In the third month of Yiyou in the eighth year of the Longsheng period, Emperor Yong issued an edict, appointing King Xian of Qi as the commander-in-chief of the Jiangnan march, and Prince Jun as the deputy commander. He was also the governor-general of Bashu, Xiangfan, Jianghuai, and a million-strong army in the East China Sea to conquer Chu in the south. He appointed Marquis Jiang of Chu County as the commander.
counselor.
——"Zi Zhi Tong Jian·Yong Ji IV"
On the 13th day of the first lunar month in the twelfth year of Tongtai of Southern Chu, the capital of Southern Chu was established, and the Lantern Festival was approaching. There was joy both inside and outside the city. Two years ago, the Southern Chu army fought two major battles at Huaixi and Guazhou Ferry.
The victory sent everyone in Nanchu into a frenzy.
More than ten years ago, King Yong Li Zhi plundered Jianye and kidnapped the king and hundreds of officials. The blow to Nanchu was beyond many people's imagination. Although the matter has long since passed, Nanchu has a new king and has been restored.
The Jianghuai defense line has been consolidated, but almost all the people in Nanchu have a sense of precariousness. They are always worried that Dayong's iron hoof will crush the prosperity and beauty in front of them. Therefore, over the years, there have been many crazy people in Jiangnan who are determined to avenge their shame.
There were many more frivolous and frivolous prodigals. This time Lu Can won the Huaixi victory and the Guazhou victory, which not only washed away the shame of the year, but also rebuilt the confidence of the soldiers and people of Southern Chu. Lu Can was no longer criticized by those literati.
Instead, he became a famous general who could turn the tide, a hero who could lead the army and people of Southern Chu to fight against Dayong's millions of troops and preserve the prosperity of Jiangnan.
This Lantern Festival is just after the great victory, so both the gentry and the common people intend to express their joy by celebrating the festival, so this year's lanterns are more lively than in previous years, and the city is brightly lit, just like the jade palace of a fairy palace.
There are thousands of lotus lanterns floating on the Qinhuai River, as if the stars in the sky have fallen into the world. All the painted boats have lanterns of various colors raised high, like beautiful buildings and jade buildings. There are also singers and dancers wearing colorful clothes, riding on the painted boats.
There are people singing and dancing above, the singing is loud and clear, like the sound of nature, and the dance is graceful, like the immortals. The sky is full of fire, trees and silver flowers, and this scene is so enchanting that one has completely forgotten about the world. This is just the thirteenth lantern ceremony. If it reaches the top
On the first day of the twelfth lunar month, Jianye City will definitely become more prosperous both inside and outside it.
The capital is covered with crowns, but this person is alone and haggard. On this occasion when the whole world is celebrating, some people are complaining. In the study room of the Prime Minister's Mansion, there is a dark cloud at the moment. Shang Weijun, who holds the most power in the government, is sitting behind the desk with a sad look on his face.
There were three other people sitting or standing in the study. A middle-aged man with a reserved expression stood behind Shang Weijun. He was Shang Chengye, Shang Weijun's only son. He was mediocre in talent and had no independent opinions when it came to things. Shang Weijun wanted to do it many times.
Although he was promoted to an important position, he had to give up, so he could only hold a casual position in the official department, and there was no seat for him in this study. In fact, he was also a wanton and frivolous person outside, but in front of his father he was
He was very cautious and did not dare to be presumptuous. Sitting on the Taishi chair on the left was a middle-aged man with thin eyebrows and long eyes. He was Yin Duanhua, the Secretary of the Ministry of Revenue, a disciple of Shang Weijun, and also his confidant. And on the right sat a middle-aged man.
It is an old Confucian scholar who is Shang Weijun's schemer, Ning Qian. Shang Weijun has been fighting with others in the officialdom for many years and often relies on this person for his evil schemes.
After being silent for a long time, Shang Weijun finally couldn't help but said: "Mr. Ning, Duan Hua, do you have any ideas? The truth is that the prime minister has delayed the award again and again, but the day after tomorrow will be Shangyuan, so the reward should be given no matter what."
