Do You Know?: Rule the World.

Chapter 187 The Imperial Concubine's Visit Home and the Old Madam's Birthday

In early August, the weather was clear and the sky was crystal clear.

Gu Tingye, Wang Anshi, and Zhang Chun each led several imperial envoys under the guise of rewarding soldiers to various military camps to verify the soldiers' records.

The Imperial City Guard and local censors will assist in the investigation and supervision to ensure that this matter proceeds smoothly.

In addition, Zhao Han granted the three men the authority to act unilaterally and to act first and report later.

After all, this matter involves the interests of too many military families, nobles, and generals at all levels in the army. If they were to be even slightly lenient, all their efforts could be in vain.

The Imperial Palace, inside the Funing Hall.

Zhang Fu, dressed in a purple court robe, sat upright on a soft stool at the lower end of the table, his gaze fixed intently on Zhao Han.

The Zhang family has served in the military for generations, accumulating numerous military achievements and enjoying high prestige and deep roots within the army. If reforms to address the long-standing problems in the military are desired, it will be necessary for him to step in, mediate, and appease all parties involved.

"You, the Duke of England, have long been in charge of the military and are most familiar with its strengths, weaknesses, advantages, and disadvantages."

Zhao Han sighed softly, and then said, "Yanyun has not yet been recovered. We should be giving our soldiers a good rest and preparing for war. I had no choice but to resort to this measure."

Zhang Fu nodded in deep agreement, "I understand Your Majesty's intentions."

"The military pay allocated by the national treasury each year is not meager, but after layers of exploitation, very little actually reaches the hands of ordinary soldiers."

"Since the Emperor ascended the throne, he has rectified official conduct and strictly investigated corruption, so this matter is relatively better."

“When I first joined the army, there were even soldiers who trained in the camp during the day and patrolled the streets at night to sell rouge-colored steamed buns to supplement their family income.”

"However, I have a question for Your Majesty. There are quite a few old and weak soldiers among the local militia and imperial guards. What are Your Majesty's plans for dealing with these people?"

“If we remove them from the military directly, it will probably discourage the veterans, cause unease among other soldiers, and even shake the morale of the army.”

Zhao Han smiled slightly, gestured to the eunuch beside him to serve tea to Zhang Fu, and said gently, "The Duke of Yingguo has considered all the details. I have already taken this matter into consideration."

"The elderly and weak who were laid off were given unclaimed wasteland or government land in various prefectures to cultivate, and they were exempted from taxes for two years, so that they could settle down and become self-sufficient."

"Soldiers who are physically capable but have not passed the assessment will be assigned to the River Work Battalion and the Land Reclamation Bureau, and will be tasked with repairing river channels, digging irrigation canals, or going to the Northwest to reclaim wasteland."

"The military expenses saved were just enough to cover their monthly allowance and rations."

As he spoke, Zhao Han couldn't help but think that it was now the seventh year of the Hongwu reign. If he remembered correctly, three years later, the Great Zhou would suffer a severe drought.

The irrigation ditches dried up, the crops withered and died, and the land was barren for miles around. Even drinking water for people and livestock became a huge problem.

Millions of people were plunged into famine. In order to survive, they had no choice but to flee with their elderly and children, becoming refugees and constantly pouring into Bianjing and the south where there was still a harvest.

The large influx of refugees led to rampant epidemics, resulting in countless deaths and injuries, and the devastation of people's livelihoods.

Thinking of this, he couldn't help but raise his hand and furrow his brow.

Although several new policies have been implemented and achieved considerable results, there are still many people who are dissatisfied because their interests have been harmed.

They might even use this incident to their advantage, spreading rumors that the new policies angered the heavens and brought down punishment, thus inciting public sentiment.

It is imperative to have the redundant troops repair the river channels, construct water conservancy projects, and reclaim wasteland in advance.

