171-180

Chapter 171

is not, wait, wait.

It was like a thunderbolt hitting his head.

Lu Jiu'an was shocked, jumped back two or three steps like a scorpion, and hurriedly hid aside: "Absolutely not."

This was actually what his eldest brother had in mind!

That's not bad. When Han Chaoru left, he was afraid that he would get involved with others by being a philanderer in Yingping, so he gave repeated orders for this. How did he react at that time? He seemed to have kicked him out of anger.

If he knew that two beautiful women had come to the house for the purpose of getting married, it would turn the world upside down.

Lu Jiu'an knew that although General Zhenyuan usually acted like everything was easily discussed and obeyed, when it came to this aspect, he refused to give in... and had to kill him on the bed.

Lu Jiu'an felt a slight soreness in his lower back.

Lu Wenjin's face was cold, and his voice was no longer as warm as before. She raised her eyelids and looked at him: "Why not? Come and listen to me, brother."

Lu Jiu'an, one big and the other big, hesitated: "Brother, the two girls... ...."

Thinking of something, Lu Jiuan suddenly turned his head to look at the two of them. The red cloud on the other person's face no longer existed. Meng Shu's face turned pale, and he was weeping. His body was trembling and teetering, while Xiao Wenyu bit her teeth lightly and straightened her back stubbornly to endure it.

Lu Jiu'an thought: I went too far. Even if it was rejection, how could I make such a big reaction in front of two women?

Lu Wenjin naturally saw it too, and asked Meng Shu and Xiao Wenyu to leave first to prevent the situation from being embarrassing.

The two held hands tightly and supported each other. It seems that in this strange place far away from homeland, he has become the only support for the other party.

"Shanshui, Lu Qi, you two also retreat." Lu Wenjin dismissed the remaining people.

Lu Jiu'an looked at Lu Wenjin uneasily. The two of them looked at each other in silence. The elegant man calmed down and returned to his original state: "You know your eldest brother's temperament. It's too late for you to give me a little pain. Why have I ever spoken harshly to you? Be good, Brother, let's talk to you heart-to-heart."

Lu Jiu'an also sorted out his thoughts and sat down next to him: "Since there is such a thing as brother, let me tell you first, what does marriage mean? With both parents not around, why should we just end it like this?"

Lu Wenjin said warmly: "Meng Shu and Xiao Wenyu are from a merchant family. You are now an official in the imperial court. Their family background is not good. I know that I can take you as my concubine first. Ming Media is marrying a real wife, and will make a grand show for you when the time comes."

Lu Jiu'an frowned: "Are they willing to be subordinate to others?"

Lu Wenjin said: "My eldest brother asked them privately, don't worry, the Lu family has a great business. , can't do anything like taking something by force. If they didn't want to, why would they follow their elder brother all the way here? "

This is where Lu Jiu'an is worried.

A woman can leave her hometown to marry a husband she has never met. Once she is rejected by someone, she will be criticized when she returns. Her reputation will plummet and her husband will be hard to find. One can imagine how much courage it took to make this determination.

His eldest brother took a knife and hung it on his neck, forcing him to agree even if he didn't agree.

"Besides." Lu Wenjin smiled at this time, "The eldest brother already has a family and has been here before. Don't you understand what the two girls are thinking? The younger brother is a talented person. After seeing you, Meng Shu and Xiao Wenyu's expressions are clear It's my secret promise that I insist on marrying you. Don't let these two girls down. "

How could women in ancient times tolerate sharing the same husband? Lu Jiu'an frowned and said, "What I want is to be a couple for the rest of my life."

"It's not difficult to handle. Which one do you like?"

Lu Jiu'an frowned: "If you prefer one to the other, wouldn't it hurt another woman's heart? "

You can't have your cake and eat it too, brother, I think you should know."

Lu Jiu'an seemed to want to compromise, and after thinking for a moment, he asked, "What about the other one?

" Lu Wenjin didn't care, "When the time comes, my mother will adopt her as her adopted daughter and help him find a good husband."

Lu Jiu'an stepped forward, held Lu Wenjin's cold hands, and pleaded, "That's it . , then the elder brother will send the Buddha to heaven and settle the marriage of the two girls together."

"Bang!"

Shan Shui and Lu Qi, who were standing nearby, heard a crisp sound, looked at each other, and hurried over. , I saw a porcelain cup falling to the ground and falling into pieces, and the hot tea with nowhere to rest was flowing down the square pavilion.

Shan Shui had never seen the eldest son being so angry at Lu Jiu'an. Lu Wenjin was still angry and shouted at the two of them in a deep voice: "Get out, who asked you to come here?"

Lu Qi cared about his master after all, Fu Fu He kowtowed on the ground and said: "Eldest Young Master, calm down. You and the Young Master have not seen each other for many years. Why can't you sit down and talk about it calmly? You are not happy now. After a while, the Young Master will go back and lie on the bed, and he will definitely feel regretful and sad again. I couldn't sleep all night."

"Shan Shui, take Lu Qi down." Lu Wenjin said, but Shan Shui didn't dare to obey and could only drag Lu Qi away.

"Are you fooling big brother?" At this time, if he didn't know that he had fallen into Lu Jiu'an's trap, the family business that Lu Wenjin had taken over for several years would have been in vain. He stood up angrily, his eyes as deep as a cold pool, and wanted to scold Lu Jiu'an loudly, but his years of cultivation and love for Lu Jiu'an made him swallow it hard.

Lu Jiuan shook his head.

"It's hard for your parents to accept the two girls you have chosen to be elegant? Why do you reject them in every possible way?"

"Luo Luo is generous and dignified."

"Or is it that today's world requires you to bring order to the chaos and establish a career before you can start a family? "

"He Qing Hai Yan Shi and Sui Feng."

"In that case, what worries do you have?" Lu Wenjin slapped the stone table hard, feeling extremely headache and suppressing her anger for her brother who was as stubborn as a donkey. Fu E asked, "Who is your age who has not married and had children? You are the only one who is alone. Tell me the truth about what you are thinking. Is my eldest brother such an unreasonable person in your heart?"

Lu Lu asked. Jiu An closed his eyes, and when he opened them, he seemed to have made some kind of determination: "Brother, I already have my heart."

Lu Wenjin observed him for a moment, and seeing that he didn't seem to be lying, he said suspiciously: "If this is really the case, my parents would like to see it. " "Why did you keep silent for a long time?"

Lu Jiu'an was about to cry, could we talk about it right away? If I tell you the truth directly, even if you protect me in every possible way, you will still pick up a stick and break my legs with your own hands. Isn't this a step-by-step process?

Lu Wenjin sat down, leaned back on the chair, and said slowly: "My eldest brother and my parents are both reasonable. As long as the other person is clean and has a good character, he doesn't necessarily have to follow his parents' orders to be a matchmaker."

"Tell me what you like. What kind of person is he worthy of being called an elder brother? As a parent, if you reach the marriageable age, you can also decide to go to the other party's home to propose marriage. "

"... Don't be in a hurry. " Lu Jiu'an thought for a moment and observed Lu Wenjin's reaction: "The person I like has a slender figure, clear and upright features, and a calm and quiet personality. The most important thing is that he values ​​me more than his own life. "

"Is that so?" Lu Wenjin looked over with a warm smile on his face, holding his chin. The face was as elegant as ever, but his eyes were like bright lights piercing through him. Lu Jiu'an felt a thump in his heart, and suddenly understood everything.

My mother must have seen the clues from the letter she wrote!

Otherwise, why would Lu Wenjin have this reaction when he said such things?

"Hey." Lu Jiu'an sighed sadly. His eldest brother came to Yingping not just to visit him, but to shoulder the important responsibility of the family.

After confirming his relationship a few years ago, in order to prevent the fact that he was a cut-sleeve person from appearing so sudden, Lu Jiu'an had been trying every means to reveal his preference in subtle ways in the letters he exchanged. As smart as Mother Lu, there is no way she can't guess.

On the one hand, I was frightened and angry, and on the other hand, I was worried and unwilling to blame my youngest son who was thousands of miles away. In desperation, I came up with such a tactful strategy -

let the eldest son bring two beautiful women with him. Come to your door to urge you to get married and find out what's going on. If you are unlucky, advise yourself to get lost and return!

Lu Jiu'an was a little bit dumbfounded, and a little ashamed. However, now that he had made up his mind to take a dark road, Lu Jiuan was unwilling to compromise on this matter.

After thinking about it, he looked at Lu Wenjin again. Lu Jiu'an praised him sincerely: "Brother, you did a really good job in this play."

Lu Wenjin didn't know why: "Why did you say that?"

