servants, and after a long while, he sighed softly, with a complex and indescribable emotion, to Yue Fei, who stood beside him:
"Pengju..."

Yue Fei listened quietly with his hands at his sides, his gaze also falling on his junior brother in the hall.

"I originally thought he was just an ordinary merchant, and that I, as his master, taking on a nominal disciple was just to fulfill my chivalrous spirit." Zhou Tong's voice was low, but one could still hear the shock beneath the vicissitudes of his travels. "But I never expected... this junior brother of yours has truly made me underestimate everyone!"

He paused, as if to process what he had seen and heard over the past few days, and the disbelief and amazement in his voice grew even stronger:
"At my age, having wandered the martial world for so long, I've seen it all. Kings and generals, outlaws, wealthy merchants... what haven't I seen? But someone like Qing Guan, a mere merchant, has managed to climb up to a family like the Zhaoxuan Prefecture, become close friends with a third-rank noblewoman, recognize her as a godparent, and even adopt her as his son... Such scheming and climbing techniques... I've never seen anything like it in all my travels! I've never even heard of it! It's truly... an eye-opener!"

His tone turned resolute: "Let's go. Go inside and say goodbye to your junior brother. We've lingered here for several days; it's time for us to leave."

The master and apprentice had already packed their belongings. Zhou Tong was still wearing a slightly worn blue cloth robe, while Yue Fei carried a simple bundle. They entered the hall, which still reeked of the noise and revelry of wine and meat, their figures incongruous with the opulent and luxurious atmosphere.

"Master! Senior Brother!" Upon seeing the two enter, Ximen Da Guanren immediately sprang up from his chair, a warm smile spreading across his face, and hurried to greet them. "The banquet has just ended, and I was just thinking of having a word with Master and Senior Brother!" "Qing Guan!" Zhou Tong interrupted him, waving his hand. "No need for such arrangements. Your senior brother and I have come to say goodbye."

Ximen Qing's smile froze: "Master! This... what are you saying! Didn't we agree to stay for a while longer? Have I neglected Master and Senior Brother?"

“Junior brother, don’t think too much!” Yue Fei stepped forward, his voice clear and firm. “My mother has been waiting for me for a long time, and my return has already been delayed. I dare not stay any longer. I originally said I would stay for three days, but three days have passed. My master and I have made up our minds, and we will set off immediately.”

The official sighed, "Master! Senior Brother! It's getting dark! At least we can stay for tonight! Tomorrow morning, I'll personally prepare a carriage to take you to the dock!"

Seeing the sincerity in the official's eyes, Zhou Tong patted the hand that was gripping his arm and looked at him deeply, his eyes already showing the affection between master and disciple: "Qing Guan! People in the martial world often come together and part ways, working from dawn till dusk. Your feelings are appreciated by your master and your senior brother."

"Everyone in this world is struggling in their own sea of ​​suffering. It is fate that we two were able to accompany you for a while. When we sober up, we will naturally row our own boats and cross our own rivers. This place of wealth and honor is not a place we two can linger in for long. You... take care of yourself."

"Master..." Knowing he couldn't keep her, Ximen Da Guanren hurriedly called out to Yue Niang.

Wu Yueniang hurriedly came from the inner room with the prepared travel expenses, addressing him as "Old Immortal Yue Ye" repeatedly.

The official took it and insisted on giving it to the two of them: "Master, you must accept it! If you don't, how can I live with myself!"

Seeing his sincerity, Zhou Tong no longer refused and nodded to Yue Fei. Yue Fei stepped forward, took the gift, hooked it over his shoulder, and bowed again, saying, "Thank you for your kindness, Junior Brother. Take care."

All living beings under heaven, whether you are an emperor or a general or a commoner, whether your life is spectacular or quiet, after peeling back the layers of splendor, filth, power, humility, joy, and sorrow, at the very core, it all boils down to the two words: gathering and parting!

Meanwhile, in the Ximen mansion, where farewells were taking place, not long ago, during a joyous banquet, a reunion was also taking place in an old two-story building on Zishi Street in Qinghe County.

Wu Song rushed back to Qinghe County, weary from his journey. Pushing open the familiar low door, he saw his elder brother, Wu Dalang, hunched over, busy at the stove.

Upon seeing his brother again, Wu Dalang was overjoyed, as if a treasure had fallen from the sky. A smile bloomed on his withered, bark-like face. He rubbed his rough hands together and hugged Wu Song tightly, exclaiming repeatedly, "Heaven have mercy! Erlang is back! Good, good, good!"

