Lian Erye in the Red Mansion

As this was the last banquet at the Jia family's residence, and he was about to leave the place where he had spent six years, Jia Lian felt a pang of emotion.

However, looking at His Highness and his entourage, especially the large group of beautiful, watery girls on his left who were about to be taken away by him, he felt a surge of pride.

A short while later, Dai Quan approached and reported that the rewards allocated from the Imperial Household Department had arrived.

Dai Quan, as Emperor Ningkang's trusted chief eunuch, was previously known as the Inner Minister.

During the mourning period for Emperor Ningkang, he repeatedly expressed, both openly and subtly, his desire to continue serving him.

Out of consideration for their previously good relationship, Jia Lian ignored him for several months, and finally agreed to let him stay after the great mourning of Emperor Ningkang.

Aside from transferring the position of Chief Steward of the Daming Palace to Cao Zhong, he retained other positions such as Secretary of the Directorate of Ceremonial and Deputy Chief Steward of the Imperial Household Department.

The main reason was that he had served Emperor Ningkang for many years and was extremely skilled in these matters, which helped him quickly take control of the situation in the palace.

Of course, there was another reason why he kept Dai Quan on the job.

That is, having Dai Quan, Emperor Ningkang's absolute confidant, stay by his side to work, which would further demonstrate his legitimacy.

If Emperor Yongle (Zhu Di) had left him a "Dai Quan" (a title of nobility) after his successful rebellion, he would have eagerly begged to keep the person by his side for life...

Without further ado, now that the gifts have arrived, Jia Lian put down his wine cup, looked at everyone in the hall, and cleared his throat.

Everyone immediately sat up straight.

"When I was still a commoner, I once lived in the Jia family and was protected and cared for by the old lady, Jia Langzhong and others. I am very grateful for this."

Now that I have received the Mandate of Heaven and possess the wealth of the four seas, I should repay this kindness.

"Bring all the things up here."

As Jia Lian spoke, the eunuchs, who had been prepared in advance, carried in boxes of colorful gifts from outside the hall.

Upon seeing this, Grandmother Jia and Jia Zheng immediately stepped back and knelt down.

Jia Zheng said, "Your Majesty's hidden talent in the Jia family is a great honor for our family."

Jia Zheng was filled with fear, realizing that he had failed to recognize the true dragon with his naked eye and had even committed many rebellious acts.

We humbly beseech Your Majesty to be merciful and forgive the Jia family's transgressions. We would be eternally grateful for Your Majesty's boundless grace, and how could we possibly dare to accept such a reward?

Jia Lian waved his hand, and after the eunuchs had moved most of the items, he said directly, "Open them all."

As the eunuchs obeyed, they opened all the boxes, revealing a dazzling array of jewels that illuminated the entire hall.

Dai Quan stepped forward at the opportune moment, holding the list, and read aloud: "Ten chests of gold, twenty chests of silver, fifty pieces of jewelry, twenty pieces of jade, twenty scrolls of calligraphy and paintings, five sets of the Four Treasures of the Study, ten pieces of utensils, twenty bolts of brocade, twenty pieces of fur, one green ruyi, and also some ginseng, lingzhi, deer antler, bird's nest, tribute tea, etc."

Upon hearing Dai Quan's chant and seeing the mountain of rewards piled up before them, many people unconsciously opened their mouths wide.

Jia Zheng quickly replied, "How can a family that has not contributed anything receive a reward?"

"Given the Jia family's contributions, they deserve this reward. Jia Langzhong, please refrain from further discussion."

These rewards from Jia Lian were certainly not without reason.

Having lived in the Jia family for so many years, now that he has the throne, he needs to make a handover to the past.

The generous reward given to the Jia family was also a show for the world.

The world must know that the current emperor is a person who cherishes kindness and gratitude.

Moreover, the idea of ​​ten chests of gold or twenty chests of silver only sounds good.

In fact, each box contained only the top layer, and the contents were probably a few hundred taels.

It was an effect deliberately created by the Imperial Household Department for aesthetic purposes and to enhance the appearance of the signboard.

After all, ten chests of gold sound like a lot more than three thousand taels of gold.

Furthermore, he's not just taking one or two people from the Jia family this time; it wouldn't be right not to give them more.

Seeing that Jia Lian insisted on giving a reward, Jia Zheng dared not say anything more.

He exchanged a glance with Grandmother Jia, and then led the whole family to the center to kneel and express their gratitude.

"Rise and return to your seats."

