Chapter 1098
Each Trying to Decipher the Emperor's Will
Chapter 1098 Each Trying to Decipher the Emperor's Will
At the Princess's residence, the crabapple blossoms remain as before, their unrestrained fragrance filling the garden, all testifying to the Princess's beauty.
In the bright inner hall, the three of them, master and servant, were stunned. What Wei Shuyun had just said was not only audacious but also thought-provoking. How could a mere scholar and county magistrate have such insight? Could he be a pillar of the nation, another famous minister to be remembered in history?
Or perhaps, Marquis Luoyun's vision is unparalleled in the world.
"It is said that words concerning the state and the nation should not be heard in the court of execution. Regardless of rank, everyone has the right to offer advice. Although this statement is bold, it is not without some truth. In other words, this person dares to speak the truth. So he came to the capital and now where is he living?"
The eldest princess had already put aside her initial disdain. Such talent, especially among civil officials, was likely to become a future brilliant prime minister. She too had developed a fondness for his abilities.
"Reporting to Your Majesty, this man and another Magistrate Xu are living in the courtyard that the Ministry of Revenue is renovating near the water bridge on South Street. I heard that they borrowed money from Marquis Luoyun to settle down. The two came to the capital because the Ministry of Personnel issued transfer documents. They are temporarily serving as censors in the Six Ministries, holding the official position of principal clerk in the Ministry of Revenue."
Wei Shuyun didn't understand either. This transfer seemed illogical, considering that the county magistrate had only been in office for a little over a month.
"Hmph, this is a demotion in disguise. Local officials have real power, while officials in the capital seem prestigious, but without political achievements, how can they be promoted? I wonder how Marquis Luoyun and Nan Zixian will make up for it. As for the other official, Lord Xu, do you have any outstanding qualities?"
Since one person is upright and incorruptible, and the other dares to accompany him, they must also be extraordinary individuals.
"Our master is wise. The other Xu Dong, the lord, did not speak that day, but he always stayed by Xu Changwen's side and never showed any intention of backing down. When Xu Changwen wrote his confession in Jiangnan, it was this man who recorded every word and left his signature."
He must be another person who dares to act.
"Hmm, it is said that birds of a feather flock together, and things of a kind group together, which is absolutely true. Let's wait and see. I have a feeling that this matter is not over yet. I wonder if the Minister of Justice has made a judgment in the joint trial of the three judicial departments."
Zhou Xiangxue put down her teacup. Now that the interrogation was complete, and with the Emperor Emeritus's birthday banquet the day after tomorrow, time was of the essence; it would be best to close the case as soon as possible.
"Your Highness, Lord Song has not closed the case. Instead, he said that the investigation will continue after the Emperor Emeritus's birthday banquet, using this as an excuse to delay the case."
Wei Shuyun thought for a moment, recalling the intelligence from yesterday. The message that Lord Song was interrogating people without stopping suggested that he had some concerns.
"Hmph, they say old ginger is spicier, and that's absolutely true. It's better this dragged on. Once you're back, have our men keep a close eye on the Court of State Ceremonial. I have a feeling that my brothers are getting restless."
"Yes, Master,"
The mistress and servant exchanged a quick, brief conversation, both realizing that things had changed and they should be even more careful. After Wei Shuyun took her leave, the Princess felt a pang of melancholy. Today was different from usual; the more she saw the strength of her brothers, the more she knew that her position was long gone. If it weren't for the fact that the current Emperor only had three sons, she would probably have lost her title as the Princess.
Thinking about what happens in the palace, I wonder if anyone has ever entered the Emperor Emeritus's palace.
"Liu Yue, is there any news from the palace?"
Liu Yue, dressed in a white palace gown, came in from behind the curtain after receiving a food box outside. She approached the table, opened the food box, and took out plates of dishes and a bowl of white porridge.
"My lord, please have your meal first. These matters can be discussed later. Not to mention the princes, even the court officials have their own plans. It is said that everyone is looking out for themselves. There are many selfish people. Even Marquis Luoyun is thinking of transporting supplies to his own territory. Of course, the refugees also want a place to settle down and make a living, which is a good thing."
She handed him a bowl of thick white porridge, her eyes filled with heartache.
"Inside the palace, everything is the same as before. The Emperor is still in the Hall of Mental Cultivation and hasn't left the palace. The Retired Emperor is also diligently cultivating Taoism in the Chang Le Palace. I heard that today, the Empress summoned the three princes and held a banquet in the Kun Ning Palace."