As early as the fourth year of the Dazhong Xiangfu era, Emperor Zhenzong sent envoys to Fujian to retrieve Champa rice, which was then distributed to the people of Jianghuai and Liangzhe, who were ordered to plant it. He also personally planted it in the palace.

Champa rice is not picky about soil fertility and can be sown anywhere. It has a short growth cycle and a certain degree of drought resistance. Both Emperor Zhenzong and Emperor Renzong vigorously promoted it.

Currently, 70-80% of the people in the Jiangnan region are engaged in planting, and the harvest has increased significantly compared to the past.

To alleviate the consequences of the drought, the reclaimed wasteland in the northwest should be planted with Champa rice as soon as possible.

Zhang Fu looked up at Zhao Han, stood up and bowed, saying, "Your Majesty is wise; I will certainly do my utmost to assist in this matter."

"The Duke of England is truly wise and righteous," Zhao Han said with a slight smile.
With the support of the Zhang, Gu, and Zheng families, plus the Cao family, reducing redundant troops wasn't too difficult.

Before long, Zhang Guifen led the fourth prince, Zhao Yan, gracefully in.

She wore a long lotus-colored brocade dress, understated yet luxurious. Her eyebrows and eyes were relaxed and dignified, her figure was slender and healthy, her complexion was radiant, her steps were steady and graceful, and her eyes held a gentle smile.

"Your Majesty, I pay my respects."

"Your subject greets Your Majesty." Yan Ge'er was already over two years old, with a chubby little face. He imitated Jing Ge'er's bowing and greeting in a very adorable manner.

Zhang Fu couldn't help but look at them, his eyes filled with relief and affection, and his expression was no longer as serious as before.

"No need for formalities." Zhao Han smiled and waved his hand, then stepped forward and hugged Yan Ge'er. "You've gained some weight since I last saw you."

Zhang Guifen was fearless from a young age, and her children naturally reflected this.

The little hand naturally wrapped around Zhao Han's neck, nuzzled her in a childish voice, and stared at Zhang Fu with wide, round eyes full of curiosity.

“Father,” Zhang Guifen called softly, her voice clear and crisp.

Zhang Fu immediately bowed. Although he held the rank of Duke and was an important minister in the court, there was still a difference between the emperor and his subjects, and proper etiquette still had to be observed.

"How has Mother been lately?"

Zhang Fu smiled and stroked his beard, saying, "Don't worry, she's doing well. Ever since your sister-in-law returned to the capital, she's been very happy."

Zhang Fu's eldest son, Zhang Zheng, who will inherit the title, has only one child, named Zhang Zaixi, who is already eight or nine years old.

After birth, he was kept in Beijing and raised by the Duchess of England. His two sons, besides Zhang Yang, were of mediocre ability, and his grandchildren were all raised by their respective mothers.

In terms of how much they cared, they were far less attentive than the eldest son's lineage.

The eldest daughter-in-law, Zhuang, returned to the capital for two reasons: first, she was worried about Xi-ge'er, and second, she was pregnant and could not travel, so she returned to the capital to recuperate.

"That's good. Father is getting older, so please take good care of your health."

After saying that, Zhang Guifen winked playfully at him.

“I’m in excellent health, and I’ll be leading troops to Yanyun in the future.” Zhang Fu flicked his sleeve and turned his head to look at Yan Ge’er again.

Seeing this, Zhao Han smiled, put Yan Ge'er down, patted his little bottom, and gestured for him to go to Zhang Fu's side.

It wasn't until almost 9 AM that Zhang Fu reluctantly bowed and took his leave. Zhang Guifen was his only daughter, and he inevitably showed some favoritism towards Yan Ge'er.

Inside the Funing Palace, Zhao Han put his arm around her slender waist and gently stroked her waist with his fingertips.

"After some time, I will grant you permission to return home to visit your family."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Guifen's eyes lit up, and she quickly sat up straight, looking overjoyed.

"really?"

"My word is as good as gold." Zhao Han looked at her seriously. Only concubines of the rank of Consort or above were entitled to the privilege of visiting their families.