"I thought I was guiding you step by step. In the end, it was the elder brother who was trying to trick the younger brother. "Sure enough, Jiang is still the old one. Can't we two be honest with each other?"

Lu Wenjin said, "If the elder brother asks you directly, will you answer me honestly?"

Lu Jiu'an thought for a while, he was not a straight-shooter, so to be sure, he would probably have to take some detours in the end.

Lu Wenjin reprimanded in a cold voice: "Longyang's habit of cutting off sleeves. When you were in Langdong, my eldest brother never remembered that you had this hobby. I heard that male habits are prevalent in southern Shanxi. Is it because of being an official in the capital?

"No, how can you be easily influenced by others?" Lu Jiu'an leaned over and tightened his sleeves: "Brother, you're not angry anymore?" Lu

Wenjin's expression was indescribable. You lied to your parents in your letter, saying that for some reason you no longer have worldly desires, which made your parents think that you wanted to resign and end the world of mortal life, shave your hair and become a monk in a temple. "

Compared with becoming a monk, perhaps the fact that my son is a good man is not so difficult to accept. Lu Jiu'an thought so at the time, so he did mention it vaguely in his previous letters.

Lu Jiu'an knew that he was in the wrong, so he lowered his head and accepted the training calmly.

After a while, Lu Wenjin let out a sigh: "Isn't there any room for change in this matter? What I mean is that you may still have the slightest interest in women."

Lu Jiu'an smiled and his eyes were firm, not tolerated. Looking at him in consultation: "Stay committed."

Lu Wenjin was annoyed and angry about this result.

He was annoyed that Lu Jiu'an could not take the right path and had to choose the bumpy and rugged mountain road; he was angry that the wild boar came from nowhere and destroyed his cabbage, which had been carefully raised for more than ten years.

In the end, Lu Wenjin was defeated and gently covered his head with the palm of his hand: "Little brother, no matter what you choose. In my heart, the hopes of my parents and clan, and the constraints of saints and human ethics are not as important as your happiness." "

Brother..." It was as if he had rolled into a pool of hot springs in the dead of winter. The sun was as warm as fire all over his body. Lu Jiuan's throat tightened and he almost choked.

After the two people opened the skylight and spoke frankly, many things were easily revealed. Although Shan Shui and Lu Qi didn't know what happened before, they both looked happy to see that their master was now reconciled.

The bright moon hung high in the sky, and the two brothers held hands and walked back to the other courtyard.

"What should we do with the two girls? Is it inappropriate to let them stay in the county government office?" Lu Jiu'an asked.

"There is no need to find another place to live. I will take my eldest brother with me when we return to Langdong. Anyway, there are not many days left in Ying Ping." Lu Wenjin said: "It is you who have posed a problem for my eldest brother."

"What?"

" When I set out, my mother said that if I couldn't complete the mission, I wouldn't have to go home. "

Haha." Lu Jiu'an laughed, and Lu Wenjin pretended to be unhappy, "By the way, you haven't told your brother yet." Who is the person you like? Is that person in Yingping now? "

Who is that person?" Lu Jiu Anxin said, saying this will scare you to death, brother. The younger brother of the current emperor, General Zhenyuan, who is notorious for being able to stop crying at night.

Han Zhi is also.

Chapter 172

The matter of coming out was solved so easily, which Lu Jiuan never expected.

Lying in bed at night, Lu Jiu'an thought about everything that happened during the day. After thinking about it, he felt that the only reaction to Meng Shu and Xiao Wenyu's events today was inappropriate.

Lu Wenjin's instructions came to mind again.

"Brother Rong, I would like to remind you that what I told you before was half true, but you know that Meng Shu and Wen Xiaoyu have true feelings for you, so think about what to do."

Lu Jiu'an tossed and turned with a headache, and finally made up his mind before falling asleep that he would go to apologize in person tomorrow and make his thoughts clear to the two of them.

After doing morning exercises the next day, Lu Jiuan went back to his room to do some simple cleaning. He originally wanted to wear the black-trimmed scarlet silk round-neck robe, but with the belt tied halfway, he felt it was too flamboyant, so he changed to a smoke-green plain one with a open placket. After he was dressed neatly in his long gown, he told Lu Qi: "Go to my hometown and bring two porcelain bottles from the second compartment on the right side of the cabinet at the back."

Lu Qi left quickly after the order, and within a moment, After returning with two porcelain vases and two sapphire boxes, Lu Jiuan praised, "You should be more thoughtful." He put the porcelain vases into the boxes.

Lu Qi knew that the porcelain bottle contained toilet water, so he climbed on Lu Jiu'an's shoulder and asked curiously: "Are you going to give it to the two future mistresses?"

"Nonsense! What kind of mistress." Lu Jiu'an glanced at him and said with ill intentions. , "If General Zhenyuan hears what you said, how do you think he will deal with you?"

Lu Qi looked unmoved: "But everyone is guessing that."

The county government has never received female relatives, Meng Shu He and Xiao Wenyu both have first-class looks. Although Lu Jiuan has had little contact with them these days, everyone can't help but be curious. Rumors have already spread in private that the county government office will soon have a county magistrate's wife.

The government officials and others who knew the inside story were secretly worried for Han Zhi. In their hearts, they may have felt that if the general didn't come back, there would be no room for him in Lu Jiu'an's wing.

...

"No wonder Zhan Weizhu and the others are looking at me strangely these days. They look like they are hesitant to speak. It turns out that this is the problem." Lu Jiuan touched his chin and smiled. After a while, he just said Lu Qi ordered with a solemn face, "Go and find the housekeeper to hammer it out, don't let the servants gossip and ruin the reputation of the two girls' families."

Lu Qi's eyes lit up: "So, sir, there is no such thing at all, right? "No! "

Lu Jiu'an said, "What benefit did the government officer give you to let Lu Changsui and the editor-in-chief of the Star Gazing Club come to me to inquire about the news?" "

Hey, it turns out that you know everything," Lu Qi vomited. Sticking out his tongue, he got the confidence, no longer lingering, and left quickly.

The backyard where Meng Shu and Xiao Wenyu stayed was separated by several corridors from Lu Jiu'an's main house. It took a cup of tea to walk. When Lu Jiu'an arrived, there was no one in the backyard, except for the faint sound of depression coming from the inner room. sound.

"If Mr. Lu doesn't like it, I have no intention of pestering him any more. Why do we have to humiliate ourselves anymore?"

"I don't want to. They say that a martyr girl is afraid of pestering her husband, but it's the same thing in other words. Sister Meng, you are thin-skinned. , I can't do anything like stalking, but I'm different. My mother has told me since I was a child that I have to fight for what I want. I follow him every day, am I still afraid that he won't change his mind one day?"

Upon hearing this, Lu Jiuan immediately paused on the spot and retreated. Thinking about it, he simply ignored it and waited until ten days and a half later, when everyone left. Xiao Wenyu would not leave Ying Ping alone.

Then I felt that it was really not like my style to be so timid and afraid of things. So I bit the bullet and walked inside.

He accidentally made a noise when he opened the courtyard door, and the conversation paused. Xiao Wenyu said warily: "Who? Didn't I say that you are not allowed to come near without my order?"

Lu Jiu'an coughed twice: "Miss Meng, Xiao Girl, it's me, I'm here uninvited, sorry to bother you."

There was silence in the room for a while, and Lu Jiuan stood in the wind holding the sapphire box. During the waiting time, he stood at the door and thought about how to come back at another time. When he hesitated, a rustling sound sounded inside, and then the courtyard door opened, revealing Xiao Wenyu's delicate and pretty face with a thin cloud.

Xiao Wenyu saluted him and led him inside.

"I recently got two bottles of perfume in my house, which are very popular with the noble lady. So I brought Bo Lite to apologize. In the past few days, I have been a lot of neglect, and yesterday I behaved in a rude manner. I hope you two ladies can forgive me." As soon as they entered the door, Lu Jiuan handed the toilet water to the two of them and informed them of their intention.

When Xiao Wenyu saw that a dignified county magistrate was so humble and courteous to a merchant's daughter, and that he was honored with a dragon and phoenix medal and a dignified appearance, the sourness and unwillingness in his heart kept rising like a new spring water.

Xiao Wenyu hugged the sapphire box in her hand tightly, without opening it to look at it. She stared straight at Lu Jiu'an with a pair of loving eyes and resentful eyebrows: "You must have heard our conversation just now. The little girl fell in love with you at first sight. I wish you to I will trust you for the rest of my life, please have mercy on me,"

Xiao Wenyu was really brave and got straight to the point. Lu Jiuan's eyes were complicated. He had not been involved in love between men and women for a long time, and he didn't know how to deal with it more appropriately. To avoid hurting her self-esteem, Lu Jiu'an racked his brains to think of an excuse: "Miss Xiao has also seen it. I am busy with government affairs and often neglect the family business. I am not a good match..."