"Yingya and Cong'er, please stay."

Upon hearing Jia Lian call their names, Yingchun and Jia Cong had no choice but to turn around and kneel down again.

However, both of them looked at Jia Lian with some trepidation.

Jia Lian first gave Yingchun a reassuring look, then turned to Jia Cong and slowly said:

"Cong'er, your birth mother poisoned me to seize the family business and was sentenced to death by me."

Do you still remember this matter? Do you still hate me for it?

Hearing Jia Lian bring up the old matter again, Grandmother Jia and the others, who had not yet returned to their seats, were secretly alarmed.

Now that Jia Lian is the emperor, why is he bringing up this long-buried, dark past? What is his intention?

Is it time for a liquidation?

If that's the case, then Jia Cong might...

Although they were reluctant, Grandmother Jia and the others dared not interfere.

Back then, Jia Lian decisively ordered Yang Shi to be strangled, although they felt it went too far.

But if we consider it from today's perspective, Yang committed a crime punishable by the extermination of nine generations of her family.

If Jia Lian still harbors resentment, then ordering Jia Cong to commit suicide is his fate.

If others think this way, what about Jia Cong himself?

He turned pale almost instantly upon hearing the question, and his whole body trembled uncontrollably.

Fortunately, he is now a few years older, and over the years Jia Lian has hired several famous teachers to teach him, which has helped him grow a lot in terms of both knowledge and character.

After a brief moment of fear, he thought that if his second brother was unwilling to let him go, he could simply issue an imperial decree to deal with him.

Why make trouble on such an obviously celebratory occasion?

Considering that Jia Lian doesn't usually pay much attention to him, but occasionally summons him to test his character and knowledge, it's easy to guess that this is Jia Lian's last test for him.

If the answer satisfies them, then there should be no problem.

If you are not satisfied, the outcome is unpredictable.

Therefore, he first kowtowed, and then met Jia Lian's gaze, replying timidly:

"Over the years, under His Majesty's tutelage, I have come to understand many more principles."

My aunt's actions back then were due to her momentary greed, which led her to commit a grave crime that was intolerable under national law and patriarchal clan law.

His Majesty therefore unleashed a thunderous punishment, which was also in accordance with national laws and clan regulations, to serve as a warning to the world.

Therefore, I do not hate His Majesty; I only hate my own incompetence for not being able to take my concubine's place and bear the death penalty.

I know that my aunt did all that for me, sob sob sob…

Seeing Jia Cong cover his face and weep at the end, many women present couldn't help but feel sorry for him, and their eyes also welled up with tears.

Sister Feng didn't mean it, but observing Jia Lian's expression, she guessed that Jia Lian didn't intend to make things difficult for Jia Cong, so she feigned pity and said:

"What happened back then was all the fault of those Yang siblings who were blinded by greed; it had nothing to do with Cong'er."

He was so young then.

Even now, he is only twelve or thirteen years old, still a child.

"Your Majesty, please don't make things difficult for him."

Jia Lian nodded, then looked at Jia Cong and said, "I am very pleased that you understand the principles. All these years of teaching you have not been in vain."

You must always remember this.

A country has its laws, and a family has its rules.

Although you are my own brother, if you ever break the law, I will not forgive you.

"Yes……"

Jia Cong kowtowed to the ground, not daring to lift his head without permission.

"Alright, Jia Cong, receive your appointment."

Only then did Jia Cong dare to raise his head, looking at Jia Lian with an incredulous and questioning gaze.

Jia Lian glanced at the official in charge of recording the emperor's daily activities who had accompanied him in the corner, and then spoke:

"I was favored by the late Emperor and Empress Dowager and was selected as his successor to continue the great lineage."

According to propriety, I should only regard the late Emperor and Empress Dowager as my closest relatives.

However, the universe has the principles of human relations and the principles of blood ties.

I am now the Son of Heaven, and there is no greater wealth and honor in the world than this.

Now that I have been granted wealth and honor, how can I sit idly by and watch my former brothers and sisters remain trapped in thatched huts?

Therefore, by special imperial decree, Jia Cong is hereby granted the title of Marquis of Ancheng and a mansion in the capital.

Furthermore, considering the young age of the Marquis of Ancheng, his stepmother, Lady Xing, was granted the title of Grand Lady of the Marquis of Ancheng, and she resided in the Marquis's residence to raise and educate the Marquis of Ancheng to adulthood.

Everyone in the hall was surprised that Jia Lian, who seemed to be making trouble just a moment ago, turned around and began to bestow great rewards.

