Chapter 5, The First Glimmer of Light

"My lord, why did you propose the request to pardon the ministers who were punished due to the issues of propriety in the court that day, knowing full well that... the Emperor would be displeased?" Although somewhat hesitant, Peng Yue still managed to ask.

Zirui, I have come to know in recent days that you are exceptionally intelligent and possess extraordinary talent, yet you lack an opportunity. I wonder if you would be willing... to enter the court and serve as an official? Yang Yiqing fixed his gaze intently on Peng Yue's eyes, feeling that he saw something different within them, something worthy of reliance.

Your Majesty, I have a close relative who is exceptionally talented. However, due to family circumstances, he has missed the opportunity to pursue a scholarly career. Recently, he has sought refuge in my household, and I wish to secure a position for him within the palace. I hope Your Majesty will grant this request

Oh... no official title? Zhu Houzhong felt somewhat reluctant in his heart, "I wonder what position you wish to arrange for him?"

"That is not the case." Peng Yue thought that soon Yang Yiqing would retire and return to his hometown, while he himself was about to enter the court to serve as an official. "What I mean is, I might soon have to leave this residence."

Hmm... if one day I were to enter the court as an official, what would you think?" Peng Yue half-opened his mouth, observing Ziling's expression.

Recently, the Emperor has frequently reprimanded and suppressed me, I fear that ... ... " Yang Yiqing's face showed a look of worry

"I am grateful for the favor granted by Lord Xie," Peng Yue expressed his thanks

Your Majesty, I have a request to make." Yang Yiqing said earnestly to Zhu Houzong

"Yes, my lord, I have noted everything down." Peng Yue was also very moved that Yang Yiqing could say such words to him, "Could it be that Yang Yiqing firmly believes that I will one day enter the cabinet and become a minister, wielding great power? I myself do not have that confidence or any such thoughts."

To be honest, I thought the Emperor might rely on us to govern. Alas, it is ultimately youthful exuberance, and one cannot escape those officials who are obsessed with rituals and merits

How many people truly understand a daughter's thoughts

"My lord, there is still one matter I do not understand..." Peng Yue hesitated somewhat

Ziling, however, said nothing, tilting her head as if deep in thought: "Recently, the master has been calling you to the study for discussions. Has he said anything to you?"

Peng Yue was taken aback. Although he had been hoping for this matter, he did not expect it to come so quickly and so suddenly. "Master, I am merely a scholar's assistant; how could I deserve such high regard from you? Moreover, the young master still..." Peng Yue did not know how to continue.

Zhu Houcong observed that although Peng Yue was young, he had red lips and white teeth, and his appearance was quite handsome. Moreover, his accent was pleasant, unlike that of many southern officials who spoke unclearly. Furthermore, some of the messengers from the Xingren Division were not particularly good-looking, and seeing them in the morning was uncomfortable; some had accents that were extremely difficult to understand, while others were considered for promotion. Thus, Zhu had the intention to retain Peng Yue.

"Sister Ling'er, it is getting late, you should go and rest now." At this moment, Peng Yue indeed needed some quiet time alone

However, it is said that Peng Yue returned to his room, his mood still difficult to calm for a long time. One reason was that he had finally managed to escape the fate of being a book boy in this life, and the other was the heartfelt words spoken to him by Yang Yiqing.

No, uh... Linger, may I ask you something, is that alright?" Peng Yue was also unsure whether he should ask.

Peng Yue thought to himself: "So this old fox intends to use me as a pawn placed beside the emperor, in order to seek an opportunity to take revenge on Zhang Cong."

After the court assembly, Yang Yiqing entered the side hall

There is no need to call me "My Lord" in the future; from now on, we shall serve the same court, and you should take the time to learn the etiquette of this court. Yang Yiqing continued to maintain his pace without slowing down.

"Does the master want to send you to the palace to become a eunuch? Hahaha..." Ziling said, laughing to herself.

Peng Yue could not help but laugh upon hearing this, jokingly saying: "Indeed, the master wants to send me to the palace to become a eunuch, serving the emperor!"

But all that could be heard was Ziling bursting into laughter: "Are you dreaming? You have no official title, and at such a young age, you've learned to speak like a fool in a dream."

