Chapter 006 Invitation

Having taken a general look, Liu Yu also understood her father's meaning; some things are ultimately difficult to say face to face

There is a hidden meaning in the words, and it is quite evident that this is directed towards Liu Yu

Today, I came to ask myself about the past, there must be something going on, but I do not know what it is, nor do I know if it has any relation to my future

Before long, a light blue silk embroidered robe was found, and a somewhat tipsy gauze shirt was changed into.

It is believed that distributing to the common people would certainly lead the Qing Dynasty to exploit them, causing suffering among the populace

The situation is dire; the Qing Dynasty is facing a shortage of grain, and it is certain that they will resort to plundering the common people, who will continue to suffer.

It would be better to die in agony than to bear the infamous reputation of slaughtering loyal ministers

It would be better to leave the warehouse directly to the Manchu, so that they would not harass the common people, and the common people would not suffer

Although Liu Yu was cursing others mindlessly for living off handouts, he also understood that he could not afford to miss this meal

When the carriage arrived at the Duke's residence in Qi, a servant had already gone inside to report, and thus the side gate was opened, with Tian Ping welcoming them at the inner door

Between brothers, as long as the family property is not divided, they can live in harmony. However, once the issue of inheritance and titles arises, it is likely that peace will be disrupted

This has also led to the Tian family being different from other noble families. For instance, Liu Yu's father was cautious and prudent, but after Tian Jianxiu, the members of the Tian family exhibit a sense of "knowing shame and then striving for improvement," treating their descendants with great strictness

The fault does not lie with Qi, but with those who have conferred titles upon the Duke of Qi, suggesting that there are some innocent individuals among the white iron who have unwittingly forged sycophants

Liu Yuyun spoke in a vague manner, and Qi Dao asked, "What is going on, so mysteriously?"

After the restoration of Emperor Yingzong, Guo Deng advised: "At present, the subjects across the four seas yearn for the holy virtue more than they do for food and drink. Without extraordinary and generous grace, how can we stir the hearts of the world and comfort their joyful and inspired sentiments?"

In the pursuit of nobility, brothers turned against each other, and in the end, none of them gained any benefit

With a deep sigh, Liu Yu was well aware of what the "Martial Virtue Palace" was.

Is this the path that one hopes to take, like the esteemed Duke Guo Deng of Mingdingxiang? With one's own abilities, without inheriting a title, can one truly create a new nobility?

In evaluating the heroes of that year, Liu Tichun, who valiantly rescued Sun Shoufa, truly deserves the title of "hero". He put forth all his family assets to support Yongli in suppressing warlords, earning him the designation of "righteous". The small rebel leader who launched a counterattack during the Kangxi era, proving that there were still living remnants of the Ming Dynasty on the mainland, can be regarded as "brave". As for Tian Jianxiu, he is left with only "benevolence", and it is the benevolence of a woman, a small and petty kind of kindness.

Tian Ping is a person of strong character; when he is drunk, he has done all sorts of outrageous things

Zhitian Ping was also joking, but he knew that this matter was unlikely to be trivial. Sure enough, Tian Ping restrained his smile and said seriously: "Today, I am actually just passing on a message. It is actually my father who is looking for you, asking you to do some things."

In the government mansion, there is no shortage of food and drink. Tian Ping is tall and robust, slightly overweight, but not excessively so; he is quite sturdy.

There has never been a formally recognized Duke of Qi in the past, as the Yuan Dynasty conferred the title of Duke of Qi to three notable individuals: one was Zhang Hongfan, who was granted the title for his role in the destruction of the Song Dynasty; another was the posthumously awarded title to the great Confucian scholar Zhu Xi; and the third was Shuliang He, the father of Confucius.

After just a few glances, Liu Yu realized that she had truly overestimated her father's awareness

The younger son was praised; what does the elder son think? Might he feel that their father is intentionally allowing the younger son to inherit the title?

The second son of the noble family of the State of Qi is also someone who is indifferent and carefree, merely waiting for death to come

Due to various reasons, the Great Shun was able to employ the Three Dormitories of Martial Virtue to counter the powerful nobility with the gentry.

