C16. Abduction.
Yuan Li's nose was dotted with tiny beads of sweat.
But this was just a speculation on his part.
Nevertheless, as a precaution, Yuan Li had Zhao Ying dispatch two groups of people. One group would discreetly monitor the households tying white fabric to their doors, while the other group would swiftly return to Ruyang County to see how many households there had also tied white fabric.
Ruyang County was Yuan Li's main base; chaos could occur anywhere but not in Ruyang County.
He also had Zhao Ying pass on a message to his father, Yuan Song, subtly indicating that these households might have unusual activities. He instructed Yuan Song to transfer two hundred soldiers from the farmstead to the mansion as a precaution.
He also ordered the temporary closure of the soap factory and relocation of the dry soaps. People were stationed near the soap factory, ready to set it on fire at the first sign of trouble.
Yuan Li methodically issued a series of commands, and his initially excited emotions gradually returned to calm.
As for the Primce Chu Mansion, Yuan Li wasn't worried. Even if a rebellion did occur, the rebel forces within Luoyang would likely be the smallest in scale and quickest to suppress.
Besides, with Chu Hechao there, and even without him, the household troops of wealthy families like the Chu Wang Mansion were not in short supply.
Over the next few days, Yuan Li appeared unruffled on the surface but continued to gather information in secret.
Once he had a clearer understanding, the numerous clues appeared much more apparent. The more Yuan Li looked, the more he felt his suspicions were accurate.
According to Yuan Li's original plan, the turbulent times were not expected to arrive for at least another three to four years. But now, they had arrived much earlier, catching him somewhat unprepared.
Though he harbored a hidden ambition and drive within, he also had numerous concerns.
Yuan Li spent his days in worry and sighed heavily, leaving Yang Shi trying to comfort him, holding his hand, "Good child, don't be so sad. Feng'er has not been well since he was young; this is his fate. I don't blame you, and you shouldn't blame yourself too much."
Yuan Li knew she had misunderstood, but he couldn't explain. Vaguely, he replied, "I understand, Madam."
Yang Shi gently patted him and wearily let the maids support her as she left.
Yuan Li returned to the Wending Courtyard and, at the entrance, encountered the old servant he had met at Chu Mingfeng's place.
The elderly, gray-haired servant respectfully bowed to Yuan Li. "Young Master Yuan, my master sent me with two men for you."
Yuan Li was stunned as the old servant stepped aside, revealing the two men behind him.
One was tall and sturdy, resembling a hunched-back wild bear. His face looked honest, with dark skin, like a common peasant from the fields.
The other man had a very friendly smile, with occasional flashes of intelligence in his eyes, presenting a dignified and clever appearance.
Both men raised their hands in greeting to Yuan Li. "Greetings, Young Master Yuan."
Yuan Li returned the gesture, "Who are you?"
The clever-looking man spoke first, "I am Liu Jixin, and I will rely on Young Master Yuan from now on."
The other man, somewhat less eloquent, added, "I am Wu Kai, from Xiangcheng County in Xuchang. If you have any orders, please instruct us."
Yuan Li looked at the old servant, who spoke in a frail voice, "Wu Kai is from Xiangcheng County in Xuchang, with an unblemished family background. He only has a blind mother at home. Although he may be physically unattractive and robust, he possesses natural strength and combat skills, making him an ideal candidate to serve as a warrior. Master thought he would be suitable for protecting you and assigned him to be by your side."
Wu Kai bowed his head self-consciously.
Furrowing his brow, Yuan Li expressed some displeasure, "If he's suited to be a warrior, why waste him as a bodyguard by my side? Heroes do not need to question their origins, especially appearances. Take him to see second young master."
Wu Kai's ears reddened, and he glanced uneasily at Yuan Li.
Liu Jixin pondered the phrase "heroes don't inquire about origins" and found it quite inspiring.
In Northern Zhou, where the examination system was controlled by scholars and nobles, anyone from a magistrate's family background was looked down upon as a commoner. Generations of families with firmly held resources controlled everything, and anyone daring to speak the words "regardless of background" would face severe criticism from the elite.
Though it seemed absurd coming from Yuan Li, hearing those words stirred a sense of pride in people's hearts, even making them favor Yuan Li.
