Richest Man: Divine-Grade Reconstruct System Chapter 1009 969: Calling the Emperor a Dog with Every Word

As Lin Yi's presence materialized upon the rooftop, the clamor from within the structure instantly assaulted his ears.

After all, the soundproofing capabilities of these ancient dwellings were utterly incomparable to modern constructions; edifices of this epoch were predominantly fashioned from timber.

More critically, the absence of glass during this era meant that the majority of window apertures were obscured by paper. With but a solitary thin veil of paper separating the interior from the exterior, soundproofing was an impossibility.

Consequently, Lin Yi, perched atop the roof, could discern every utterance originating from within with perfect clarity. Intermittently, peals of boisterous laughter emanated from the chamber.

He could also ascertain that the occupants were presently engaged in feasting and revelry.

The occasional clinking of goblets further aided his comprehension of the scene.

By this juncture, Lin Yi had developed a certain degree of insensitivity to such displays. He had firmly resolved that, irrespective of the circumstances, these reprobates would be stripped of their offices.

He avowed he would never permit a situation akin to "meat festering behind vermilion gates while the bones of the frozen dead lie exposed upon the road" to take root within his domain.

Of paramount importance, it was readily apparent that these individuals comprised a coterie of corrupt officials.

In a locality as economically challenged as East County City, their conspicuous opulence strongly suggested illicit gains. Who could possibly believe otherwise?

Undeniably, he had previously encountered the adage, "meat festering behind vermilion gates, while out on the road lie the bones of the frozen dead," within literary works, yet its profound meaning had eluded him until now.

It was only in this precise moment that Lin Yi grasped the visceral, tangible essence of that statement.

Indeed, that profound sense of desolation engendered a palpable discomfort within him.

This societal structure was rife with subjugation and exploitation.

Much like the present circumstances, the individuals convened within that room functioned as the de facto "Sovereigns" of East County City.

They were the absolute authority; their decrees were final. Survival was contingent upon their whim, and defiance meant certain demise.

While this assertion might seem hyperbolic, even the Emperor himself held no greater sway.

Yet, within such a societal framework, local officials wielded immense, unchecked power. The imperial mandate, after all, dissipated significantly as it descended through the hierarchy.

Moreover, the ancient sentiment, "the heavens are high and the Emperor is far away," remained an exceptionally fitting descriptor.

"Lord Liu, we’ve apprehended another individual. This one professes to be an envoy dispatched from the capital to supplant the current administration."

Abruptly, a voice captured Lin Yi's undivided attention.

The utterance resonated because it contained information pertinent to his inquiries—intelligence regarding his operatives who had been dispatched to disseminate the newspaper edicts.

Upon hearing this, he subtly readjusted his position and carefully dislodged a roof tile.

A faint, ethereal luminescence immediately permeated the gap created by the displaced tile, allowing Lin Yi a clear view into the interior.

Inside the main hall, a lavish banquet was in progress, with a table laden with abundant dishes and wine, surrounded by seven or eight individuals garbed in opulent attire.

Merely by observing their exquisite robes, it was evident that these were individuals of considerable wealth or status.

Occupying the central and most esteemed position at the table sat a corpulent elder, exuding an air of unbridled arrogance.

It was unmistakably Liu Buping.

As the regional Commander, his own portly physique, a testament to his indulgent lifestyle, was a clear indicator of his pervasive corruption.

At this moment, having received his subordinate's report, Lord Liu's brow furrowed slightly. He directed his gaze towards the speaker and inquired:

"Another one apprehended? It appears that cur of an Emperor harbors aspirations of overhauling the regional governance."

"Hmph, his ambitions far exceed his grasp. This is not a dominion where his pronouncements hold sway. His imperial decrees are effective solely within the confines of the Capital City, at best. To presume control over these distant territories—heh—what a deluded fool he is."

After a brief pause, he elaborated:

"Has this newcomer divulged any significant intelligence? And what precisely is this 'newspaper' he speaks of?"

Hearing these questions, the subordinate promptly shook his head and responded:

"He has yet to yield any substantive information. That fellow possesses a sharp tongue and a volatile disposition, maintaining an air of defiance as if we hold no significance whatsoever.

Furthermore, he persistently demands an audience with the previously apprehended group."

Lord Liu's expression immediately darkened upon hearing this, and he declared:

"Have you not yet applied sufficient pressure?

Do you believe extracting information from a man is an insurmountable task?

Proceed to inflict grievous harm upon his extremities. I refuse to believe he possesses such extraordinary fortitude.

Hmph, attempting to display bravado before me? He lacks the standing for such pretense. Let alone him—even if that cur of an Emperor himself were present, I would show him no deference.

Additionally, if he continues his obstinate demands, then allow him to join the company of those ten men.

Did he not vociferously demand to be reunited with that contingent?"

He was then sent down to them, but the bodies were to be disposed of discreetly, ensuring no one uncovered their involvement.

"While we don't truly fear that Emperor, it's prudent to avoid unnecessary complications."

Acknowledging Lord Liu's directives, the man promptly nodded and responded:

"Understood, my Lord. I shall address this matter immediately. Rest assured, with your affirmation, I shall employ any means necessary, including torture, without hesitation.

Heh heh, I've never encountered an individual in my custody who could resist my methods.

Please be at ease, my Lord. I guarantee I will extract whatever information you seek."

Lord Liu chuckled heartily at this assurance. He raised his wine bowl, gesturing slightly towards the man, and declared:

"Ha ha, with you handling things, I have no reason to worry. Come, let us not allow these minor issues to dampen our spirits. We shall drink and converse."

With that, he tilted his head back, draining the entire bowl of wine. He then wiped his mouth with his plump hand, seized a substantial piece of beef, and began devouring it with large bites.

Lin Yi observed this scene unfold. Hearing them casually refer to the "dog Emperor" and witnessing the man devour meat, Lin Yi's brow furrowed deeper.

The item the man was consuming was, in fact, a large slab of beef.

It was important to remember that in this era, cattle held a remarkably high status.

The reason for this was quite simple: cattle served as the primary labor force for plowing the fields.

In this society, the burden placed upon cattle was immense, affording them a status far exceeding that of ordinary individuals.

[To be continued....]