Tian Ping's ancestor was named Tian Jianxiu, a remarkable figure in the peasant army camp

Moreover, the rumors surrounding the county government office, which is said to be filled with a heavy atmosphere of malevolence, further enhance the eerie and supernatural ambiance.

However, the title conferred by the Duke of Qi carries profound implications; it is uncertain whether it reflects the intentions of Li Laiheng or the last wishes of Li Guo

Without waiting for Liu Yu's response, Yuyan had already left the room. A moment later, she returned and said with a smile: "Third Master has something on his mind today; it is just right to drown his sorrows in wine. It would be good to find a friend to talk to."

Li Laiheng had the child soldiers from back in the day in his hands, and by that time, they had all grown up and were shouldering the responsibilities, showing no fear at all

The swiftlet covered its mouth and chuckled softly, thinking to itself that Third Master is indeed quite peculiar today. Although it was unaware of Liu Yu's concerns and felt a sense of unease, it also knew that this meal was certainly a must-attend.

Brother Shouchang is well-versed in Western studies, as everyone in the capital knows. Today's matter is indeed related to this

Near the Crescent Moon River, not far away is the Wanping County Yamen. This is not the Wanping County associated with the July 7 Incident; that Wanping County Yamen was later relocated to Lugou Bridge. At this time, the Wanping County Yamen was situated beneath the outer wall of the Forbidden City.

Tian Ping and Liu Yu are classmates at the Wude Palace, and their academic performance is quite commendable

Upon hearing Liu Yu's words, Tian Ping lowered his voice and said, "Is it because of the matter regarding the memorial presented by the Governor of Fujian at today's court meeting?"

Brother Shouchang has studied Western learning for ten years, is it not akin to a sword honed over a decade? This time, inviting you to taste the honey pomelo from Pinghe, is precisely to utilize your ten years of expertise

It is both the sword of imperial power and the toilet paper of imperial power, merely a bargaining chip used to negotiate with the gentry and scholars of Jiangnan

The swiftlet furrowed her brows, unsure of what was troubling Liu Yu, and quietly called out.

The wine has not yet been consumed, and the meal has not yet been eaten. Tian Ping first uttered the phrase "forgive my offense," leaving Liu Yu utterly perplexed. Fortunately, he still remembers that "Shouchang" is his courtesy name, so he does not mistakenly think that the other party is calling someone else by that name.

In summary, this means that in the future, one should not emulate the situation of the Wu Dinghou family from the previous dynasty, which ended up in such chaos, as it brings no benefit to anyone

However, Tian Jianxiu was filled with resentment over the matter of being appointed as the Duke of Qi, and he deliberately chose to build his residence in this place

Wearing a cyan gauze shirt and holding a paper fan in a pretentious manner, his slightly plump face was covered in beads of sweat

It is even somewhat disgusting

What is the matter?

Again, I wonder, did the Governor of Fujian create this situation? Could it be that your family is behind this? Otherwise, why would gifts be sent to your family? I have not heard of any gifts being sent to my family

Fortunately, after the Nine Palaces Mountain, Li Guo took power. During the battle of Jingzhou, he made significant contributions by defeating Le Kede and Hun Tian Jian Xiu. Aware that he could not become the leader himself, he strongly advocated for Li Guo to take charge, and in the end, he was granted the title of Duke of Qi.

Brother Shouchang, since you have arrived, you must first be forgiven for your transgressions

What is Pinghe Pao? Liu Yu has no idea, but he did notice the five characters "Fujian Jiedushi"

He believed that his father, being in a high position in the court, must be concerned about the state, and that this little booklet he gave himself must contain significant matters related to the future of the dynasty, the prohibition of teachings, and Western learning, reflecting his worries about the future of the dynasty.

The feudal clan system is cold and unfeeling, yet at last, with these few pieces of paper, Liu Yu feels a trace of paternal affection.

The Duke of Qi is looking for me

For imperial authority, while gentry may be despicable, nobility is not to be regarded as virtuous either. To conquer the world, nobility is indeed necessary, but to maintain peace in the realm, it relies on the gentry, governing through culture to control the military

The place of Wanping is quite eerie. In the 11th year of the Chongzhen reign, Emperor Chongzhen constructed Wanping City. The western gate is called Yongchang Gate, and the eastern gate is called Shunzhi Gate. Shortly after the completion of the city, events unfolded as foretold: from the west came the Yongchang Emperor, and from the east came the Shunzhi Emperor.

