Standing on the high steps of the main house, she spoke firmly: “Father will be fine. Right now, you must help me protect the Ruan estate. Anyone who comes to attack will be driven back, and if anyone is killed, I’ll take responsibility!”
Ruan Qing was determined to protect her adoptive father’s estate and her adoptive mother.
The tenant farmers discussed among themselves, some thinking the young mistress was being dramatic. Who would dare attack in broad daylight?
They were soon stunned, however, as Ruan Shimin arrived with his family and working men. He had learned that County Magistrate Li planned to pin a murder charge on Ruan Shixin and came to loot first, fearing the magistrate would seize the profits.
Ruan Shimin approached the tightly closed gate and ordered, “Break the door, rob!”
“Big brother, are you trying to keep everything for yourself?” Ruan Shiqi’s voice came from behind, accompanied by his family. Unable to afford servants, he had gathered a few men from nearby, dressed in ragged clothes and carrying clubs. “We’re brothers from the same mother. I have a share in the second brother’s property too!”
Though his information wasn’t as up-to-date, he kept an eye on the main house and immediately followed when he saw them moving, determined not to be left out.
Ruan Shimin cursed inwardly but knew this wasn’t the time to fight. He told his sons, “Take the valuable things, don’t let your third uncle benefit. Go inside and capture your second aunt; force her to find the property deeds!”
Suddenly, Ruan Ning’s voice came from inside: “Aim carefully, pour it on the heads of the first and third masters! Those who hit accurately will be rewarded with a string of coins!”
Ruan Shimin looked up to see ladders against the high courtyard wall, with several tenant farmers holding wooden buckets.
“Not good!” Ruan Shimin shouted, “They’re going to pour excrement!”
But it was too late. Just as he was looking up, a bucket of foul-smelling waste was dumped directly onto his head.
