Ashes of Plunder

A gentle breeze drifted by, setting the weeping willows by the lakeside into a graceful, ceaseless dance. On painted boats floating across the water, a scholar played the zither, a young woman sang, and a wealthy young master reclined at the prow in carefree contentment.

All of this was laid bare to the one seated high atop a splendid sedan chair. At this moment, the clang of gongs and the beat of drums thundered through the small market street. A bright red banner hung overhead, emblazoned in gold with the words "Triumphant in the Imperial Examinations."

Within the sedan sat a young man. His face was honest and unadorned, his eyes clear. Black hair draped down his back, and by his left side rested a longsword inlaid with gold. Clad in a vibrant red official’s robe, he wore a gentle smile, surveying the scene below.

Suddenly, the sedan halted. A man dressed as a constable stepped forward, clasped his fists in respect, and said, “Master Su, there’s a fight up ahead. Allow me to handle it. Please wait here a moment.”

The young man frowned slightly, speaking softly, “A fight? Set me down. I’ll see for myself.” The constable hesitated, then reluctantly ordered the bearers to lower the sedan.

Once he had alighted, the crowd that had gathered to watch parted, forming a path for him. In their midst, two shirtless brutes, cloth belts wound around their waists, swung thick arms and massive fists down onto someone huddled on the ground.

The victim’s clothes were tattered; greasy, long hair concealed his face, making him unrecognizable.