In Hongwu, we started as rebels

Chapter 1053 All that is given in the world is given in return for what is given in return.

"Entrusted by someone?"

Yue Zhongda's doubts deepened. He rose and invited Zhu Shou to sit down, then instructed Steward Wang to serve tea.
"I wonder who entrusted you with this task, my lord? I have no acquaintances in the capital."

Zhu Shou picked up his teacup, took a sip, and slowly said:
"It was Ning Zheng who wrote to me, asking me to arrange a job for you."

"So it's Lord Ning!"

Yue Zhongda suddenly realized, and his doubts were instantly resolved.

His transfer order to the capital was issued by Commander-in-Chief Ning Zheng.

Zhu Shou smiled:
Ning Zheng said that you are loyal and brave, efficient in handling affairs, and have a good method for building cities and fortresses.

Now that you've been transferred to the capital, please take good care of me.

Since you're new to Yingtian, there must be many places you're unfamiliar with.

If you need any help, just let me know.

"Thank you for your care, Lord Marquis, and thank you for your concern, Lord Ning."

Yue Zhongda was grateful.

Zhu Shou's gaze swept over the furnishings in the main hall, then he looked at Yue Zhongda and asked with a smile:

"Your residence looks quite elegant. Did you just purchase it?"

Yue Zhongda quickly said:

"To be honest, my lord, I once worked with Lord Lu, the Junior Guardian, in Yunlong Prefecture of Dali. He arranged this residence for me."

When I first arrived in the capital, I encountered many inconveniences, and I am very grateful for Lord Lu's thoughtful care.

Not only were lodgings arranged for me, but servants were also provided; I am truly grateful.

"Lu Yunyi?"

Upon hearing the name, a hint of surprise flashed in Zhu Shou's eyes, but his smile quickly became even more amiable.

"No wonder Ning Zheng was so interested; it turns out there's such a connection."

Yue Zhongda nodded and said:

"When I was in Yunnan, I had the opportunity to meet Lord Lu a few times."

Later, I was able to be transferred from the position of commander of the garrison to the position of garrison commander of Yunlong Prefecture, all thanks to Lord Lu's recommendation.

"To be honest, I owe a great deal of help to my current position, thanks in no small part to Lord Lu."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Shou understood and his gaze toward Yue Zhongda became even more amiable.

"Lu Yunyi has a discerning eye; anyone he chooses must be extraordinary."

You have served on the frontier for many years, possessing excellent military leadership and rich experience.

Now that I've come to the capital, it's a good opportunity to serve the imperial court.

He paused and changed the subject:
"The Left Army Commandery is currently in dire need of personnel."
I see you as a capable person.

What position in the Governor's Office would you like to hold?
"As long as it is within my power, I will certainly arrange it for you."

Yue Zhongda's heart skipped a beat. He hadn't expected Zhu Shou to be so decisive, letting him choose his own position.

He hesitated for a moment, then said respectfully:
"Your Excellency is too kind; I am a newcomer here."

I am not yet very familiar with the affairs of the Governor's Office, and dare not aspire to a high position.

As long as it can serve the imperial court and share the burdens of the Marquis.

No matter the position, I am willing to take it on.

Upon hearing this, a hint of approval flashed in Zhu Shou's eyes:
"That's too modest. Don't worry, I won't treat you unfairly."

Alright then, the Left Army Commandery is currently short of an advisor.
This position is mainly responsible for formulating battle strategies, assisting the weapons workshop in researching military equipment, and also assisting the Governor and other officials in handling military affairs.

Although they had no clearly defined rank, they wielded considerable power and responsibility.

This would also allow you to utilize your strengths. What do you think?

Yue Zhongda was overjoyed. Although the position of advisor in the Left Army Commandery did not have a clearly defined rank,
But he was already a third-rank official.

In this way, the salary will not be reduced.

However, they have direct access to the core military decisions of the Governor's Office, which is far superior to that of the previous prefectural governor.

"Thank you, Your Excellency! This humble official is willing to go!"

Yue Zhongda quickly stood up, bowed, and said with some excitement in his voice:
"This humble official will certainly perform his duties diligently and without the slightest negligence, and will never fail the Marquis's trust!"

Zhu Shou smiled and nodded:

"Alright! Since you're willing, then it's settled."

Three days later, you will take up your post at the Left Army Commander's Office. I will have someone deliver the relevant documents to your residence.

"Thank you, Lord Marquis!"

Yue Zhongda thanked him again, finally feeling a huge weight lifted from his shoulders.

He was initially a little apprehensive upon arriving in the capital, but he never expected to not only have a decent place to live, but also to receive such an important position. It was a truly unexpected and delightful surprise.

The two chatted for a while longer.

Zhu Shou inquired about the situation in the border areas of Yunnan, and Yue Zhongda responded truthfully to each question.