Wu Song's heart was also burning with emotion. He put down his bundle, took his brother's hand, and looked him up and down. Seeing that although he was still short and dark-skinned, his spirits were good, which reassured him somewhat. The two brothers sat down and chatted about their time together. Wu Song noticed that the room was quiet and didn't seem to have a woman tending to it. He suddenly remembered that before he left, his brother had mentioned that Zhang the landlord had arranged for him to find a wife. Being straightforward, he asked:

"Brother, didn't you say before that the wealthy Zhang had taken pity on you and arranged a marriage for you with a sister-in-law? Why hasn't your sister-in-law come out to greet you? Could it be that she went back to her parents' home?"

Upon hearing this, Wu Dalang's smile froze instantly, as if a sore spot had been touched. His eyes flickered, avoiding Wu Song's gaze, and he lowered his head further, mumbling, "Cough...cough...Erlang, why mention her...that Zhang the tycoon...that Zhang the tycoon...sigh! He's dead, his bones have probably turned to ash! The things he did were filthy! Everything...everything, let's not talk about it! Let's not talk about it!"

He waved his hand repeatedly, his gaze sweeping over the two unfamiliar men and women behind Wu Song:
The woman had fierce, menacing eyebrows and piercing eyes; her waist was hunched like a wheel, and her hands and feet were rough and clumsy like clubs. The man, on the other hand, was ordinary-looking, like a passerby.

"Who are these two, Erlang?"

"Zhang the landlord is dead?" Wu Song was puzzled and could only whisper, "Brother, these two are my sworn brothers and sisters-in-law, Brother Zhang Qing and Sister-in-law Sun Erniang. They... have encountered some difficulties and need to stay at our house for a while."

Upon hearing that they were his younger brother's sworn brother and sister-in-law, Wu Dalang quickly forced a smile and said, "Quickly, please come in! Since you are Erlang's brother and sister-in-law, we are family! My humble abode is simple, please don't mind!" As he spoke, he hurriedly ushered the three of them into the house.

What kind of person is Wu Song? He's a seasoned江湖 (jianghu, the martial arts world) man, someone who's always on the edge of a knife, and he's incredibly adept at reading people. His brother's demeanor clearly indicates that he has something to hide.

His thick eyebrows furrowed, and a cloud of doubt arose in his heart. He was about to ask for details when Wu Dalang suddenly stood up as if his butt had been burned, grabbed an empty wine pot on the table, and said, "Second Brother and the two of you have come a long way and must be hungry and thirsty! Please sit down, I will go and buy some good wine and meat to welcome you back and wash away the dust of your journey!" After saying that, he turned to walk out.

Wu Song, unwilling to let him go to so much trouble, grabbed Wu Dalang's thin shoulder and pressed down on him, the force making Wu Dalang's body sink:
“Brother, what are you saying! We are just two brothers, how could we let you go on such a errand? You stay home and rest, the three of us will go out for a walk, and while we’re at it, we’ll find a clean shop in the market, have some food and drink, and show them the sights of Qinghe County.”

His voice was loud and clear, brooking no argument. Wu Dalang, held down and unable to break free, could only meekly agree.

After settling his elder brother in, Wu Song strode out the door. He was tall and imposing, and his handsome appearance drew the attention of passersby as he walked down the familiar streets of Qinghe County.

Those who recognized him as Wu Song, and who had heard he was the tiger-slaying hero from the neighboring Yanggu County, whispered and pointed at him. Wu Song didn't care and led Zhang Qing and Sun Erniang straight to the bustling market, looking for a decent tavern.

They found a tavern with a reasonably tidy storefront. It was early afternoon, and the tavern wasn't crowded. There were greasy square tables and long benches. The group consisted of men who enjoyed good wine. Wu Song ordered a jar of local liquor, along with several dishes of braised beans, pig's head meat, and steamed buns, just enough to fill their stomachs.

The cloudy wine went down their throats, leaving a slightly astringent taste. After several jars of wine, the three of them were slightly tipsy.

Wu Song put down his rough porcelain bowl, looked at Zhang Qing and Sun Erniang, and said in a low voice, slightly drunk, "Brother, sister-in-law, things are tense at Shizipo. The authorities are urgently arresting us, and this place is not far from the capital, so it's not a place to stay for long. I wonder what your plans are for the future?"

Zhang Qing took a sip of wine, glanced at the street scene outside the door, and said calmly, "Brother Erlang, to be honest, the world is vast and it is difficult to find a place to settle down. However, I heard some rumors on the road that there is a mountain called Erlong Mountain, about four hundred miles away from here. It is a strategically important place that is easy to defend and difficult to attack."

"A group of heroes have gathered on the mountain. Their leader is surnamed Lu, and his Buddhist name is Zhishen. He is a formidable figure who wields a 62-jin water-polished Zen staff and is truly a warrior who can withstand ten thousand men. Years ago, when my wife and I were traveling the world, we met him once and became somewhat acquainted. Now that we are in trouble, we are thinking of... going to him for refuge and finding a place to settle down."

