In Hongwu, we started as rebels

Chapter 1052 Zhi Bo, a sage, met me; I, a sage, repaid him.

Half a month passed in the blink of an eye, and the end of the year was just around the corner.

As the year draws to a close, the entire capital region is filled with joy.

Yingtian City was bustling with people coming and going in an endless stream.

After the truce, Yingtian City enjoyed a long-awaited peace, and everything seemed to return to normal.

The Crown Prince was nowhere to be seen except in the imperial court.
It seems that nothing has changed.

Yue Zhongda has been away from Yunnan for nearly a month.
He hurried along the way, not daring to delay for a moment, and finally arrived in Yingtian City before the New Year.

He sat on his warhorse, gazing at the Jubao Gate with its large red lanterns hanging not far away, his eyes filled with emotion, and his weariness seemed to vanish instantly.

Not far away, a young child's head peeked out from a simple horse-drawn carriage.

He was petite and exquisitely handsome.
Looking at the endless stream of people and caravans,
There were also many novel objects that I had never seen before, so I couldn't help but exclaim in surprise.

Especially when you see an eight or nine-year-old child,
As they rode a strangely shaped cart with only two wheels and no support slowly along the smooth official road, their eyes were filled with envy.

At this moment, the woman in the carriage also revealed half of her face.
He observed the myriad aspects of life on the official road with curiosity, a look of感慨 on his face.

Even if you are mentally prepared,

The prosperity and novelty of Yingtian still greatly shocked her.

Seeing that the two had both poked their heads out, Yue Zhongda smiled and reminded them:

"It's chilly outside, be careful not to catch a cold, quickly draw the curtains."

The woman nodded repeatedly, then pulled the child's head back inside.

Yue Zhongda looked towards the city gate and saw a middle-aged man in a brocade robe walking briskly towards it.

He was followed by more than a dozen servants, and judging from their gazes and the direction they were heading, they were clearly coming for him.

Before he could even get close, the middle-aged man bowed deeply and asked with a warm smile:
"May I ask if you are General Yue, the garrison commander of Yunlong Prefecture in Dali, Yunnan?"

A hint of doubt flashed in Yue Zhongda's eyes. He stepped forward and nodded slightly.
"you are?"

The middle-aged man breathed a sigh of relief and replied with a smile:

"I am Zhou Song, the head manager of Yingtian Xinchen Trading Company. I have come here on Lord Lu's orders to welcome General Yue."

"Lord Lu?"

Upon hearing this, Yue Zhongda's eyes flashed with surprise, but he quickly understood.

After two weeks of arduous travel, he had already come to terms with it.
He had no powerful connections in the government, received no help when he was serving in Fujian, and was completely isolated and helpless in Yunnan.

The only possible source of secret assistance,
Only Lord Lu, who was the Junior Guardian of the Crown Prince.

Seeing that someone had come all the way to greet him today had finally cleared up a doubt in his mind.

Zhou Song waved his hand and gave the order:

"Quickly, help General Yue with his luggage and lead his warhorse, let's enter the city."

Yue Zhongda watched as more than a dozen servants bustled about, a smile playing on his lips.

Regardless, it was a comforting thing for him to be greeted when he first arrived in Yingtian.

Zhou Song introduced with a smile:

"Lord Yue, Xinchen Trading Company has arranged a four-courtyard mansion for you in the city, near Zhongchengfu East Street."

The journey to the imperial city by horse-drawn carriage takes only a quarter of an hour.
Moreover, it is extremely close to Yingtian Trading Company and the Grand Workshop.

The surrounding area is filled with taverns and teahouses, making it very lively and convenient.

A look of surprise flashed across Yue Zhongda's eyes. A mansion with four courtyards?

It is no exaggeration to say that when he was a commander in Fujian, he lived in a three-courtyard house.

He had already heard that a three-courtyard house in Beijing cost ten times more than one in Yunnan.
Moreover, the closer to the capital, the higher the price.

This four-courtyard house is both close to the imperial city and adjacent to the Yingtian Trading Company.
It would probably take several thousand taels of silver to acquire it.

After a moment's thought, Yue Zhongda prepared to politely decline:

"Manager Zhou, I cannot accept a reward without merit. I have come all the way from Yunnan to take up a post in the capital, not to enjoy myself."

Zhou Song nodded repeatedly, knowing his concerns, and explained:

"General Yue is absolutely right, but rest assured, this house is for internal circulation within the business."

It was originally a resting place for shopkeepers from all over the capital region when they came to Yingtian.
Now that the business owns other properties, this one has been left vacant and is available for rent.

