Huangming

Chapter 515 The Mighty Lion of the East, A Star-crossed Couple

Seeing Angelica bow her head in silence, Zhu Youxiao understood.

Having witnessed firsthand the power of Ming Dynasty firearms and heard firsthand about the emperor's global vision, her understanding of the Ming Dynasty had been completely transformed.

Zhu Youxiao was certain that once Angelica returned to Macau or Luzon, or even crossed the ocean back to Portugal, she would spread all that she had seen and heard that day.

Those Western nations that had once coveted the East, especially the Netherlands, which had just suffered a defeat at Penghu, dared not act recklessly again after hearing of the Ming Dynasty's strength.

This was his original intention in bringing her to the inner training ground today.

Verbal intimidation is far less effective than the power of force; only by letting the Western barbarians see it with their own eyes can their covetousness be truly dispelled.

"messenger."

Zhu Youxiao broke the silence, his tone tinged with amusement.

"The repeating guns and breech-loading cannons we just saw, if your Portugal is interested, the Ming Dynasty is not incapable of 'exchanging' them. What do you think?"

Angelica looked up abruptly, a hint of surprise flashing in her azure eyes, which was quickly replaced by complex emotions.

She knew that the Ming Dynasty's willingness to "exchange" firearms technology was not simply out of goodwill, but rather a display of its strength.

What you want, I have.

What I have, you may not be able to match.

She suppressed the turmoil in her heart, forced a slightly stiff smile, and bowed in response:
"Your Majesty's favor is something Portugal would be more than happy to receive."

Upon receiving her response, Zhu Youxiao laughed loudly and turned to Fang Zhenghua, the eunuch of the Imperial Horse Administration, and instructed him:
"Bring the horses!"

"promise!"

Fang Zhenghua bowed and accepted the order, then quickly withdrew.

Before long, two Imperial Guards led two tall warhorses slowly towards them. One of them was jet black and shiny, without a single blemish, except for a single white spot on its forehead. It was the Ferghana horse, a tribute from the Western Regions.

The other horse was pure white, with strong limbs and silky mane, making it a rare and excellent steed.

The two horses raised their heads and neighed, their voices echoing across the fields, their eyes gleaming with intelligence.

Zhu Youxiao raised his hand and stroked the black horse's mane, its texture as smooth as satin. He turned to look at Angelica, his tone relaxed:

"Can the envoy ride a horse?"

Angelica nodded, her gaze falling on the snow-white warhorse, a hint of fondness flashing in her eyes, yet tinged with slight hesitation:

"Your Majesty, I can ride. However, the envoy's robe I am wearing is too cumbersome and may be in the way."

Her velvet robes were layered and wide-sleeved, which, while giving her a dignified air, were completely unsuitable for the expansive movements required for horseback riding.

"How difficult is this?"

Zhu Youxiao waved his hand.

"There are military uniforms prepared in the West Garden. The envoy may go and change. I will also take this opportunity to change my attire."

As she spoke, a palace maid led Angelica to a side hall in the West Garden to change her clothes.

Angelica changed into a modified Han Chinese martial arts outfit, a tight-fitting silver-gray short jacket with a scarlet belt around her waist.

She removed her heavy headdress, tied her long hair up high, revealing her smooth forehead and slender neck, adding a touch of dashing spirit to her original exotic charm, creating a unique allure.

At the same time, Zhu Youxiao also changed into a black outfit, with silver thread embroidered on the fabric to outline a simple dragon pattern.

The tight-fitting design showed off his muscular physique.

His arms, sculpted by years of training, are well-defined, his waist and abdomen are toned, and his legs are long and slender. Shedding the majesty of the dragon robe, he exudes the sharpness and uprightness of a military general.

When the two returned to the inner training ground, their eyes fell on each other simultaneously.

Zhu Youxiao's eyes lit up slightly. This Western woman looked even more beautiful in her martial arts attire than when she wore the envoy's robes. Her azure eyes paired with the silver-gray outfit made her look just like a legendary female warrior who had crossed the ocean, exuding both valor and charm.

As Angelica looked at Zhu Youxiao in front of her, her heart skipped a beat, pounding wildly like a deer.

The emperor, stripped of his dragon robe, loses some of his lofty majesty and gains more vibrant and heroic spirit.

His dark outfit accentuated his handsome complexion, highlighting his deep-set eyes and a faint smile playing on his lips. Every gesture exuded a natural air of dominance and composure.

Such a wise and capable emperor, skilled in both literature and martial arts, has never been seen not only in Portugal, but also in the entire West.

She lowered her eyes subconsciously, a blush creeping onto her cheeks. The fear she felt because of firearms was inexplicably replaced by an indescribable flutter of excitement.

