Lian Erye in the Red Mansion

Before dawn, Iron Net Mountain was brightly lit by the firelight.

The vast dragon descended from Tiewang Mountain along the southern avenue, heading straight for the capital.

Due to the large number of people, the journey was slow, and they had only covered a small portion of the distance by the time it was fully light.

Before Emperor Ningkang's imperial carriage, a general in golden armor galloped up and announced: "Your Majesty, Marquis Zhenyuan, Jia Lian, and Prince Teng, the Commander-in-Chief of Nine Provinces, have come to pay their respects!"

"Announce."

……

Jia Lian and Wang Ziteng walked side by side in the crowd. Without even turning their heads, everyone knew that the two of them were the focus of countless people's attention.

Jia Lian goes without saying, and Wang Ziteng is one of the few powerful officials of the first rank in the country, already wielding considerable influence.

The key question is, how did he, the governor of nine provinces, end up here?

Because of Wang Ziteng's arrival, Emperor Ningkang ordered the troops to stop and rest.

"Your subject, Prince Teng, pays his respects to Your Majesty."

Emperor Ningkang's imperial carriage was a large horse-drawn carriage, nine feet wide and more than twelve feet long. Beaded curtains and draperies hung from the crossbeams of the carriage roof, which were supported by four pillars and carved with dragons and phoenixes.

The curtains let in a little light, so Prince Teng could glimpse two people sitting inside the dragon carriage.

A rustling sound came from behind him, and Prince Teng, who was already kneeling, knew that it was a palace maid rolling up the curtain, and that Emperor Ningkang must be watching him through the beaded curtain at this moment.

But Emperor Ningkang did not speak, nor did he dare to look up.

"How many people did you bring back to the capital this time?"

Before Wang Ziteng could ponder why Emperor Ningkang had used the phrase "returning to the capital," he immediately replied, "Your Majesty, I have brought back a total of over 32,000 troops, commanded by three generals..."

"Hmm, what are your thoughts now?"

"As a subject of the Great Wei, I am naturally loyal to Your Majesty and to the Great Wei. I am willing to await Your Majesty's decision."

After Wang Ziteng finished speaking, although he couldn't see Emperor Ningkang's expression, he guessed that Emperor Ningkang was satisfied, and he felt that the atmosphere was not so oppressive anymore.

Sure enough, Emperor Ningkang immediately said, "In that case, rise."

Wang Ziteng wiped the sweat from his brow, got up, and stood respectfully.

Unbeknownst to him, Emperor Ningkang was looking at Jia Lian beside him, and only after receiving a definite answer from Jia Lian did he turn his attention to him.

"Over the years, you have inspected nine provinces on my behalf, which has been very rewarding. I plan to promote you again."

Since you are also from the capital, you should stay here from now on. Leave the arduous tasks to others.

"Yes……"

"As for your position... Jia Lian should have already told you, right? What are your thoughts on becoming a Grand General or a cabinet minister?"

"Your Majesty, I am also a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations). If Your Majesty does not mind, I wish to join the cabinet and assist Your Majesty in handling state affairs from now on."

"Okay."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!"

After expressing his gratitude, Prince Teng finally dared to face Emperor Ningkang directly.

But when he looked up, he found that the Emperor Ningkang in front of him was completely different from the Grand Chancellor he remembered... He looked much older and more haggard!

It seems His Majesty has it tough...

"Since you have chosen to stay in the capital, do not neglect those tens of thousands of troops. I will give you one day to properly appease them and ensure they return the way they came, so as not to cause any trouble."

"Yes……"

"Here's what we'll do. It's not easy for them to come to the capital. I'll issue an edict ordering Feng Sheng to bring out all the wine and meat from inside Juyong Pass and place it right below the city gate. You can represent me and treat them well. As for the specifics, go down and discuss them with Feng Sheng."

Upon hearing Emperor Ningkang's words, Prince Teng was somewhat moved.

Only those who have actually reached the border can truly understand how much harder life is for the soldiers there compared to those in the capital.

The fact that the emperor could understand this point at least proves that Emperor Ningkang was not an immoral ruler. Therefore, he could feel a little better about betraying the Emperor Emeritus's decree and siding with Emperor Ningkang.

……

Prince Teng received the order and left, and Jia Lian also prepared to slip away.

"Where are you going?"

"I just remembered there are still some matters to be handed over to the Firearms Battalion..."

"We can talk about those things after we return to the city. Come up here, I have something to ask you."

Seeing the young eunuch skillfully arrange the carriage benches, Jia Lian could only apologize and step onto the imperial carriage.

"Come in."

"Yes……"

Wang Ziteng stood at a distance, watching this scene, lost in thought.

He originally wanted to wait for Jia Lian to leave together so he could have a proper talk with him.

He had been away from the central government for several years, and now he was returning to the cabinet, the highest governing body of the court. Naturally, he needed to make connections with some capable people in order to gain a foothold in the cabinet.

Before everyone's eyes, Emperor Ningkang actually allowed Jia Lian to board the imperial carriage, which made him quite surprised.

He was probably not the only one who was as surprised as he was.