"No, I don't care." Xiao Wenyu Interrupting him, "It's enough to be by your side."

Lu Jiu'an had no choice but to glance at Meng Shu, who was sitting next to him with his head lowered, revealing a fair neck, without saying a word.

"Miss Xiao and Miss Meng have beautiful faces. They must pursue your men like crucian carp across the river. Why should they wrong themselves?"

"No grievance!" Xiao Wenyu said resolutely, not noticing that her nails dug into her flesh under her long sleeves, " I'm not stupid. Your words are just excuses. Maybe you don't think so of us."

"...I don't think you are bad at all." Lu Jiu'an really didn't know how to deal with it and said. " To be honest, I...I don't like red clothes and I prefer military uniforms, so you should choose another good match."

Although Lu Jiuan said it euphemistically, Xiao Wenyu still understood. Not only her, but also Meng Shu felt bad for a moment. Thunder. Xiao Wenyu was shocked for a while, and then said loudly in disbelief: "I don't believe it. In order to reject us, your Excellency actually came up with such a poor excuse."

The noble young man in the clear breeze and bright moon likes masculinity? This is not... this is not...

Xiao Wenyu could only think of one word to describe it -

a waste of natural resources.

"Whether you believe it or not, this is the fact!" Lu Jiuan said calmly.

"I don't believe it, I don't believe it..." Xiao Wenyu just repeated. Meng Shu gently tugged at the hem of her clothes from behind and shook his head at her with a look of pleading on his face.

No matter how Lu Jiuan tried to persuade him, Xiao Wenyu could not accept it and refused to believe it. Until Lu Jiuan left, Xiao Wenyu persevered and chased to the door of the hospital and said loudly: "Master Lu, you have never had a skin-to-skin kiss with a woman, how do you know that you don't love her?" Red dress? I won't give up. "

The autumn wind is bleak, and the ground is covered with dead leaves. After Lu Jiuan left, the courtyard was silent.

Xiao Wenyu looked up at Meng Shu, her face covered with clear tears. Meng Shu stretched out his hand to wipe them away carefully and sighed: "Wen Yu, you can't force it."

As soon as the tears were wiped away, they rushed out again like a fountain. Meng Shu thought of the two people's usual mood when they came together, the confusion about where their fate would lead, the anxiety about getting married, and the various excited and shy comments on the carriage about the rumored appearance and character of the county magistrate. guess.

Those mottled memories of countless days and nights will eventually turn into bubbles. It's a pity that they are false, but Meng Shu really can't understand Xiao Wenyu's burning emotions.

"Sister Meng." Xiao Wenyu suddenly said, "Actually, I lied to you. This is not the first time I have met Mr. Lu."

Meng Shu was startled.

"In my year of cardamom, at the Yun'an Temple Fair, Mr. Lu had not yet reached the throne."

The high-spirited young man, with picturesque features, chatted and laughed with three or five high-ranking disciples as they rode past. Hong glanced away and caught her eyes.

"Young girl, are you excited?" The cousin on the side covered her lips and chuckled, ignoring her momentary embarrassment, and said to herself, "Do you know who this is? Hey, I don't think you know either, who calls you stupid? He is either doing business or doing arithmetic all day long. This young master is a famous and talented man in Langdong. Everyone is saying that he is the future number one scholar in Langdong. Many beauties in Langdong flock to him.

" The person who was talked about in the streets and alleys of Langdong was indeed a high school graduate and became an official in the court. She also stopped worrying about her that she shouldn't have.

Marriage is something that can only be met but not sought.

She buried this fruitless delusion deep in her heart until Mother Lu came to her door to propose marriage to her eldest sister.

"My sister disagreed, and my parents also looked angry. I offered to take my sister's place. Everyone tried to persuade me, but I still came. You said, isn't this an opportunity God has given me to seize? "Xiao Wenyu's voice was dreamlike and inaudible, scattered in the yard, drifting away with the wind along with the scent of osmanthus.

Lu Jiu'an could be regarded as running away. He did not return to the main house or go to my hometown. Instead, he went halfway to Lu Wenjin's courtyard, complained to his eldest brother, and told him the complete conversation between the two.

This time it was Lu Wenjin who was gloating about his misfortune. Even if he smiled with ill intentions, Lu Wenjin made it clear, gentle, elegant and pleasant.

"Well, I saw it on the road. Fortunately for Meng Shu, Xiao Wenyu has a very stubborn temperament. He is the kind of person who never looks back until he sees the south wall. He is very similar to you."

Lu Jiuan hugged his arm and broke down crying. : "Brother, I've said all the good and bad things, but Miss Xiao is closed in and refusing. I really don't know what to do. Please help me! If you don't help me or say anything to Miss Xiao, I will hit the pillar in front of you. On."

A piece of sunken wood smoke was lit in the incense burner, and the room was quiet and pleasant. At the same time, what was completely different from this tranquility was the chill that shrouded the sky around Yunluo.

The grassland stretches as far as the eye can see, with swords and halberds striking each other, and the sound of hooves from gold and horses rising everywhere.

"Commander Yang." A staff officer came to Yang Gengqing, clasped his hands and said, "The new soldiers who have been reorganized into the team have completed actual combat drills. I don't know where the general is. I have something to tell you because of my humble duty."

"The general was busy all night last night. I just closed my eyes and took a rest. It's nothing important, so don't disturb the general."

On the grassland, a cowhide square-top tent with a different curtain stood deep in the military camp. The thick tent walls blocked out the noisy roar. There was silence inside.

Han Zhi's eyebrows tightened and he did not sleep peacefully.

He had a dream. In the dream, he returned to Yingping. The military uniform has not yet been taken off, and the heavy helmet is still on, only half of the face is exposed.

The county government office was decorated with lights and colors, and a banquet was held. From a distance, Han Zhi saw a bright and eye-catching word "囍" posted on the heavy wooden door of the county government office. Red silk fluttered, extending from the door to The depths of the black hole.

Is there someone in the county government getting married?

He was standing at the bottom of the steps. At the gate of the county government office, there were several children busy welcoming the bride. They were carrying flower baskets, lanterns, candies and other things in their hands, and their faces were beaming with joy.

Guests were constantly coming and going, passing by him like a stream of water, and congratulatory words were constantly spoken. A servant recognized him and immediately said happily: "General Han, you are back! Come in quickly, the wedding banquet It's just the beginning, it's not too late."

He heard his voice ask unsteadily: "Who else

is going to do the wedding?" The corners of the servant's mouth slowly opened on both sides, as if laughing at his obvious question.

That's right, besides the county magistrate, who else is qualified to hold weddings in the county government office?

Han Zhi felt an uncontrollable anger in his heart. After Lu Jiuan left, he turned around and got married to someone else. He got married to someone else!

Han Zhi exerted force with his feet and kicked the servant who was still smiling and complimenting a few meters away. He was furious and rushed into the open gate of the county government office.

The bride and groom are at the critical moment of paying homage to each other. The groom is wearing a bright red wedding dress, with his head lowered, and only a faint smile can be seen at the corner of his mouth.

"The ceremony is completed and sent to the bridal chamber!"

The groom looked up and looked over. The moment he saw his face, Han Zhi's heart fell into the abyss and his head was buzzing. The cold armor was close to his chest. Han Zhi couldn't help but put his palm on his heart. He felt a painful cramp there, as if he was going to die in the next moment, dying in this furnace that was tossing and roasting his soul.

"General Han." Lu Jiu'an's face as white as jade was set off by the red silk dress. He held the bride's wrist and walked to him step by step: "I'm married."

These four words were like a sharp bend. The knife pierced several bloody holes in his internal organs. Han Zhi roared and broke out of the dream.

Han Zhi was panting heavily, and the fierce and evil spirit could not contain his anger. He looked around, and saw that the overwhelming red silk had turned into a yellow-brown book embroidered with Waji flowers, and his breathing slowly became steady.

Han Zhi came back from the camp before, wrapped in yellow sand, and exhausted. After cleaning up hastily, he closed his eyes and lay on his back on a bed of hay and animal skins to take a short nap.

He sat up with his knees bent, reached into his arms with his right hand and took out a crumpled letter. He had been carrying this letter from Ying Ping with him since the day he received it. At this moment, he was holding the letter in his hand, and the endless oppression in his heart had just dissipated little by little.