Seeing Wu Kai's anxious demeanor, Liu Jixin kindly explained, "Don't worry. The Second Young Master is a renowned general in Northern Zhou. He doesn't look down on you; he merely wants to find a better path for you."
Relieved, Wu Kai nodded silently, then shook his head.
The old servant smiled kindly as he looked at Yuan Li, "The master foresaw that the Young Master Yuan would say this. He believes that because Wu Kai is a talented warrior, he should be placed by Young Master's side."
Yuan Li paused, reflecting on the situation.
Chu Mingfeng wouldn't speak without reason; there had to be a purpose behind his words. Perhaps Chu Mingfeng wanted him to train Wu Kai and mold him into a competent warrior.
But a problem arose.
Yuan Li's eyes widened.
How did Chu Mingfeng know he could train people?
"Then stay by my side," Yuan Li finally said.
He then turned to Liu Jixin, "Will this gentleman also be accompanying me?"
The old servant explained, "Liu Jixin is a local in Luoyang, previously serving as a strategist at the Ministry of Works and the Prefectural Governor's office. He is astute and eloquent but was suspected of disloyalty twice. Young Master will decide whether to keep him close."
Even being accused of disloyalty in his presence, Liu Jixin remained composed with a pleasant smile, calmly stating, "Why speak ill of me, Uncle Zhang?"
He then bowed to Yuan Li and said, "A capable minister chooses his lord carefully. I seek a better master; I have never spoken ill of my former lord. How can that be considered disloyalty?"
Yuan Li helped him up, shaking his head with a mix of amusement and bewilderment, "So you found Chu Mingfeng instead?"
"No," Liu Jixin rose with Yuan Li's assistance, "Young Master Yuan, I sought you."
Yuan Li appeared surprised.
The old servant added, "Although these two were sent by the master to be delivered to you, they agreed to come, knowing it was for your benefit."
Intrigued, Yuan Li couldn't help but wonder.
Despite having gained some reputation in Luoyang, it was solely built on filial piety from Ruyang County and the recognition from the Prince Chu Mansion and his teacher, Ouyang Ting. A mere magistrate's son from Ruyang, how could he attract others to join him?
Sensing Yuan Li's thoughts, Liu Jixin explained, "Those capable of impressing Lord Ouyang to the point of taking them as disciples and receiving praise from the Grand Marshal and the Prefect are rare. Today, seeing you in person, I am even more impressed by your presence. Please, Young Master Yuan, do not refuse me; allow me to stay by your side."
Yuan Li felt he had not yet made a name for himself and lacked significant achievements. Little did he know that in the eyes of many, he was already gaining fame.
His visit to the Grand Marshal's Mansion had caused quite a stir, especially when Lord Ouyang had taken him on as a disciple instead.
These events had sparked curiosity among many, including Liu Jixin, who had served as a strategist for the Prefectural Governor, Zhan Qibo. Upon hearing Lord Ouyang publicly praising Yuan Li, Liu Jixin's curiosity turned into action, leading him to seek an audience with Chu Mingfeng.
Yuan Li realized that this person had come to seek refuge with him because of his teacher.
Though he sighed internally, he still welcomed the talents seeking refuge, smiling as he said, "To have both of you assisting me is truly fortunate."
Seeing Yuan Li accept these two individuals, the old servant continued, "Young Master, General Chu Hechao will be returning to the border soon. At that time, the household will rely on you."
Immediately turning towards him, Yuan Li asked, "Chu Hechao is leaving?"
The old servant nodded in confirmation.
Yuan Li's expression turned subtle.
Chu Hechao, a man known for picking up even a copper coin from the mud, a testament to his frugality, had spent days trailing this stranger sister-in-law suspecting a connection to a shipment. Now, he's ready to leave empty-handed, not even for a meal?
This unexpected turn of events makes him suspect there's more to the story.
Knowing that Chu Hechao would leave Luoyang before the imminent chaos, Yuan Li became more convinced that troubled times were approaching. Chu Hechao was preparing to depart from the chaotic melting pot of Luoyang before things spiraled out of control.
Without revealing much emotion, he inquired, "Has the general reclaimed his military funds?"
