Luo Xiang and Liu Jin went to the banquet in the same carriage. Liu Jin had asked Zhengde to transfer Luo Xiang to the inner factory. After all, Luo Xiang was an old man who had served him for many years. Seeing Luo Xiang running errands these days, Zhengde's anger had subsided. In addition, it was Liu Jin who had personally asked, so he nodded and agreed.
When Luo Xiang arrived at the inner factory, he was like a fish in water. The eunuchs that Liu Jin had sent had been in the palace since they were young. They were good at scheming and bootlicking in the Department of Rites. They did not understand anything when asked to manage the industry. Basically, as long as the original subordinates of the inner factory explained, they would muddle-headedly sign and put their fingerprints on it, as if they understood everything, so as not to make a fool of themselves in front of their subordinates.
The business of the inner factory was very complicated. It was no longer limited to transportation. Instead, it branched out into brothels, taverns, casinos, rice shops, cloth shops, and many other businesses. Even though these eunuchs had been on official business before, they were only good at squeezing money out of these businesses. They were not good at managing it.
The reason why these businesses were successful was that they used the inner factory's transportation route. The cost was low. In addition, Yu Yong was good at managing money, had low internal friction, and knew how to make a name for himself. When the business was handed over to them, it left behind a large pile of debt. The internal management was not good. The only competitive advantage was the low cost of transportation. Due to the sudden increase in the 'natural wear and tear' of transportation, this was completely offset. These problems had not yet surfaced.
In addition, the internal factories were using the new bookkeeping method devised by Yang Ling. They could not understand it, and only knew how many shops had been opened, how many goods had been brought in, and how many members of the nobility had joined the business. They felt that their business was doing well, but they did not know that there were many tricks to it.
Luo Xiang often ran errands and was more knowledgeable than them. In addition, he was an old man in the palace. So they handed over the businesses that they did not understand to Luo Xiang. A large pile of modern financial statements was handed over to Luo Xiang. Before Luo Xiang could see through them, he took the money that Prince Consort Liu and Marquis Song had invested into his own pocket. He bought a large gift and sent it to Liu Jin's door.
Liu Jin saw that Wei Xiaobao's gift was very generous, and in front of him he was as obedient as a third grandchild. In a moment of happiness, he gave Wei Xiaobao face and allowed him to sit in the same carriage with him to attend the banquet.
Luo Xiang bowed and sat in the corner of the carriage. He smiled respectfully and said: "Gong-gong is now His Majesty's most trusted person. The few of us who served the Crown Prince in the past are able to do well because of Gong-gong's care. Speaking of which … Zhang Yong and Gu Daeyong are a bit ungrateful. If it wasn't for eunuch appearing and leading us to cry to His Majesty, we would have all been killed by Liu Jian, Xie Qian, and the others. Now that they have the ability, they don't even put eunuch in their eyes. It's really hateful. "
Liu Jin smiled proudly and said in a reserved manner, "You don't put my family in your eyes? Then why is Zhang Yong treating us today? "
Luo Xiang was surprised, "Not Gao Feng …? Ah! So that's how it is. Hehe, Zhang Yong is willing to lower his head to you. "
Liu Jin smiled and did not say anything.
The carriage arrived in front of Bai Feng Ju. Ma Yongcheng, Gao Feng, Wei Bin, and the others were already waiting at the door. Liu Jin did not have the intimacy of meeting brothers in the past. He was full of style, like a superior meeting his subordinates, full of official air. Other than Ma Yongcheng and Luo Xiang who were loyal to him, the others inevitably felt a little uncomfortable. Liu Jin was completely unaware of this and felt very good about himself.
He still did not know that Zhang Yong listened to Yang Ling's advice and invited him to a banquet with the last hope of avoiding a complete break. He still thought that Zhang Yong was willing to lower his head to him and be used by him from now on. Without needing anyone to persuade him, Liu Jin sat down at the head of the table. He looked around at the crowd and said with a smile, "Other than Da Yong, the rest of you are all here. Ah? Hehe, Da Yong has grown up now. He's a local tyrant in Jiangnan. It's already the new year, but he hasn't sent his heart back to the capital. He's not of the same mind as us. Sit! Sit! "
Liu Jin wanted to use this to arouse the jealousy of everyone toward Gu Daeyong and make them use him as a backer. But these words had a different meaning in the ears of the other eunuchs. Gu Daeyong had grown up? How had he grown up? He had instigated a mutiny in Datong and stirred up a great disaster. But he had Yang Ling's protection. Look at how he was doing now.
Looking at himself, he had toppled the internal court's Wang Yue and Fan Ting. The external court's Liu Jian and Xie Qian had been rewarded by the current Emperor. Now, other than Zhang Yong, who had always been close to Yang Ling and had not been stripped of power, the other elders had to consult Liu Jin for everything. The power bestowed by the Emperor had basically all been taken back by him.
With Yang Ling, he was really willing to let go of power. With you, Eunuch Liu … The brothers sat down with jealousy in their hearts. They were not easy to deal with, but they had no choice. Back then, they had followed the wrong person. Now that they wanted to follow him, he was Duke Wei, free and unfettered like an immortal.