Wang Ziteng glanced at those around him who outwardly dared not look directly at the imperial carriage, but who had already taken the scene to heart, and strode away.

He knew that his decision to cultivate Jia Lian back then was a wise one, which could bring huge benefits to his future career.

No, it's not just about the future; the fact that they were able to successfully escape the crisis and even turn misfortune into a blessing by joining the cabinet is probably already thanks to this nephew-in-law!

The cabinet—that was the place he had dreamed of for the first half of his life. He never imagined that after so many twists and turns, he would finally take that step. Although, in a rather unconventional way.

On the dragon carriage.

When Jia Lian bent down and entered the carriage tent, he saw that both Emperor Ningkang and the Empress were looking at him.

The difference was that Emperor Ningkang still had a cold and aloof expression, as if everyone owed him money, while the Empress had a smile on her face and even nodded at him.

"Please sit down."

"Your subject dares not..."

"Sit down when I tell you to."

Jia Lian sat down on a small stool opposite the Emperor and Empress.

Although the emperor's carriage was much larger than a regular carriage, it was still just a carriage, and Jia Lian was wearing general's armor. Sitting so imposingly in front of the emperor and empress, he felt quite awkward.

It's mainly because it's too close.

Jia Lian felt that even though he had been "disarmed" by the eunuch before boarding the carriage, at such close range, he could kill the emperor and empress instantly with his bare hands.

Emperor Ningkang seemed slightly uncomfortable as well, but he didn't say anything. He glanced at Jia Lian and said indifferently, "You did a good job this time."

Emperor Ningkang spoke lightly, but even with his strong inner strength, he almost criticized himself.

It's more than just good!

Although he had foreseen that Jia Lian would succeed when Jia Lian went down the mountain with the imperial decree.

However, he was still pleasantly surprised that the problem of tens of thousands of troops from three sides, which had been a headache for him and the officials in the court, was solved safely in just one day and night.

Foreign troops entering Beijing is no small matter, especially since these foreign troops are truly here on imperial orders!

If things aren't handled properly, it could trigger a chain reaction. If that happens, and troops from all over the country flock to the capital to "protect the emperor," the consequences would be unbearable even for the emperor himself.

Now things are fine. As long as Wang Ziteng and the other three armies retreat, even if some foreign troops still enter the capital, they won't cause any trouble.

"Thank you for your praise, Your Majesty. I have only done my best to be loyal and serve Your Majesty."

Jia Lian spoke modestly, but he inappropriately glanced at Emperor Ningkang.

That look in his eyes clearly conveyed a sense of resentment, as if to say, "I haven't done enough for you, and this is how you treat me."

Emperor Ningkang frowned slightly, but ultimately pretended not to notice. He changed the subject and asked directly, "What are your thoughts on who will take over the Firearms Battalion and the Western Military Command?"

Removing Jia Lian from these two military posts was a consensus reached with Jia Lian last night. In fact, Emperor Ningkang could have directly arranged new appointments. The reason for asking Jia Lian at this time was simply to consider Jia Lian's feelings.

Needless to say, Jia Lian had been in charge of the West City Garrison for many years without any major trouble.

The firearms battalion was established entirely by Jia Lian.

When the matter was brought up, Jia Lian immediately became serious and pondered for a moment before saying, "As for the firearms battalion, I think Commandant Su Keguang would be very suitable. He was originally the commander in charge of manufacturing firearms for the Divine Machine Battalion, so he has a good understanding of firearms."

In addition, he is very cautious, so I believe he can take on the important task of the firearms battalion.

As for the Western Military Commander, there's not much to say. I believe Your Majesty and the Ministry of War know better than I who is capable of the position.

If I were to make a recommendation, I would say Fan Jin is a good choice. He has worked in the Western City Military Command for over ten years and is very familiar with all matters, big and small, in the entire Western City.

Although his current rank is somewhat low, if His Majesty wants a reliable person to stabilize the Western City, he is a good candidate.

Although Jia Lian did not recommend virtuous officials or avoid favoritism, Emperor Ningkang was very satisfied with his suggestion.

Emperor Ningkang naturally wouldn't believe that Jia Lian was unaware of his direct order to Su Keguang to lead the entire artillery corps down the mountain to assist the Beijing garrison in setting up defenses.

Jia Lian's generous recommendation of Su Keguang at this time not only showed that he had no selfish motives, but also saved Emperor Ningkang's face. After all, the person you value is also someone I approve of, so there is naturally nothing to complain about.

As for the Military Affairs Department, when Jia Lian uttered words like "stabilizing the western city," Emperor Ningkang knew that Jia Lian was genuinely concerned for him and knew that he would face many troubles after returning to the capital.

This also shows that Jia Lian wanted to continue serving the court; otherwise, he wouldn't have thought about these things.

However, there was no other way. To avoid unnecessary trouble, he had to first disarm Jia Lian. He wanted to make those who intended to use Jia Lian's status as "the emperor's grandson" or "the retired emperor who was appointed in a time of crisis" to turn their attention away from Jia Lian.

He really couldn't bear to kill Jia Lian.

That's why we have to do it this way.

From the time he forced Jia Lian, a playboy, to serve in the court, over the years, Jia Lian's abilities had completely won his approval.