The old servant replied, "There is an urgent situation in the Northern Frontier, prompting the general to return early. Regarding the military funds, the general has managed to secure a portion of it."
After Chu Mingfeng's death, Chu Hechao had once again appealed to the emperor for grain. This time, the emperor seemed satisfied with Chu Mingfeng's demise, perhaps even regretful, and supplied the grain generously.
However, due to financial constraints, the grain provided would only last for three months at most. It seemed that the emperor planned to collect taxes after the autumn harvest to supply the Northern Frontier with grain for the second half of the year.
Chu Hechao said nothing and prepared to leave with the grain.
Yuan Li couldn't help but admire the cunning strategy of these two brothers.
On the surface, the court had only provided a three-month supply of grain to send off Chu Hechao, making him appear unjustly treated.
However, as chaotic times approached, with regions fortifying and stockpiling their own supplies, the court's impoverished state would leave them unable to support themselves. This decision would result in depletion of the court's resources, feeding other people's resources.
At that time, Emperor Jian Yuan would probably regret his decision. He wouldn't be able to afford to maintain the over 10,000 troops in the Central Army, let alone focus on the borders and the Northern Frontier.
Amused, Yuan Li let out a muffled laugh.
Impressive, he liked it.
After considering it, Yuan Li believed it was best that Chu Hechao left now. Before chaos ensued, transporting the grain back to the Northern Frontier would make it impossible for Emperor Jian Yuan to reclaim it, even if he regretted the decision later.
Yuan Li felt a twinge of envy.
If possible, he also wanted to leave as soon as he could. As the chaos approached, the wise decision was to move away from the capital, fortify defenses, and accumulate supplies.
As the saying goes, hoard grain, build tall walls, and wait for the right time to claim the throne.
However, as the "wife" of Chu Mingfeng, he couldn't simply leave after Chu Mingfeng's death and follow his younger brother. Moreover, he hadn't established himself nor started his career.
In the eyes of the world, he was insignificant. Without passing the imperial examination or achieving any merit, it was unrealistic to stand shoulder to shoulder with the heroes in turbulent times.
It was just a joke.
What Yuan Li needed to do was to stay in Luoyang, stabilize the rear, accumulate wealth and supplies, and wait until he established himself in two years and entered the political arena legitimately.
With that in mind, Yuan Li no longer felt regret. He nodded with a smile, "I will go prepare farewell gifts for the general."
Yuan Li arranged for Wu Kai and Liu Jixin to stay at the Wending Courtyard, instructing Lin Tian to take good care of them before preparing for Chu Hechao's departure.
Soon, the day arrived for Chu Hechao's departure.
The cavalry and army provisions had been delivered outside the gates of Luoyang. Chu Hechao and Yang Zhongfa donned the same dusty armor they wore when they arrived, sitting tall on their horses.
After a month of rest and recovery, the horses had been cleaned of bloodstains and dust, pawing at the ground restlessly, eager to gallop away.
The cold armor gleamed with a sharp and chilling light, making Chu Hechao appear even taller and more intimidating. He firmly held the reins, the rope coiled in his palm, the crimson cloak draped over the horse's back as Chu Hechao turned to look at the crowd in front of the Prince Chu Mansion.
The sun rose from the east, casting a solemn shadow over the group.
Having just bid farewell to one son, now it was time to bid farewell to the other. Yang shi lowered her head, wiping her tears, forcing a smile, "Farewell, be careful, and have a safe journey."
Chu Ciye looked at the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes and the white hair at her temples, his thin lips tightly pressed. Suddenly, he bent down, casting a shadow as he whispered to Yang, "Mother, why don't you and father come back with me to Youzhou?"
Without hesitation, Yang replied, "No, Feng'er died here. How can I leave him behind and go to Youzhou..."
As the words left her lips, Yang shi realized and quickly avoided Chu Ciye's gaze.
Chu Hechao remained motionless.
Just as Yuan Li thought he was deeply hurt by Yang shi's words, Chu Hechao slowly stood up, his expression unchanged, calmly looking towards Yuan Li.
His eyes were like a tranquil ancient well.
Yuan Li regained his composure and smiled slightly at him, "General, have a smooth journey. I have prepared many things for you. You'll see them when you pass through Ruyang County. I'm sure you'll find them useful."