As for Liu Jin, he wished he could grow a hundred hands and meddle in everything. If you didn't listen to him, he would ostracize you. When he saw his own people, he would be intimate. When he saw others, he would be sarcastic. No matter what you said, I would oppose it all. Even if you were Li Taibai in this world, I would still say that what you wrote was a limerick. If you were my people, even if you were a toad, I would praise you as a white swan. In the long run, the Eight Tigers, with the exception of Zhang Yong and Gu Daeyong, had all become Liu Jin's servants.
Everyone had their own thoughts and sat down. Before Gao Feng could say anything, Liu Jin had automatically taken himself as the master and started to make arrangements. He was like a big family. He was very friendly to everyone, but his tone was absolutely high and mighty. He had an attitude of bestowing favors. Even when he was drinking, he didn't allow the slightest doubt.
Gao Feng couldn't find a chance to speak, so everyone could only smile and drink. When Liu Jin was happy eating, he stopped drinking and took a handkerchief to wipe his face. Gao Feng held her cup and smiled. She hoped that Eunuch Liu would be magnanimous and not cause trouble for the Zhang brothers. The other tigers also hurriedly agreed. They thought that with so many people asking for help, Liu Jin would definitely give them face.
Unexpectedly, Liu Jin laughed. He had already guessed the purpose of Gao Feng's invitation today. He had also thought about how to subdue Zhang Yong. After thinking about it, he always felt that Zhang Yong had too much power and too much power. If he gave him face, at most, their relationship would be smoother in the future. He still couldn't completely control him.
Now that even Yang Ling had been toppled by him, how could he allow a tiger to sleep soundly next to his bed? Moreover, there was still Gu Daeyong in Jiangnan. He was in charge of the maritime yamen that he coveted. Only by completely defeating Zhang Yong, the chicken, could he scare Gu Daeyong, the monkey. Therefore, he had already decided not to give him face.
Liu Jin put on a straight face and said coldly, "It's almost the New Year. I came over to have a drink with my brothers and reminisce about the old days. As for official matters, let's not talk about it. It spoils the mood! Hmm …? How can an official position in the imperial court be given privately? Zhang Yong and his brother were originally just two peddlers. What ability and merit did they have to enter the Imperial Bodyguard as officials? "
Zhang Yong was a docile donkey. As soon as he heard this, he couldn't suppress his anger. He slammed the table and said, "Liu Jin, don't be so shameless! Your older brother was originally just a tenant farmer, but he first became a councilor in the Shaanxi Minister of State's yamen. Now that you're active, you want him to enter the capital to become the commander-in-chief of the Five Armies. Don't think I don't know. My older brother can read, and my brother knows martial arts. He more or less has some ability. Your older brother is almost sixty, but he can't even read a fart. How can he enter the capital to become a commander-in-chief? Only provincial officials are allowed to set fires, but common people are not allowed to light lamps? "
Liu Jin's face darkened. He shouted, "Zhang Yong, don't be the one who doesn't want face when I give it to you! I'm only being polite to you because of our past friendship. Don't think that I can't deal with you. Do you think that by relying on Yang Ling and becoming a watchdog, everything will go smoothly? Let me tell you, even Yang Ling is no longer in my eyes. Don't be ignorant of the current situation. "
Zhang Yong was so angry that he laughed. He jumped up and scolded, "You old dog! Duke Wei did help me before, but he never interfered with my family's matters. No matter how much power and influence he has, he has always treated me as a friend. Watchdog? If I kneel down and lick your toes today, then I will really become a watchdog. You, Liu Jin, have a huge appetite. You want to eat me? Be careful that you don't get stuffed to death! "
The others quickly stood up to stop the fight. They pulled and dragged Zhang Yong down. With a whoosh, Zhang Yong's face was covered with a white handkerchief. Everyone was shocked. They turned around and saw Liu Jin jumping up. He pointed at Zhang Yong and scolded, "Bastard, times have changed. Do you still want to splash a cup of wine on your father like how you did in the leopard garden? Bastard who takes advantage of others! "
Gao Feng and the others quickly went over to persuade him. Before they could go around the table, Zhang Yong broke free from Wei Bin and Qiu Ju. He grabbed a silver wine pot and threw it over. He scolded fiercely, "Father is willing to be cut into pieces. Do you think I can't splash you, you old dog? If you want to be a father, father, you should grow your penis first! "
"You son of a bitch!" Liu Jin was furious. He dodged the wine pot and picked up a wine cup, chopsticks, plates, and bowls. Zhang Yong's face was red. He didn't give in. He threw the things back and scolded, "Today, father is treating you to wine. I've given you enough face, but you don't want it. Even if father arranged all his brothers to be in the Imperial Bodyguard, what can you do?
If you have the guts, let's go to His Majesty and make it clear. Are you jealous? Aren't you in charge of the Department of Rites? Why don't you bring all the men of your Tan family (Liu Jin's original surname was Tan) into the palace to be slaves and the women into the palace to be maids? How grand would that be? A family reunion! "
These words were too vicious. They stabbed right into Liu Jin's sore spot. Liu Jin roared angrily and screeched, "Let go of all of you! I'll fight whoever tries to stop me! "As he spoke, he broke free from the crowd and was about to fight to the death.
With a crash, Zhang Yong kicked the chair aside and strode to the center of the room. He grabbed the lapel of his robe and stuffed it into his waistband. With a 'swish', he made a horse bow and bared his teeth at him. "Come, come. If father doesn't beat you until all your teeth fall out, I won't be surnamed Zhang!"