The man before her was both a powerful adversary whom she revered and a valiant monarch who stirred her heart. This complex mix of emotions left her momentarily at a loss for what to do.

Zhu Youxiao mounted his horse with clean and swift movements. The black horse raised its head and neighed, its front hooves pawing the ground slightly, clearly excited as well.

He turned to look at Angelica, who was still standing there, and raised his hand in a gesture:

"Envoy, do you dare to race me?"

Sunlight shone on him, making his dark outfit gleam faintly, exuding a commanding presence.

Angelica took a deep breath, suppressed her panic, and mounted the white horse.

She gripped the reins tighter, looked up to meet Zhu Youxiao's gaze, and a competitive glint flashed in her eyes:

"His Majesty has given the order; how dare the foreign envoys disobey?"

soon.

The yellow sand in the training ground of the West Garden was kicked up by the iron hooves of warhorses.

Angelica was a little awkward when she first mounted the white horse, but after only two laps, she had figured out the horse's temperament.

This snow-white steed is intelligent and runs steadily and swiftly, perfectly matching her riding rhythm.

She lightly gripped the horse's flanks with her legs, her back straight, and her long hair fluttered in the wind, keeping pace with Zhu Youxiao's dark figure without being inferior in the slightest.

“Good riding!”

Zhu Youxiao glanced at the woman beside him, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes.

He reined in the black horse and took a gilded bow from Fang Zhenghua's hand.

This bow is made of the finest mulberry wood and ox horn, with cloud patterns carved on its body. It has great draw strength and is difficult for ordinary people to draw.

He gripped the horse's belly firmly with his legs, and the black horse came to a stop instantly. He bent over, held the bow in his left hand, and nocked an arrow in his right. He fired three arrows in quick succession, the "whoosh whoosh whoosh" of the arrows cutting through the air echoing as fast as lightning.

Angelica reined in her white horse and turned to look. She saw three straw figures fifty paces away, each with a feathered arrow stuck in its vital spot, the arrows still trembling slightly.

Her face instantly filled with shock, and she instinctively covered her mouth.

The art of archery requires perfect harmony between rider and horse, as well as coordination between eyes and hands. Even ordinary soldiers need many years of practice to master it. Yet this Ming emperor was able to hit all three arrows while riding at full speed. Such skill is probably unmatched even by seasoned warriors!
"Envoy, would you like to test your archery skills?"

Zhu Youxiao handed the golden bow to Fang Zhenghua with a calm smile on his face.

For more than two years, he has been receiving daily lessons from top archery experts in the military, honing his skills from drawing the bow and aiming to exerting force day after day. Coupled with his own considerable talent, he has achieved his current level of skill.

Angelica's competitive spirit was ignited, and a hint of stubbornness flashed in her eyes:

"it is good!"

She dismounted and took a cowhide bow from Fang Zhenghua. Although the bow's draw strength was not as great as Zhu Youxiao's golden bow, it was still not something an ordinary woman could handle.

She stood with her feet shoulder-width apart, lowered her waist and dismounted from her horse, her left hand holding the bow firmly, her right hand drawing the bowstring taut, her eyes fixed on the straw man fifty paces away.

"Whoosh whoosh!"

Three arrows were fired in quick succession, the feathered arrows slicing through the air and firmly embedding themselves in the straw man's chest.

Although he was not a mounted archer, he hit the target with every arrow, demonstrating his solid archery skills.

"I never expected the envoy's archery skills to be so remarkable."

Zhu Youxiao dismounted and stepped forward, smiling.

Angelica put down the wooden bow, a hint of smugness on her face. She subconsciously puffed out her chest, making her curves even more pronounced beneath her silver-gray outfit.
"That's nothing, of course."

Her tone carried a hint of pride.

“I received an aristocratic education from a young age, where I not only learned court etiquette and social skills, but also military training and political practice.”

Horse riding, fencing, swimming, javelin throwing, hunting, chess, poetry recitation, and foreign languages ​​are all compulsory courses.

These skills are nothing special to me.

Zhu Youxiao was slightly surprised upon hearing this.

Although he knew that Western nobles valued education, he did not expect that women could receive such comprehensive training.

"I've heard that the education of Western aristocratic women is mostly aimed at cultivating 'future virtuous wives,' and learning knitting and musical instruments is enough. Why would they also dabble in military and political affairs?"

Angelica was already used to this.

This Ming emperor's understanding of the West far exceeded her comprehension.

She gently brushed aside the strands of hair that had been ruffled by the wind, her tone softening.

"It's all thanks to my enlightened father."

"My father was a Portuguese nobleman who always advocated going to sea to expand territory and being inclusive, and never believed that women should be confined to the inner quarters."

"If it weren't for him, I would probably be married by now, spending my days as a wife and mother, and I wouldn't have been able to travel across the ocean to see His Majesty in the Ming Dynasty."