Eating the plain white porridge in the bowl and taking a spoonful of soft and sticky pastry, the taste is wonderful, leaving a lingering fragrance in your mouth.
“What you say makes sense. In this world, it’s all about power. But looking back, those who didn’t fight for it might still have good fortune. Brother Zheng and the others worked hard, but in the end, it was all for naught. The Emperor Emeritus seems to be cultivating Taoism, but it’s just a smokescreen. As for the Imperial Guards, the left and right guards have already been incorporated. Their actions are quite significant. Well, we women can only let it be.”
Despite these words, the sharp glint in the princess's eyes never faded.
"Yes, Master, this servant will keep an eye on things,"
"That's good."
Marquis Luoyun's residence,
After finishing his meal, Zhang Jinyu greeted his mother and then chatted with the two ladies in the Dongyun Tower before being summoned by a palace eunuch.
"My lord, my lord, hurry! His Majesty has summoned you; we cannot delay!"
Zhang Jinyu, already dressed in his court robes inside, looked rather helpless. There wasn't a moment of peace every day, especially with those officials. Instead of enjoying their wives and concubines at home, they were always thinking about impeaching others. Didn't they get tired of it?
"I understand, Your Majesty. May I ask what His Majesty wishes to inquire about today?"
Whether they knew or not, it was best to ask a question first to be on the safe side. The eunuch outside the door, who was delivering the imperial decree, was so anxious that he kept stamping his feet. Seeing the Marquis leisurely changing into his court robes, he couldn't help but urge him on.
“My lord, it’s not that I’m in a hurry, but the Emperor is pressing us urgently. Before you arrived, Lord Song went to the Imperial Study, presumably to discuss yesterday’s case.”
Seeing that the Marquis had finished changing, Zhang Jinyu quickly added a casual remark. She smiled, somewhat surprised. It seemed that after yesterday's case hearing, Lord Song hadn't gone to the palace; he truly was composed. She nodded and said...
"Okay, let's go."
Outside the house,
Ningbian had already prepared the carriages. Upon seeing them, the eunuch delivering the imperial decree was overjoyed and boarded the carriage himself. The group then headed straight for the palace.
Just as Marquis Luo Yun set off, Prince Teng of the Anhu camp also received the news. Staring at the secret edict in his hand, he pondered for a moment and then gave instructions to his men.
"Go and fetch Wang Ren and Jia Lian,"
"Yes, Commander,"
The guards bowed and accepted the order, then went to the training ground to find the person.
After the main army returned to camp, the entire army rested. Prince Teng's position as military governor remained unchanged. The Inspector, Marquis of Xiangyang, Bai Guangju, did not come to the camp. Furthermore, Marquis of Luoyun was in the capital. Therefore, military power at the Anhu camp remained in Prince Teng's hands. Seeing that Wang Ren and Jia Lian's elite troops were dwindling, they had to draw 15,000 men each from the remaining army to replenish their ranks. The elite troops from Tongzhou were not withdrawn to the main camp.
"Reporting, General Jia, General Wang, the commander-in-chief requests your presence."
On the drill ground,
Despite the sweltering heat, the two commanders continued practicing battle formations without a moment's rest. Upon hearing their personal guards' report, they exchanged a glance and each ordered their troops to return for rest.
They then rode together to the central tent. Upon arriving, they dismounted and quickly entered. As soon as they stepped inside, they found the commander already seated, his face grim. Somewhat nervous, they apologized to each other.
"Having met the Commander,"
"Well, you two have come at the right time. How are the troops being trained?"
Wang Ziteng had already slipped the secret edict into his sleeve. Looking at the two men before him, he felt a little gratified. Although their talents were average, they were loyal and devoted. If it hadn't been for these two men risking their lives to protect him when he was defending the city of Jingnan, he would probably have lost his life in Jingnan.
“Uncle, let’s stick to the old rules: let the veterans mentor the new ones. The remaining elite troops from the southern part of the capital will be in charge of training them. These soldiers who stayed behind are reasonably well-trained and can be put to great use,” Wang Ren said without hesitation, reassuring his uncle. The generals of the Anhu camp had a lot of arrogance in their eyes, which they had all noticed. They were afraid that their uncle would be put in a difficult position. Jia Lian nodded in agreement.
"Uncle, rest assured, our trained troops number over 20,000. Including those in Tongzhou City, we still have 30,000 elite troops yet to be deployed. If you have any orders, Uncle, return to the main camp immediately."