He believed in Lu Jiu'an, but he had such a dream for no reason, as if it was foreshadowing something.

Yang Gengqing came in after hearing the sound and glanced at the incense burner on the ground. It originally contained fragrant powder used to soothe the nerves and help sleep. Someone kicked it and scattered it everywhere.

The armor rattled, and Han Zhi put away the letter as if nothing had happened. He raised his eyelids and asked in a deep voice: "What's the matter?"

Yang Gengqing responded to the counselor's request, and Han Zhi said: "He is credited."

After a moment, the counselor followed Yang Gengqing. Entering, at Han Zhi's signal, he said respectfully: "So far, a total of more than 20,000 people have joined the army, and they have all been dispersed and organized into subordinates. More than 1,000 of them have completed training and have become the elite of the Twelve Horsemen.

" In addition, according to the general's instructions, nearly two thousand soldiers who are good at swimming have been selected to form a navy. I don't know what the follow-up arrangements will be." After dismissing the leader, he asked Yang Gengqing about the map.

"The surrounding terrain with a radius of hundreds of miles, including mountains, rivers, swamps, and caves, has been drawn according to the map style provided by Mr. Lu." Yang Gengqing's eyes lit up. With this complete map, he knew the battlefield better.

Han Zhi was silent for a moment: "How are the three young doctors from Yingping adapting?"

Yang Gengqing seemed to have remembered something interesting, and a rare smile appeared on his face: "When the three doctors first came here, they couldn't eat well and couldn't sleep. They were weak and dared not speak when they saw the soldiers. Now they dare to yell at the deputy generals." The soldiers in the military camp respect the little doctor very much and don't dare to make any mistakes."

"Very good," Han Zhi nodded. Everything was going well in the border area. He stood up and walked to Yang Gengqing's side, "Help me pack my luggage, yes. The response was flat."

Chapter 173

Lu Jiuan realized for the first time that having too much luck is not a good thing.

Xiao Wenyu repeatedly approached him in the name of asking for help. This girl had been immersed in all kinds of human affairs at home since she was a child, and she was polished to be worldly and tactful. After regaining his due sanity, Xiao Wenyu managed the relationship between the two just right, so that Lu Jiuan couldn't even say a strong refusal, so he had no choice but to avoid her and take a detour.

When had Lu Jiu'an been forced into such a situation? His gentle and good brother seemed to be trying to take revenge on him. He didn't know how to help at all, and just watched the show with his hands clasped in his hands.

Lu Jiu'an complained endlessly: "Brother, please show mercy to me and show me a clear path."

"No one else can ask for such a blessing." Lu Wenjin remained unmoved and looked through the thick books piled on the desk. Thick ledger.

"I can't bear it." Lu Jiu'an was still holding his arm and kept complaining. However, Lu Wenjin didn't listen carefully to what he said because the account book in his hand had already been read by him unknowingly. Bewildered.

This is an account book about Huacai Fang. Both the accounting method and the financial statements attached at the end of each month are refreshing. Lu Wenjin could tell the general business situation of Huacaifang with just a few glances.

The benefits are considerable!

Lu Wenjin sighed with some regret.

If the younger brother hadn't obtained the imperial examination and the Lu family business was in the hands of the two brothers, with Lu Jiu'an's intellectual talent, the Lu family wouldn't have grown stronger and might even have a place in the capital.

"Brother, stop looking at the account book. It's rare for you to have time to relax, so you should take a good rest. Why don't you leave your hand for a moment?" Lu Jiu'an pulled the account book and threw it aside, complaining dissatisfiedly.

Lu Wenjin reluctantly looked at him, half-smiling but not smiling, and said, "Aren't you usually very smart? Why are you so helpless when it comes to Xiao Wenyu?"

"Isn't this a tactic..." Lu Jiu'an said.

Lu Wenjin had no choice but to say: "If it had been anyone else, you would have known where he was going." He pointed his finger at the ledger, indicating something.

Lu Jiuan was confused for a moment and suddenly realized.

No wonder Lu Jiuan fell into such misunderstandings. He didn't even have time to hide away, so how could he rush to do such a thing in front of Xiao Wenyu? Didn't he let her misunderstand for nothing?

Lu Jiu'an folded his hands and bowed deeply at 90 degrees to Lu Wenjin: "Thank you for your good advice, brother. I mean, Xiao Wenyu is a business wizard who indulges in love. What is more important is his career!"

Lu Jiu'an arranged for his subordinates to stand in front of Xiao Wenyu. After mentioning it inadvertently, Xiao Wenyu's attention was indeed attracted. Although the results were not satisfactory, Xiao Wenyu would still come to him from time to time to increase his favorability, but most of his energy was put on Huacai Fang.

Lu Jiu'an breathed a sigh of relief and just wanted to arrive as soon as possible within two months so that he could send this living Bodhisattva away.

Who would have thought that just after half the time, news of Han Zhi's return would arrive.

"Sir Lu, General Han's ship has just arrived at the dock. I am summoned by my subordinates. It is estimated that it will soon arrive at the county government office." The government servant came to the front of the hall and reported happily.

"What, wasn't it promised that it would be the end of the year? Why did you suddenly come back early?"

In shock, Lu Jiu'an accidentally broke the only set of chrysanthemum enamel tea sets in his house.

Lu Jiu'an: "..."

"Who is this General Han? How could he scare you like this?" Lu Wenjin was displeased. He took out a piece of silk from his arms, held Lu Jiu'an's hand and wiped the tea stains on his wrist. "Fortunately, the tea is not hot, otherwise you would have suffered a lot."

Even so, Lu Jiu'an's originally cold jade skin was covered with tears . As soon as the tea was poured, a large area turned red.

"Brother, you don't understand." Lu Jiu'an took off his sleeves and covered them. Compared with the upcoming Shura Field, this is nothing. At this moment, he felt like he was in danger.

This feeling is like a wife trying to do something inappropriate while her husband is away from home, and she happens to be caught and raped in bed by her husband when he returns.

Lu Jiuan's scalp felt numb.

I am really afraid of what will happen.

Lu Jiu'an went to the stable and took two horses, pulled the reins and hurriedly went out.

On the way to greet Han Zhi, Lu Jiuan had already envisioned all kinds of exciting scenes in his mind.

After walking for two or three miles along the main road, they reached the only inner city river that ran through Yingping County. From a distance, Lu Jiuan saw Han Zhi standing on the bridge.

Han Zhi, who was tall and powerful, undoubtedly stood out among the crowd. He was a general with sword-shaped eyebrows and starry eyes. He was leading two restless sheep behind him. His demeanor was greatly reduced. In addition, there was a huge baggage slung across his back. His face was dusty and unshaven, and he was no different from the trafficker and pawn next to him.

Han Zhi also saw him and quickly rushed to his side holding the leash.

Lu Jiu'an looked down at the two sheep and was shocked: "You really brought two of them back..."

"Well, Yunluo's sheep don't smell bad when eaten. I promised to bring them back for you to taste." Han Zhi tied the traction rope into a knot and tied it to the willow tree stump nearby.

The two sheep followed him across half of the Zhou Dynasty, and now they were finally able to rest, quietly gnawing on the shallow grass blades on the ground.

Lu Jiu'an looked behind him: "Why are you alone? Didn't Han Linshen and Master Yan come back together this time?"

"Master Yan had trouble with his legs and feet, so he called a bullfighting cart for him. Han Linshen accompanied him. I was in a hurry. I'll see you first when I get back." Han Zhi grabbed his wrist and pinched him right where the hot tea had been poured. Only then did Lu Jiu'an feel the burning pain on the skin, and he frowned and hissed.

Han Zhi lifted up his sleeves, and a small transparent blister appeared on his wrist.

Han Zhi reprimanded in displeasure: "How do you serve your servants?" He took out the plaster he carried with him. Lu Jiu'an looked familiar, as if it had been used when he was bitten by a centipede.

Han Zhi carefully applied the medicine and took Lu Jiu'an to a deserted dark alley. He held his face and kissed and pecked him for a while.

Lu Jiuan's face turned red from being kissed, and the hot breath coming out of his mouth seemed to be wet: "Be careful of someone taking the sheep plug over there. Go back first." "

Well, go back first."

"Hey, wait." Lu Jiu'an said Jiu An grabbed his sleeve and said, "We are not going back to the county government office, but to the official residence."

"Why?" Han Zhi didn't notice and kept walking, "I don't like the official residence."

Official residences are usually used to receive superiors or The items used by officials at the same level to decorate their rooms are all exquisite and elegant. Even so, there is always a sense of respect and alienation, so people who are familiar with Lu Jiu'an, such as Han Zhi and Mu Lin, usually stay directly in the inner residence of the county government office.