Zhu Youxiao listened quietly, pondering to himself.

At this time, the distinction between men and women in the West was not much different from that in the Ming Dynasty. Women who wanted to break free from constraints also needed to rely on the special case of an "enlightened father".

In other words, at this time, Western civilization had not yet surpassed the East as it would later have.

He looked up at the horizon at the end of the training ground; the sun was shining brightly, and the sky was cloudless.

A thought suddenly popped into my head.

Civilization is neither a rigid set of rules nor an empty slogan.

Whoever is stronger can define civilization.

Whoever leads the world, their culture will become the trend.

The culture of the Han people has a long history, possessing both practical wisdom and an inclusive spirit.

Today, the Ming Dynasty's firearms are advanced, its navy is growing stronger, and reforms in the imperial family and Confucianism are progressing steadily. Given time, it will surely set sail and spread Han civilization throughout the world.

The Ming Dynasty will eventually become a beacon illuminating the world, making all the barbarians bow down and submit, and making the world follow the rules of the Ming Dynasty and recognize the civilization of the Han people!

He turned to look at Angelica, a sharp glint in his eyes.

"The envoy speaks well. True aristocratic education should broaden horizons and hone skills, rather than be confined by gender prejudices and the shackles of etiquette."

"The Ming Dynasty is eager to expand its influence globally. If the envoy is willing to facilitate trade between our two countries, I can not only sell spinning machines and firearms, but also allow Ming silk, porcelain, and tea to be sold to every corner of the West via Portuguese shipping routes."

Angelica's eyes gleamed with shrewdness. Seeing Zhu Youxiao express a desire for deeper cooperation, she immediately seized the opportunity, her tone both probing and enticing, and took the initiative to speak:
"Your Majesty, are you troubled by the pirates around Xiaoliuqiu?"

"pirate?"

Zhu Youxiao raised an eyebrow and his sharp gaze fell on her face.

The pirates in the waters off Xiaoliuqiu (Taiwan) were led by Li Dan. Although they frequently plundered merchant ships, they were far from causing the Ming Dynasty a major headache. The fact that she brought up this topic now must be because she had a deeper plan.

People don't visit temples without a reason; this Portuguese person probably has ill intentions.

Angelica met his gaze, suppressing her nervousness, and continued:

"The pirates of Xiaoliuqiu have been entrenched for many years, not only disrupting maritime trade routes, but also hindering trade between the two countries."

"Our Portuguese navy is familiar with the South China Sea and is willing to assist the Ming navy in eliminating these scoundrels and clearing obstacles for trade."

She paused, then changed the subject, finally revealing her true intention:
"If Your Majesty is sincere in promoting cooperation, perhaps you can allow our country to designate an area in Xiaoliuqiu as a base for naval rest and replenishment of merchant ships."

This would also allow them to better assist the Ming Dynasty in patrolling the seas and defending against pirates and other Western powers.

"stronghold?"

Zhu Youxiao sneered, and a chill instantly spread through his eyes.

How could he not see through the shady dealings behind this "outpost"?

It is clear that they want to emulate the Macau model, seize a colony in Taiwan, and then replace Li Dan's power to monopolize the trade route to Japan!
These Western barbarians, by nature, are plunderers. Given the slightest opportunity, they would try to nibble away at the territory of the Ming Dynasty. They really have a good plan.

He immediately shook his head, his tone resolute and leaving no room for negotiation:

"Li Dan and his ilk are nothing but clowns who are barely clinging to life."

"Our Ming Dynasty navy could easily deal with them with a single move; why should we trouble Portugal?"

Before he finished speaking, he took a step forward, his dark-colored outfit fluttering in the wind, and his aura suddenly became sharp and intense.
"As for your so-called 'setting up camp,' Macau is the territory of our Great Ming Dynasty. Your Portugal is merely borrowing the land for temporary residence, paying an annual rent of five hundred taels of silver, yet you dare to regard it as your own?"

His gaze was like a knife, piercing straight at Angelica:
"Now you dare to covet Xiaoliuqiu? Your appetite is far too great."

If Portugal is willing to cooperate peacefully, trade and commerce can be discussed.

"But if you insist on encroaching on the territory of my Great Ming, I would not hesitate to immediately reclaim Macau and expel all your people from the country!"

With a "boom," these words exploded in Angelica's ears like a thunderclap, and her face instantly turned deathly pale.

She never expected that Zhu Youxiao would see through her little scheme at a glance, and she also never expected that this young emperor would be so tough, directly threatening to take back Macau!
Macau was Portugal's most important stronghold in the Far East. If it were lost, Portugal's trade network in Southeast Asia would completely collapse, and years of hard work would be destroyed.