"What are you saying? I am the young master's maid... How could... How could I walk with you?" Ziling spoke hesitantly, her little face as red as a ripe apple

Hehe, should I call you "Master Yun" then, haha. Zi Ling's playful mood was becoming more and more pronounced

Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty. Peng Yue and Yang Yiqing expressed their gratitude together

Zi Rui, you must remember that the will of the sovereign is difficult to fathom, and no one can forever receive the emperor's favor unconditionally. Do not form cliques for personal gain, nor aspire to wield power arrogantly; all of this is observed by the emperor. Even if you can deceive the emperor for a time, you cannot deceive him for a lifetime. Even if your intentions are pure, sometimes excessive prestige and great achievements can inevitably arouse the ruler's suspicion, especially... the current emperor. Yang Yiqing expressed all the insights he had gained over the years.

The Qingyang Mountain Rebellion, also known as the "Chen Qing Uprising," was a peasant uprising in the early years of the Jiajing era. Initially, Zhu Houzong adopted a strategy of appeasement, which yielded little effect, and the rebel forces grew increasingly stronger. Later, under the insistence of Yang Yiqing and others, Zhu Houzong adopted a hardline approach, mobilizing a large number of troops to launch a four-pronged assault on Qingyang Mountain, ultimately suppressing the uprising

"What you said is also correct, hehe..." Upon hearing Ziling say this, Peng Yue couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed

"But it is of no consequence," Yang Yiqing appeared quite composed.

"My lord, how can you say that? The young master will surely achieve great success in the future. I only hope to serve him faithfully in the days to come," Peng Yue hurriedly replied. Yang Yiqing curled his lips, sighed, and said nothing.

I will submit a memorial tomorrow to impeach Yang Yiqing, as he has been in close contact with the palace attendants recently. Huo Tao seems to be trying to make up for his previous failure to impeach Yang Yiqing effectively

Since you have spoken, I cannot refuse; let him be appointed as an official in charge of the personnel department, and serve as a functionary. Zhu Houzhong also went along with the flow.

It is feared that Zhang Cong will have to return to the court. Peng Yue knew what Yang Yiqing was about to say

However, at the moment when Zhang Cong's faction was secretly pleased, Yang Yiqing was frowning over the current situation. All of this was observed by Peng Yue.

Suddenly, Yang Yiqing stood up, his expression very serious: "However, in the officialdom, one must never resort to political maneuvering to gain the Emperor's favor, to flatter power-hungry officials, or to harm the loyal and virtuous. Remember, the welfare of the people and the state is always the most important. " Yang Yiqing paused, "In the officialdom, sometimes due to circumstances, you have to sacrifice principles, emotions, and even dignity, but there are two things that must never be lost. " Yang Yiqing's gaze became distant and profound, "One is the ideal, the ideal of caring for the people and benefiting the state. The other is conscience, being true to heaven and earth, and being true to one's own conscience! " In the officialdom, sometimes due to circumstances, you have to sacrifice principles, emotions, and even dignity, but there are two things that must never be lost. " Yang Yiqing's gaze became distant and profound, "One is the ideal, the ideal of caring for the people and benefiting the state. The other is conscience, being true to heaven and earth, and being true to one's own conscience! "

The master is indeed a loyal minister of all time, always thinking of the common people and the state... What Peng Yue said was truly heartfelt. Initially, he harbored some resentment towards Yang Yiqing's hardline policies during the "Qingyang Mountain Incident," but now he understands and has come to terms with it

There is no need to say more; I am more aware of this than you are. Yang Yiqing's tone also carried a hint of helplessness

Hearing that he was not to become a eunuch, Peng Yue let out a sigh of relief, and then inwardly lamented: "This Yang Yiqing is truly calculating with great precision."

"By the way, although you are currently an official in the court, you can temporarily stay at my residence," Yang Yiqing paused and said, "Jisi can still teach you about the court etiquette, and besides, it is likely that you feel some discomfort after your sudden separation."

"Hello, Brother Yun, what’s wrong with you? Why do you look a bit dazed? Could it be that someone has stolen your soul?" Ziling still did not change her way of speaking, calling him by his old name as usual.

However, Zi Ling's mood could not be lifted, as if she had encountered some major event: "Brother Yun, are you really going to leave?" Zi Ling understood in her heart that she and Yang Jisi were ultimately master and servant. Although their relationship was quite good, as they grew older, they also became aware of the barriers of status. However, with regard to Peng Yue, there was indeed a sincere affection that transcended social differences. Thinking of this, how could she not feel conflicted, sad, and heartbroken? But as they grew older, they also became aware of the barriers of status. However, with regard to Peng Yue, there was indeed a sincere affection that transcended social differences. Thinking of this, how could she not feel conflicted, sad, and heartbroken?