His clear and logical speech and unique insights made Zhu Shou increasingly believe that this person was indeed talented.

Unknowingly, the sky gradually darkened.

Zhu Shou rose to take his leave:

"You must be tired from your journey, so please rest well. I won't disturb you any longer."

"If you encounter any difficulties in the Governor's Mansion in the future, just come and find me."

"This humble official will escort the Marquis!"

Yue Zhongda quickly got up to see him off.
They escorted Zhu Shou all the way to the gate of the mansion and watched his carriage drive away before slowly returning.

Back in the main hall, Madam Li was already waiting there, her face showing some anxiety:
"Master, what brings that Marquis here? Did he give you any trouble?"

Yue Zhongda smiled, grasped his wife's hand, and spoke with a hint of excitement:
"It's a good thing that there's no trouble!"
Lord Ning asked him to look after me.
He has agreed to appoint me as an advisor to the Left Army Commander-in-Chief's Office, and I can take office in three days!

"Really?"

Li was both surprised and delighted, her eyes filled with disbelief:
"That's a key position in the Governor's Office! Our luck has finally turned around!"

Yue Ming also ran to Yue Zhongda's side and tugged at his clothes:

"Dad, are you going to become a high-ranking official? Will I be able to see you more often in the future?"

Yue Zhongda picked up his son, his face full of relief:

"Yes, from now on, Dad will work in the capital city, and when he's off duty, he can come home to be with you!"

Yue Ming's eyes curved into two small crescent moons, beaming with joy.

Steward Wang then came to report that dinner was ready.

Yue Zhongda brought his wife and children to the dining room.

The table was laden with a sumptuous feast, including chicken, duck, fish, and meat.

There are also several exquisite snacks, all of which are rare delicacies in Yunnan.

The cold wind howled outside the window, but the room was warm and cozy.

The family sat together, enjoying a steaming hot meal.
Looking forward to the future, their faces beamed with happy smiles.

Two quarters of an hour passed in the blink of an eye.

The warmth of dinner still lingered in the house, and the aroma of the food flowed gently through the corridor.

Yue Zhongda had dinner with his wife and children.
Watching her son Yueming doze off in Li's arms, her face was full of exhaustion but could not hide her satisfaction.

"You all rest first. I'll go to my study to sit for a while and clear my mind."

Yue Zhongda tucked Li's cloak in and said softly.

Upon arriving in the capital, the new residence and new position left him feeling unsettled, and he longed to find some peace and quiet.

Mrs. Li nodded, her eyes filled with concern:

"Don't stay up too late. You've had a long journey, so it's best to get some rest early."

Yue Zhongda responded and turned to walk towards the study on the west side.

Butler Wang had already tidied up the study.

The charcoal in the brazier was burning brightly, making the whole room warm and cozy.
A cup of warm tea and a stack of blank Xuan paper were laid out on the table, exuding a touch of elegance.

He sat in the armchair, picked up his teacup, and took a sip.
The warm tea slid down my throat, dispelling some of the chill.

The night was deep outside the window, and the occasional bark of a dog could be heard from the streets and alleys, mixed with the sounds of string and wind instruments from a distant restaurant.

The nights in Yingtian City were far more lively and complex than those in the border regions.

He thought about his current situation,

From the initial trepidation upon entering the city gate
From the pleasant surprise of moving into a four-courtyard mansion to the unexpected arrival of the governor-general to arrange a position, the journey was filled with joy.

He wasn't a fool; this kindness weighed a thousand pounds, filling him with immense gratitude.

Yet, a vague unease lingered within him; he was a powerless, unconnected person with no background.
Why should we be treated like this?

Just as he was pondering this, the sound of Butler Wang's light footsteps, tinged with hesitation, suddenly came from outside the door:

"Sir, there is a guest requesting an audience at the back door."

They said they were an old friend of yours, but declined to reveal their name, only saying they had important matters to discuss.

"Old friend?"

Yue Zhongda frowned, a sense of doubt rising in his heart.

He had no old friends in Yingtian.

Moreover, the fact that he requested a meeting through the back door late at night seemed rather eerie.

What kind of person is he/she?

"He was a young man, dressed in all black, wearing a veiled hat, so his face was not visible. He spoke in a deep voice and looked like a scholar."

Butler Wang recalled carefully, his tone tinged with caution:

He said that once you see what he handed you, you'll know who it is.

Yue Zhongda's heart skipped a beat, and he vaguely guessed what was going on.

He pondered for a moment and said in a deep voice:
"Bring him to the study, but make sure no one else sees him along the way."

"Old slave understands."

Steward Wang bowed and withdrew.

A short while later, the study door was gently pushed open, and a tall, slender figure walked in. The newcomer wore a long, pure black robe and a black veiled hat, the brim pulled low, obscuring most of his face.