But Lu Can is already the Duke of Zhenyuan and the honor of the general. If he wants to be rewarded again, he will be the king. People with different surnames cannot be crowned. This is the golden rule. But if this is not the case, how can we reward him? Huaidong is now
The military power has been lost, and the military power of Southern Chu is in the hands of the Lu family. Once Lu Can becomes dissatisfied, I am afraid that we will all die without a burial place."
Yin Duanhua said worriedly: "Yes, Lu Can made a statement a few days ago asking for the expansion of the army to prepare for war. He has already controlled almost all military power, but he still wants to expand the army. Isn't this malicious?"
Shang Weijun shook his head and said: "You are overthinking. Army expansion is also necessary. This time the Huaidong Army was almost completely destroyed. If we don't expand our army, we can't consolidate the Jianghuai defense line. And if we expand our army, we will have the opportunity to put our own people in."
A cold light flashed in the eyes of the old Confucian scholar, and he said: "Although the prime minister has this intention, if Lu Can is allowed to recruit troops, I am afraid that these new troops will only obey the Lu family's orders."
Shang Weijun waved his hand and said: "There is no way around this. We don't have anyone who can lead troops. That Luo Lou really ruined all my efforts in Huaidong. Alas, let's not mention it. Let's discuss how to reward him.
"
The old Confucian scholar twirled his beard and said: "Why don't the prime minister exchange terms with Lu Can? Doesn't he want to expand the army? This matter must be discussed by the court. The prime minister promised him to recruit troops to prepare for war, but he asked him to give up this reward.
The Prime Minister can add some fiefs to him at will, but does not upgrade his title. In this way, everyone will be happy and it will make him look good. I think Lu Can will give up his title in exchange for the Prime Minister's."
Shang Weijun nodded repeatedly and said: "Mr. Ning is right, the expansion of the army is not a trivial matter. Without food and salary from the court, it cannot be carried out smoothly. Although Lu Can is hateful, he is not a person who does not know how to appreciate it. In this way
Well, hasn’t his son made great achievements in war? This time, he will be given the military position of a sixth-grade captain as compensation."
Yin Duanhua said: "This is an advantage for the Lu family and his son, but how should other meritorious soldiers be rewarded? If the reward is light, these people will cause trouble. If the reward is heavy, most of these people are just grateful to Lu Can. How many people will think of it?"
Is it the grace of the king and prime minister?"
Ning Qian stared blankly and said nothing. He did not agree with what Yin Duanhua said, but seeing Shang Weijun looking thoughtful there, he did not object.
At this time, Shang Chengye said: "Actually, the military is not monolithic. This time, Lu Can and Shi Guan have made great contributions. However, although Yu Mian and Rong Yuan have done meritorious service in defending their land, their achievements are small after all. It is better for my father to seal the Shi Guan a lot, but to Yu."
Mian and Rong Yuan passed by each other, so it was just Yu Mian. Rong Yuan was not Lu Can's best friend, and he was a bit narrow-minded. He must be jealous of Lu Can because of this. His father might as well comfort him in private. This person
But there is someone with real talent and knowledge, and he is an old member of Prince De. He is a loyal and patriotic person, so he might join his father's army."
As soon as these words came out, not only Shang Weijun's eyes lit up, but Yin Duanhua and Ning Qian also nodded repeatedly. Shang Chengye never said much on such occasions, but today he suddenly proposed a plan, but it was such a clever plan that made Yin and Ning
He was impressed and praised repeatedly. However, Shang Weijun knew the depth of his son and asked in surprise: "What you said today is very meaningful. I wonder whose idea it was?"
Shang Chengye blushed and said: "Father, he is a new friend of mine. He is a scholar from a poor family. He has no intention of taking the imperial examination. He only composes music and lyrics for the singing girls in the Fireworks Willow Alley. Although he is among thousands of flowers, he keeps himself clean.