The monthly rent isn't expensive, only twenty taels of silver.
Lord Lu has already prepaid ten years' rent.
It also comes fully equipped with a butler, doorman, maids, and guards, so you can rest assured and stay here.

After saying that, Zhou Song stepped forward and added in a low voice:

"However, Lord Lu has made many enemies in the capital, so General Yue should not spread this around."

Your name is on the company's internal documents; please do not disclose this information to others.

As Zhou Song explained in detail, a look of understanding flashed in Yue Zhongda's eyes.

He sighed deeply and said in a deep voice:

"Since it is Lord Lu's kind offer, I will not refuse. I am not afraid of a few demons and monsters."

Zhou Song was taken aback, and quickly whispered a reminder:

"General Yue, I, Zhou, have come to greet you today on a secret order."

Even Lord Lu would likely prefer you to remain in the capital and avoid drawing too much attention.

Yue Zhongda, being quick-witted, instantly grasped the deeper meaning and nodded slightly:

"In that case, I understand. I will be more careful in the future."

Zhou Song laughed upon hearing this, quickly stepped aside, and gestured for him to proceed.

"General Yue, let's enter the city."

"I'll show you around the house. Once you've rested, you can report to the Governor's Office later."

A hint of surprise flashed in Yue Zhongda's eyes as he asked:

"Aren't we going to the Governor's Mansion immediately?"

Zhou Song explained with a smile:

General Yue, there's no need for you to go to such trouble.

Many officials from other regions who come to Beijing to take up new posts first settle down in the capital.
Maintain relationships with colleagues, classmates, or fellow townsmen in the court.

After making connections with superiors and subordinates and figuring out the proper channels, one should then report to the government office, thus ensuring a smooth transition for the officials.

"Please get into the carriage first, and I will take you back to your residence. It will be safer that way."

Yue Zhongda, filled with suspicion, nodded, climbed onto the carriage, and followed Zhou Song and his entourage into the city.

The carriage rolled over the smooth bluestone road of Yingtian City, making a steady sound.

Shops lined both sides of the street, and pedestrians thronged the streets, creating a bustling and prosperous scene.

Yue Zhongda sat up, lifted a corner of the carriage curtain, and looked around at everything in front of him.

He lived for a long time in border areas such as Fujian and Yunnan.

I have never seen such a prosperous and bustling city.
Even the air was filled with an air of wealth and luxury.

His wife, Li, holding their son Yueming beside him, couldn't help but peek out frequently, her eyes filled with amazement.

Her little hands gripped the hem of her clothes tightly, as if afraid of showing her timidity.

"General Yue, the Yingtian Trading Company is just ahead."

Zhou Song rode his horse alongside the carriage.

Seeing Yue Zhongda's moved expression, he smiled and raised his hand in greeting.

Yue Zhongda looked in the direction he pointed.
My eyes were instantly drawn to the building not far away.

It was a magnificent five-story building, entirely silver-white.

The roof is covered with glazed tiles, which shimmer and sparkle in the sunlight.

A huge black plaque with gold lettering hangs above the main entrance.

The four large characters of Yingtian Trading Company are written with vigorous strokes, exuding an undeniable air of authority.

The storefront was packed with people.

You can also see officials from Yingtian Prefecture maintaining order, and the business is booming!

"This is Yingtian Trading Company? It truly lives up to its reputation!"

Yue Zhongda couldn't help but exclaim in admiration.

He had heard of the prestige of Yingtian Trading Company when he was in Yunnan, which controlled most of the trade and circulation in the capital region, but he never expected that its scale was so grand.

Li was also stunned, and whispered to Yue Zhongda:
"This trading company is so grand, it's even more impressive than the Yunnan government office."

Yue Ming clapped his hands excitedly and shouted:

"Dad, look how tall that building is! It's even taller than the tower next to our house!"

Zhou Song smiled upon hearing this:

Yingtian Trading Company is the largest trading company in the capital.
The building not only has local specialties from various regions, but also a lot of things from overseas.

When General Yue has some free time in the future, he might as well take his family there for a visit; I guarantee it will broaden their horizons.

As they were talking, the carriage had already passed Yingtian Trading Company and turned into a relatively quiet street.

The buildings on this street are quite exquisite.

With its blue bricks and gray tiles, and vermilion gates and courtyards, it was clearly a place where wealthy families lived.

The carriage had been traveling for less than a quarter of an hour when it stopped in front of a magnificent mansion.

"General Yue, we have arrived."