Therefore, the title of Duke of Qi held by Tian Jianxiu appears quite awkward against the backdrop of the late Ming Dynasty, which was characterized by radical debates on the issues of loyalty to the country versus loyalty to the world, particularly in the context of the Ming Dynasty's final years and the shaving of heads as a symbol of submission.

In the Wude Palace, I received a commendation, which brought me great joy. However, due to certain reasons, or perhaps for the sake of family harmony, I am unable to publicly celebrate this achievement, as I also fear it may upset my eldest son

She set aside her fan and went early to prepare her attire

As soon as he entered, Tian Ping smiled and said: "Brother Shouchang, today, indeed, I have invited you to drink. This is no lie. However, before we drink, there is another matter. It is said in the folk circles: to drink, one must first exert some effort... Hehe, today I must ask Brother Shouchang to exert some effort first."

Let us go, and you will understand once you arrive. This is a good matter, as it pertains both to Brother Shouchang's future and to the affairs of the court today. Besides you, there is no more suitable candidate.

However, Liu Yu is deeply engrossed in Western studies, and his skills in archery and horseback riding are quite commendable. In contrast, Tian Ping falls short in some aspects due to certain reasons, but his foundation in the classics and historical texts far surpasses that of Liu Yu.

Adjacent to the Wanping County government office is the prison of Wanping County, from which those sentenced to death are executed every autumn. This has been the case since the Ming Dynasty, and it is said that this place is heavy with ominous energy and is inauspicious

The establishment of the Great Shun was extremely difficult, and after its founding, there was no massacre of the meritorious officials

Upon hearing Liu Yu's words, Tian Ping laughed heartily and took Liu Yu's hand, entering the door together

In the results, Tian Jianxiu launched the "Battle of Huaiqing," proving that the Daxun was indeed a significant threat to the Manchu Qing. Dorgon, awakening from his dream, immediately ordered the return of Duo Er to eliminate the Southern Ming. Meanwhile, the Southern Ming was also in the process of "uniting to eliminate the bandits," believing that Wu Sangui had made great contributions by inviting the Qing troops into the pass, thus granting him the title of Duke of Jiguo, along with a reward of 50,000 taels of silver and 100,000 shi of rice. The only one who had the courage to counterattack in this situation was Gao Jie, a former bandit who had once been cuckolded by Li Zicheng.

After the stone was cast that year, Dorgon floated away. The troops were divided into two routes, preparing one to annihilate the Great Shun and the other to destroy the Southern Ming, and they had already split their forces.

Along with the former Ming Laundry Bureau in front of Liu Yu's home, they are known as the two places with the heaviest negative energy at the foot of the imperial city

In the words of the Min people: Among the various fruits of Min, the lychee is the beauty, the Fukju orange is the scholar, and if one were to throw them away in peace, then they would be a chivalrous hero. What is meant by a chivalrous hero? As Jia Shoudao said: A sword is honed for ten years, yet its frost blade has never been tested

Wishing for one's child to become a dragon, how lamentable is that desire. Yet, father, oh father, is it really that easy?

Even Zhang Nai, who failed to protect Li Zicheng, has a title that sounds better than that of Tian Jianxiu

Seeing Tian Ping, it was not appropriate to continue sulking, so I could only force a smile and say: "What sin is there to forgive? Usually, when we drink, you get in the mood and have even gone shirtless; at that time, it was never called a sin to forgive. What sin is there to forgive today?"

Liu Yu smiled and thought to herself that it is indeed pitiable for all parents, as both the palm and the back of the hand are flesh. Some words are truly difficult to say in person, especially when presented in such a puzzling manner.

Everything was ready, and upon stepping out, the carriage sent by Tian Ping had been waiting outside for quite some time

Liu Yu jokingly said: "Brother, this is also your fault. You could have just said you needed something from me, but instead you mentioned coming to drink? That is quite inappropriate."

