Chapter 145 Fire Burns Down Luanyi City
The official found Yang Ren, and Yang Ren inquired about Jiang Shang’s incident of jumping into the river in the morning.
The official said, "The Emperor ordered Jiang Shang to build the Deer Platform. Jiang Shang was unwilling, which angered the Emperor, so he jumped into the river to his death. Now, the Emperor and the Empress plan to order Chong Houhu to oversee the construction of the Deer Platform."
"What is this Deer Platform?"
"Lady Su presented the design. It is four zhang and nine chi high... Today, Chong Houhu is commanded to oversee its construction. I have seen the Emperor’s actions resemble those of King Jie, and I cannot bear to see the empire become ruins. I have come to see you because you are loyal to the country and have served three dynasties with distinction. If you can persuade His Majesty to stop building the Deer Platform, you would relieve the suffering of the masses laboring in mud and hauling soil, and spare merchants from ruinous losses. This is an act of compassion that would be remembered for centuries."
Yang Ren listened, hesitated for a moment, and said, "First, withhold the decree and let me enter the palace to meet the Emperor; then we can decide."
Not long after, at the Star Pick Building, King Zhou, who was indulging in pleasures, summoned Yang Ren upstairs.
"What do you have to report?"
Yang Ren eloquently delivered a passionate speech, his words resounding and filled with righteous indignation, moving heaven and earth.
But listening to yet another plea to cease the Deer Platform’s construction, King Zhou grew irritated and simply tuned out Yang Ren’s words.
Frowning, King Zhou coldly remarked after Yang Ren finished, "You fool, a mere commoner; what do you know of the benefits of the Deer Platform? Because of your service to three generations of emperors, I will spare your life! Guards, gouge out this man’s eyes!"