"No, no, no." Lu Jiu'an was so anxious that he was sweating profusely, "The county government office is undergoing renovations..."

After being blocked so many times, Han Zhi was shocked to realize that Lu Jiu'an reacted abnormally. The joy she felt after seeing him seemed to be extinguished by a basin of cold water, and her whole body became cold. He froze on the spot, his face as dark as water, and he stared into Lu Jiu'an's eyes: "You are hiding something from me? What is it?"

Lu Jiu'an was discouraged: "There is something, it is a bit complicated, and I can't explain it clearly for a while. I'm afraid you'll be angry when you go to the house and see it, so I want to go to the official residence first..."

Han Zhi was impatient to listen to his details, and his mind was filled with images of him getting married to someone else in his dream. Could it be that it was more than just a dream? Is this really the case?

Uncomfortable, uneasy, panic... all kinds of emotions came to mind.

A depressing silence came from him. Han Zhi's mood fell to the bottom. He trembled his lips and asked, "Are you married?"

Lu Jiu'an didn't know why and looked at him strangely: "What are you thinking about?"

Han Zhi pulled back . With his sanity at stake, he let Lu Jiu'an pull him towards the official residence.

Along the way, he still had a trace of luck in his heart, comforting himself that maybe he was worrying too much. However, when the government officials who passed by saw him, the emotions in their eyes and the hesitation to speak made him feel uneasy. The good premonition is stronger. So much so that he threw the reins of the two sheep into Lu Jiu'an's hands, grabbed a horse, turned the horse's head, and headed towards the county government office at lightning speed, ignoring Lu Jiu'an's repeated calls from behind.

Lu Jiu'an was so anxious that he cursed secretly, whipped up his horse and chased after him.

General Han came and went like the wind on horseback, and his riding skills were not comparable to that of Lu Jiu'an. When he saw the person again, Han Zhi Dama Jin Dao was sitting high on a chair, his face was ashen, his cheeks were clenched, and his whole body exuded a terrifying aura that kept strangers away. A group of young men were trembling with weak legs, not daring to express their anger, for fear of offending the superiors and causing them to be dismembered.

Lu Jiu'an randomly asked a boy to figure out the situation.

It turned out that Han Zhi drove straight in after arriving at the mansion, and happened to meet Xiao Wenyu and Meng Shu who were hanging out together in the mansion. General Han was so imposing that he did not get off his horse. He just sat on the horse and asked the two people's identities condescendingly. The servants Intimidated by his violent aura, she didn't dare to say anything, saying that she was a distinguished guest in the house and now lived in the backyard.

The sound of needles dropping could be heard in the room. Lu Jiuan pressed his temples with a headache and waved his hand behind him. As if they were being pardoned, the servants hurriedly exited and closed the door for the two of them.

"Is this what you are trying so hard to hide? Jiu'an, how do you want to explain?"

Lu Jiu'an originally planned to explain it to him from beginning to end, but now he saw his expressionless face and the attitude of asking for revenge. There was also a breath stuck in his throat, he clenched his fist fiercely, turned around and left.

Walking to the door, Han Zhi caught up from behind, hugged his waist, and buried his head in his neck: "I'm sorry Jiu'an, don't be angry with me."

"I had a dream when I was in the clouds. I dreamed of you and me. Someone else got married."

"It's my fault."

Lu Jiu'an was a little annoyed, and he couldn't laugh or cry: "I don't know why you are always worried about gains and losses. Am I, Lu Jiu'an, so hard to convince you?"

"No, I am. ..." Han Zhi's tone was low, and the hands holding him tightened, as if he was hesitating. Lu Jiu'an didn't rush him either. After so many hesitations, Han Zhi finally revealed the uneasiness and fear deep in his heart, "I don't know why, I always feel that you are a visitor from outside the world and will leave me one day."

Lu Jiuan was stunned, but he didn't I expected to get such an answer.

Because it was too ridiculous, most people wouldn't think of it. However, Han Zhi not only thought about it, but also suffered from this unfounded intuition.

The matter of time travel is already sensational. Lu Jiu'an originally planned to share it with Han Zhi if the time came, but now it seems that perhaps the most appropriate thing to do is to keep it in his heart for the rest of his life.

Wu Gu seemed to smell a familiar smell in the yard, and kept digging at the door with his paws.

"Why do you think so?" Lu Jiu'an hugged him back.

"I don't know..."

"I will not get married, nor will I find anyone else, nor will I leave you." Lu Jiuan solemnly promised again, and secretly swore in his heart that if he returned to his twenties inexplicably, In the first century, I will try my best to come back.

Lu Jiu'an explained everything to him, including his parents' worries, Lu Wenjin's arrival, the identities of Wen Shu and Xiao Wenyu, and how he rejected each other.

Han Zhi maintained his posture of leaning over and hugging him, and pressed a kiss on his forehead: "Thank you for the hard work."

"What's the hard work for?"

"It's hard for you to face the anger of your family alone."

"It's okay." Lu Jiu'an He said, "Brother is reasonable."

Han Zhi thought for a moment: "I met a strange man when I returned home. He should be your eldest brother."

"You know?"

Han Zhi said helplessly: "I'm not stupid, you two The faces are very similar, so they must be closely related."

Lu Jiu'an joked with a smile: "Oh, you still stay rational at critical moments." He didn't treat Lu Wenjin as hot-headed and recklessly as he did with Qin Jizhi. Love rival, otherwise the scene would be too much to watch.

Han Zhi asked again: "Does eldest brother know about our relationship?"

Lu Jiu'an shook his head: "I haven't told him who you are yet. Coming out is already difficult for ordinary people to accept. If you tell eldest brother your identity immediately , I'm afraid he will be frightened. "

Han Zhi is not an ordinary official, nor is he an ordinary general. He is even more noble than ordinary relatives of the emperor. He is a serious brother of the current emperor.

Han Zhi interlocked with him: "Now that I'm back, I can't hide it from my brother for long, so I'd better tell the truth."

Chapter 174

In order to leave a good impression in front of Lu Wenjin, Han Zhi locked himself in the room and tidied up inside and outside. He also shaved off the green stubble on his chin before going to the hospital. A reception banquet specially set up by Lu Jiuan.

To say it was a reception banquet, it wasn't quite so, it was more like a family banquet.

The reception banquet was not particularly grand. One of the sheep Han Zhi brought back was kept in a pen, and the other was slaughtered and put on the table that night. In addition to the three people from Langdong, there were also Yang Miaomiao and his grandson, A Duo, Han Linshen and Mr. Yan at the table.

It was clear that most of the dinner table was filled with children and elderly people, but for some reason, Meng Shu and Xiao Wenyu were on pins and needles. Xiao Wenyu felt even worse. She didn't know if it was her misunderstanding. The unknown man at the head seemed to be hostile to her. The glance he glanced at was as sharp as a blade, making her feel like she was facing a formidable enemy.

Han Linshen had only grown taller after not seeing him for a year. At this moment, watching the interaction between Lu Qi and Shan Shui, he said in a sour tone: "Lu Qi, this is your new friend? It seems that you two are very close."

Lu Qi was unaware: "We grew up together. "

Shan Shui took the initiative to express his goodwill, and his clear and high-pitched voice was full of youthfulness: "Lin Shen, little brother, it's a pleasure to meet you. "

We are still childhood sweethearts. Han Lin Shen felt even worse, so he turned away with a slight hum and ignored him.

The mutton hotpot was steaming with steam. Except for a few ignorant children and the clueless old man Yang, everyone at the dinner table had their own thoughts.

Han Zhi usually didn't talk much, but he still kept his mission tonight in mind. He raised his wine glass and handed it to Lu Wenjin: "Come on, brother, let's drink."

Lu Wenjin turned around and glanced at Lu Jiu'an with unclear meaning. With that look, Lu Jiu'an Jiu An then realized that his shrewd elder brother knew everything.

Han Zhi's way of showing kindness to Lu Wenjin was to toast him non-stop. Lu Wenjin looked at a gentle and elegant person, and he was actually a huge amount of people. Lu Jiu'an was watching silently from the side as they ate mutton and drank wine. In the end, we finished the whole thing.

Lu Wenjin staggered a little when he stood up. Before Han Zhi could help him, he gave Lu Jiu'an a look, waved his sleeves and left.

The night was as cool as water and the bright moon hung high. Lu Jiuan followed the smell of alcohol and found him on a secluded path.

Lu Wenjin took off his hat and stood with his hands behind his back, revealing only a tall and lonely back. The evening breeze blew, causing his robes to fly and his hair to be messy. His motionless body almost blended in with the withered branches beside him.