He's capable, but as for loyalty...

Recalling yesterday morning, when Jia Lian publicly refused the Emperor Emeritus's earnest offer to recruit him and rode back to his side alone, I must say, I was a little touched.

Such a capable, loyal, and, most importantly, young minister is a rare find in the court.

Emperor Ningkang had no choice but to employ such a minister.

Therefore, he first locked Jia Lian up to prevent him from going astray under the influence of treacherous people.

Emperor Ningkang believed that within a year, he could eliminate most of the evil spirits in the court, and then he could release Jia Lian to handle important matters!

Without discussing the firearms battalion and the military command with Jia Lian for long, Emperor Ningkang immediately inquired about the details of Jia Lian's trip, which would make it easier for him to arrange the aftermath.

After a long while, seeing that the emperor and his minister had almost finished discussing their business, the empress, who hadn't said much until now, suddenly smiled and said:

"As expected, the Marquis of Zhenyuan knows how to please His Majesty. When I saw His Majesty talking to the Marquis of Zhenyuan, his complexion improved considerably."

Upon hearing this, Emperor Ningkang grunted but remained silent.

The Empress then said to Jia Lian, "You are a blessed child. Even among His Majesty's princes and princesses, I have never seen any of them sit before His Majesty and talk so eloquently for so long. It is clear that His Majesty truly likes you. You must not let His Majesty down."

Noticing a change in Emperor Ningkang's expression, clearly displeased with her speaking too much, the Empress changed the subject, sighing and lamenting, "It's a pity I'm not blessed. My son died young, and I haven't been able to raise another child to share the burden of his father, which is why Your Majesty is so burdened."

Upon hearing the Empress's words, Emperor Ningkang also thought of his two sons who had died young. He sighed, took the Empress's hand, and patted it to comfort her.

The Empress wiped away her tears and looked at Emperor Ningkang, saying, "It's all my fault. Why did I bring this up again? Just now, when I saw Your Majesty talking to the Marquis of Zhenyuan, I couldn't help but think of our son. If Ruan'er were still here, he would probably be about the same age as the Marquis of Zhenyuan..."

Emperor Ningkang, feeling helpless, put his arm around the Empress's shoulder and gently comforted her.

At this moment, he was no longer an emperor, but simply a husband comforting his wife who missed her son.

In front of her ministers, the Empress seemed somewhat embarrassed. She pulled away from Emperor Ningkang's embrace, wiped away her tears, tidied her appearance, and then suddenly said to Emperor Ningkang in a consultative tone, "Your Majesty, I have a request..."

Emperor Ningkang looked at her expression, seemingly understanding something, but remained silent.

"Since the Marquis of Zhenyuan is a descendant of the retired Emperor, he is naturally a member of the imperial family. I happen to like this child very much, and he is about the same age as Ruan'er. Why not adopt him into my household? From now on, not only will I have a capable and filial child to see me off in my old age, but Your Majesty will also have a child to rely on to share your burdens..."

Upon hearing the Empress's words, Jia Lian finally understood why he had felt the Empress was always looking at him.

He was still having doubts, because he had seen that kind of look in the Empress's eyes on Aunt Xue.

Although Your Majesty the Empress is very elegant, dignified and gentle, as His Majesty's first wife, you must be at least fifty years old. We are not suitable for each other.

Now that he knows the other woman isn't after him, but wants to be his mother, Jia Lian feels relieved, but his mind also starts to wander.

Emperor Ningkang's face also became unusually serious, his brows furrowed as if he were thinking.

Taking the opportunity, the Empress looked at Jia Lian and asked, "You heard what I said. Would you like to be my child?"

Jia Lian blinked and quickly replied, "To be favored by Her Majesty the Empress is an immense blessing for me; how could I possibly refuse?"

Before the Empress could be happy, she turned around and found that Emperor Ningkang's brows were furrowed deeper and deeper.

The Empress thought for a moment and said, "If Your Majesty feels that adoption is inappropriate, it is also acceptable to adopt him as a godson..."

Emperor Ningkang shook his head and looked at the Empress apologetically: "Let's talk about this later."

Emperor Ningkang had always wanted a prince like Jia Lian, so he was genuinely interested when the Empress first proposed it.

But upon further reflection, he realized it was inappropriate.

These are turbulent times; the crown prince has just died.

Both Jia Lian and the Empress are of extraordinary status. If the Empress were to adopt Jia Lian as her son at this time, it would not only appear that they were trying too hard to win him over, but it would also send a very dangerous signal to the outside world.

The empress, being a mere woman, could act on her emotions, but as the emperor of the Great Wei, and an emperor whose position was precarious after just forcing his father to abdicate, he had to consider many other things.

The situation is already chaotic enough; he doesn't want to create any more trouble.

The Empress knew Emperor Ningkang well, and could tell from his expression that there was no room for further discussion. Although she was disappointed, she did not say anything more.

Before Jia Lian could even fully consider the pros and cons of becoming the Empress's adopted son or heir, his proposal was rejected by Emperor Ningkang. Staying on the imperial carriage any longer would be awkward, so he could only awkwardly take his leave.