Her feigned composure crumbled instantly, and she hurriedly bowed and explained:
"Your Majesty, please calm down! The envoy was just mentioning it casually and had no other intention than to do his bit to promote trade between the two countries. Please do not take it to heart."

Zhu Youxiao looked at her panicked appearance and sneered inwardly.

Those who are not of our kind will surely have different hearts. No matter how beautiful she is or how sweet her words are, her predatory nature will never change.

The reason he tolerated Portugal's presence in Macau for the time being was simply because the Ming Dynasty needed to focus on reforming its internal affairs and developing its navy, and had no time to deal with it at the moment.

Once the Ming Dynasty's navy is strong enough and its colonies are spread throughout Southeast Asia, taking back Macau, let alone Luzon and Malacca, will not be difficult.

after all
Since the Southern Song Dynasty, countless Han Chinese have migrated here, reclaiming wasteland and establishing settlements. Today, they have become a force to be reckoned with in Luzon.

With these Chinese as a foundation, the Ming Dynasty's future expansion into Southeast Asia will surely be much more efficient.

"Better so."

Zhu Youxiao's tone was icy.

"I can trade with you, sell you spinning machines and firearms, and even open more ports to trade with you, but there is one bottom line that must never be crossed."

Not an inch of our Ming territory shall be coveted by others.

If I ever hear anything like that again, don't blame me for disregarding the diplomatic relations between our two countries!

Angelica nodded repeatedly, her forehead beaded with cold sweat, her previous composure and self-satisfaction completely gone.

Only now did she truly understand that the Ming emperor before her was not only exceptionally brave and visionary, but also ruthless and had a clear bottom line.

It is wishful thinking to try to seize territorial interests from him.

That night.

Angelica walked out of the Forbidden City in a daze. She couldn't even remember how she said goodbye to Jiang Banxia or how she boarded the carriage back to the Siyi Pavilion.

All she knew was that Zhu Youxiao's sharp gaze, his unquestionable tone, the incredibly powerful firearms in the training grounds of the West Garden, and the dazzling array of delicacies at the banquet kept echoing in her mind.

The extravagance of that dinner far exceeded all her expectations of a "feast".

The chefs at the Imperial Kitchen seemed to know her tastes, preparing dishes with Ming Dynasty specialties like Dragon and Phoenix and Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, with rich broth and fresh ingredients.

There was also the Western-style pan-fried steak, with a crispy exterior and tender interior, served with an authentic black pepper sauce that made her feel as if she had returned to Lisbon.

Not to mention the amber-colored whiskey, the mellow brandy, and the osmanthus wine and plum wine that she had never tasted before, which were sweet on the palate and had a long-lasting aftertaste.

She had intended to calm herself down by drinking, but the more she drank, the more drowsy she became. Overwhelmed by awe and reverence, she eventually lost all sense of reason under the influence of alcohol. She had no recollection of how her attendants helped her back to the Siyi Pavilion.

The next morning.

Angelica slowly woke up, her head throbbing and the dizziness from the hangover still lingering. Memories of yesterday's time with Zhu Youxiao flooded back like a tidal wave.

The emperor's composed demeanor, his precise grasp of the situation in the West, the awe-inspiring display of firearms, his firm bottom line when discussing territory, and his heroic and upright figure on the archery range...

She slowly sat up, leaned against the headboard, and gazed at the crabapple blossoms in the courtyard outside the window, letting out a long sigh.

She once believed the missionaries' descriptions and thought that the Ming Dynasty was a rotten and dilapidated old ship, with an ignorant monarch and a suffering people, and that it was easy to gain benefits by simply applying pressure.

But after experiencing these past few days firsthand, she realized just how wrong she had been.

This is hardly a sinking ship.
It was clearly an Eastern lion that had been sleeping for a short time and had suddenly awakened, with sharp fangs and strong claws, slowly opening its eyes with an aura of dominance over the world.

She had to return to Portugal immediately and persuade the royal family to completely change their strategy toward the Ming Dynasty.

If we continue to regard the Ming Dynasty as a weak country that can be easily manipulated like Japan, it will only bring about annihilation.

This empire already possesses the strength to stand on equal footing with the Western powers, and it won't be long before it becomes the undisputed hegemon on the Far East seas.

Advanced firearms, a massive navy, a vast territory, abundant resources, and a visionary and ambitious emperor—all these factors indicated that the rise of the Ming Dynasty was unstoppable.

How can we limit the expansion speed of this empire?

How can Portugal maximize its interests amidst its rise?
How to balance relations with other Western countries and avoid being defeated one by one by the Ming Dynasty?

A series of questions swirled in her mind, making her feel increasingly urgent. This was not only a problem for Portugal, but a serious challenge that all maritime powers had to face.