Zhou Song dismounted and stepped forward to push open the vermilion gate.

When Yue Zhongda got out of the car, he saw two stone lions squatting at the entrance of the mansion, looking majestic and imposing. A plaque for the Yue family mansion hung above the door, exuding a sense of calm and grandeur.

Upon entering the gate, you are greeted by a courtyard paved with bluestone.

Several wintersweet trees were planted in the middle, their branches adorned with flower buds, their subtle fragrance wafting through the air.

Passing through the courtyard, one arrives at the main hall, with neatly arranged side rooms on both sides, and a winding corridor connecting to the rear quarters.

The entire mansion was well-organized, clean, and tidy, clearly having been carefully maintained.

"This is where we live?"

Holding her son, Li's steps were unsteady; she couldn't believe her eyes.

She originally thought that she would only be able to stay in an ordinary courtyard when she first arrived in the capital, but she never expected that it would be such a large mansion with four courtyards.

Yue Zhongda was also deeply moved.
He raised his hand and stroked the vermilion pillars under the corridor, feeling the warm touch on his fingertips.

When he served as a commander in Fujian, his three-courtyard residence was already quite respectable.

Today, this mansion is not only larger, but also in a superb location.
Located near the imperial city and Yingtian Trading Company, this location alone is incredibly valuable.

He had initially worried that, being new to the capital and lacking connections in court, he would have a difficult time.

I never expected Lord Lu to have made such a thoughtful arrangement.

Having such a residence upon arriving in Yingtian made him feel extremely proud.

Subconsciously, I straightened my chest and my back was much more upright than when I arrived.

"General Yue, please come in. I will show you the layout of each area."

Zhou Song smiled and led the way.

"The main hall is where guests are received, while the west wing is used as a study and office."

The steward and guards lived in the east wing.
The inner quarters have three courtyards: your and your wife's bedrooms, the young master's bedrooms, and the maids' quarters. The kitchen and storeroom are also located in the inner courtyard.

Yue Zhongda followed Zhou Song on the tour.
Each room was spotless, and while the furniture wasn't luxurious, it was all there was to it.
The tables, chairs, benches, beds, and bedding are all brand new.

Upon arriving at the back garden, one sees several pine and cypress trees planted there.

There is also a small pond, which, although it is already winter, still exudes a certain elegance.

"Manager Zhou, thank you for your trouble."

Yue Zhongda turned around, cupped his hands in greeting to Zhou Song, and expressed his gratitude in words.

Zhou Song quickly returned the greeting:

"General Yue, you're too kind. This was all ordered by Lord Lu."

He paused, then continued.

"A renowned expert from the capital will be arriving shortly."
We'll take your measurements, your wife's, and your son's, and custom-make several sets of clothing for all four seasons.
Rest assured, all fees have been settled.

"There are clothes too?"

Upon hearing this, Li was overjoyed.

She was still wearing old clothes made in Yunnan.

The material was ordinary and the style was outdated. I had originally planned to relocate it in the capital, but I never expected that even this would be arranged.
Zhou Song nodded and smiled:

"Lord Lu said that General Yue is a pillar of the court."

When taking up a post in the capital, one must not lose face.

The steward, gatekeeper, maids, and guards in the manor were all carefully selected by the merchant guild; they were loyal and reliable.
Lord Lu also prepaid their wages for ten years.

You can use it with complete peace of mind; there's no need to worry about anything.

He pointed to several servants standing to the side.
The leader was an elderly man in his fifties, with a kind face and steady eyes.
"This is Steward Wang. He has been with the business for many years and is very attentive to his work."

From now on, you can instruct him to handle all matters, big and small, in the manor.

If you need to buy anything,
Or if you have any other needs, just tell him, and he will handle it properly.

Steward Wang quickly stepped forward and bowed in greeting:
"This old servant greets Master, Madam, and Young Master."

The other servants also stepped forward to greet them respectfully.

Looking at all this, Yue Zhongda was filled with mixed emotions.

He had no close relationship with Lord Lu.
I've only met them a few times and received a promotion from them.
I never expected the other person to be so sentimental and considerate of me so thoroughly.
From the mansion to the servants, and even the clothing, everything was meticulously arranged.

This affection left him with incredibly mixed feelings.

"Please thank Lord Lu for me."

Yue Zhongda said in a deep voice, his tone carrying a hint of solemnity.

"If I have the opportunity in the future, I will definitely repay this kindness."

Zhou Song smiled and said:

"General Yue, there's no need for such politeness. Lord Lu has always respected those who are loyal and brave."