Only his taut jawline and a pair of deep, sharp eyes were visible.

It had a mysterious air about it in the dim light.

He walked into the room, closed the door behind him, his movements slow yet swift, without making a sound.

The crackling charcoal fire inside cast his shadow on the wall, making it flicker.

"Who is your Excellency?"

Yue Zhongda stood up, his hand unconsciously resting on the hilt of his sword at his waist, his expression wary.

The man in black did not answer immediately.
Instead, he took out a small wooden plaque from his pocket and handed it over.

The wooden plaque is made of ebony and has a simple character "陆" (Lu) carved on it, with a circle of fine cloud patterns carved around the edge.

Yue Zhongda took the wooden plaque, and his suspicions were confirmed.

He looked up at the man in black, his tone softening slightly:

"Are you one of Lord Lu's men? What brings you here so late at night?"

The man in black slowly raised his head and removed his veil.

He revealed a handsome face, with a scholarly air about him.
He has a high nose bridge, thin lips, but his eyes are unusually calm and mature beyond his years.

He has a faint scar on his left eyebrow.
Though subtle, it added a touch of sharpness to this otherwise refined face.

"My name is Sun Si'an. I was formerly the commander of the scout unit of the vanguard army. Now I manage some miscellaneous affairs in the capital."

Sun Si'an's voice was deep and steady, without any extraneous emotions.

Upon hearing this, Yue Zhongda was startled once again.
During the battles in Yunnan and Luchuan, everyone in the army knew that the forward scout unit had an elite force.
Always one step ahead of the enemy, and invincible.

The person in front of me is actually the scout commander?
He quickly straightened up, becoming more serious:

"So it's Brother Sun, my apologies for my rudeness."

Yue Zhongda gestured for him to sit down. "A visit so late at night, surely Lord Lu has given some instructions?"

Sun Si'an sat down in the chair opposite Yue Zhongda, his gaze sweeping over the furnishings of the study.

Finally, the gaze fell on Yue Zhongda's face, scrutinizing his expression:

"General Yue's current situation in Yingtian is probably clear to you; it was all arranged by Lord Lu."

From the transfer order in Yunnan to the residence in Yingtian Prefecture,
As for the position with Lord Zhu, it was all arranged in advance by Lord Lu.

Yue Zhongda nodded and said sincerely:
"I will always remember Lord Lu's kindness."

I just don't know what Lord Lu is trying to achieve by making such a painstaking arrangement.
Mr. Yue is dull-witted and really can't understand it.
"What merit do I possess to deserve such high regard from Lord Lu?"

Sun Si'an said slowly:
"Lord Lu's judgment of people is never wrong."
He knew the general was a loyal, brave, and capable man when he was in Yunnan.

However, he was confined to a remote border region and was unable to fully utilize his talents.

The reason for transferring the general to the capital is to entrust him with an important matter.

Yue Zhongda's heart tightened, and he leaned forward slightly:
"What is it? As long as it is within my power, I will certainly not refuse!"

Sun Si'an did not answer directly, but changed the subject:
"The general has just arrived in the capital and is probably not very familiar with the situation there."

On the surface, everything seems peaceful and prosperous, but underneath, undercurrents are surging.

His Highness the Crown Prince is unwell, and various factions in the court are stirring with ambition.
One wrong step and it could lead to utter ruin.

His voice was even lower, tinged with seriousness:

"Lord Lu is at the center of the vortex, and there are many things he cannot do personally."

The general is now serving in the Left Army Commandery, a crucial position, which will be of great help.

However, this matter is extremely dangerous. The slightest mishap could not only endanger the general himself, but also implicate his family.

Yue Zhongda's face darkened.

He knew that the task Lu Yunyi had entrusted to him was definitely not a simple matter.

But then he thought again,
Having spent half his life in the military, what dangers haven't he experienced?
Moreover, Lu Yunyi had shown him great kindness and support.

If it weren't for the other party, he would probably still be guarding a small town on the border of Yunnan.
How could I possibly have the opportunity to take up a post in the capital and live such a respectable life?

Yue Zhongda's tone was firm:
"Lord Lu has shown me great kindness. Even if it were a perilous situation, I, Yue, would not flinch!"

A hint of approval flashed in Sun Si'an's eyes, but he still did not budge:
"This matter is of great importance and cannot be explained in just a few words."

The time is not yet ripe; the general only needs to know that...

This matter concerns the overall situation of the world, as well as Lord Lu's safety, and is also accompanied by great danger.

If the general is unwilling, he may say so now.

Lord Lu has never forced anyone to do anything against their will; let's pretend today's events never happened.

The general's position in the Governor-General's Office remained secure.
The mansion and servants will remain the same.

Lord Lu will have no complaints, and I will never bother you again.