Master, the young master is exceptionally talented; with a little training, he will surely achieve great success in the future. Peng Yue said this somewhat insincerely to offer comfort.

"Master Zhang, I feel that you will soon be reinstated," Fang Xianfu said to Zhang Cong with some excitement. "Since the last incident where Yang Yiqing angered the Emperor, His Majesty has rarely entrusted important matters to Yang Yiqing and his group of old officials. There has even been a tone of reproach in His Majesty's words towards Yang Yiqing. Yesterday, several old officials were again transferred to Nanjing for 'retirement.'"

There is no need to say more, I already have a plan. Moreover, I cannot guarantee your appointment to the cabinet, I can only let you serve as a low-ranking attendant by the emperor's side, perhaps at the eighth or ninth rank, haha. Yang Yiqing felt more relaxed.

"Sure, go ahead and ask, hehe." Ziling blinked her big eyes.

"The close attendant? It can't be a eunuch, can it?" Peng Yue thought to himself

"Leaving this house? Then where are you going?" The curiosity of Ziling was clearly written on her face

Ah! A startled cry from Ziling came from outside.

"Let him in, I shall take a look first." Upon hearing this official title, Jiajing could not help but relax his vigilant mood

However, Peng Yue was not in the mood for jokes; instead, he carefully reflected on what Yang Yiqing had said to him

Hahaha... Yang Yiqing's laughter was somewhat awkward and helpless, "How could I not know that it would anger His Majesty? However... if I do not act, my conscience will be troubled. Among those ministers, there are many loyal and righteous individuals, quite capable, and I would never want their political futures to be ruined because of matters of propriety. Moreover, in the 'Zuoshunmen Incident,' some did not truly wish to participate, but were compelled by Yang Shen's influence." Yang Yiqing paused, "I also know that my political career is likely coming to an end. I keep thinking that before I leave, I should do something for them to alleviate the guilt in my heart. Their punishment and idleness are of no benefit to the country." Moreover, in the 'Zuoshunmen Incident,' some did not truly wish to participate, but were compelled by Yang Shen's influence." Yang Yiqing paused, "I also know that my political career is likely coming to an end. I keep thinking that before I leave, I should do something for them to alleviate the guilt in my heart. Their punishment and idleness are of no benefit to the country.

Only Peng Yue followed closely behind an old eunuch, walking briskly with caution

Um..." Zi Ling replied softly, yet she showed no intention of turning to leave. However, Peng Yue merely kept his head down in silence, let out a gentle sigh, and then stood up to leave.

The current sovereign is exceptionally intelligent. Shortly after ascending to the throne, he forced Yang Tinghe and two other ministers to leave the court. Peng Yue paused and continued, In reality, what the current sovereign fears the most is the tyranny of powerful ministers. With the old officials gone, Zhang Cong, having gained power, is bound to become reckless. I believe that Zhang Cong does not possess such awareness, and it is likely that he will soon follow the same path as Yang Tinghe.

In recent days, Yang Yiqing's situation in the court has become increasingly precarious. He must quickly find a trustworthy and intelligent person to place by the Emperor's side to secure opportunities for himself. Yang Jisi is no longer a viable option. After much contemplation, he realizes that only Shiyun can be trusted and is sufficiently clever. After all, Shiyun grew up in the manor and shares a deep bond with Yang Jisi, so she is unlikely to commit acts of betrayal. However, Peng Yue's lowly status makes Yang Yiqing hesitate. Yet, Yang Yiqing is not a narrow-minded person; he understands the principle of "do not underestimate the youth in poverty." Moreover, Peng Yue has saved Yang Jisi's life, so considering this as a way to repay that kindness is also a good option.

Peng Yue did not know how to respond: "I mean, hypothetically, if I were to leave, would you be willing to... come with me?" After spending these days together, Peng Yue's feelings for Zi Ling had deepened; it was not romantic love, but rather a kind of affection akin to that of a brother for a sister, a love for family.