Liu Jin finally realized that the other knew martial arts. If he really went up, it would only be more humiliating. However, if he didn't go up, he couldn't swallow his anger. At this time, several members of Liu Jin's family ran in. Zhang Yong saw them and cursed, "Is this a gang fight? Guards! "
Immediately a few more people rushed in from outside the door. They were all soldiers from the capital. Seeing that their boss was fighting with someone else, these soldiers didn't care who the opponent was. With a 'swish', they pulled out their swords.
Gao Feng was anxious. She quickly ran to the center and loudly said, "I say, Liu gonggong, Zhang gonggong, you two are my grandsons. Are you all my grandsons? Can't we talk calmly for a while? It's not easy for old brothers to see each other! "
Liu Jin didn't call for anyone. Those family members didn't come in to help. Rather, they had urgent news to tell Liu Jin. It turned out that Liu Jin had intervened in the salt laws. He had issued an order to prohibit the smuggling of salt and the smuggling of salt. However, when the eunuch Chang Hao had been ordered to go to Nanjing on official business, he had smuggled salt from the government to buy silver for weaving and also smuggled salt to make a big profit. In the past, there were eunuchs who were on official business who often did this. In the end, it was discovered by spies from the inner factory, who immediately reported it to the several heads in charge of the inner factory.
When the news reached Liu Jin, Liu Jin didn't have any personal relationship with Chang Hao. He immediately sent people to arrest Chang Hao. He also beat up the salt patrol imperial envoy who didn't find out that Chang Hao was smuggling salt. He also arrested the salt transport envoy, Ning Qirun, who helped Chang Hao transport salt. He took the opportunity to interrogate and collect dirt. Their homes were confiscated clean. Even the salt transport envoy's daughter was sold in exchange for money, which he kept in his own pocket.
This' Punishing Corruption Storm 'really worked. The salt transport envoys didn't dare to take this risk anymore. Unexpectedly, Liu Jin used the excuse of transporting seafood to smuggle salt to sell. The method he used was very strange. In order to keep the seafood from spoiling, some salt had to be sprinkled on top to preserve it. The problem was that Liu Jin symbolically put a fish on a cart of salt. He was basically making fun of the salt patrol officers along the road.
But they just happened to run into an honest official. This salt patrol officer found a dozen carts of smuggled salt and immediately ordered them to be seized. Liu Jin's family servants secretly flashed Liu Jin's signboard. The salt patrol officer immediately raised his voice, as if he was afraid others wouldn't hear him. He scolded them for pretending to be Eunuch Liu's family, breaking the law, transporting smuggled salt, and ruining Eunuch Liu's reputation.
The salt patrol officer loudly proclaimed Eunuch Liu's image as an honest official who banned salt smuggling and eliminated corruption. He tore the note Liu Jin had written on the spot. He then escorted all of the smuggled salt dealers who didn't dare to admit they were Liu Jin's family and couldn't say who they really were. When had the Liu family ever suffered in silence? Most importantly, if all the other officials did the same, wouldn't the Liu family lose a source of income?
So the people responsible for transporting salt didn't wait for anyone to arrive and immediately reported back to the capital when they heard the news. If the smuggled salt exceeded a certain amount, they would be beheaded. The salt transport officer had already reported the list of people to be beheaded. One of the people arrested was the fourth housekeeper's nephew. He was extremely anxious when he heard the news and rushed over without waiting for Liu Jin to return home.
As expected, Liu Jin was enraged when he heard this. A dozen carts of salt, mixed with sand and soil, how much money would they sell for? That brat Zhang Yong was acting like a bastard, and a little salt patrol officer was acting like a bastard too. There were many people who dared to challenge the Liu family!
Liu Jin's eyebrows rose and he said murderously, "Let's go to the Ministry of Revenue immediately! I'll make him spit out how much he swallowed! And that blind thing, if we don't punish him, he'll rebel! "
Liu Jin's power was greater than Zhang Yong's, so fighting was out of the question! Not to mention the fact that the factory guards always tried to smooth things over in front of him, even if they completely listened to him, those spies weren't good at fighting, so how could they be a match for the soldiers in the capital?
For a gentleman to take revenge, ten years is not too late. Giving him a punch was not as good as stabbing him with a knife. It wouldn't be too late to make a move later. Thinking of this, Liu Jin temporarily suppressed his anger and said to Zhang Yong with a cold smile, "Using my fists? Using my fists won't show my methods! The one surnamed Zhang, since you want to go against me, Liu Jin, you can slowly enjoy it! I hope you can! "
With that said, Liu Jin swaggered off with a flick of his sleeve. The other tigers looked at each other, feeling a little angry in their hearts. No matter what, everyone had come forward together to ask for help, but Eunuch Liu was too … too arrogant. He was simply too condescending.
Zhang Yong pulled out his robe from his belt and thought about it. Mou Bin had been miserably bullied by Liu Jin, and Shao Jiewu was the North Provost Provost of the Provost Division and had even been imprisoned by Liu Jin. Would he be able to resist Liu Jin's oppression? Today's matter had become so big. If his brothers were really kicked out of the Imperial Bodyguard, then he wouldn't be able to live in the future. He would lose all his face.
