Chapter 5, Where Are the Old Generals of the Cloud Platform Now

The Han Dynasty was revitalized by Guangwu, while the Southern Ming is on the verge of collapse. With the addition of this butterfly that has crossed over from another time, does the Han family's realm still have a chance to turn the tide

At the end, a recruitment notice caught Wang Kefan's attention

At this moment, someone emerged from the county office, dressed in a long gown and a tile hat, who appeared to be a clerk. Upon seeing Wang Kefa, he hurriedly bowed and politely said: "I am Zheng Xuan, currently residing in the County's Criminal Law Academy, and I have come to respectfully welcome Mr. Wang on behalf of the esteemed Tang."

Yuntai? Very well, it seems that your father has high hopes for you! In these times of national turmoil, as we await rejuvenation, you, my esteemed nephew, should strive to strengthen yourself in order to achieve great accomplishments and leave a lasting legacy.

Xu Bingzhong stood under the dripping eaves, dressed in a blue robe with an air of dignity. Wang Kefan stepped forward and performed a deep bow, saying: "Respected teacher, I, Wang Kefan, pay my respects and seek your guidance."

Wasting the prime of youth is truly shameful, and I often long to listen to the teachings of my teacher. Wang Kefan diligently observes the etiquette of a disciple and shows exceptional respect

Oh... since that is the case, it is better to prioritize your esteemed mother's health. As for the property, if it needs to be sold, then let it be sold. Xu Bingzhong secretly let out a sigh of relief and promised, "You need not worry about the sale of the land. In my office, Zheng Xuan has been a long-time clerk, well-versed in all matters of criminal law and finances. Tomorrow, I will have him go to Hengshili to assist your family in selling the property at a good price."

Yes, I am currently studying at Valley Academy, but I plan to drop out!" Wang Kefan suddenly exclaimed.

My father has not sent a letter for a long time, yet there are some rumors... Wang Kefan took the opportunity to report one by one the recent events that had occurred in Hengshi.

Wang Kefan examined the notice carefully, his gaze reflecting deep contemplation

Although Wang Kefan has a courtesy name, Wang Min deliberately chooses not to use it, intentionally or unintentionally treating him as a child, which is also a form of disdain. However, Wang Kefan has just crossed over and is somewhat confused, not feeling much until today when Xu Bingzhong inquired about it, prompting him to remember his courtesy name.

Since my esteemed nephew has reached the age of maturity, do you have a courtesy name?

During the late Ming Dynasty, the imperial examination system could not be conducted normally. Wang Kefan was well aware that if he continued to delve into the eight-legged essay, he would only be able to participate in the Manchu imperial examinations.

This notice is quite lengthy, adorned with the official seal of the Governor of Huguang, and the date of issuance is just a few days ago. The paper is crisp and new, indicating that it has just been delivered and posted. The gist of it states that in order to resist the bandits led by Li Chuang, Governor He Tengjiao of Huguang has resolved to organize and train a new army, recruiting young and strong men from various counties.

The next day, Wang Kefan rose early, accompanied by two experienced family members, and went to the banks of the Junshui River to board a passenger boat, traveling by waterway to Chongyang County.

Thank you for your guidance, teacher! Wang Kefan seems to have gained some insight. The Ming Empire is facing numerous crises, and those with discernment can see this clearly. Wang Rui has chosen "Yuntai" as his courtesy name, which should reflect the aspirations he harbors in his heart

Mr. Zheng has just been seen; he is a shrewd and capable individual. With his involvement, there is no need to worry about any underhanded actions from the Wang family

Since you and your son have moved to Chongyang, what are your plans for the future? Hmm, are you studying at the Shangu Academy?

Wang Kefan disappointed him even more; having failed the imperial examination, he aspired to become a low-ranking soldier. His approach to studying was overly utilitarian, which deviated from the original intention of a Confucian disciple to cultivate oneself and nurture one's character

The so-called Twenty-Eight Generals of the Cloud Platform were all great contributors to the restoration of the Han Dynasty under Emperor Guangwu. Liu Xiu placed their portraits in the Southern Palace Cloud Platform, and for a thousand years, this has been passed down as a cherished tale

At a time when I was unable to ascend or descend, Wang Kefan promptly handed over a ladder: "Thank you, teacher, for your righteous words. However, rumors are rampant within the Wang family, and my mother is exhausted by it all. She wishes to move to Chongyang for some peace and quiet. The family estate is unattended, so it is better to sell it off."

Two family members were greeted by the yamen runners, and Wang Kefa and Master Zheng entered the county office together. Passing through the ceremonial gate and the main hall, they made their way to the inner hall of the county office. In front of the hall stood ancient cypress trees, and prominently displayed was a stone tablet inscribed with six characters: "Public gives rise to clarity, bias gives rise to darkness," which is a cautionary saying from "Xunzi: On Not Being Careless".

He is more aware of the situation in Shanxi, as it is clearly stated in the reports. Both civil and military officials in Datong have surrendered to Li Chuang. At this moment, if Wang Rui forcefully steps forward, and if he has indeed already surrendered to the rebels, this matter will be impossible to resolve.

The river meanders, and by the time the boat reached Chongyang, it was already around 10 o'clock in the morning. Wang Kefan and his servant headed straight to the county office to pay their respects to the county magistrate, Xu Bingzhong

Outside the county office, a name card was presented, and the gatekeeper quickly entered to report. Wang Kefan stood by the eight-character wall, observing the various notices posted on the screen.

"It all depends on the teacher's arrangements and the main books." Wang Kefan once again stood up to bow.