Angelica didn't linger any longer and stayed at the Siyiguan for another three days, on the one hand organizing her observations and negotiation details from her trip to the Ming Dynasty, and on the other hand secretly observing the daily life and military preparations of Beijing.

Arriving in Tianjin from Beijing, one finds the port teeming with merchant ships, including Ming Dynasty Fujian and Guangzhou ships, as well as Western multi-masted sailing ships.

The dock was bustling with activity, with porters moving back and forth, loading and unloading goods such as silk, porcelain, and tea.

In the distance, at the naval shipyard, the keels of several newly built warships were being laid, and the craftsmen were busy with their respective tasks.

Standing on the dock, gazing at the Portuguese armed merchant ship that was about to carry her back, a bizarre thought suddenly flashed through her mind:

If Portugal could conquer a powerful nation like the Ming Dynasty, it would gain a continuous stream of wealth and resources, and might even have a real chance to participate in the struggle for European supremacy, or even swallow up the colonies of Spain and the Netherlands.

But as soon as the thought popped into her head, she forcibly suppressed it.

Conquering the Ming Dynasty is nothing but a pipe dream; being able to maintain equal cooperation with it is already a great fortune.

As she boarded the ship, Angelica took one last look at the coast of the Ming Dynasty.

The coastline meanders and gleams with a faint golden light under the sun, like a sleeping dragon.

She took a deep breath, turned around, and went into the cabin.

With a long, drawn-out blast of the ship's horn, the armed merchant ship slowly departed from Tianjin Port, sailing towards the distant Western Ocean.

April of the third year of the Tianqi reign.

Dongjiang Rice Alley.

The vermilion gate stands tall and imposing, with the gilded plaque bearing the four characters "Jinyiwei Yamen" (锦衣卫衙) gleaming coldly in the setting sun. Two stone lions stand guard in front of the gate, their eyes wide open, suppressing the hustle and bustle of passersby.

The guards on either side of the gate, with embroidered spring knives at their waists and expressions as cold as iron, swept their gazes across the street with their usual scrutiny, causing the surrounding pedestrians to hold their breath and hurriedly make way.

Three riders arrived, raising dust, and gradually stopped at the hitching posts outside the yamen.

The leader, dressed in a crimson robe embroidered with gold flying fish patterns and a gilded embroidered spring knife at his waist, had a resolute face and a weathered look between his brows, and was none other than Lu Jianxing, a commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.

Beside him were two men, one dressed in a dark blue flying fish robe, with a cold expression and sharp eyes like an eagle; he was Shen Lian, a centurion of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.

The other man was dressed more simply, but he also had a curved sword at his waist and a lithe figure. He was none other than Jin Yichuan, the captain of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.

The three had just returned from guarding the border in Datong. The dust of their journey had not yet settled, and the scent of the northern frontier still lingered on their armor. They had come on horseback to report to the central command of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.

Lu Jianxing reined in his horse, brushed the dust off his shoulder, and said in a deep voice:

"walk into."

As soon as he finished speaking, he dismounted with swift and decisive movements.

Upon re-entering the Embroidered Uniform Guard headquarters, Lu Jianxing was suddenly filled with emotion.

The last time he stepped into this government office, he was still a probationary centurion who had not yet been officially appointed. He was cautious and timid, and didn't even have the courage to look up at the plaque.

In just two years, he had risen to the rank of fifth-grade commander, in charge of a local imperial guard, and his status and circumstances had changed dramatically.

Shen Lian and Jin Yichuan followed closely behind, rising through the ranks from junior officers and captains to their current positions.

These three brothers, one calm and composed with a firm grasp of the overall situation, one meticulous and shrewd with planning, and one agile and courageous, gradually established themselves in the Embroidered Uniform Guard. The number of elite guards and strongmen under their command was nearly two thousand, making them a force to be reckoned with.

Seeing the three men's attire and rank, the yamen runners dared not be negligent and quickly stepped forward to lead the way.

Passing through layers of corridors and around courtyards planted with pine and cypress trees, one arrives at the outside of the council hall.

The hall door was ajar, and the interior furnishings could be vaguely seen:
On the rosewood desk were documents and seals, and on the wall hung a plaque that read "Pacifying the Royal Capital," creating a solemn and dignified atmosphere.

Pushing open the door, one sees a man sitting behind the desk, dressed in an official robe with python patterns, with a fair complexion and no beard. There are several fine lines at the corners of his eyes. He seems gentle, but deep in those lines lies a hint of unfathomable ruthlessness. It is Li Ruoxing, the Vice Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.

He fiddled with a mutton-fat jade thumb ring in his hand, his gaze fixed on the three of them.

"Your subordinates Lu Jianxing, Shen Lian, and Jin Yichuan pay their respects to the Commander!"

The three bowed in unison, their movements perfectly synchronized and their voices loud and clear.