He paced around the room and then bowed to Gao Feng and the others, saying, "Brothers, Zhang Yong will remember your kind intentions. Today, I have made you follow Zhang Yong and lose face. It is Zhang Yong's fault. Another day, Zhang Yong will hold a banquet to apologize to you brothers. Liu Jin and I can't coexist under the same sky. I can't wait for him to come knocking on my door. I have something on hand that needs to be done immediately. I'll also take my leave. "Zhang Yong bowed again as he spoke, turned around, and strode out.
Gao Feng panted angrily and sat back on the chair. Thinking about how shameful it was to be a mediator, she could not help but slap the table angrily. The others could not help but secretly sigh and also sat down on the chairs. The room was a mess of cups and plates, and for a moment, it was silent.
※ ※ ※
When Zhang Yong walked out of the door, snow was already floating. He looked up and thought for a moment, then got into the car and said, "Let's go! To the Ministry of War! "
Although the Imperial Bodyguard had sole power and status, the military system still belonged to the Ministry of War. He knew that Liu Yu was now wavering between Yang Ling and Liu Jin, but Yang Yiqing was on Yang Ling's side. If he had Yang Yiqing's support, then Mou Bin would be more stable. It wasn't that he couldn't arrange another task for his brother, but whether or not his brother could gain a foothold in the Embroidered Uniform Guard depended on whether or not his authority existed. No matter what, he had to fight with Liu Jin!
When Zhang Yong arrived at the Ministry of War, he saw swords drawn at the gate and the atmosphere was very tense. A fit and beautiful girl in blue stood proudly in front of the gate of the Ministry of War with her hands behind her back. A group of soldiers in their twenties were holding swords and spears in their hands, but did not dare to take a step forward. Behind the girl stood nearly a hundred people, all dressed like ordinary people, but all of them were strong young men in their twenties. They were also holding swords and spears in their hands, and there were more than a dozen soldiers on the ground with steel swords pressed against their necks.
Zhang Yong was curious, who was so bold to come to the Ministry of War to cause trouble. Zhang Yong hurriedly asked someone to stop the sedan chair and leaned against the stone lion. He saw a lieutenant opposite her said fiercely, "How dare you to offend the official. Aren't you afraid of being beheaded? Quickly tie him up, or else you'll be killed! "
The beautiful girl opposite said indifferently, "Offend the official? You better get it straight, when it comes to official rank, my rank is much higher than his. How dare he say such filthy words to me, it's outrageous! I'm here to see Valiant Cavalry Captain General Wu, not to cause trouble. Is General Wu here? "
A fifth-rank Valiant Cavalry Captain was not a high-ranking official in the capital, but the person she had captured was the head of the Imperial Bodyguard, Yang Yu, who had extremely high authority. How could the lieutenant let her press Mr. Yang to the ground like this? His face was pressed against the snow, and he looked indescribably miserable. The lieutenant said, "I've already sent someone to report, and the Vice Minister will come out soon. Quickly release Mr. Yang, you've caused a great disaster!"
Yang Yu was a member of the Imperial Bodyguard, and no one knew who this girl was, but she had actually led more than a hundred people into the Ministry of War with weapons in her hands. It could be imagined that as long as Yang Yu accused her of attempting to rebel, he would be able to put them all in prison. Once such a beautiful girl fell into the hands of Yang Yu, the perverted scourge, it could be imagined what would happen to her. The lieutenant could not bear it and couldn't help but sigh.
The girl giggled and said, "Fine, if you won't let me in, I'll wait for your Lord to come out." Her beautiful eyes turned to look at Yang Yu, who was pressed to the ground and glaring at her fiercely. "You're also surnamed Yang? Tsk, tsk, tsk. You're both surnamed Yang, but your official position is far inferior, and your character is even worse. Humph! What are you staring at? How dare you be so rude to me. It's already good enough that I didn't kill you! "
At this time, the Left Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War, Yang Yiqing, hurriedly came out. He was also very curious when he heard that a girl had led more than a hundred people to surround the Ministry of War. He immediately led several dozen people with weapons. When he came out and saw this scene, he couldn't help but be surprised. "Who is this girl? Don't you know the law? How dare you cause trouble in front of the Ministry of War and detain an official of the imperial court. Quickly release Mr. Yang! "
Seeing him come out, Zhang Yong went up to greet him. "Mr. Yang, it's my pleasure to meet you."
When Yang Yiqing saw Zhang Yong, he hurriedly cupped his hands and said, "So it's Eunuch Zhang. You're too polite. Uh … wait for this official to deal with this matter first before receiving Eunuch Zhang. "
Zhang Yong said with a smile, "Haha, Mr. Yang, please do as you please. My family's matter isn't urgent."
When the girl in blue heard the conversation between the two, her black eyes turned and she said in surprise, "It's Mr. Yang again? Why are there so many people surnamed Yang? "
Yang Yiqing glanced at her and walked forward. "Who are you? Which Mr. Yang do you want to see? Why did you bring people to charge at the Ministry of War and detain Sir Yang Yu?"