Zirui, I hope you do not disappoint my expectations. Zhang Cong is a petty person, and it is absolutely imperative that this individual does not gain power; otherwise, it will bring chaos to the court! Yang Yiqing spoke passionately, then suddenly shifted his tone: "If he achieves success in the future, he should also take care to support Yisi."

Then I must trouble you all, esteemed gentlemen. Zhang Cong politely expressed his gratitude, as if he were quite confident about the matter of reinstatement

Peng Yue's eyes inexplicably became moist: "I have noted it down." The tone was unexpectedly choked with emotion

After Zhu Houcong conferred rewards upon Peng Yue, they exited the palace gates. Yang Yiqing hurried ahead, while Peng Yue followed closely behind.

"Zirui, I am preparing to transfer you to the Department of Pedestrians. Although the position is lowly, it will be beneficial for you to assist the Emperor in conveying memorials and messages, and it will provide you with the opportunity to meet the Emperor. I believe that with your talents, you will soon gain the Emperor's favor," Yang Yiqing said with apparent significance. "Although the current situation in the court is not favorable to me, I believe the Emperor will still grant me the courtesy of recommending such a minor official."

Commoner Peng Yue pays his respects to Your Majesty, wishing Your Majesty a long life, long life, and many long lives! Peng Yue practiced this set of kneeling and bowing rituals many times last night

I am thinking of him carrying out his duties, conveying Your Majesty's orders and delivering documents said Yang Yiqing with a hint of humility

"You say I am still young, but aren't you even younger!" Upon hearing Ziling say this, Peng Yue felt a slight anger in his heart

It's nothing, I just tripped accidentally. Just now... I was a bit distracted and didn't see the small stone under my feet. The voice indeed grew fainter.

"Zirui, I fear I will not remain in the court for long. The day Zhang Cong returns may very well be the day I depart." Yang Yiqing's tone carried a hint of sorrow. "Jisi is kind-hearted and treats others with warmth; you and Ziling are well aware of this. However, Sier has a gentle disposition, is not fond of politics, and does not care for fame... Alas."

"Your Majesty, where is this coming from? But feel free to speak." However, Zhu Houzong could not help but feel a sense of alertness in his heart

"Noted, Lord Yang..." Peng Yue was indeed still somewhat unaccustomed.

Ziling noticed that Peng Yue had a blank expression, as if lost in thought, and she also put away her smile, cautiously asking: "Sir, you wouldn't really be sending him to the palace to become a eunuch, would you?"

Note 1. The Zuo Shunmen Incident: During the grand ceremony discussions, as the "Ritualists" gradually gained the upper hand, the "Guardians of Ritual" decided to collectively advise Zhu Houzong. In July of the third year of the Jiajing era, led by Yang Shen, the son of Yang Tinghe (who had since retired), a large group of over two hundred individuals, including twenty-three officials from the Nine Ministers, twenty Hanlin scholars, twenty-one officials from the Ministry of Rites, and thirty censors, collectively knelt outside Zuo Shunmen, their cries and shouts resounding in the heavens, exerting pressure on Zhu Houzong. Zhu Houzong arrested one hundred thirty-four of them, with eighty-six awaiting punishment. Five days later, the arrested ministers faced penalties: those of fourth rank and above had their salaries confiscated, while those of fifth rank and below were beaten with rods. More than one hundred eighty individuals were punished, among whom seventeen were injured to death, and another eight were conscripted into military service. This incident requires the reader's attention and understanding, as it reveals Zhu Houzong's harsh methods and ruthless character, which were reflected in his subsequent governance policies and approaches to handling affairs. Understanding this incident is also very helpful in comprehending Zhu Houzong as a person.

"Hmm, thank you, Lord Yang." Peng Yue felt an inexplicable surge of emotions within, though he should have been happy. However, there were indeed concerns in that household, those matters, those people, that little mouth that pouted when angry, that little face that turned red when embarrassed. "Sigh." Peng Yue sighed and hurriedly followed Yang Yiqing forward.

As Ziling closed the door, she secretly glanced inside and found Peng Yue also looking at her. Feeling somewhat embarrassed, Ziling averted her gaze from Peng Yue, raised her head, and seemed to want to say something, displaying a look of hesitation. In the end, she gently closed the door and left.

Peng Yue lowered his head, unsure of how to respond

"What is it, Sister Ling'er?" Upon hearing the call, Peng Yue asked with concern, just about to rise and take a look