Li Ruoxing's face suddenly broke into a smile. She quickly waved her hand, stood up from her seat, and personally helped Lu Jianxing up, her tone warm:

"Get up, everyone, sit down. We're brothers, no need for such formalities."

His fingers were slightly cool, but his grip was firm, and his supporting gesture carried a deliberate intimacy.

"Thank you, Commander Xie."

Lu Jianxing stood up, inwardly sighing.

Back when he was still a probationary centurion, he had met Li Ruoxing a few times. At that time, the other party only gave him a cold glance and was too lazy to say anything more. He could only stand with his hands at his sides and did not even have the right to sit down.

Now that he holds the rank of a thousand households, Li Ruoxing's attitude towards him has become so warm. Indeed, the warmth and coldness of officialdom depend entirely on rank and power.

Shen Lian and Jin Yichuan also got up one after another and sat down on the chairs on the side of the hall.

As soon as we sat down, a waiter brought over three cups of hot tea. The celadon teacups emitted wisps of steam, and the aroma of the tea softened the solemn atmosphere in the hall.

Lu Jianxing held his teacup, not in a hurry to drink. He waited until Li Ruoxing took a small sip to moisten her throat before speaking, his tone respectful yet measured:
"Commander, the three of us have returned from guarding the border in Datong and have come today to report on our duties."

We are unsure of the central government's next plans. We, his men, humbly request your instructions regarding our assignments.

He is now a commander of a thousand men, in charge of two thousand people, all of whom need to be paid and look forward to their jobs.

Previously, he had been stationed in Datong and his foundation in the capital was still shallow. Now that he has returned, he naturally wants to find a job near the capital so that he can secure a stable position for his brothers and gain a foothold in the central government.

Upon hearing this, Li Ruoxing put down her teacup, her smile deepening, and slowly said:

“The three of you have made many contributions in Datong, which we have long heard about.”

"I've called you here today because I have an important task for you to handle."

Upon hearing this, Lu Jianxing immediately stood up, cupped his hands, and straightened his back ramrod straight.

"Please give your orders, Commander! My brothers are ready to be deployed at any time!"

His palms tightened slightly, and a hint of anticipation flashed in his eyes.

Being personally appointed by the Commander-in-Chief to carry out a task is no ordinary job. If they can do it well, not only will the food and salary of their brothers be secured, but the three brothers' foundation in the capital will also become more solid.

Seeing this, Li Ruoxing's smile grew even warmer. He slowly sat back down behind the desk, but his voice deepened:
“Jiangnan has been quite turbulent lately, with unrest breaking out everywhere. Many officials and wealthy merchants in Jiangnan have become blinded by greed and are secretly colluding with bandits to plot rebellion.”

These people are very cunning; they always have multiple escape routes, always looking for a way out. But treason is a crime punishable by the extermination of nine generations of one's family. Since they dared to get involved in this mess, there's no reason for them to be let off easily.

"Commander Lu, you fought bloody battles in Liaodong and later guarded the border in Datong. You have seen the clash of swords and the shadows of war. You are calm and decisive in handling matters, and your brothers are all capable and skilled warriors."

This kind of task, which requires both swift and decisive action and a delicate balance, is something only you in the entire Embroidered Uniform Guard could handle.

The joy on Lu Jianxing's face vanished instantly, and his brows furrowed involuntarily.

He hesitated for a moment, then cupped his hands and asked:

"Commander, you flatter me."

However, I have a question in my mind regarding this kind of task.

He paused, carefully choosing his words.

"Confiscating the property of the rebels should be a coveted task that everyone in the Embroidered Uniform Guard is eager to do. How did it fall to me, a commander who was just sent back from Datong?"

This may be blunt, but it is the truth.

Having worked his way up in the Imperial Guard for many years, he knew the intricacies behind the phrase "confiscation of property."

Those official families, wealthy merchants, and other prominent households, with their substantial wealth and countless gold, silver, jewels, calligraphy, paintings, and antiques, could always make a profit if they got involved in this business. It was no exaggeration to call it the "lucrative job among lucrative jobs."

In the past, such assignments were always sought after by senior commanders and even trusted confidants of the commanders in the capital. There was no way he, a commander whose position was not yet secure, could get such a chance.

Shen Lian suppressed his eagerness, his eyes darkening, clearly realizing the oddity of the situation.

Although Jin Yichuan was not as meticulous as the two, he also sensed that something was wrong. He scratched his head and looked at Li Ruoxing with a hint of confusion in his eyes.

"Hahaha!"

Li Ruoxing clapped her hands and laughed, the sound echoing in the solemn council hall.

"Commander Lu is indeed insightful; he understands things immediately."

He suppressed his smile, and his tone became more serious.