The girl in blue raised her eyebrows and said even more arrogantly than him, "Which eye of yours saw me charge at the Ministry of War? Only animals are allowed to stand at the entrance of the Ministry of War? "
Yang Yiqing flew into a rage and shouted, "How dare you! You don't know the immensity of heaven and earth! "
The girl in blue giggled and bowed. "Haha, thank you for your praise. The other Mr. Yang also praised me in the same way. This Lord Yang is very knowledgeable, so this young lady humbly asked him for guidance. Now, I really know how vast the heavens are and how deep the earth is. Speaking of how vast the heavens are and how deep the earth is, does this Lord Yang know? "
The girl smiled sweetly and looked very cute. If it weren't for the incident at the Ministry of War, Yang Yiqing really couldn't bear to punish her. He said with a smile and anger, "Arrogant little girl, this official is the Left Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War, Yang Yiqing. Why did you bring people to the Ministry of War to cause trouble and even violate the ban by carrying weapons? Quickly tell me, otherwise this official will not allow you to leave. Huh? You are talking about Mr. Yang? Which Mr. Yang? "
The girl said, "It's Mr. Yang Yang Ling. He asked me to enter the capital to serve the army as soon as possible. Didn't I rush to the capital? In the end, when I arrived, I couldn't even enter the Ministry of War's main gate. Then, I ran into this bastard who verbally harassed me and tried to touch me. The only reason I didn't kill him was out of respect for Official Yang. "
"Mr. Yang Yang Ling?" Yang Yiqing suddenly understood. He looked at the girl and the dark-skinned young men behind her in puzzlement. He couldn't help but wonder, "Where did Mr. Yang find these strange people? She's just a girl. What army did he let her join? Uh … it can't be that Duke Wei has caused some dissolute debt outside, right? "
Thinking of this, Yang Yiqing's tone suddenly became cautious. Yang Yu struggled on the ground and cursed, "Little bitch, you don't have a waist token or a token. How can you enter the Ministry of War's gate? I asked you a few questions out of goodwill, but your people dared to knock me to the ground. Mr. Yang, you have to uphold justice for this lowly official … Ouch! "
Before he could finish his complaint, his head was knocked a few times by the itchy beheading trio. He hurriedly shut his mouth.
Yang Yiqing came to the Ministry of War today to run for an official post. It was close to the New Year and the six ministries had been sealed. However, Yang Yiqing didn't bring his family to the capital. He lived in the small courtyard where Liu Daxia used to live and made the Ministry of War his home. Yang Yu coveted the position of Commander occupied by Zhang Yong's brother. He calculated that Yang Yiqing had never liked eunuchs. He had the same surname as Yang Yiqing and was a family five hundred years ago. Therefore, he brought a gift and wanted to continue pressuring the Imperial Bodyguard through the activities of the Ministry of War. If Eunuch Liu persuaded him, he might get the position.
Unexpectedly, Yang Yiqing kept shirking the responsibility. The two argued for a long time, but Yang Yiqing didn't get a promise or a refusal. Yang Yiqing only relied on his salary and had no other way to earn money. He was worried that he wouldn't have a good time during the New Year, but he accepted the gift without hesitation.
Yang Yu was very depressed after accepting the gift but didn't do anything. He left the Ministry of War unhappily and saw a sweet-looking and pretty girl talking with a few people at the door. Yang Yu had always been lecherous. This girl was beautiful and had a different charm compared to the women in the capital. This aroused the lecher's lust. He couldn't help calling her "little girl" with a lewd smile and trying to get close to her.
Song Ai was infuriated by his lowly appearance. Yang Yu had always been domineering. Seeing that this girl was dressed in a coarse blue robe and didn't seem like a girl from a wealthy family, he didn't even bother to ask about her identity. He thought that she was the daughter or sister of some soldier. Before either side could figure out the other's identity, his claws had already touched the girl's fragrant shoulder.
Song Ai was the leader of the strong men. In the eyes of the strong men, she was a princess and a king. Seeing that their leader had been insulted and the girl had become angry, they immediately rushed forward, brandished their weapons, and seized Yang Yu and his subordinates. The soldiers at the door saw this and rushed forward to help, but they were frightened out of their wits. There was a shout from the other side of the street and a hundred people rushed out, giving these soldiers a fright. They hastily retreated to the door and had someone report to Yang Yiqing.
Yang Yiqing had heard of Yang Yu's reputation. This boy was lecherous, but he didn't go to brothels. He preferred seducing women from good families. He especially liked to tease young girls and young wives. If there was a beautiful young widow, he would drool with greed. What this girl said was most likely true. He looked at Yang Yu and thought, "If this girl is really Duke Wei's sweetheart, I'm afraid you've been beaten for nothing. But then again, you really deserve to be beaten. "
Yang Yiqing said to Song Ai amiably, "Ah, so it's Yang Ling, Yang Da … Oh, Mr Yang has now been promoted to Duke Wei and should be addressed as Duke Wei. Hehe, Miss, so it was Duke Wei who invited you to the capital. Duke Wei is not in the capital now. Uh … Can you let me send someone to bring you to the Duke's residence? That's right, it's a misunderstanding. Miss, please let Yang Yu go. There are many people on the street and it won't be good if passersby see us. "
Song Ai raised her eyebrows and said happily, "Duke Wei? Is he older than the Governor? Hehehe, Mr Yang has been promoted again! " After she finished speaking, she looked up and down. This official in front of her had a long beard. Although it was not as long as Wu Hanchao's father's, it was not short. Hmm … he should be a decent person.
Song Ai generously waved her hand and said, "Alright, you are the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War. In terms of rank, both of us are higher. In terms of power, you have to control me. I'll give you face and let that ignorant thing go."