However, this is in line with His Majesty's magnanimous style.

He was granted the title of Marquis and a Marquisate.

Indeed, no matter how hard you try in life, you can't always be as fortunate as someone else who was born well.

It's just that because they are related to His Majesty by blood, their relationship is not good, and you could even say they are enemies.

They could somehow obtain wealth and status that others could never achieve in a lifetime!

Others were envious and jealous, and even Jia Cong himself found it hard to believe.

Now that he was certain that Jia Lian would no longer make things difficult for him and had even bestowed upon him a generous reward, he was overwhelmed with gratitude. With tears in his eyes, he raised his hands and kowtowed, shouting, "Your subject Jia Cong kowtows in gratitude to Your Majesty for your divine grace! Long live the Emperor!"

When Madam Xing heard Jia Lian mention her, she also rushed out to express her gratitude.

Jia Lian ignored her and then said directly to Yingchun, "I hereby bestow upon Jia Yingchun the title of Princess of Leyang and move her to the palace."

In fact, given Yingchun's status, she could have been directly granted the title of princess.

It's just unnecessary.

Although the Empress Dowager was magnanimous and reasonable, there were still some things that needed to be done with discretion.

Otherwise, they'll be pushing their luck.

Just like Jia Cong, who considered blood ties and considered granting him a marquisate as nothing special.

But if he wanted to grant Jia Cong the title of prince, the royal family might object.

After all, neither the retired emperor nor Emperor Ningkang had ever acknowledged Jia She's identity.

The Empress Dowager would also be displeased, feeling that he was "crossing the river and burning the bridge".

Therefore, Yingchun was first granted the title of Princess.

It's not too late to promote him later when his prestige is higher, or after the Empress Dowager passes away.

No one was surprised that Jia Lian bestowed the title of Princess upon Yingchun and allowed her to enter the palace.

After all, Jia Lian only had this one younger sister, so it wouldn't be too much to spoil her.

After Yingchun thanked the emperor and withdrew, Jia Lian glanced around the hall and continued, "Jia Yun, Jia Lan, come forward."

On the right side, in the latter half, Jia Lan and Jia Yun, who were below Li Wan, hurriedly stood up and stepped forward at the urging of the Jia family.

Jia Lian smiled at the two of them and said, "Although you two are not my biological sons, since you have the title of father and son, I will not be stingy with my gifts."

Tell me, what do you want?

Jia Lan and Jia Yun exchanged a glance. Jia Yun, being the more cunning one, kowtowed with a "thud" and then laughed, "Whatever Father bestows, his sons will accept."

Although Jia Lan felt that Jia Yun's words lacked prestige, he dared not speak casually in front of his adoptive father, who had become the emperor. He could only acquiesce and kowtow.

Jia Lian nodded and first looked at Jia Lan: "Now that you have inherited the family's title, after I leave, you should be determined to shoulder the responsibility of bringing glory to the Jia family, just as I was back then."

Jia Lan kowtowed and replied, "Your Majesty's teachings will be obeyed."

"Hmm... You have the guidance of the old lady, the master and the mistress, and the care of your sister-in-law. You lack nothing, so I have nothing to reward you with."

I will also grant you a marquisate, with the title 'Yong'an'.

How is it? Are you satisfied?

Upon hearing this, Jia Lan thought for a moment and then obediently nodded, "Mhm."

This greatly worried the Jia family members nearby, and Li Wan quickly reminded them, "Lan'er, hurry up and kowtow to express your gratitude."

Jia Lan suddenly realized what was happening and hurriedly kowtowed to express his gratitude for the emperor's favor.

Jia Lian smiled, glancing past him at Jia Yun: "You are the most filial. You have served me wholeheartedly all these years. Thank you for your hard work."

"It is an honor for a son to serve his father."

Shaking his head, Jia Lian said, "I will also bestow upon you a title, First-Class Viscount of Jiacheng. Don't look down on it, or feel that I am favoring one over the other."

Upon hearing this, Jia Yun immediately kowtowed with delight, expressing his gratitude: "Your subject thanks Your Majesty the Emperor! Long live Your Majesty!"

How could Jia Yun possibly dislike it?

He never imagined in his life that he would one day be granted a title, let alone a first-class viscount!

As for comparison with Jia Lan...

Why compare? Jia Lan was originally the heir to the Rongguo Mansion and held a high-ranking general's title!

From this day forward, the Jia family will hold three noble titles.