Tian Ping, upon hearing this, waved his folding fan and smiled, saying: "At this moment, one must blame Brother Shouchang for only reading those Western studies and not understanding the realm of discerning intentions through subtle hints. I mentioned inviting you for a drink and also mentioned that the Governor of Fujian sent some Pinghe pomelos. The Pinghe pomelo indeed has a story behind it."

Liu Yu laughed heartily and thought to himself, can one really not get by in this circle without a certain level of education

Four generations of people have died on the battlefield, about seven or eight of them, seemingly desperately trying to prove that their family is not so disgraceful

Reflecting on the current era, it seems that Da Shun has fallen behind, and one cannot simply rely on a life of ease and idleness; one must strive diligently to rise up.

Indeed, the second son of the Duke of Qi has sent someone to invite you, stating that he has brought some crabs from Yangcheng Lake, as well as some fresh items such as chicken heads and water chestnuts. He also mentioned that the military governor of Fujian has sent some seasonal Pinghe pao, inviting you to join him for a feast.

At the end of the booklet, there is a section where my father carefully drew several black lines: Guo Yingzhi's sixth son was appointed as a sixth-rank Chengde Lang. The son of the sixth son, although my father held only a sixth rank, was granted the title of Dingxiang Bo due to military merit, becoming a pillar of nobility after the Tumu Fortress incident.

Liu Yu's frustration lies in his identity as the son of the Duke of Yi. Even if he excels in the Martial Virtue Palace and earns the title of champion, can the emperor truly rely on him?

While speaking, a faint sound of footsteps came from outside

He remained composed, deliberately flicking his hand and said with a bitter smile, "Do not mention the two words 'Western learning.' I was just lectured by my father today. Western learning, oh, it has truly led me into a deep pit!"

Recalling the tone in which he used to speak and the way he would tease acquaintances, Liu Yu skillfully imitated his usual intonation

In other words, he requested Emperor Ming Yingzong to win the hearts of the people and reinstate the titles of those noble families who had been stripped of their ranks. This collateral branch, which initially had no hope of inheriting the title, ultimately became a protective umbrella for the nobles, thereby saving its own family.

Thus, this "benevolent" individual casually gathered some wood and started a fire, telling Li Zicheng that he had burned everything. As a result, the Manchus, having had their fill, pursued the remnants of the Dashun forces, defeating Liu Zongmin and others.

Subsequently, after the defeat at the Tongguan Campaign, Li Zicheng believed that continuing to retreat south would stretch the front line. He prepared to take advantage of the opportunity presented by the extended attack line of the Manchus to counterattack. He ordered Tian Jianxiu to either burn all the grain in Xi'an or distribute it to the people; in any case, it must not fall into the hands of the Manchus

Today I present this to you, my friend, as there are matters difficult to express. Naturally, I would calmly throw aside the request of a chivalrous person; what is wrong with that? It is you who have read little and do not understand the meaning behind it, yet you blame me instead

The noble family of the State of Qi bears the surname Tian, and the second son is named Tian Ping, who is not the type to indulge excessively in food and drink

Upon hearing this, Liu Yu seemed to understand something in his heart. It was indeed related to the memorial from the Governor of Fujian. This Tian Ping also enjoyed playing riddles, even mentioning something about the peace and throwing from the Governor of Fujian...

To this day, I have not seen my elder brother or second brother, and I do not know what attitude the elder brother, who is to inherit the title in the future, has towards me

It is precisely for this reason that the nobles of the Great Shun are much more assertive than those of the previous Ming dynasty, requiring the emperor's means to balance and control, often resorting to suppression.

The result in the field is flourishing with "benevolence".

Liu Yu was feeling quite upset, so he blurted out something without thinking.

These few sheets of paper are actually the "Records of the Enfeoffment of the Marquis of Wuding of the Former Ming Dynasty," which refers to the Guo family that shot Chen Youliang in the "Biographies of Heroes"

The residence of the Duke of Qi is not far from Liu Yu's home, yet it is not close either

The more I think about it, the more likely it seems. Tian Ping is someone Liu Yu is familiar with; he wouldn't seek me out solely for the sake of food and drink

What is the matter with Third Master? Is there something on his mind?