For some reason, Lu Jiuan felt a little uneasy: "Brother."

Lu Wenjin did not look back.

"Is that general named Han the one you have been longing for?" It was obviously a question with doubts, but Lu Wenjin said it with absolute certainty.

"Yes."

Silence spread between the two of them. The insects nesting in the cracks of the stone stopped screaming, and there was only the sound of the boy's footsteps moving slightly in the hall in the distance.

After a long time, Lu Wenjin said: "I don't agree."

At the same time, Xiao Wenyu hurried towards the other courtyard. Meng Shu was confused and pulled her sleeves from behind twice, but to no avail. The maid who was sent away had long since disappeared. Meng Shu called her: "There is no one here anymore. Wen Yu

, please take a rest." Xiao Wenyu was unmoved and even started running until she saw the door of the other courtyard. He came down and supported the pillar with one hand, and covered his chest with the other hand to breathe.

Meng Shu finally caught up with her, frowned and said in confusion: "I noticed something was wrong with you from the beginning of the banquet. You looked as frightened as if you were seeing a savage beast. Wen Yu, what's wrong with you?"

Xiao Wenyu was still in shock. After Meng Shu's repeated urging, she finally spoke intermittently: "The fierce-looking man at the table, he... he belongs to Mr. Lu..." Before he

could finish his words, Xiao Wenyu suddenly saw a tall black man standing quietly under the corner. Shadow, the unfinished words were stuck in his throat.

Meng Shu followed her gaze and screamed briefly, her face turned pale with fright.

The evening breeze blew away the clouds, and the moonlight illuminated the face in the darkness inch by inch.

A resolute forehead, sharp eyebrows, a high nose bridge, and a strong jawline are revealed little by little, and finally form a handsome and expressionless face.

Xiao Wenyu stopped breathing for a moment, and it took him a while to hear the thundering heartbeat in his chest.

Han Zhi stood up slowly with his arms folded, walked up to Xiao Wenyu, looked down at her, and said word by word: "Lu Jiu'an is mine."

...

Lu Jiu'an really didn't expect that he would accept his coming out well. Lu Wenjin's attitude changed drastically when she learned Han Zhi's identity.

"Why, brother." Lu Jiu'an grabbed his head and approached him, his tone unable to conceal his anxiety.

Lu Wenjin looked coldly: "I don't want you to be wronged."

"He has never made me feel wronged." Lu Jiuan defended quickly.

Lu Wenjin glanced at him: "He won't let you be wronged now, who knows he won't in the future. If you had told me that he was such a powerful person, I would not have agreed in the first place." "

You want to But if a person of his status changes his mind one day, what can you do to him? Why don't you just knock your teeth out and swallow it in your stomach? steel.

Lu Wenjin was resolute this time. No matter how hard Lu Jiuan tried to explain after him, he wouldn't listen. In the end, the door was slammed shut. Lu Jiu'an slapped the carved wooden door with both hands in vain for a long time, and then a sigh came from the room: "I want to rest, you can go."

Lu Jiuan felt depressed and a little sad. Because the person you like is not recognized by your family.

When he returned to the wing, he thought Han Zhi would be waiting for him inside, but he saw that the yard was dark and there was no sign of anyone at all.

Lu Jiu'an was frustrated like never before. He lit a small oil lamp with a flint, lowered his head and stared blankly at his hands. The oil lamp was dim and burned for a while, then made a soft crackling sound.

With a "crunch", Han Zhi came back from outside. The cold wind rushed in through the cracks in the door. The oil lamp jumped twice with a desperate struggle. At least it was saved when Han Zhi closed the door and bolted it.

Lu Jiu'an wiped his face hard and braced himself: "Where have you been? You haven't seen anyone yet?"

I'm going to beat the woman who dared to covet you.

Of course, this could not be said in front of Lu Jiu'an. Han Zhi picked up the scissors on the table and cut off the scorched area of ​​the oil lamp. He also used the tip of the knife to push up the wick and lit two candles in the cabinet. It was bright in an instant.

"I went to the latrine." Han Zhi pushed the hair from Lu Jiu'an's face, "Jiu'an, why do you look so listless? Brother, have you hit a wall?"

Lu Jiu'an told him the matter, Han Zhi's expression He softened: "Brother, it's human nature to think like this." He stroked Lu Jiu'an's face soothingly: "Don't worry, leave it to me."

The next day, Han Zhi went to find Lu Wenjin alone. Lu Jiuan didn't know What did the two of them talk about while locked in the room. All I know is that after Han Zhi came out, the eldest brother kept silent about the matter, as if he had acquiesced in their relationship.

Lu Jiu'an was shocked and secretly asked Han Zhi: "What kind of deal did you make?"

Han Zhi lifted his chin and kissed him on the mouth: "Don't ask."

Lu Jiuan glared at him.

However, he didn't have to know the truth. Now that Lu Wenjin had been clarified, he felt that all the heavy burdens on his shoulders were lifted off his shoulders in an instant, and his whole body felt indescribably relaxed.

What's even more strange is that after that reception banquet, Xiao Wenyu seemed to be a different person. He would no longer bring him a bowl of porridge in the morning, occasionally make a pot of chicken soup at noon, and send it to his hometown without hesitation. Residence.

Lu Jiu'an raised his head and looked out the window: "This is the sun coming out in the west. Xiao Wenyu actually found his way back."

Han Zhi deeply hid his merit and fame, propped up his legs and read the military book in his hand without raising his head: "Maybe she has figured it out. "That's right .

It's best this way. After all, I won't get any benefit from it. If I continue to argue, it will be futile." Lu Jiu'an touched his chin and smacked his lips: "Maybe he saw it.

Something . No matter what I said before, she gave up as soon as you came back. Hey, you should have come back earlier, so that I wouldn't have to waste so much time." Solved, Lu Jiu'an felt relieved in the following days. He accompanied his elder brother to observe the laboratory, and went to Hongtu College to attend a few classes. He was praised by Lu Wenjin and was very happy.

Time flew by quickly, and soon the day came for Lu Wenjin to leave. Even though Lu Jiuan was reluctant to leave, he knew his priorities.

The Lu family has a big business, and Lu Wenjin has a heavy responsibility on his shoulders. There are many businesses and shops waiting for him to take care of. Two months has been the biggest concession he has made for his younger brother. Lu Jiuan could only hold back his sadness and pack his luggage.

The jade belts produced by Huacai Fang, the gleaming and round pearls, the magnificent and fragrant jade wine... these things that outsiders think are precious, are worthless to Lu Jiu'an, and Lu Jiu'an receives all the luggage. Packed inside.

Lu Wenjin's cold, jade-like hands pressed on his shoulders: "Okay, little brother, these are enough, just follow the rules."

Lu Jiu'an didn't listen and continued to pack things in silence.

Finally, Lu Jiuan took out a tall, strong, and majestic black dog from the government office: "Brother, this police dog has been trained. It will not bite people, it is loyal to protect its owner, and it is very powerful. Take it with you. , can protect you at critical moments."

Lu Wenjin touched the police dog's head and said softly with a smile: "Well, this gift is very suitable for me. I accepted it."

Lu Jiu'an handed him several bound green books. Booklet: "I know that eldest brother is very curious about the accounting method in the house. This is a book used by the School of Finance and Economics. You can understand it after you take it back and read it."

Lu Wenjin received it in his hand and glanced at the carriage where the two beauties were riding. He teased: "I see that you are recruiting women for many positions in Yingping. Xiao Wenyu has a genius. Even if he doesn't get her, you don't plan to let her work in Huacaifang?"

"Brother..." Lu Jiuan smiled bitterly, "You I know, how dare I let him go?"

The two brothers reluctantly said some words of farewell. Before boarding the carriage, Lu Wenjin came to Han Zhi and said coldly: "I leave my little brother to you, don't let him down."

Han Zhi looked serious and solemn, and swore an oath almost piously: "I will give this life to you." "If you don't sell it, I won't give it up in this life."

"General Han, remember what you said today."

The black bird landed on the eaves, cooed twice, and flew away to find food. The setting sun was setting, the ancient road was dim, and there were two circles of clear ruts on the road. Lu Jiuan touched his chest and felt that there was a gap there and it was empty.

"Han Chaori, my eldest brother is gone, and I am left alone again. I am so sad here." Lu Jiuan lowered his eyes.

"I'm still with you, Jiu'an." Han Zhi pinched the back of his neck, his hot palms pressed against his skin, driving away the chill all over his body: "If you don't want to let go, take your parents back to you in the future. Come to the capital."