"You're right, this job is lucrative, but it's also very risky."

Those prominent families and wealthy merchants from Jiangnan had deep roots in the court, involving many officials, some of whom were even protégés or former subordinates of Grand Secretaries and Ministers.

This move will inevitably offend a large number of people, and if handled improperly, it could backfire.

Even so

Lu Jianxing pressed for an answer.

“Treason is an unforgivable crime. Even if it involves important officials in the court, Your Majesty is wise and would not tolerate it.”

Such a lucrative and rewarding job should still be highly sought after.

Li Ruoxing looked at him, a hint of approval flashing in her eyes, along with a meaningful smile:
"Commander Lu is still as inquisitive as ever; no wonder he was able to achieve military merit in Datong."

He slowly lowered the jade thumb ring, leaned forward slightly, and lowered his voice, saying each word clearly:

"To be honest, this task was personally assigned to you three brothers by His Majesty."

"His Majesty?!"

The three words resounded like thunder in the council hall. Lu Jianxing was jolted and stood up abruptly, his face full of disbelief.

Shen Lian's pupils contracted sharply, his cold and stern face instantly tightening as he stared intently at Li Ruoxing, as if trying to discern truth from falsehood from his expression.

Jin Yichuan was so shocked that he stood up abruptly and blurted out, "Your Majesty actually knows about the three of us brothers?"

Although the three of them now hold the positions of commanders of thousands and hundreds, in the capital city teeming with talent and the Jinyiwei (Imperial Guard) full of hidden masters, they are ultimately just mid-level officials.

There are countless high-ranking officials of the third rank or above in the capital. Even within the Embroidered Uniform Guard, there are quite a few commanders and garrison commanders. His Majesty is busy with countless affairs of state. How could he possibly remember these three minor officials who just returned from the border?

Lu Jianxing's mind was in turmoil. Besides shock, he was also filled with doubt and a hidden unease.

Is it a blessing or a curse that His Majesty personally selected the names?
Is there a deeper scheme hidden behind such an honor?
Seeing the three people's shocked expressions, Li Ruoxing muttered to herself.

How could he not have doubts?

The day before yesterday, when His Majesty summoned the Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard to the Imperial Study, he specifically mentioned Lu Jianxing, Shen Lian, and Jin Yichuan, ordering them to handle matters in Jiangnan. He even casually remarked, "Datong has rendered meritorious service in defending the border and is worthy of great use."

It is truly rare in the century-long history of the Embroidered Uniform Guard that a mere fifth-rank commander could catch His Majesty's eye.

But despite his doubts, the emperor's mind was made up, and he naturally dared not be negligent.

That's why he was so warm to Lu Jianxing and the other two today.

Those who are personally selected by His Majesty will surely have limitless future prospects. Providing timely assistance is far more meaningful than adding to their existing success later.

Li Ruoxing suppressed her doubts and put on a smile again.

"His Majesty is busy with countless affairs of state, yet he still remembers your names, which shows that His Majesty has seen all your contributions to Datong."

This is an incredible opportunity and an immense trust placed in you; you must seize it.

Now that things have come to this, there is no room for further excuses.

Lu Jianxing took a deep breath, his knees sank, and he knelt heavily on the ground, his voice resounding:
"Your subordinates obey the imperial decree. The three of us will accept this assignment!"

Seeing this, Shen Lian's eyes flickered slightly, and he immediately knelt down, his back ramrod straight, his tone solemn:
"Subordinates obey orders."

Although Jin Yichuan was still somewhat bewildered, he knelt down alongside his two elder brothers and echoed their words.

"it is good!"

Li Ruoxing clapped his hands and laughed, then ordered three baskets of documents to be brought out and presented to Lu Jianxing.

"There are quite a few remnants of the rebel party who have fled to the capital. They are a mixed bag and need to be carefully identified. We must not make the wrong arrests or let anyone slip through the net."

Here are two lists: one is a list of scholars and merchants who have been verified as having colluded with the bandits, and the other is a register of people who have poured into the capital from Jiangnan in the past six months. Please check against the list.”

Lu Jianxing's expression changed slightly as he looked at the three large baskets of documents.

Clearly, this task was far more complicated and difficult than it appeared on the surface.

His heart skipped a beat, but he still said in a deep voice, "Please rest assured, Commander, we will do our utmost to live up to His Majesty's trust and your expectations!"

The three bowed again, and the Imperial Guards in the hall carried away the three baskets of documents.

After leaving the Embroidered Uniform Guard headquarters, the three of them did not linger and headed straight for the Northern Garrison Command.

Upon returning to the thousand-household garrison under Lu Jianxing's jurisdiction, they found the imperial guards already assembled and waiting in the courtyard, each with an embroidered spring knife at their waist and a solemn expression.