Chu Hechao asked, "What things?"
Yuan Li smiled mysteriously, "You'll see when you see them, General."
Chu Hechao fiddled with the reins and suddenly asked, "Does Sister-in-law plan to stay in Luoyang for a few more years?"
Yuan Li nodded, "Yes."
Chu Hechao suddenly smiled, a rare smile without any sarcasm, and said slowly, "But I feel like there's something missing. Sister-in-law didn't bring it for me."
After pondering for a while, Yuan Li couldn't figure out what he had missed and asked in confusion, "General, what is it?"
A gust of spring wind swept in.
The rustling of the wind lifted the robes, puffing up the general's crimson cloak. Dust clouded his vision, and Yuan Li's long hair was blown forward by the wind, closing his eyes, letting the dark hair and tie slap against his face.
But the next moment, a thick, black horsewhip wound around his waist. A shadow loomed over him, a strong arm bent down, causing Yuan Li to spin, his nose suddenly pressed against a sturdy chest.
The horse suddenly neighed in excitement, lifting its hooves to run.
Intense vibrations followed, and the scent of battlefield dust emanated from the man.
Chu Hechao wrapped his arms around Yuan Li, trapping him like a iron cage.
"Sister-in-law," the warm breath hit Yuan Li's head, "Isn't it you?"
Yuan Li: "???"
The horses galloped towards the outskirts of Luoyang. All the people in front of the Prince Chu Mansion were startled by this sudden turn of events, staring in disbelief as Chu Hechao carried Yuan Li away like an arrow leaving a bowstring.
Yang Zhongfa, the first to regain his senses, muttered, "By the heavens, he just took him away straight! General, quite the bold move you've made."
"Trot along," he shivered all over, raised his voice, and cracked the whip, "Join me in catching up with the General!"
A group of armored soldiers shouted in agreement, urging their horses forward, kicking up a cloud of dust as they galloped away.
Prince Chu and Yang shi were stunned for a long time, then turned to each other with puzzled expressions. After a moment, Prince Chu's face suddenly turned livid.
He pounded his thigh in anger, shaking all over, "Unfilial son! Unfilial son! Chu Hechao, this unfilial son!"
His elder brother had just passed away, and now he dared to openly carry off his sister-in-law in front of everyone. Even though Prince Chu knew Chu Hechao had no intentions of seizing his sister-in-law, he couldn't help but feel a surge of anger.
What would others think about this incident?
Guo Lin and Lin Tian also exclaimed, "Young Master!"
They hurriedly brought out their horses from the mansion. Liu Jixin's eyes widened, and he quickly grabbed Lin Tian, "Take us along too."
Meanwhile,
Yuan Li's expression transformed from confusion into a blank stare.
The horse jolted, pressing Chu Hechao's chest armor against Yuan Li's face, leaving a painful, deep imprint. Yuan Li realized that he had been forcibly mounted by Chu Hechao.
What was Chu Hechao up to?
Had he lost his mind?
Was he just playing tricks on him?
"General," Yuan Li was wedged in front of Chu Hechao, sitting awkwardly on the horse, his buttocks aching and feeling as if he could slip off at any moment. Yuan Li forced a smile and said, "Please, let me down."
His words were scattered by the strong wind.
In the next moment, the crimson cloak wrapped around Yuan Li's head. Chu Hechao's voice came lazily through the fabric, "Hmm? Sister-in-law, speak louder."
Yuan Li's temples throbbed, raising his voice, "Chu Hechao, put me down!"
Chu Hechao bluntly replied, "No."
Yuan Li, usually patient, couldn't hold back his frustration. He had no idea what Chu Hechao's actions meant or what his intentions were.
Was he seeking revenge?
Taunting him?
Or putting on a show for others to see?
Surely he wasn't taking him all the way to the remote north of Youzhou!
Yuan Li sneered, reaching to pull off the cloak, but Chu Hechao grabbed his wrist, coolly saying, "Do you want everyone in Luoyang to know that I have taken you away?"
With no hesitation, Yuan Li tore off the cloak covering his face. The once smiling and charming face now displayed a dangerous glint reminiscent of that fateful day at the farm.
He stared at Chu Hechao, his eyes ablaze with suppressed rage, "General Chu, do you think draping a cloak over me will hide the fact that you abducted your own sister-in-law?"