Lu Jiu'an suddenly looked at him: "You mean..."

"Yes." Han Zhi nodded, "The emperor has issued an order to summon you back to the capital."

Chapter 175

According to the formal process, Lu Jiu'an, like other local officials, had to first summarize his tax affairs, academic style, litigation, etc. within three years, and then send it step by step to Jiangzhou Prefecture and Guangmu Chief Envoy, and then the prefect and provincial superiors The administrative history of a person determines his promotion or downgrade based on various factors.

At this time, we can't completely decide whether to stay or leave. The administrative history has to be recorded in a book about his deeds and his deeds, which will be sent to Kyoto for review by the Ministry of Civil Affairs and the imperial censor. If the administrative performance is good, he will get an excellent rating. This is an external record. The normal path to official promotion.

However, Emperor Yongxi stayed dormant for many years, watching with cold eyes the battles between the two parties. This time, I finally seized the opportunity and used the martyrs' pension to decentralize power and govern the cabinet. I purged the court and deposed all those who were greedy, mediocre and cruel.

This thunderous method not only eliminated the worry of losing power, but also shocked the mountains and made the usually aggressive civil servants and generals dare not say anything.

Emperor Yongxi took back his right to speak, and now he finally stopped caring. The first thing he did after fulfilling his long-cherished wish was to order Lu Jiu'an to be recalled.

Because of this matter, there have been whispers among the top and bottom members of the six ministries and the superintendents of various major courtyards and temples in recent days.

In the Wenxuan Cleaning Department of Officials, the head of the official department was holding the case file and wondering: "Lu Jiu'an, why does this name sound so familiar?"

"Have you forgotten? That case six years ago. Countless people were involved. Lu Jiuan Jiu'an is one of them." Wailang, a member of the official department, stopped and made a gesture of covering his mouth.

"That's okay. I was on duty at Honglu Temple six years ago. There were too many people involved that year, so I can't remember it."

"Yes." The doctor from the Ministry of Personnel found the one belonging to Lu Jiu'an from a pile of official records. That one, "Huh? Lu Jiu'an is a first-level Jinshi of Xinmao Branch. I'm going to kiss the third flower today."

"Third flower? Wait, I remembered." The head of the official department patted his head, "Isn't the article beautifully written? , and he is handsome, the one who is said to be the Pearl of Langdong."

Yuan Wailang nodded: "Yes, I once heard a rumor that Lu Jiu'an didn't have to suffer such an unreasonable disaster, because he insisted on it despite the obstruction. I had to attend the old banquet at the Grand Pavilion, and many people were still very sad

. "Becoming an official in the capital means you are really rising through the ranks."

The doctor frowned and retorted, "Why is there such a thing as rising through the ranks? Lu Jiu'an got the first-class rank and went straight to the Hanlin Academy as an editor. If nothing like that had happened, he might have been better off. Now he is a bachelor, and he is an official in the capital."

After hearing about the merit examination, the chief official couldn't help but join in the gossip: "You said that after Lu Jiu'an, who has been away for many years, comes back, the emperor will grant him a title. "What official position?"

"Who knows? It's not easy for us to guess the holy will."

"But there is one thing. He has to be recalled after many years of service."

In short, anyone with any brains should put the whole thing in perspective. Anyone can realize this - Lu Jiu'an, the third-level flower who was sent to Fuxia County, Jiangzhou, is not loved by today's emperor. It was obvious that he cherished his misfortune, so His Majesty the Emperor would go to such great lengths to protect this talented person in the court by using the excuse of being demoted.

Everyone is waiting for this handsome man who was favored by Emperor Yongxi to return to the capital to see how he can use his fists and kicks and what kind of turmoil he will cause in the court.

And the people who are being missed are too busy to take care of it.

The order arrived at Yingping half a month after Han Zhi said these words. At that time, Lu Jiuan was reviewing the tax items and counting grains in the granary.

This year's tax grain collection went more smoothly than expected. The people did not need to rush. They had prepared a sufficient amount of grain in advance. All they had to do was collect it directly at their doorsteps.

In addition, the population in Yingping increased and the granaries were overflowing. The previous granaries were no longer enough. Lu Jiuan temporarily called in people to build seven more granaries.

The Ambassador of the Tax Affairs Department looked at the mountains of grains with a happy face: "This way, even if there is a famine, it will be enough for the people of the county for half a year."

Lu Jiu'an was also happy, but then he became worried.

Apart from Han Zhi, he was the only one who knew about the transfer order, and even Lu Qi had not read the contents.

"Reluctant?" Han Zhi asked.

Lu Jiu'an felt complicated.

This is the place where he has been staying since time travel.

He personally built this place into such a grand scene filled with barns and lined with buildings, and now he is really reluctant to give it up to others.

He recalled the hopeful words he expressed during the banquet, and his longing eyes. How would he say his farewell words at that time? Maybe the villagers will complain in their hearts that he broke his promise and gained weight.

Lu Jiu'an had mixed feelings. When Han Zhi saw him locking the paper with the seal in a secret compartment of my hometown, his eyebrows moved: "Aren't you going to tell the people in the county government office?"

Lu Jiu'an pressed the button in annoyance. Pressing his temples: "Don't be anxious now. Let's talk about it later. We don't have to leave right away."

Although the Holy Mountain issued an edict, he is an official and county magistrate, and he must take the exam every three years. The content of the class, such as farming, people's livelihood, education, etc., are all reported to the superior class to assess the performance of the reign and whether it is a waste of money, food, and food for the people.

Lu Jiu'an worked hard at Yingping for so many years, but he didn't expect that it would end up being a disgrace in the end.

In addition, he is leaving office now. The edict states that the official who will take over is on his way. According to the law, he has to go to Jiangzhou Prefecture and the province to make dictionaries, get a letter of resignation, and cross out the official name. . Then complete the handover work with the new county magistrate who takes over.

Otherwise, it would be like when he first arrived in Yingping, his eyes darkened and he didn't know anything, so he could only explore on his own little by little.

All things considered, it would take at least two months to leave. So he tossed and turned all night, and finally decided to wait until he returned from the provincial capital.

This is the first time Lu Jiu'an has left the county government for official duties since he arrived in Yingping. He summoned six clerks, government servants, and all kinds of officials with different grades in the county to gather together and announced that in the next ten days, All affairs in the county are managed by Wu Heng, the chief clerk.

Wu Heng remained in a posture of folding his hands and saluting: "Sir, are you leaving?"

Lu Jiu'an nodded and teased quietly: "I have some official business and I have to go to the provincial capital for a few days. Ying Ping will leave it to you first. I hope. When I come back, what I see is not a chaotic scene. Can you do that?"

Wu Heng replied solemnly: "Don't worry, sir. When you come back, I will give you the original one. Ying Ping will live up to his trust."

Lu Jiu'an pressed his shoulder: "Relax, I'm just talking. What can happen in ten days?"

On the day of departure, Lu Jiu'an only brought one. Lu Qi saw the baggage and the inconspicuous small box and didn't think much about it. After Lu Jiu'an boarded the carriage, he lifted the curtain and called to Lu Qi: "Come up."

"Can I follow the young master too?" Lu Qi It was both disbelief and excitement.

Lu Jiu'an said: "Didn't I tell you to take you somewhere else last time? I just took this opportunity."

"Won't it delay the young master's important business?" Lu Qi was still hesitant.

Lu Jiuan chuckled: "You are the editor-in-chief of a news agency. How can you write wonderful articles if you don't walk around? Stop talking nonsense and come up here."

Lu Qi cheered. After he went up, Han Zhi followed him expressionlessly, holding his sword. The boy jumped up.

Facing Lu Jiu'an's questioning eyes, Han Zhi simply said briefly: "I'm not worried."

Lu Jiu'an muttered silently, and finally agreed to Han Zhi's following.

The first stop was Jiangzhou Mansion. The dispute between Lu Jiuan and the former magistrate was no longer a secret in the government office. Facing Lu Jiuan's arrival, the officials on duty were neither overly enthusiastic nor very cold. , with a business-like attitude, he registered, wrote the paperwork, and sent Lu Jiu'an away within a moment.

The carriage continued to move forward, stopping and going, and it took four or five days to reach Guangmu City. The provincial capital was surrounded by tall and towering walls, and there were soldiers holding the gates.

The carriage arrived at the gate of the city and was stopped by the soldiers guarding the city. The soldier looked around at the elegant curtains and sturdy shafts of the carriage without leaving a trace, and stretched out his hand: "Enter the city, please pay me first." Five taels of silver."