Upon further reflection, my father mentioned that the court has intentions to prohibit teachings, which is derived from the memorial of the military governor of Fujian. Moreover, Tian Ping invited me over, claiming that it was some food sent by the military governor of Fujian. Could there be a connection?

Seeing this, Liu Yu understood that his father was actually filled with expectations for him

Liu Yuzhuo pondered that Tian Ping must have important matters to discuss with him, so he urged Yuyan twice.

However, it is certain that the title will go to the elder brother Xi, and Liu Yu will eventually be separated. Perhaps the father also has the intention of marrying into the royal family, fearing that he might end up like the Guo family of the Ming dynasty, who leveraged the princess's influence to gain nobility

Yuyan hurriedly assisted Liu Yu in changing clothes, her fingers, as delicate as white scallions, gently gliding over Liu Yu's neck. Yuyan discreetly stepped back, her face flushed with embarrassment

The Qi State Duke's family, like my own, is one of the top families of the Great Shun. I have always had a good relationship with the second son of the Qi State Duke's family, and we can be considered friends, not the kind of superficial acquaintances.

The two individuals are of similar age, and Tian Ping is also around sixteen or seventeen years old

The circle of nobility is well aware that back in the day, Tian Jianxiu acted out of spite, yet no one offered any advice. Liu Tichun and Yuan Zongdi were both dissatisfied with Tian Jianxiu's "small righteousness." Even Zhang Nai handed over the Ming Dynasty imperial seal to Li Guo, who had traveled from Shaanxi, rather than to the accompanying Tian Jianxiu.

Afraid of drinking until late at night, I have also prepared a camel wool finely woven cloak, which I will have my personal servant carry and place in the carriage for me.

Is it truly possible for the current Duke of Yi's family to produce another powerful minister?

Liu Yu achieved excellent results at the Wude Palace, having been intelligent since childhood, while his elder brother fell far behind

Guo Ying's inheritance of the title of Marquis of Wuding has been fraught with difficulties. There have been incidents where, in the pursuit of the title, cousins and even brothers have undermined each other and reported one another: some accused their elder brother of being the illegitimate son of a man who wore a green hat, while others reported their younger brother for being unfilial.

However, it is evident that the father still has high expectations for him

This is not merely going out to drink and revel, but rather to the Duke's residence in the State of Qi. Even though the autumn heat is still fierce, one cannot simply wear a single gauze shirt to go.

If that which should climb does not climb, then that which should not climb has climbed. However, how does one climb

Time is a more terrifying weapon for killing than steel knives and iron swords

Not only because the young adventurer Li Laiheng possesses courage, but more importantly... Li Laiheng is the adopted son of Li Guo, who is the nephew of Li Zicheng. After the world was pacified, great generals such as Yuan Zongdi, Liu Tichun, and Dang Shousu had all grown old, becoming the grandfathers of the young adventurer.

The swiftlet could not go out, so it instructed the maid to carry the clothes worn during the night of drinking to the small door near the inner gate, calling for the young servant who was waiting outside

It is better not to praise, as it would be unfair to the younger son, and it seems that Liu Sheng has also made up his mind about the eldest son inheriting the title, not wanting any disturbances or issues to arise in the family

Tian Ping's father is the Duke of Qi of this generation, and the two families have a good relationship, with marital ties in the previous generation. Liu Yu never expected that it was actually Tian Ping's father who was looking for him.

In order to inherit the title, one must give it their all

Is a young troublemaker in his thirties really afraid of being outlasted by the grandfathers in their sixties?

Upon seeing Liu Yu arrive, the young servant hurriedly opened the car door and brought a footstool for Liu Yu to get into the vehicle

Liu Yu nodded, and Tian Ping slapped his thigh, saying: "Indeed! My father had already guessed it! As expected, the caution of Duke Yi is truly ... ... "

Having thrown away the paper and pen, I stood up and spun around several times on the ground, much like a cat that has had its tail bitten off, with my wooden clogs making a clattering sound on the floor

Before he arrived, he was preoccupied with his thoughts

The news within the Duke's residence of Qi is certainly well-informed, but it is also impossible for them to have just learned about the events that occurred at the Liu residence. It is evident that this is due to Liu Sheng's cautious nature, which has led them to speculate about the situation here.