His tone grew increasingly intense.
Chu Hechao's lips curled slightly, "That's exactly the result I hoped for."
Yuan Li paused, his anger momentarily frozen, his tone sharp, "What do you mean?"
Chu Hechao smirked, his intentions unclear.
As Yuan Li gazed at his chiseled jawline, his brows furrowed in increasing confusion.
Initially, when Chu Hechao was testing him, at least it was understandable for the sake of his soldiers. Yuan Li was not angry about it. But at this moment, he knew he had to be angry, to show his displeasure.
With Chu Mingfeng gone, Chu Hechao dared to take him away in broad daylight in front of Prince Chu and Yang shi, showing that they couldn't restrain him.
If Yuan Li couldn't control Chu Hechao, how could they continue to cooperate in the future?
Would he still have a say in Chu Hechao's army?
Yuan Li knew that in order to suppress Chu Hechao with his "sister-in-law" identity, he had to have authority in Chu Hechao's eyes. He needed Chu Hechao to take his words seriously, to respect him, to treat him as an older brother, rather than making strange moves and ignoring him.
As the proud and unruly son of the heavens, establishing enough authority, Yuan Li had plenty of experience.
Without saying anything more, Yuan Li directly pried open Chu Hechao's arm, swiftly turned around, and swung his long legs over the horse, smoothly transitioning from a side sit to straddling the horse with legs apart.
He patted the horse's mane, thinking quietly, "Sorry for involving you."
As soon as he finished speaking, Yuan Li suddenly exerted force, unexpectedly elbowing backward, while his other hand swiftly moved to grab the reins from Chu Hechao.
However, Chu Hechao's hand blocked his elbow, firmly holding onto the reins, and he scoffed at Yuan Li's head.
Remaining calm, Yuan Li launched the next attack, fists exchanging blows with Chu Hechao on horseback.
Having been thrown over Chu Hechao's shoulder before, Chu Hechao knew not to underestimate Yuan Li. Aware of Yuan Li's weakness in strength and his skill in using tactics to win, he chose to overpower Yuan Li with strength and aggression, countering his resistance.
Yuan Li's strength naturally paled in comparison to that of a seasoned general who had long fought on the battlefield. The limited space on the horse further disadvantaged Yuan Li.
Despite this, he remained resilient, silent but undaunted, nearly breaking free several times to gain control of the reins. The restless warhorse nearly stumbled multiple times.
"Enough," Chu Hechao suddenly seized Yuan Li's hands, forcefully pulling him into his embrace, with a hint of threat, "Sister-in-law, calm down."
They had already left Luoyang and Yang Zhongfeng had caught up while they were talking. Seeing their posture, he couldn't help but blurt out, "General, are you bullying the sister-in-law?"
Unable to release Yuan Li, Chu Hechao maintained his hold, his casual words belying the tension he felt. Frowning slightly, he glanced at Yang Zhongfeng, "Cause a little trouble for the pursuers behind, and keep your distance."
Understanding, Yang Zhongfeng nodded and turned his horse to leave.
While Yuan Li remained silent, he suddenly kicked Chu Hechao's leg while they were talking with Yang Zhongfeng.
Chu Hechao winced in pain, his legs moving to press Yuan Li's ankles tightly within the insides of his boots. He increased the pressure, restraining Yuan Li further, leaving him no room to move.
Completely enveloped by Chu Hechao, Yuan Li's youthful and energetic body compressed tight, resembling a cornered young leopard, exuding grace and strength. Chu Hechao's breathing quickened slightly, his voice steady, "Sister-in-law, how about listening to me for a moment?"
With few people around outside Luoyang, tree leaves rustling in the wind, dust swirling in the air, covering people's faces with dirt.
Recognizing the road, Yuan Li knew it led to the cavalry's camp. Chu Hechao's men and supplies were stationed outside the camp.
Sweating and breathing heavily, Yuan Li asked incredulously, "You took me away just to have a chat? What can't we discuss at the Prince Chu Mansion?"
Seeing Yuan Li no longer struggling, Chu Hechao cautiously released his arm, saying softly, "If I don't do this, how can you reasonably accompany me to Youzhou?"