Yang Yiqing was puzzled, "Rank? You … What is your identity? "
Song Ai said, "I am Guangxi's Zhuang Army's General Song Ai. His Majesty bestowed me with the rank of Zongbing. He offended me. Does this count as offending a superior official? Can I bring my guards to the Ministry of War? "
Yang Yu was released but when he heard the girl's identity, he was dumbfounded. He lay there in a daze. Yang Yiqing had also heard of this heroine. He could not help but feel deep veneration for her. He cupped his hands and said, "Turns out it is Song daren. Aiya, quickly come in. The soldiers guarding the gate don't have any manners. How could they know daren's identity and not announce it? Song daren, Zhang gonggong, quickly come in. "
Song Ai's face heated up. This matter could not be blamed on the soldiers guarding the gate. Yang Ling had sent her a message through the military post station. The letter did not mention that he had been promoted to a Duke. He only told her that Wu Hanchao had been arranged to go to the Ministry of War. He told her to go to the Yang House after she entered the capital and then think of a way to make arrangements for her.
But she was eager to find her lover. When she entered Beijing, she went straight to the Ministry of War. When she arrived at the gate, she shyly and softly said that she wanted to see Wu Hanchao. Wu Hanchao was not in the Ministry of War at the moment. He had just arrived and did not know many people. The soldiers were too lazy to pay attention to him. In the end, Yang Yu had a good eye for beauty and went forward to strike up a conversation.
Yang Yiqing led the two into the yamen of the Ministry of War. Yang Yu got up, but no one paid attention to him. Thinking that this woman, whether it was her personal relationship with Yang Ling or her current official position, was not someone that a Qianhu like him could deal with, he could only swallow his anger and scram.
Yang Yiqing invited the two into the mansion and ordered someone to serve tea. The three of them chatted, and he deliberately revealed Yang Yu's purpose of coming to Zhang Yong. When Zhang Yong heard that the bastard had come to steal his brother's position, he gnashed his teeth in hatred. If he had known this was the case, he would have beaten Yang Yu up.
Song Ai asked about Yang Ling's promotion. When she heard that he had been promoted to a Duke and was no longer in power in the court, she could not help but feel a little disappointed. She did not care about the promotion, but the problem was that she and Wu Hanchao were not married yet, so she could not live with him. She was originally not a general in the regular army. If she could not have a proper arrangement, would she have to live in the Yang House and do nothing? Besides, the hundreds of people she had brought were all dreaming of making contributions and having wives and children. What should she do now?
The little girl temporarily put aside her thoughts of her lover and frowned in worry. She had hit Yang Yu, and Zhang Yong felt relieved. He also wished that there could be more people who could make trouble for Liu Jin. After thinking for a while, he thought of a way for her.
Zhang Yong laughed and said, "Don't worry, Commander Song. After we leave here in a while, I will ask for an imperial edict to arrange a place for you. I guarantee that it will be majestic. Yang Yu and whoever is behind him will not dare to make trouble for you, and you can also arrange people for you."
Song Ai was summoned to the capital by Yang Ling, so Zhang Yong did not have many scruples. He explained the purpose of his visit to Yang Yiqing and asked him to help support Mou Bin from the point of view of the Yamen of the Ministry of War. Yang Yiqing naturally understood what the official fight between him and Liu Jin meant. He also did not want Liu Jin to control the Imperial Bodyguard and the capital camp, so he naturally nodded and agreed. Everyone talked harmoniously, and Zhang Yong left with Song Ai.
The two had just walked out of the gate of the Ministry of War when a horse flew over. Song Ai's eyes were sharp. Before the person got off the horse, she happily called out, "Hanchao!" and stepped forward to greet him.
When Wu Hanchao saw that it was Song Ai, he could not help but be overjoyed. He pinched his fingers and counted the days. Song Ai should be arriving soon, but he did not know the specific date. He did not expect to see her as soon as he returned from Duke Wei Public House.
The two of them rushed together and looked into each other's eyes. The domineering General Song immediately turned into a gentle and gentle little woman. The two of them spoke softly, and the snowflakes danced around them in the wind. In their eyes, the wind and snow seemed to be very far away.
The two of them first talked about the pain of parting and missed each other, and finally asked about the situation after they left. Wu Hanchao heard that she beat up the Embroidered Clothes Qian Hu Yang Yu as soon as she arrived, and could not help but smile bitterly, "You really do not know how deep the earth is. There are many noble relatives and high officials in the capital, and it cannot be compared to your hometown. You must not do this in the future."
"Yes!" Song Ai looked at her lover affectionately, with a gentle and sweet smile on her face, "Just now, Mr Yang with the big beard also said the same thing. Do I not know how deep the earth is? Is this what you men often say to women?"
She could not help but show off again, "I really do know how high the earth is and how deep the earth is. Do you know?"
At first glance, Zhang Yong felt that it was warm and romantic, but he folded his sleeves and stood not far away. He looked at the pair of little lovers who were acting as if there was no one else around, and they were about to turn into snowmen. Finally, he could not help but cough and said, "Official Song, we still need to see the Emperor, do you think …"
"Oh!" Song Ai responded, and gently squeezed Wu Hanchao's thick palm, and said softly, "Eunuch Zhang promised to find a job for me in front of the Emperor, so that I can stay with you for a long time. Be good, wait for me … "
Wu Hanchao did not know whether to laugh or cry. Being teased by Song Ai had long become a method of flirting for this young couple. After not seeing each other for a long time, Song Ai suddenly became mischievous, which made Wu Hanchao feel especially close.