Jia Lian had been deeply affected these past few days. Firstly, all the silver brought back by the various troops in the camp had been distributed, including their own troops. It seemed this was what Marquis Luoyun had plundered. The sheer amount of silver startled the two of them, but fortunately, the court had given them some reward.
"Alright, you two just need to lead the troops. Don't ask any questions about anything else. This time, the court and the emperor have shown mercy and not investigated the mistakes of us defeated generals. They have even awarded us merits. It is truly a great act of imperial grace. By the way, what did you exchange your military merits for?"
When it came to military merits, Wang Ziteng's eyes became discerning. Silver and official positions were all external things; only noble titles could be passed down through generations.
“Well, Uncle, Lian and I discussed it. This time, Lian used his military merits to exchange for a title, while I was promoted two ranks to become the General Who Pacifies Bandits. In the end, as long as one of us can share your burdens, Uncle…”
Wang Ren looked ashamed. It wasn't that he coveted power, but rather that the elite troops of the capital garrison had suffered too many losses this time, and many generals were already gossiping. Therefore, if he were promoted to general, his command of the troops would be legitimate.
"Good, well done. You've thought of all this, which shows you're capable of handling things on your own. As for the title, I've already converted my military merits into a third-class viscount. It just so happens that my uncle has no heir, so I've already reported it to the Imperial Clan Court and will give you the title to inherit. This way, you'll have more confidence. You'll be the Vanguard General of the Capital Garrison, with Jia Lian as your deputy. Do a good job."
"This, Uncle, you,"
Wang Ren's eyes reddened. He hadn't expected his uncle to use his military merits to exchange for a noble title for him, and to treat his nephew like a son. He could no longer hold back and knelt down to kowtow.
Wang Ziteng pretended to scold him.
“How can a man act like a woman? His Majesty summoned me to the palace today, so things must be complicated. The situation in the capital is strange right now. You two must make sure the troops are assembled and keep an eye on the elite troops from the royal residences at the post stations. Don’t let them disappear right under your noses.”
Thinking back to yesterday's joint trial by the three judicial departments, which caused quite a stir and generated numerous rumors both inside and outside the palace, coupled with the Emperor Emeritus's birthday banquet approaching, I feel like I'm walking on thin ice.
"Yes, Uncle. I have already sent trusted confidants to keep an eye on things. I'm sure there will be no mistakes. I wonder if the Emperor's summons of you to the palace will implicate the Beijing Garrison."
He was still somewhat worried, after all, the title of Marquis of Luoyun had not been removed, and the entire naval force had been transferred to transport the surrendered refugees to the Marquis. Yet, no one in the entire camp dared to ask any questions.
"You don't need to worry about any of that. Just focus on leading the troops well. Your uncle will be right back."
"Yes, Uncle,"
The two men clasped their hands in acceptance of the order. After arranging for Wang Ren and Jia Lian to guard the camp, Prince Teng led his personal guards and sped towards the capital.
As for the Marquis of Baoning, he received the secret decree but remained unmoved. Watching the eunuch deliver the decree leave, Marquis Kang Guichen frowned, carefully pondering the Emperor's words. The order to train 10,000 elite troops to guard the Retired Emperor's birthday banquet at the Meridian Gate was too suspicious. After all, if he were to send troops there, the two other armies would surely move simultaneously. Had His Majesty discovered something?
Thinking of this, his heart tightened, and a sense of terrifying urgency shot from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. Just like that, he was seen by the eldest son, Kang Mengyu, who had just entered the house.
"Father, have you encountered any difficulties?"
Watching the figure hurrying away outside the door, Kang Mengyu, his face filled with curiosity, burst in from outside, clad in fine armor. This time, his father had actually replenished his ranks with 20,000 elite armored soldiers, and even given him command of 10,000 cavalry, allowing him to train his own army. While excited, he also sensed something unusual.
Behind the desk,
Marquis Baoning sat there calmly, looking at his son's resolute face, feeling slightly gratified;
"You, this trip south, you fought a brilliant battle. You were able to ambush the enemy during the retreat, which shows your courage and resourcefulness. It's a pity that Wang Ziteng underestimated the enemy in this battle."
There was a hint of regret in his words. Before the expedition, he and Marquis Luo Yun had both anticipated these events and discussed countermeasures among themselves. Unexpectedly, he had fallen into the trap of those sorcerers, prematurely sending troops south, resulting in an ambush and heavy losses.
“Father, it’s not that Commander Wang underestimated the enemy, but rather that the officials in Linshan County have already surrendered to those sorcerers and set up a maze to confuse us. It’s not that we underestimated the enemy or acted rashly; I don’t think so. It’s just that we are outnumbered and unable to break through their lines. If our left and right flanks could hold out a little longer, perhaps the situation could change.”