It depends on both the power of the bride's family and the emperor's mood.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I will certainly serve you well tonight."

Zhang Guifen squinted her eyes and said with a smile, her heart already filled with anticipation.

-

In mid-August, the fragrance of osmanthus blossoms filled the Wei State Duke's mansion, a truly delightful experience.

Today is the birthday of Old Madam Sheng. Although Hualan, Minglan, and Shulan were unable to attend in person, they sent palace servants to deliver birthday gifts early in the morning.

Because the old lady was getting on in years, she didn't like too much noise and commotion. She had told Sheng Hong and Hai Chaoyun well in advance that there was no need to invite many guests, and that they should just hold a family banquet in Shou'an Hall behind closed doors.

Mo Lan also came with Liang Liulang.

Since Sheng Wei, Li Shi, Sheng Changwu, and others were also present, the family banquet was naturally arranged with men and women sitting at separate tables.

Inside the main hall of Shou'an Hall, Wang Ruofu wore a dark green brocade robe with a dark floral pattern, and a precious and exquisite white jade hairpin was inserted diagonally into her hair.

She knew she could be impulsive at times, and she didn't like to put on airs all the time. In terms of demeanor, she was no match for other officials' wives; she could even shake her head and throw an earring in her face.

Therefore, she rarely wears hair ornaments, otherwise, the swaying of the ornaments would make people laugh at her for being impolite.

Wang Ruofu sat upright beside the old lady, a smile playing on his lips as he looked at Mo Lan.

"Why didn't you bring your two daughters today, Fourth Sister? It would be so nice to have them all together. Your Miao-jie has never been seen by the old lady since she was born."

Three months ago, Mo Lan gave birth to another daughter, named Liang Ruomiao.

When it came time for the third-day celebration, Wang Ruofu couldn't refuse as she had last time, so she brought gifts and went to the Liang family with Liu Mama.

Rulan's eyes darted around, and she excitedly stepped forward, "Yes, Fourth Sister."

"I heard that your wife, Chun, is currently pregnant. When Fourth Sister was at home, she often advised Father not to favor the legitimate wife over the illegitimate one."

"No matter what good things there are, they should be treated equally. It's good if everyone has them. This statement makes a lot of sense."

"I imagine that Fourth Sister must be just as kind and generous in the Liang family, and treats her illegitimate children very well."

Mo Lan's gaze sharpened, and she unconsciously clenched her handkerchief, suppressing the embarrassment in her heart. She forced a smile and said, "Sister Miao is still too young to be out in the wind."

“I will always cherish my husband’s children, but my fifth sister is having more and more to worry about these days.”

"Speaking of which, Brother-in-law Wen is very learned and talented, while Fifth Sister always falls asleep when she reads. What do you two usually talk about to pass the time?"

Upon hearing this, Ru Lan frowned slightly, never expecting Mo Lan to use such words to satirize her.

After taking a deep breath, she said with her neck stiff, "Although I don't like reading those literary things, Brother Jing treats me very well. He never goes astray and is always very considerate."

Mo Lan was disdainful and was about to retort.

The old lady put down her teacup and said in a deep voice, "This tea was bestowed by Her Majesty the Empress. It is pure and sweet. You should all try it."

"If we miss it, there won't be another chance."

“Okay, I’ll listen to Grandmother. The things my eldest sister gives me are all excellent,” Rulan replied crisply.

Although the old lady appreciated Wen Yanjing's talent, she was initially somewhat wary of him.

He probably coveted the power and influence of the Sheng family and wanted to find a patron for his career, which is why he wanted to marry Rulan.

After all, Rulan was a bit spoiled, and just as Molan said, she would fall asleep as soon as she started reading. She could only manage to pass the time with poetry and prose, just enough to avoid making a fool of herself.

However, she also firmly believes in the saying, "A gentleman mingles regardless of his heart."