At Lu Jianxing's command, everyone immediately set to work, taking out all the rosters from the wooden box and spreading them out in the hall. Candles burned brightly all night, and the scratching of pens across the paper filled the air, creating a scene of tense and busy activity.

Lu Jianxing personally oversaw the process, meticulously reviewing each roster with a sharp, piercing gaze, leaving no suspicious word unchecked.

Shen Lian was checking the two lists, his fingertips tracing over the densely packed names, his expression focused.

Jin Yichuan led several elite guards to sort and categorize the items, marking those with the same name for easier verification later.

As night deepened and the candlelight flickered, Lu Jianxing's fingers suddenly stopped, his gaze falling on a name.

“Yan Junbin”.

He suddenly looked up, a barely perceptible glint of light flashing in his eyes, and a cold smile curled at the corner of his mouth.

Yan Junbin?
Isn't he the person that Zhou Miaotong, the prostitute at Nuanxiang Pavilion, has been longing for?
He still remembered that Shen Lian had devoted himself to Zhou Miaotong, saving up most of his salary by living frugally and spending it all on Nuanxiang Pavilion, just to make her smile.

But Zhou Miaotong, while accepting Shen Lian's gifts, kept him at arm's length, her heart always set on Yan Junbin.

Several times, Shen Lian returned drunk, and Lu Jianxing noticed the dejection and resentment in his eyes.

This prostitute has repeatedly toyed with my second brother's feelings, causing him endless grievances. Now, the person she's been longing for is actually a traitor. Isn't this a golden opportunity for revenge?
Lu Jianxing immediately picked up the booklet and waved it at Shen Lian:
"Second brother, come and take a look at this."

Upon hearing this, Shen Lian put down the book in his hand and quickly stepped forward.

When his gaze fell upon the three words "Yan Junbin," his whole body stiffened abruptly, as if he had been frozen in place.

His breathing quickened instantly, his chest heaved violently, and his fingers trembled uncontrollably as he reached out to touch the name, only to stop mid-air.

In the candlelight, a complex and unfathomable expression flashed across his cold face, showing shock, confusion, pain, and a struggle that even he himself was unaware of. A storm raged deep within his eyes, and he couldn't tell whether he should be happy or sad.

Lu Jianxing took in his reaction, sneered inwardly, and said in a deep voice:
"Second brother, did you see clearly?"
Yan Junbin is a traitor and colluder; this is the perfect time for revenge.

"As long as we take him down, then Zhou Miaotong..."

"Big brother."

Shen Lian suddenly interrupted him, his voice slightly hoarse. He slowly raised his head, his eyes filled with exhaustion and pleading, and sighed softly.

"This person... is it possible to not investigate him?"

"Not going to investigate?"

Lu Jianxing's voice suddenly rose, and the smile on his face vanished instantly, replaced by disbelief.

"Second brother, what nonsense are you talking about!"

He instantly understood Shen Lian's thoughts.

This fool, even now, is still thinking about that woman, thinking about letting her be with the lover she longs for?

Lu Jianxing was so angry that his chest felt tight. He pointed at Shen Lian's nose and scolded him with exasperation:

You're confused!

When did Zhou Miaotong ever take you seriously?

She toyed with your feelings, squandered your salary, and only had Yan Junbin in her heart!

Have you forgotten all the grievances and hardships you suffered for her?

"Now he is a traitor and colluder, which is irrefutable evidence. Taking him down is not only doing what is ordered, but also venting your own anger!"
But you actually want to let him go?
You're trying to help this ill-fated couple, but what about yourself?
What are you in their eyes?!

Lu Jianxing's voice grew louder and louder, filled with disappointment and anger at his son's lack of ambition.

He simply couldn't understand how Shen Lian, now a centurion of the Embroidered Uniform Guard with great power, could be so indecisive over a prostitute, even going so far as to disobey the imperial decree and give up the opportunity for revenge.
Jin Yichuan, standing to the side, was also stunned. He scratched his head and looked at Shen Lian in confusion:
"Second brother, eldest brother is right. Yan Junbin is a traitor. Letting him go would be a crime of disobeying orders. Besides... Zhou Miaotong isn't good to you either."

Shen Lian closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and when he opened them again, the struggle in his eyes gradually faded, leaving only silence.

He didn't argue, but simply whispered:
“Brother, I know he’s a traitor and I know this is wrong, but… I really don’t want to implicate Zhou Miaotong because of him.”

"you!"

Lu Jianxing was so angry that his face turned pale. He pointed at Shen Lian and couldn't say a word for a long time.

Hey ~
What a pair of star-crossed lovers, plus a green-haired turtle!

but.
If the brother wants to be a cuckold, he has to see if his older brother will agree!
PS:

A long chapter of 10,000 words!

(End of this chapter)