The boy saw that he had a high bearing, so he gave in to him. I was drinking with him a few days ago, and he accidentally mentioned that the general's authority now exceeds that of his father. He smiled and said that Lu Can still can't cover the sky with one hand. If that's the case
This way, it will definitely be effective."
Shang Weijun's eyes flashed and he said: "You have carefully checked this person's identity. With your identity, you should not be careless in making friends."
Shang Chengye said in surprise: "My son only has poetry and wine with him, so I don't know much about his life experience. However, this person is elegant and talented, but it's a pity that he sees through the world and has no intention of fame. If my father is interested, my son can try to recruit him."
To my father's shogunate."
Shang Weijun shook his head and said: "Let's take a look first. You can't be careless when hiring people, but this person is so talented that you shouldn't ignore him. You should win over him first. If there is no problem with his identity, you might as well recruit him into the government." After that, Shang Weijun
Jun hesitated for a moment and then said: "One more thing. Originally, I had intended to promise my adopted daughter Lingxiang to Lu Can's eldest son. If we could get married, I could have more control over the Lu family. Unfortunately, Lu Can refused. You guys
Do you think there is room for redemption?"
Ning Qian frowned. He naturally knew who this Lingxiang was. She was the adopted daughter of Ji Xia, the head of the Yihuang Hall of Fengyi Sect, but she also worshiped Shang Weijun as her adopted father. In fact, Ning Qian also knew
Although Shang Weijun also knew about the ambiguous relationship between Ji Xia and Shang Weijun, the attraction of a woman who was once a concubine of Dayong was too great, so Shang Weijun still fell into the tender love of Fengyi Sect.
In the trap. Ning Qian had expected that Lu Can would reject this marriage. It would be strange if Lu Can did not refuse. The future head of the Lu family should naturally marry a lady from a famous family in Nanchu. How could he marry someone with a good family background?
The unknown woman was his wife. After hesitating for a moment, Ning Qian said politely: "Master Xiang, if you are interested in a marriage, you may wish to consider Princess Shuning."
"Princess Shuning!" Shang Weijun murmured. Princess Shuning is the half-sister of the current king Zhao Long. She is fifteen years old this year. Her appearance is the best choice. However, her mother has died long ago. In the royal family,
She has no status, and Shang Weijun didn't even notice her existence. Now that he heard Ning Qian's reminder, he felt something in his heart. If he promised a princess to the Lu family, wouldn't this be the best way to win over her? After all, he still needed to rely on the Lu family to resist.
Dayong. And if the Lu family has any objections, Princess Shuning can also play a role that ordinary people cannot.
While Shang Weijun and his cronies were plotting in the study, Lu Can and others, who had been ordered to return to Beijing to accept the reward, had already entered the city. He did not want to disturb the people, so Lu Can entered the city incognito. Looking at the wealth and peace, he sighed softly,
Although he achieved great victories in Huaixi and Guazhou this time, he did not forget Chuzhou, the important town in Huaidong. Sizhou has fallen into the hands of Yong's army, and Yong's army can mobilize its army southward at any time. When the time comes, Nanchu will only face the pressure of
It can be even greater. And the most important thing is that after Dayong suffered such a disastrous defeat, Emperor Yong would definitely use Jiang Zhe. He was afraid that when Dayong went south again, his mentor would go south with the army.
However, the distress in his heart obviously did not affect the two teenagers behind him. Shi Xiu looked around at the lanterns on both sides of the road, his handsome face full of surprise and longing, while Lu Yun pointed out the scenery along the way for her one by one.
, like the most hospitable host. This time, both of them were ordered to enter the court to receive awards. Although Shi Xiu was a woman and was not included in the awards as a rule, they are now praised by everyone in Southern Chu.
The young hero, because of the ambiguity of the military report and Jianye's mistakes, Shi Xiu also received the order to go to Beijing to receive a reward. Although Shi Guan wrote a letter to explain the matter, in the end Jianye decided to make the mistake in order to stimulate the morale of the army and correct "Shi Yujin"
"The reward was given, but the words in the decree were vague and did not explain whether Shi Yujin was a boy or a girl.