Just as Wu Song was about to speak, he suddenly heard a commotion and looked in the direction of the sound. He saw a group of ruffians who had finished eating and drinking in a corner and were about to leave. Among them were two or three who had been severely taught a lesson by Wu Song!

When Wu Song saw one of them looking at him with displeasure, he frowned and said in a deep voice, "Zhang Lao Er, are you itching for a beating again? Get lost, don't get in my way!"

Zhang Lao Er shrank back instinctively when Wu Song glared at him, but his courage returned thanks to his superior numbers and the fact that he had drunk some horse urine.

Instead of backing down, he took two steps forward, deliberately raising his voice even higher so that the whole street could hear him:

"Oh my! Isn't this Wu, the head constable of Yanggu County? What an imposing manner! We underlings are terrified! But the head constable next door doesn't have jurisdiction over Qinghe County, does he?"

He patted his chest dramatically, eliciting a burst of laughter from the hooligans behind him who said, "How dare we, sir, get in your way? We're just here to congratulate you on your triumphant return to your hometown! Hehe!"

Upon hearing the glib tongues of those idlers, Wu Song felt a surge of nameless rage rising within him! His leopard-like eyes widened, his thick eyebrows stood on end, and a chilling smirk appeared on his lips, like the wrathful Vajra in a temple.

"Good! Good! Good!" he exclaimed three times, his voice as cold as icicles in the dead of winter. Before he finished speaking, his large, fan-like hand slammed down!
"Clap!"

The elmwood table in front of them shook violently! Several rough porcelain wine cups and a dish of fennel beans jumped up from the table, then crashed back down with a clatter, spilling wine everywhere and scattering beans all over the floor. The sound startled several idle men drinking nearby, who all turned to look.

Wu Song didn't even glance at the messy table; his cold, star-like eyes were fixed on the ashen-faced sycophants before him, and a low growl, like metal clashing against stone, rolled from his throat:
"Grandpa's having a moment of mercy today! I'll give you filthy scoundrels five seconds! Now get out of here, tails between your legs!"

He leaned forward slightly, a strong aura of menace washing over you, and the cold smile on his lips became even more ferocious: "Could it be that your eyes are stuffed with donkey hair? You can't even recognize the size of Grandpa Wu's fists?!"

Zhang Lao Er was intimidated by Wu Song's imposing presence, his legs trembled slightly, but the smell of alcohol made him dizzy. He forced a vicious smile onto his face and said in a sarcastic tone, "Captain Wu only dares to lose his temper with us. He even kidnapped his own sister-in-law. What can you do about it?"

Wu Song whirled around, his tall frame standing like an iron tower. He stared at Zhang Lao Er, swearing, "You scoundrel! What do you have to say? If you dare spout any more nonsense, I'll tear your dog mouth apart!"

"How dare I spout nonsense? Who in the whole of Qinghe County doesn't know? Your good brother Wu Da, his beautiful wife Pan Jinlian, who's so lovely you could squeeze water out of her... hehe, she was already snatched away and pampered by our Master Ximen before she even entered the family!"

Zhang Lao Er became increasingly smug as he spoke, spitting as he spoke and gesticulating wildly. The hooligans behind him also burst into unrestrained laughter, hurling all sorts of vulgarities at Wu Dalang like dirty water.

Wu Song roared like a thunderclap from a clear sky! He moved with lightning speed, taking a step in front of Zhang Lao Er. His large, fan-like hands grabbed Zhang Lao Er's front of his shirt like iron clamps, and he lifted Zhang Lao Er's skinny body off the ground! Zhang Lao Er kicked wildly, terrified out of his wits, and his previous arrogance vanished instantly.

"You beast! How dare you slander my brother like this!" Wu Song's eyes blazed with fury. The immense force constricted Zhang Lao Er, causing his eyes to roll back and his throat to gurgle, unable to utter a single word.

Seeing that things were not going well, a few hooligans nearby tried to step forward to pull them apart, but when they were swept over by Wu Song's murderous gaze, they were immediately frightened and took a few steps back, falling silent as if they were cicadas in winter.

Zhang Lao Er was being strangled to the point of near suffocation, his face turning a deep purplish-red. He struggled desperately to squeeze out a few words: "I...I...everything is true..."

"Ximen Qing?!" These three words were like a red-hot branding iron, searing into Wu Song's heart! The foul language from before instantly took on a clear target and shape!

So this was the root of his brother's shifty eyes, ambiguous words, and panicked avoidance! His poor brother had his wife stolen by that scoundrel Ximen Qing, suffering such a great humiliation and becoming the laughingstock of the whole city, yet he could only swallow his anger!

Wu Song, fueled by alcohol and raging with anger, roared, "Good! Good for you, Ximen Qing!" He spat out the words through gritted teeth. With a sudden jerk, he slammed the mud-like Zhang Lao Er to the ground, leaving him dazed and screaming in agony.