Remembering Jia Lian's troops, who fought desperately, only to have 70,000 reinforcements suddenly appear within the enemy ranks—a force that couldn't be compensated for by superior numbers.
"You just love to speculate. On the battlefield, there is only victory and defeat, no 'what ifs.' Defeat is defeat. Now that you have experience leading troops, you know better how to train them. These days, don't go anywhere. Stay in the camp and keep an eye on the troops."
The Marquis of Baoning's eyes sharpened as he stared at his son and gave him instructions, seemingly implying something. Kang Mengyu's body jolted, surprise flashing in his eyes. He abruptly looked towards the palace. Could it be that His Majesty intends to...?
“Father, I know. But I have something else to say. Yu Shiyuan, the governor of Jingnan, is a confidant of the retired emperor. He served as the crown prince’s tutor in his early years. Later, he went to Jingnan and now his whereabouts are unknown. Most of his subordinates have already surrendered to the Taiping Rebellion. Since these people are involved, why doesn’t Your Majesty investigate them thoroughly?”
Is it because it cannot be investigated, or is it because of Chang Le Palace? Since Father has given instructions, it must be an imperial decree from the palace. Thinking back to the last confrontation in front of the Meridian Gate, the Right Guard Commander and Xiao Cheng's troops have already returned to the capital to replenish and train, and are now very close.
“My son has grown up. Since you asked, I will tell you. How do you know that the palace has not investigated? Yu Shiyuan’s residence has long been under surveillance. He can’t escape. Now it’s not his problem, but the problem of those princes and the Emperor Emeritus. The birthday banquet is approaching, and I’m afraid that the princes will overestimate their abilities. Therefore, it is the top priority for the Marquis of Baoning’s lineage to have the Imperial Guards guarding the left and right guards. If I’m not mistaken, the Marquis of Luoyun will definitely lead his troops into the city.”
As the low voice came over, Kang Mengyu's pupils shrank. If Marquis Luoyun's iron cavalry entered the capital, with the Marquis's fighting strength, he could even quickly break through the palace. Could it be that His Majesty has really made up his mind?
"Father, your son understands,"
"Good, keep a close watch on the camp. I'm going to the palace now."
Marquis Kang Gui of Baoning donned an iron eagle helmet and a full suit of armor, then left through the side rear gate with his personal guards.
Leaving aside the whereabouts of these individuals,
On a hot day,
Zhang Jinyu didn't ride a horse, but sat in the carriage, glancing out the window intermittently. The streets were still bustling with people, and many idle individuals chatted amongst themselves in teahouses and taverns.
This scene inevitably aroused Zhang Jinyu's curiosity.
“Ningbian, what have people been talking about in the teahouses and taverns these past few days? I’ve seen quite a few storytellers there making a racket, and there are so many people.”
"My lord, it's strange in the capital. Since yesterday, after the case was concluded, the news has spread throughout the entire capital, especially among the storytellers in taverns and teahouses. They almost all have the same story. I sent people to investigate, and they said that someone did this on purpose, but the person behind it is extremely difficult to find."
Ningbian followed the car, shielding his eyes from the sun, and looked at the teahouse on the street corner. Inside, there was a noisy commotion with cheers and applause. He couldn't make out what they were saying, but he could recall what he had heard about yesterday. It seemed like a rumor, but the truth behind it was all true.
"Why bother investigating? There are so many people in the capital. If someone wants to set up a trap, they must have ulterior motives. With so many officials present at yesterday's court hearing, it's impossible to hide anything. Whether Xu Changwen wants to be an upright official or an honest one, it's his own choice. In my opinion, there are very few officials in the world who share this ambition."
Zhang Jinyu harbored no suspicions, only a sense of regret. So-called upright officials and honest ministers—none of them ever had a good ending. In this life, it's enough to be happy. Of course, if one could enter the imperial court, perhaps one could leave a significant mark on history. Unfortunately, he was used to indulging in food, drink, and pleasure; even if he were reborn twice, he couldn't accept a life of servitude.
"Yes, my lord, but I believe that entering the palace today might not be entirely unrelated to this matter. If the case reaches the palace, who will dare to investigate further?"
Ningbian was about to say something when suddenly, someone chased after them, leaned close to the car, and whispered;
"Reporting, Your Excellency, a secret report from the palace: Song Zhen, the Minister of Justice, has joined the cabinet."
"What, so fast!"
(End of this chapter)