"How could I dare to trouble you, sir?" Wang Kefan replied with a bow, demonstrating complete courtesy

The term "堂尊" mentioned by Zheng Xuan is a respectful title used by subordinate officials such as the county magistrate's assistants to refer to the county magistrate. In this context, it specifically refers to the county magistrate Xu Bingzhong

Confused! Xu Bingzhong finally became somewhat angry and reprimanded: "As a disciple of a great sage, how can one abandon literature for martial pursuits and flow with the warriors? Even if the path of the imperial examination is temporarily blocked, we should still devote ourselves to studying diligently in pursuit of righteousness and principles"

This "Old Knife" seems to be a lecher; during the late Ming Dynasty, smuggling salt was a promising profession, yet he spends all his time chasing after women, and it is likely that he will eventually meet his demise at the hands of a woman.

Shangu Academy is a local institution of learning in Chongyang County, named after the Northern Song dynasty calligrapher Huang Tingjian (who was known by the pseudonym Shangu). It boasts a flourishing literary atmosphere and has produced numerous talents, gaining significant renown in the Huguang region, akin to a provincial key institution of the past. Before falling ill, Wang Kefan studied at this academy.

The new army organized by He Tengjiao turned out to be an opportunity. For a time traveler who has spent many years in the military, mastering an army during the chaotic times of the late Ming Dynasty should be the most prudent choice

The disciples of Shilin cannot easily sell their land. Rest assured, my dear nephew, I will certainly give you a fair resolution regarding this matter... As he spoke halfway, Xu Bingzhong's mind began to shift, and he suddenly felt a bit hesitant

Scholars are all young gentlemen, while the county magistrate holds an administrative position. Referring to the county magistrate as 'Your Excellency' would seem too vulgar. Fortunately, during the Ming Dynasty, the county magistrate was not only the head of the county but also the supervisor of education within the county (similar to the deputy director of an education bureau responsible for school logistics, with the director being the educational commissioner). Therefore, both scholars and county magistrates interacted based on their roles within the educational institution, which aligns perfectly with the cultural trend of valuing literature in the Ming Dynasty

My father once bestowed the courtesy name 'Yuntai' upon me, but as a younger generation, I seldom used it

"The principles of righteousness must be practiced, and this is paramount." Wang Kefan spoke in a low voice, his demeanor exceedingly respectful, yet Xu Bingzhong could not help but be taken aback.

"Why? Yuntai, you must not act impulsively. I will have someone take care of your mother, and I will also help you inquire about your father's news. In short, you absolutely must not drop out of school!" Xu Bingzhong, filled with surprise and sorrow, earnestly advised.

I have not seen your esteemed father for two years. Now that the north is unsettled, do you have any news of him? Speaking of old friends, Xu Bingzhong is also very concerned.

Zheng Xuan, as a legal advisor, although he was a trusted confidant of Xu Bingzhong, did not hold an official position. He was particularly sensitive to the attitudes of others. Upon seeing that Wang Kefa lacked the arrogance commonly found in scions of noble families, he felt a three-part goodwill in his heart and said with a smile: "I have heard that Mr. Wang has arrived. My esteemed master is very pleased. Please follow me into the inner hall to pay your respects."

There is a water bandit known as 'Song Jiang' in Dongting Lake, who is greedy and fond of killing, bringing harm to the local area. On X month X day, he led over 400 bandits to attack XX stronghold, killing and injuring more than 30 local gentry and common people, and plundering all valuables and livestock... All villages and neighborhoods are advised to be vigilant and assist each other in guarding against this threat... A reward of 100 taels of silver will be given to anyone who presents the head of 'Song Jiang'...

Most of these notices are government-issued decrees, along with some case summaries and reward announcements for the capture of river bandits and mountain thieves

Xu Bingzhong extended his hand in a gesture of support and said with a smile, "Get up quickly, get up quickly. Who would have thought that the graceful young man of that day has, in the blink of an eye, reached the age of twenty, truly a cause for reflection!"

Wang Min is truly despicable, unjustly tarnishing someone's reputation! Xu Bingzhong was filled with rage; he and Wang Rui were co-examinees in the same case, closely connected, and had a very good personal relationship. With Wang Rui being slandered, Xu Bingzhong's reputation was also damaged, how could he easily swallow this grievance

This "Song Jiang" is likely a fan of "Water Margin". Judging by his nickname, he seems to follow the path of killing and arson in hopes of being granted amnesty, aspiring to eventually secure a minor official position. If the Qing army were to invade, such opportunists would likely be the first to surrender

After the two individuals exchanged greetings, they entered the inner hall, took their seats, and began to converse. Master Zheng offered his apologies and then withdrew.

There is a salt smuggler known as 'Old Knife', who is cunning and ferocious, lecherous and lustful. On X month X day, he killed seven salt workers and plundered twelve women, inciting the wrath of both man and deity. His crimes are unforgivable... Those who present the head of 'Old Knife' will be rewarded with one hundred taels of silver...

Wang Kefan's response left him even more astonished: "The world is in chaos, civil affairs are neglected, and studying is of no use. I see a recruitment notice outside the county office; the governor of Huguang is organizing and training new troops. It would be better to put down the pen and take up arms..."

The Ming Dynasty has historically placed great emphasis on civil administration while neglecting military affairs, leading to a deep-seated disdain among civil officials towards military generals. Although, towards the end of the Chongzhen era, due to prolonged warfare, the status of military generals rose rapidly, the civil officials merely engaged in superficial politeness towards them, harboring a hundredfold contempt in their hearts.