In front of her lover, Song Ai's gait became more charming. Wu Hanchao was infatuated with the way her waist swayed and her footsteps were as light as snowflakes. A bodyguard brought Song Ai's horse over. She took the reins and buckled the saddle. Suddenly, she turned around and smiled. She stammered, "Those who want to teach Song Ai a lesson must pay the price."
She turned around and mounted the horse, patted the horse's mane, and giggled, "Why did the tortoise hit the bald head, making you unable to sleep for a few nights? Let me tell you now, the sky is two butts high, and the ground is not three feet thick. As for why, if you can't figure it out, go home and think about it. "
Wu Hanchao put on a straight face, snorted, and said with a double meaning, "Well, if you can't figure it out … … you will be punished according to the family rules."
Song Ai's face turned red, and she glared at him coquettishly. Thinking about Wu Hanchao, who was a super curious baby, he would most likely not be able to sleep tonight. He thought about the riddle he came up with, thinking about himself, and could not help but smile happily.
On the snowy ground, a string of silver bell-like laughter rang out, and the horse had already gone far away … …
Wu Hanchao smiled bitterly as he brushed the snow off his hat. The last riddle made him unable to sleep for a few nights, and he had to beg and coax Song Ai to tell him the answer. He did not expect that she would give him another riddle now. After teasing him, guessing riddles seemed to have become Song Ai's second method of torturing him, and the more she played, the more addicted she became.
※ ※ ※
Although Zhang Yong's shrewdness couldn't compare to Liu Jin's, it wasn't any less than his. He took Song Ai to the leopard garden and told her to wait outside. Like a wisp of smoke, he went to see the emperor.
Zhengde was reading the memorials to the throne. Zhang Yong supervised the security of Leopard Garden and was also a frequent visitor, so when Zhengde saw him, he casually greeted him and did not need him to pay his respects. He continued to read the memorials on his own.
Zhang Yong moved the charcoal stove in front of the Emperor and stood respectfully to the side. He saw Emperor Zhengde looking at the memorials and shaking his head, "Last time King Ning requested to restore the Three Guards, but Zhen did not agree. I only ordered the local government to strengthen the arrest of bandits and maintain law and order, but this Jiangxi inspector is too incompetent. The more bandits are arrested, the more there are. You see, King Ning said that bandits run amok and often enter the Prince's Mansion to steal. The Prince's Mansion has limited manpower. In addition, the palace is in disrepair. Many houses in the Prince's Mansion now leak when it rains. It's too pitiful."
Zhang Yong smiled apologetically and said carefully, "Could it be … … King Ning requested to restore the Three Guards again?"
"No, he said … … many of the glazed tiles in the Prince's Mansion have been trampled or damaged by the wind and rain. If they need to be replaced, about twenty to thirty thousand pieces will be needed. This is supervised by the Royal Family. He can't make the decision himself, so he asked Zhen for an edict."
Zhengde said with a distressed expression, "Jiangnan's sea tax silver has already been sent to the capital. En, the market has just opened. In the last few months, many foreign merchants have not had time to trade with Ming Destiny. The tax has almost caught up to the tax silver sent by the three towns of Jiangnan last year. It has helped Zhen greatly. Otherwise, the salaries for the officials at the end of the year, the expenses for rewarding the troops, and the expenses for preparing for the New Year would all come from who knows where.
In Zhen's opinion, with another two years, these days will be better. But these two years will not be easy to endure. King Ning wants to replace the glazed tiles. Together with the construction and transportation, as well as other repairs, it will require a large sum of money. Where will Zhen find it? But the repairs of the Prince's Mansion are subsidized by the Royal Family. King Ning is very courteous during the New Year. It's just changing the tiles, how can Zhen refuse? "
"Yes, yes, yes," Zhang Yong wanted to play tricks and have the Emperor send Liu Jin to think of a way. But he heard Zhengde say to himself, "En, Liu Jin's suggestion in the memorial is not bad. Zhen will not care about this matter. I will only investigate the matter of the bandits running amok. I will allow him to restore the Three Guards and increase the efforts to arrest the bandits to protect the Royal Family. Ha, he wants the silver and the tiles. Just like that, I will evade him without leaving a trace. "
Zhang Yong had heard that officials from King Ning's fu came to the capital at the end of the year to present gifts to His Majesty. He also prepared a generous gift for Liu Jin. But he did not have much contact with King Ning and was too lazy to care about this matter. He took this opportunity to talk about his own purpose, "That's right, Your Majesty, no matter how the world is governed, there will always be some daring and reckless people who break the law.
Let's not talk about the place. Last year, Yang Ling was kidnapped by bandits in the capital and the Marquis' fu was attacked by hundreds of bandits. It can be seen how daring these bandits are. Also, in Datong, the evil cult infiltrated the government and colluded with foreign invaders. If it was not for Your Majesty's great wisdom and courage, you would have been able to turn the tide. If it was someone else, they would have been harmed. "
Zhengde thought of the incident at Mount Baideng. If it was not for Yang Ling stabilizing the half-hearted Hua Dang and Wang Shouren's timely reinforcements, the incident at Tumu Castle might have happened again. He couldn't help but nod his head repeatedly.