Looking at the gorgeous lights on both sides of the street, Lu Yun felt a little uneasy. He left Jianye without saying goodbye and went to Yongdu. After returning from Chang'an, his father sent him directly to Jiangxia, and then went to the Huaixi battlefield. In total, he left home.
It has been nearly ten months, so his mother must be worried about him. I am afraid he will be severely punished by his mother this time. Although being punished by kneeling on the board is nothing, it would be too embarrassing if his younger siblings see him.
Then I thought about it, why not find a way to ask several younger brothers and sisters to plead for me in front of my mother, but this would require bribing a few little guys first. After some calculations, I found that my second brother also likes riding and shooting, so I will send Jiajun to Jiajun.
Give the rhinoceros horn bow that Wang gave you to your second brother. The refined bows and arrows made by the Ministry of Industry of Dayong are the best choice, and I am too embarrassed to use the bow given to me by Li Lin to shoot the soldiers of Dayong. What about my younger brother?
He was still young, so he could just give him the doughnuts and puppets he bought on the road. As for the little sister, Lu Yun's heart skipped a beat, and he thought of the golden ring in his arms, and then he thought of Princess Zhaohua.
Her face was both happy and angry, and the already blurry image of a pretty girl became clear again.
At this time, Shi Xiu shouted impatiently: "Brother Yun, what are you thinking about? What kind of lamp is that? It's so beautiful."
Lu Yun suddenly woke up, his face turned red, and he turned to look at Shi Xiu. He saw that the girl who was fighting alongside him had a bright light on her face. Her face, which was blown red by the cold wind, was so charming and charming.
For a moment, he suddenly felt that the person next to him was actually a girl. Suddenly, he took out the golden ring from his arms and handed it to Shi Xiu, saying, "Sister Xiu, this is for you."
Shi Xiu was furious at first, and was about to correct Lu Yun's title, but she caught sight of the golden ring surrounded by flower branches. No matter what, she was a girl after all, with a pair of big bright eyes bent into crescents. She took the golden ring and couldn't put it down.
Lu Yun thought with guilt in his heart that Shi Xiu and he were brothers, so it would be okay to give the golden ring to her, although Princess Zhaohua originally said it would be given to her sister. At this time, Shi Xiu reluctantly gave it to her.
The golden ring was handed back and he whispered: "This is too expensive, you should take it back." Although Shi Xiu never paid attention to these details, this golden ring was so exquisite that it must be hard to buy for a thousand dollars, how could she?
Accept such a valuable gift.
A glimmer of light flashed in Lu Yun's eyes, and he whispered: "This was given to me by a friend, so you can keep it for me."
Shi Xiu wanted to refuse, but couldn't say it for some reason. He just lowered his head and played with the golden ring. Unintentionally, his eyes flashed and he saw two small words as thin as rice grains in the winter plum blossom stamens where the golden ring was connected, Shi Xiu.
Xiu looked intently and saw the word "Zhaohua". She couldn't help but feel moved in her heart and said with a smile: "Okay, I'll keep it for you first."
Lu Yun just felt relieved and said with a smile: "On the fifteenth day, how about I take you out to visit the lantern festival? Now it's just a quick tour. There are many interesting places you haven't seen yet?"
Shi Xiu's eyes lit up when he heard this and said: "Okay, I heard that the Qinhuai River is very fun. There are lotus lanterns on the water, and there are also juggling, singing and dancing to watch."
Lu Yun nodded in agreement, and Shi Xiu had a sweet smile on his face. The two of them leaned close to the horse and whispered, discussing how to play. At this moment, the two of them were not famous young heroes in the south of the Yangtze River, but just a pair of people who had not grown up.
Just a child.
The whispers of the two children were clearly heard by Lu Can. The troubles in his heart were relieved a little. Thinking of the hint of marriage in Shiguan, he couldn't help but smile. Thinking of his wife and children whom he had not seen for more than a year, he felt infinite emotions in his heart.