Since becoming the son-in-law of the Sheng family, Wen Yanjing has been well-mannered and respectful in his words and deeds, and he has shown genuine respect and affection for Rulan.

That's enough.

Li looked at Rulan and Molan, and shook her head with a smile.

In terms of family background and social standing, although she was still a grade lower than Wang Ruofu, she was no longer in a position where she couldn't hold her head up as she used to be.

Seeing the Wang family lose power and their reputation completely ruined, she felt a bit of schadenfreude.

The main reason was that Wang Ruofu had put on airs as soon as he arrived in Youyang, acting superior and bossy in front of them, which really made her feel resentful.

The daughter-in-law, Kang Yun'er, was quite sensible. After meeting Wang Ruoyu in the inner prison, she didn't make any other requests.

Changfeng's wife, Liu, lowered her gaze slightly.

She always kept her distance from Mo Lan. Being in the Sheng family, she also had some understanding of the affairs between the Kang and Wang families.

In her view, if they did not restrain Sheng Changfeng and stay away from Mo Lan, they would most likely follow the same path as the Wang family in the future.

Cleaning up the mess left by her married sister is a disregard for human life, ruining her own future and that of her children.

After the family dinner ended, Sheng Changbai greeted Sheng Wei and Sheng Changwu in the front hall.

Inside Sheng Hong's study in the second courtyard, the air was filled with the fragrance of ink.

With a pleading expression, Liang Liulang bowed deeply to Sheng Hong, "Father-in-law, I have come here today with a request."

Sheng Hong slowly put down his brush and looked up at him.

"If you come to me seeking help regarding the disputes between legitimate and illegitimate children within your household, I am afraid I am powerless to assist you."

"Your eldest brother's abilities are known to everyone, both inside and outside the family, but your second brother is different from you."

“If I were you, I would be content with my lot, manage my share of the property, live a good life, and raise my children well. Those things are not for you to get involved in.”

Liang Liulang blinked thoughtfully. He had indeed come to ask Sheng Hong for help today at the request of Madam Wu and his second brother.

"I have taken your teachings to heart, Father-in-law."

"It's just that my son-in-law has been unemployed at home for many years, doing nothing all day long, which makes me very uneasy."

"Father-in-law, you have extensive connections and a high reputation. Could you please give your son-in-law some guidance?"

Seeing that Sheng Hong remained unmoved, he quickly added, "This also benefits Mo Lan. According to Mo Lan, she was the one you loved the most in the Sheng family in the past."

Sheng Hong picked up the teacup beside him, took a sip, stroked his beard, and looked at him casually.

"Back then you..."

"Alas, let's not talk about such a shameful thing. It almost ruined the reputation of my family and the Empress. I still feel ashamed when I think about it now."

“I’ve seen your abilities over the years. Just stay home, protect the family business, and live a peaceful life. Don’t cause any trouble.”

"As for Mo Lan, it was her insistence on marrying you, and how she is doing is entirely her own choice."

"I can't interfere with how you behave at home, but if word gets out and the Sheng family loses face, then you'd better think twice."

Liang Liulang lowered his eyes, not expecting Sheng Hong to speak so bluntly.

Seeing no hope for his future, he rambled on for a few more minutes before bidding farewell to the old lady with Mo Lan and leaving.

Inside the carriage returning to the Liang family home, Mo Lan turned to look at him, "Well, what did Father say?"

"No, it didn't work. Instead, you got a face full of dust. I don't think your father loves you as much as you say. He doesn't give you any face at all."

Liang Liulang sighed softly and shook his head.

If the Sheng family weren't such a powerful and influential family that everyone wanted to be close to, he wouldn't have given Mo Lan any kind of treatment.

In truth, even if Sheng Hong didn't agree to help, as long as the Sheng family was involved, he could still benefit from it.

To him, Mo Lan was just a lucky charm; he always turned a blind eye to how Chun Ke and Qiu Jiang acted.

(End of this chapter)