Upon hearing this, Yue Zhongda frowned, feeling somewhat displeased.

He is a grateful person. Lu Yunyi values ​​him so much, how could he back down in the face of danger?
"Brother Sun, what are you saying!"

He said in a deep voice:

"Lord Lu has been kind to me. Although I, Yue Zhongda, am not a great man, I know the principle of repaying kindness."

Even if it means death, I will not back down, let alone hope that there is still a chance for this matter to turn around!
"If you have any instructions, please let me know, and I will certainly comply!"

Sun Si'an looked into his determined eyes,

A faint smile finally appeared on his face, and he nodded.
"General, you are indeed a man of character. Lord Lu was right about you."

He pulled a thick stack of paper bills from his pocket, placed them on the table, and pushed them in front of Yue Zhongda:

"These are thirty commercial drafts from Yingtian Trading Company."

Each note has a face value of one thousand taels, totaling thirty thousand taels of silver.

General, your expenses must be considerable since you have just arrived in the capital. Please take this money and use it for now.

If that's not enough, someone can go to Yingtian Trading Company to withdraw more; just mention my name.

"30,000 taels?"

Yue Zhongda's pupils contracted sharply, his face filled with shock.

He subconsciously reached out and picked up a commercial draft.

The paper tickets were specially made.

It bears the mark of Yingtian Trading Company and has anti-counterfeiting features; the workmanship is extremely exquisite.

He served in Yunnan for many years, and his annual salary was no more than one hundred taels of silver.

Even with occasional extra income, it would never exceed three hundred taels a year.

Thirty thousand taels of silver was an unimaginable sum for him.

"Brother Sun, this is too much!"

Yue Zhongda quickly pushed the commercial draft back, his tone somewhat flustered:
"I have already received so much kindness from Lord Lu, how could I possibly accept so much silver? Absolutely not!"

"General, there is no need to refuse."

Sun Si'an raised his hand and pressed down on the commercial draft, his tone leaving no room for argument:
"This is not a reward for the general, but a necessary task."

When the general takes office in the Governor's Office, he will inevitably have to bribe people and make friends with colleagues, all of which will require money.

Moreover, the general's family also needs to spend money living in the capital.

Lord Lu said, "We can't let you suffer for the sake of official business at the expense of your family."

He paused and added:
"This silver is just an appetizer."

As long as the general gets things done.
In the future, the general's rank will be promoted by at least two more levels, reaching the position of Vice Governor-General, or even higher.

Not only that, the general's son, Yue Ming,

In the future, he could be sent to the Imperial Academy to study and take the imperial examinations to enter officialdom.

The general's wife would also be granted an imperial decree, becoming a court-approved noblewoman.

Yue Zhongda was stunned, and his breathing became rapid.

He was promoted in rank, his son entered the Imperial Academy, and his wife was granted an imperial decree.

These were all things he had never dared to dream of before!
He was originally a border general from an ordinary family.
Reaching the rank of commander was already a stroke of good fortune; I never expected to have such a promotion opportunity in my old age.

"What exactly does Lord Lu want me to do?"

Yue Zhongda's voice trembled slightly, his shock beyond words.

He had a vague feeling that the matter Lu Yunyi had entrusted to him must be extremely important, and also extremely dangerous.

Otherwise, they wouldn't have offered such a generous reward.

Sun Si'an did not answer directly, but simply said:

"General, there is no need to be in a hurry to know."

In the days to come, you only need to work diligently at the Governor's Office, familiarize yourself with its affairs, and maintain good relationships with your colleagues.
You should get closer to people, especially those in weapons workshops and military dispatch.

Lord Lu said that you were skilled at building cities and fortresses when you were in the border regions.
Your knowledge of weaponry is also an advantage.

He stood up and straightened his long robe:
"Once you are familiar with the affairs of the capital, the time will be ripe."
I will naturally come back to inform you of the specifics.

Before that, the general only needs to remember,

Be cautious in your words and actions, and do not easily trust anyone, including your colleagues.

If any situation arises

You can send Steward Wang to find Manager Zhou Song at Yingtian Trading Company; he will pass on the message for you.

Yue Zhongda looked at the 30,000 taels of commercial drafts on the table, his heart filled with mixed emotions.

He knew that he was now completely on board.
Their future lives, honors, and disgraces will be closely intertwined with each other.

But he did not regret it; he felt that this trust and kindness deserved his utmost effort to repay.

"Don't worry, Brother Sun, I understand."

Yue Zhongda took a deep breath, his eyes hardening:
"I will do as Lord Lu instructs and wait for the right opportunity."

Sun Si'an nodded, a satisfied look on his face:

"The general is a wise man and must know the advantages and disadvantages involved."

It's late, I should take my leave to avoid attracting attention.

(End of this chapter)