Tenderness, added a whip, quickened the horse's speed, and walked forward.
Zhenyuan Duke's Mansion is located in the south of Jianye City. The mansion is solemn and majestic. Today, the central gate is wide open and lanterns are decorated in front of the door. When the head of the family returns from a victory, the whole family will naturally come out to greet him. The middle-aged woman at the head is dignified and beautiful, and she is Lu Can's wife.
Behind her stood two children, one on the left and one on the right. The boy on the left was about ten years old, similar in appearance to Lu Yun, but slightly more delicate. He was Lu Can's second son, Lu Feng, and the girl on the right was only seven or eight years old.
, although she is young, she is already as beautiful as a fairy dew pearl. She is leaning on her mother's side and secretly looking at everyone. She is Lu Can's only daughter, Lu Mei. Behind the three people, there is a middle-aged woman holding a
A little boy of two or three years old, this little boy was born with a tiger-like head and a very cute head, but he was Lu Ting, the youngest son of Lu Can.
Shi Xiu stood beside Lu Yun, her heart pounding for some reason. She had known that Mrs. Lu was from a famous family and must have all four virtues, but she was like a tomboy. Her mother had taught her a lot of lessons in the past two years. If Mrs. Lu
What should I do if it’s so wordy?
At this time, Mrs. Lu and everyone had finished paying homage to Lu Can. Lu Yun nervously stepped forward to give the gift to his mother. When Mrs. Lu saw her eldest son, her eyes suddenly became hazy. She picked up her son and looked him up and down for a long time to make sure that his son was intact.
Only then did he feel relieved. At this time, it was Shi Xiu's turn to come forward to salute him. Shi Xiu glanced at Lu Yun secretly, then came forward to bow down and salute him.
Mrs. Lu had received a letter from her husband a long time ago. She knew about Shi Xiu and her husband's intention to marry. She also knew that this girl dressed in men's clothing was very brave and fought with her beloved son on the battlefield. She already had a good impression in her heart. She came forward.
He picked up the girl, gently held her in his arms, and said, "You must be Xiu'er, good boy. Thank you very much. If you hadn't risked your life, my Yun'er would have died."
Shi Xiu's face turned red when she heard this. She knew that what Mrs. Lu said was that she stabbed Dong Shan to death after faking his death on the battlefield. Although it effectively saved Lu Yun's life, in fact it was the two of them who
She was about to explain what they had done by joining forces, but she saw Lu Yun secretly winking at her and couldn't help but keep silent. When Mrs. Lu saw the girl's uneasy look, she felt even more happy. She took her hand and said, "You don't want it either.
You are bound to feel at home when you get here. I treat you just like Yun'er." As soon as I held the girl's hand, I felt that the delicate hand was strong and powerful, and the skin was a little rough, which was obviously the traces left by years of martial arts training, and I felt pity in my heart.
Then looking at Lu Yun's nervous expression, he suddenly felt that it would be good to have such a daughter-in-law. The trace of doubt that he had originally disappeared, and he held Shi Xiu's hand with a smile and walked inside.
Lu Yun felt his heart relaxed and patted his chest, feeling that he was not so nervous anymore. Then he saw the shining eyes of his second brother Lu Feng and his younger sister Lu Mei. They were pulling him from left to right. Lu Feng said fiercely:
"Brother, you tricked me into stealing money for you, and as a result, I was punished by my mother." Lu Mei said with tears in her eyes: "Brother, would you like to take Mei'er to run away with you in the future?" Lu Yun felt a rush.
Warmth flowed into the lake of his heart, and he stretched out his hands to hug his younger siblings. The excitement of seeing him again after a long separation made him almost speechless.
When the door of Zhenyuan Palace was slowly closing, in a restaurant across the street, in a box facing the street, a young man drank a glass of wine with a smile, looking at the closed vermilion door, a cold light flashed in his eyes.