Zhang Yong took this opportunity to say, "Old Slave heard that Her Highness Yongfu is praying for the Empress Dowager's blessings and wants to become a nun to cultivate. In order to seek peace and quiet, the nunnery is built in the outskirts. This responsibility of protection must be taken seriously. Although Her Highness has become a nun, in the eyes of the world, she is still the daughter of the Former Emperor and the Imperial Younger Sister of the current Emperor. If there are thieves who have designs on her, it will be bad. "
"Become a nun?" A strange expression appeared on Zhengde's face, "Become a nun. Sooner or later, this younger sister will slip into the Yang Family. I have to help my younger sister hide this matter. Although Zhang Yong is reliable, it is better not to tell him such a degrading matter."
"But … what he said is right. Such a big Prince Consort fu … Ah, no, such a big nunnery. Only a few palace maids are sent to become a nun. There is not a single man. Let's not talk about safety. If any palace maid leaves the palace and randomly hooks up with a man and gets pregnant, wouldn't it be shameful for her younger sister and herself? We really should find someone to protect them. How about … we have Liu Jin send some foreigners to surround the nunnery? "
Zhang Yong looked at his expression as he said, "Your Majesty still remembers General Song, the Commander of the Wolf Army, who was personally appointed by Your Majesty to suppress the pirates in Jiangnan and recruit the Wolf Army from Guangxi? That was a female general. She was brave and good at fighting. She repeatedly defeated the pirates and made great achievements for our Ming Destiny. She was very loyal to the court.
This female general doesn't have much of a position. Isn't it … it's the new year. She came to the capital to visit Sir Yang Ling and coincidentally bumped into me. The Old Slave thought that this female general was highly skilled in martial arts and was also a woman. If Your Majesty asked her to protect the nunnery, it would be convenient for her to enter and exit the nunnery. Thus, he quickly asked her to stay and came to see Your Majesty. What does Your Majesty think? "
When Zhengde heard this, he beamed with joy. He put down the memorial and said, "Not bad, not bad. Luckily you thought of this for me. Oh … letting a female general protect my younger sister, this idea is very good."
When he said this, his eyebrows jumped. He suddenly thought, "Traveling thousands of miles to the capital to visit the old marshal? She … could it be … could it be that Yang Qing has taken a liking to her … if that's the case, it would be giving my younger sister a love rival. It would be strange if she didn't ruin things. "
When Zhengde thought of this, he tactfully declined, "How old is this General Song? She doesn't have any other relatives in the capital, right? She is the head of a strong family. Is she willing to stay in the capital? Besides … she is a woman. The soldiers under her command can't all be female, right? They can't all live in the nunnery. How can I arrange for them? It's not appropriate, not appropriate. "
Zhang Yong said, "This General Song is already engaged to the Ministry of War's Valiant Cavalry General Wu Hanchao. Therefore, I think she will be willing to stay in the capital. Letting her protect the nunnery is only to make it convenient for her to enter and exit the nunnery. Her troops will naturally be stationed outside the nunnery. As for the name, it is also very convenient. Didn't Yang Ling get promoted to Duke Wei? Your Majesty's seven Imperial Plantations will have one less person to guard them. Why don't you give the position of Commander of the Imperial Bodyguards to General Song? She can watch over the Imperial Plantations and protect the nunnery at the same time. It is killing two birds with one stone. "
When Emperor Zhengde heard that she already had a husband's family, he immediately smiled from ear to ear and said, "Yes, yes, this is a good idea. Then go and pass the edict. Appoint General Song as the Commander of the Imperial Bodyguards. She will manage the Imperial Plantations and will also be the Protector General of the nunnery."
This was exactly what Zhang Yong wanted. He was about to accept the edict and leave when Zhengde suddenly said, "Now that you mention it … I remember that the world is not peaceful. Yang Ling received the edict to go to Bazhou to seize An Ye's property. He only let the Ministry of Punishments send some bailiffs to follow him. This is not appropriate. No, no, it is too unsafe. "
He stood up and paced a few steps in the room. He asked, "General Song came to the capital. How many bodyguards came?"
Zhang Yong hurriedly said, "He brought more than a hundred bodyguards. They are all capable warriors."
Zhengde shook his head and said, "Not enough, not enough. Go and pass the edict. Then pick some strong soldiers from the capital camp to make up a thousand and hand them over to General Song. She is the Protector of the nunnery. Subject Yang is going to Bazhou to seize the punishment officials to build the nunnery. This way, she will be able to stick to the side. Anyway, the nunnery has not been built yet. She has nothing to do. Let her lead the troops to Bazhou and catch up with Subject Yang to be his Protector. Hehe! "
Zhang Yong sighed in admiration and said, "Your Majesty is considerate of your subjects and cares for Duke Wei. The Old Slave is very grateful. The Old Slave will go and pass the edict now. "
Zhang Yong originally thought that the Emperor would meet Song Ai. He did not expect the Emperor to agree so readily. He retreated briskly. Zhengde smiled as he watched him leave. He thought to himself, "Protector, protector. Younger sister is not married yet. It is not a bad idea to protect her future brother-in-law first."
Perhaps it was because Yang Ling was older than him. When Zhengde imagined Yang Ling calling him big brother, he felt that he had taken advantage of him. He was overjoyed and did not think that the price he had to pay was to give his younger sister to the other party.
The unruly Emperor Zhengde laughed foolishly for a while. He picked up the memorial that Liu Jin had approved and looked at it. He picked up the brush and wrote a line of small words, "Agree to Liu Jin's draft. Just do as it is!"
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