Without even glancing at Zhang Lao Er groaning on the ground or the group of trembling ruffians, Wu Song clenched his fists, his knuckles cracking, and turned to leave.

"Wait a minute, Erlang!" Zhang Qing's steady voice rang out, and he stepped forward, pressing his strong hand on Wu Song's shoulder, which was trembling violently with rage: "Where are you going?"

Wu Song angrily said, "I'm going to the yamen to get an explanation! This kind of behavior deserves at least thirty strokes of the cane. It's only right that I get my sister-in-law back!"

Zhang Qing frowned: "Don't forget you just got into trouble in Yanggu County. That guy was punched by you, and it's hard to say whether he'll live or die. What if he's wanted you? Wouldn't that be like walking into a trap? Besides, how are you going to sue him? Do you have any contractual proof? A marriage certificate? Or a witness from the aggrieved party? Just based on these drunken hooligans' ramblings?"

Wu Song was taken aback by the question, a look of confusion flashing in his bloodshot eyes, and he was speechless for a moment.

A disdainful sneer escaped Sun Erniang's lips. She crossed her arms, glancing sideways at Wu Song, her face full of contempt and mockery: "The yamen? Brother Erlang, have you gotten drunk and forgotten your place? Do you still think you're that imposing head constable of Yanggu County?"

She took a step forward: "What is the yamen? Let me tell you! The yamen gate faces south, and if you have reason but no money, don't come in! You want to sue him? What do you have to sue him with? Just your mouth? Or your reputation for fighting tigers? Bah! It's not even certain if you're a fugitive on the wanted list now! The moment you step into the yamen, the next second you'll be in shackles! Still want to file a complaint? You probably won't even get to see the county magistrate, you'll be arrested on the spot and sent to Yanggu County to claim credit!"

Sun Erniang's words were like a bucket of cold water poured over his head, both harsh and vicious, each word piercing his heart! Wu Song was choked, his chest felt tight, the smell of alcohol rose in his head, his face turned from red to green, his fists clenched so tightly they cracked, but for a moment he couldn't find the words to refute her.

Zhang Qing interjected, "Second Sister's words may be rough, but they make sense. Second Brother, going to the yamen now is like a moth flying into a flame. What kind of place is the yamen? It's a den of wealthy families, exactly what Ximen Qing wants. It's true that your brother was humiliated, but if you want to avenge this, you need to plan carefully and find a proper way."

"Plan it out in the long run? What's there to plan out of!" Sun Erniang glared, her fierce, bandit-like nature fully unleashed.

"If you ask me, why bother with all that nonsense about filing a lawsuit! The three of us brothers will storm into Ximen's mansion right now! We'll grab that scoundrel Ximen Qing, stab him in the heart and liver with our knives, and feed his heart and liver to Brother Wu as a side dish! We'll chop his fat into minced meat and make dumplings to feed the dogs!"

She sneered and continued, "If Brother Erlang can't bear it, then so be it! We'll be careful not to kill him on the spot! Then we'll force him to write a statement explaining how he stole your sister-in-law, and then give her back to your brother, completely and innocently!"

"Let's give him another scare before we leave! These thieves and wealthy people are most afraid of death. Ximen Qing suffered this injustice in silence, and because of his pride and being frightened, he will never dare to report it to the authorities! This method is quick and decisive, isn't it satisfying?!"

After hearing this, Wu Song was still pondering. He was by nature unrestrained and had drunk some wine, but he was still hesitant and unwilling to act rashly.

But Sun Erniang was already impatient. She rushed to the limp, mud-like ruffian Zhang Lao Er, lifted him up like a chick, and shouted sharply:

"You damned bastard! Which street or alley in the east of the city is that thief Ximen Qing's den? Which way does the door face? How many doors are there? Speak now! If you lie to me even a single word, I'll skin you alive and make you into a hangover soup!"

Zhang Lao Er was already so frightened that his soul was trembling and his crotch was soaked. How could he dare to hide anything? Trembling and stammering, he spilled the location and entrance of the Ximen Mansion.

Upon hearing this, Sun Erniang shoved him back to the ground like a broken sack. Without even glancing at Wu Song and Zhang Qing, who were still deep in thought, she strode out, muttering curses as she went: "Stop dawdling! If you two men still have any balls left, come with me!"

Seeing that she was in a fit of passion, Zhang Qing was unable to stop her in time and had no choice but to hurry after her, fearing that something might go wrong.

Wu Song reached out to stop them, but before he could utter the words "Wait!" the two figures had already rushed out the door like a whirlwind and disappeared into the deep night. He could only sigh heavily and hurried after them.

[Daddy Ximen, there's no more room to squeeze in! Please vote with monthly tickets!]

(End of this chapter)