The first two titles were inherited from their ancestors, while the only one he earned himself.

Hehe, the Jia family genealogy should start with a separate page for myself.

Looking at the beaming, overjoyed Jia Yun, the members of the Jia family on the right couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions.

This is fate.

Back then, Jia Yun desperately tried to curry favor with Jia Lian. He was clearly only a few years younger than Jia Lian, yet he acted as if he were his son, which led many people to secretly mock him.

If the other fifth-generation descendants of the Jia family were to see his glory now, countless people would be kicking themselves.

Hearing that Jia Yun had quickly adapted to his new identity and referred to himself as his son, Jia Lian showed no displeasure whatsoever.

Actually, having such a capable and accommodating adopted son is quite nice.

"You can decide on the Earl's mansion yourself. Whether you buy it or build a new one, just let me know when you've made up your mind, and I'll pay for it."

Jia Yun replied with a smile, "Over the years, I have saved quite a bit by helping Father Emperor with his affairs. How could I let Father Emperor spend so much money?"

"After your mothers, Consort Lin and Consort Xue, return to the palace with me, they probably won't have much time to manage the affairs of the business."

Therefore, you will have to take good care of these matters outside, and don't disappoint me.

"Father, rest assured, your son will do his best to carry forward your spirit, make our family business bigger and stronger, and not let you down."

Jia Lian nodded, too lazy to argue with this sycophant any longer, and waved for him to leave as well.

Glancing over, he saw Lady Wang and Jia Zheng arguing in hushed tones. Jia Lian smiled and said, "Madam, if you have something to say, please speak freely."

Lady Wang paused, then turned to see Jia Lian's ambiguous smile.

Despite her efforts to maintain the dignity of a lady of the house, her eyes ultimately betrayed a desire to please.

"Your Majesty, look, Lan'er and Yun'er have both received rewards, and your brother Bao..."

"Shut up!"

Before Lady Wang could finish speaking, Jia Zheng interrupted her in a low voice.

Then he hurriedly clasped his hands and apologized to Jia Lian: "Please forgive me, Your Majesty. I was an ignorant woman who did not know the consequences. My Jia family has been blessed by Your Majesty's grace and now we have three noble titles."

If His Majesty were to extend favors to others, the Jia family would surely be criticized by the world.

This also undermines His Majesty's reputation for rewards and punishments.

After saying that, he glared fiercely at Madam Wang.

Jia Lian watched this scene with a smile.

However, having come this far, he couldn't pretend to be ignorant.

He glanced at Jia Baoyu, who remained unmoved beside him, and said with a smile, "Baoyu is naturally gifted and is the most talented among the fourth generation of the Jia family."

I was negligent before and forgot about him.

However, what Jia Langzhong said is also correct. The Jia family now has three noble titles, and it is indeed not appropriate to bestow any more honors upon them.

Well then, I know that Master Jia has always hoped that Baoyu will achieve academic success and pass the imperial examination with flying colors.

I also believe that with Baoyu's talent, this matter will not be difficult for him.

It would be better to wait until he passes the imperial examination in the future, and then I will promote him to enter the court to assist the country and govern the people. In this way, his future will be much brighter.

What does Madam think?

He addressed Jia Zheng as "Jia Langzhong," but still referred to Lady Wang as "Madam," without any particular meaning behind it.

It's just that I'm too lazy to change my tune.

Anyway, given his status, no one dares to object to whatever he tells them.

Although Madam Wang was unwilling upon hearing this, she dared not say anything more and could only respectfully accept the order.

Everyone else watched silently.

No matter how nice Jia Lian's words were, it is an undeniable fact that he still politely declined when Lady Wang took the initiative to ask for official titles for Jia Baoyu.

Everyone knew in their hearts that it was probably still because of Daiyu.

That's true, what if it were another emperor?

If a thief dares to covet my beloved concubine, it would be merciful not to exterminate his entire clan.

Jia Lian, however, simply refused the additional title without imposing any punishment, which truly demonstrates his magnanimity.

Actually, everyone misunderstood Jia Lian.

In Jia Lian's view, Daiyu was someone he had taken from Jia Baoyu, so he wouldn't hold a grudge against her for it.

He just thought, "Aren't you supposed to be a high-minded guy who looks down on those who become officials through the imperial examinations?"

I insist that you take the path of the imperial examination to become an official, otherwise you will be a wealthy idler for the rest of your life.

Let's see how many people will ultimately stay by your side. (End of Chapter)