You must be tired from your journey. Please rest for a moment. The tailor will arrive in about half an hour.

"If there are no further instructions, I will take my leave now, as the trading company still has some matters to attend to."

Yue Zhongda nodded:
"Take care, Manager Zhou. Thank you for your trouble."

After seeing Zhou Song off, Yue Zhongda and his family, led by Steward Wang, familiarized themselves with the various parts of the mansion.

Holding her son, Li looked at the spacious and bright bedroom and couldn't help but say to Yue Zhongda:

"Master, Lord Lu is truly kind."

We are newcomers, with no relatives or friends here.
Yet he helped so wholeheartedly.
We must remember this kindness.

Yue Zhongda sat in the grand master's chair.
He picked up the hot tea that Butler Wang had brought him, took a sip, and nodded slowly.

"Yes, Lord Lu's actions are truly touching."

I, Yue Zhongda, have spent half my life on the battlefield, guarding the border, and yet I have such a predicament upon arriving in the capital.

"If it weren't for Lord Lu's help, we wouldn't be in such a respectable position."

"Dad, this bed is so soft!"

Yue Ming ran to the bed in the bedroom, jumping and shouting, his face full of childish smiles.

Li quickly stepped forward and pulled him back:
"Slow down, don't fall."

She turned to look at Yue Zhongda, her eyes filled with worry.

"Lord Lu has helped us so much, won't it attract the attention of those with ulterior motives?"

I've heard the situation in the capital is complicated; we'd better be careful.

Yue Zhongda put down his teacup, his expression darkening.
"Don't worry, Lord Lu is always prudent in his work."

He must have his reasons for daring to make such an arrangement.

Let's keep a low profile in the future.
Be careful in your words and actions, and don't cause Lord Lu any trouble.

Li nodded, said no more, and began packing her luggage.

About half an hour later, Steward Wang came to report that the tailor had arrived.

Yue Zhongda had the tailor brought in.
It was a middle-aged man in his forties, dressed respectably.

Carrying a cloth bag, he bowed respectfully upon seeing Yue Zhongda.

"This humble servant greets General Yue."

"No gift."

Yue Zhongda waved his hand.
"I would like to trouble you to take my wife and children's measurements and make a few sets of clothes that fit me."

"I dare not accept such praise; it is only the duty of a lowly person."

The tailor smiled and replied, opening the cloth bag, inside which were a measuring tape, paper, and a pen.
"General, rest assured, I will make the most suitable clothes for you, your wife, and your young master."
The materials are all top-quality brocade and silk, ensuring a presentable appearance.

The tailor quickly and efficiently took the measurements for Yue Zhongda, Li Shi, and Yue Ming.

They were also asked about their preferred styles and colors.

After noting everything down, he bowed and took his leave.

"I will deliver the finished garment in three days. If it does not fit by then, I will make alterations."

After seeing the tailor off, Yue Zhongda was taking a walk in the courtyard with his wife and children to familiarize them with the surroundings.

Butler Wang hurried over again, holding an exquisite visiting card in his hands, his expression somewhat solemn:
"My lord, the Marquis of Zhulu from the Left Army Commandery has come to pay his respects. This is his visiting card."

"Marquis of Zhulu?"

Upon hearing this, Yue Zhongda's pupils constricted sharply, and his face was filled with shock.

Although he had lived in the border region for a long time, he was still aware of the great name of this Marquis of Zhulu.

Zhu Shou was a founding hero who, in his early years, crossed the Yangtze River to the south as a commander of ten thousand households.
He conquered many counties in Jiangdong and made outstanding military achievements.
Now serving as the Left Army Commander-in-Chief, he is a pivotal figure in the court.

He really couldn't understand.
I have never met this Marquis before, so why would he suddenly come to visit me?

"Quick, come in!"

Yue Zhongda quickly replied, his heart filled with both surprise and doubt.

While tidying his clothes, he walked quickly toward the main hall.

A moment later, a figure dressed in nobleman's everyday clothes entered the main hall, led by Steward Wang.

The man was around fifty years old, with a burly build, a resolute face, and sharp eyes.

He wore a jade belt around his waist and exuded an aura of authority that came from someone who had long held a high position!

"Your humble servant, Yue Zhongda, the garrison commander of Yunlong Prefecture, greets Your Excellency!"

Yue Zhongda quickly stepped forward, bowed respectfully, and greeted them.

Zhu Shou raised his hand in a gesture of support, a gentle smile on his face:
"Please rise quickly. I have come here today on someone's behalf to visit you."

(End of this chapter)