Han Zhi's arm holding the sword moved slightly. Lu Jiu'an held him down, raised the curtain, bowed and walked out, stood in front of the carriage, saluted, and asked softly: "This official "Why don't you check the passing certificate first?"

The soldier glanced at Lu Jiu'an again, focusing on his plain clothes for a few seconds, and overturned his initial thought - this person just looked good-looking. As a young scholar, the carriage may have been rented, and he probably didn't have any extra spare money.

So he couldn't bear to answer Lu Jiu'an's question and snorted heavily from his nose: "I don't care who you are, you must pay five taels of silver before entering the city. This is the rule."

"Nonsense!" Lu Qi stepped out angrily. Carriage, "Just now I saw the carriage in front of me go straight in."

The team stopped moving forward, and Lu Qi shouted loudly, so many people looked over. Another tall and lanky soldier at the city gate saw the conflict here and took the initiative to ask about the reason. The sturdy soldier whispered a few words. The tall and lanky soldier's eyes immediately showed a bit of ridicule. He looked at Lu Jiu'an and said: " Do you know who passed by just now?"

Lu Jiu'an immediately answered, "Li Gang's son?"

"Who is Li Gang?" The tall soldier frowned, "That's the son of the Lu family."

Lu family. Lu Jiu'an immediately realized that the Lu family in the provincial capital was the leader with a strength unmatched by other sects. They were rich and powerful. They could basically run around in this place. Even the Chief Envoy had to sell the Lu family some thin noodles.

However, Lu Xiao, the pampered eldest grandson of the Lu family, is still an exchange student at my school in Yingping County.

An old man secretly said to Lu Jiu'an: "Sir, I see how well you are dressed and how you ride in such a big carriage. I think it won't be difficult for you to come up with five taels of silver. Why don't you give it to the official and treat it like a loss?" To eliminate disasters."

Lu Jiu'an also asked in a low voice: "Is it always like this in the provincial capital?"

"No, no, no." The old man waved, "People like us are relatively poor at first glance. , The official knows that we can't come up with money, so he won't embarrass us, but you are different, Master. You are from out of town, and you look a bit unfamiliar when you first enter the city. "The city gate fee."

The old man said clearly. Lu Jiu'an touched his chin as if he suddenly understood, and thanked the old man.

The soldiers guarding the city became impatient and slapped the hilt of their swords on the carriage: "Hurry up, there are so many people behind you. If you don't want to hand over, go to the side."

Lu Jiu'an put his hands in his hands and said to Lu Qi: "Lu "Hey, did you hear me? Why don't you give it to this official?"

Lu Qi was anxious and angry: "Young master, this is obviously trying to steal people's wealth. How can you help the evildoers?"

The soldiers guarding the city became angry. This was the first time they were attacked. He pointed at his nose and cursed in public, secretly hating that this person really didn't know how to show appreciation. He pulled out the scabbard with a swipe and thrust the sharp blade in front of Lu Qi.

The people who were watching screamed, and they all ran away with their heads in their hands in fright. The carriage Lu Jiu'an was riding in suddenly left a large open space within a three-foot radius. Han Zhi heard the movement and stood up, but was comforted by Lu Jiu'an's eyes.

Lu Jiu'an calmly stretched out his right hand to block the blade of the sword, and slowly pushed it two inches away from the side: "Master, calm down, I'm in no condition. I bumped into the master. It's because I didn't discipline you properly."

He turned around and scolded Lu Qi: "The official works so hard guarding the city gate every day, and it's only five taels of silver, so there's no harm in giving it to the official as food and drinks. Go and take out the ten taels of silver from the baggage in the carriage."

Lu Qi felt very aggrieved, feeling in his heart It's like the sour gas that bubbles up all over the place. He was very puzzled and reluctantly took out two ingots and five taels of silver. Lu Jiu'an stuffed a tablet into each of the soldiers, which made the two men's embarrassed expressions slightly improve.

The soldiers pretended to search the carriage again.

"There are no smuggled items, right? What's in the box?" the soldier asked, pointing to the box that Lu Jiu'an brought.

"Reporting to the official, they are all accounting documents and the like." Lu Jiuan opened it and showed it to him. The soldier only glanced at it briefly and saw that it was really just a pile of worthless books, so he let them go.

The carriage drove into the city gate.

The scenery inside the city is very different from that outside the city.

In winter, the outside of Guangmu City, which is famous for its abundant forest vegetation, is also desolate, with a stretch of dead grass and fallen leaves visible. Pedestrians folded their elbows, shrank their necks, and wrapped their clothes tightly, speaking little along the way.

As soon as I entered the city, the hot air mixed with various indescribable fragrances hit my face. The streets in the city were crowded with people, and the hawkers and shouts rushed into my ears.

Lu Jiu'an had been riding a bumpy carriage, and his back had long been sore. Now he finally reached the flat bluestone road. He lay on the small table in the carriage and asked Han Zhi to massage him. He glanced at the unhappy Lu Qi teased: "Are you still sulking?"

Lu Qi was still angry and pouted angrily: "Why did you give the soldiers money just now?"

Lu Jiu'an avoided the important and took the easy: "Well, you have to pay the city gate tax when you enter the city. "

Sir, please don't fool me. The tariff is calculated in proportion to the value of the goods. We are not a caravan, and there is no goods in the carriage. There is no need to pay money. Besides, the lion asked us for a full ten taels," Lu The more he talked, the angrier he became.

"Wrong, I gave the other five taels on my own initiative." Lu Jiu'an corrected him: "You see, these soldiers at least have a conscience, and those poor people did not go searching."

"This... what kind of excuse is this." Lu Qi was so angry that he choked, and then said after a while: "My lord, you could clearly reveal your identity just now, but when you checked the credentials, you only gave them a passerby, but you kept the tooth tag indicating your official status."

Lu Jiu'an responded to this The answer was rather perfunctory: "When you are away from home, big things become trivial."

"Really?" At this time, Han Zhi, who had been silent, snorted: "I think Jiu An did it on purpose."

Lu Jiu'an did not answer. He casually picked up a piece of air-dried pork strips and ate the snacks.

The carriage drove slowly along the street for a distance, and stopped after climbing a small slope. Lu Jiuan asked: "Are you there?"

There was a vague conversation outside the carriage, and after a while, the coachman's voice outside The message came in: "Sir, a servant who claims to be the Admiral of Academic Affairs is waiting outside. He said he came specially to welcome you."

Chapter 176:

When it comes to Lu Jiuan being transferred to Shannan, Xiang Daozhen is the happiest person.

Upon learning that he was about to visit the provincial capital, Xiangdaozhen arranged for his servants to wait at the city gate a few days in advance. So Lu Jiu'an's carriage turned around halfway, and the boy led the way. He didn't know how he walked, and finally entered a secluded courtyard after twists and turns.

The small courtyard is located by the river, with two paper lanterns hanging outside the door. The surrounding area is quiet and elegant, with few people around. After getting off the carriage, Lu Jiu'an looked around curiously: "Is this Xiang Xuezheng's residence?"

The boy replied respectfully: "This is a wine pavilion opened by two young ladies. It has a great reputation in the provincial capital and is not accessible to ordinary people. Sir, please come in. The academicians have been waiting for you for a long time."

Lu Jiuan understood: it is still a private kitchen . ah.

Good wine and food were already prepared in the Accord. Lu Jiuan poked his head in and saw many familiar faces. In addition to Xiang Xuezheng, the inspector and several other Shangguan officials who had been to Yingping were also present. Facing Lu Jiu'an and others who came in, they all had smiles on their faces.

"I've been waiting for you and the general to come. Come on, come on, sit down and have a drink." Xiang Daozhen greeted him enthusiastically.

Lu Jiu'an saw several large jars of wine piled up on stacks in the corner, and then saw everyone preparing for the attack. He knew that the other party was probably "prepared" today, and he couldn't help but feel numb in his scalp. If I drink so much wine, I'm afraid I will go in vertically and out horizontally.

"I, my subordinate, have some serious business to do today..." Lu Jiuan retreated shamefully.

"Hey, it's just vocabulary. It doesn't matter if you delay for a day or two. Let's drink first." Xiang Daozhen was unmoved and pushed Lu Jiu'an into the room.

Han Zhi followed closely behind, patted his vest, and whispered against his ear: "I'm here."

Everyone here was a group of people with official duties. Lu Qi was not qualified to eat at the same table, so Lu Jiu'an let him He went to find something to eat nearby and came back to wait for him after eating.

Sure enough, as soon as the banquet began, the officials stood up one after another, holding up their wine glasses and talking congratulatory words: "County Magistrate Lu, congratulations, you finally managed to keep the clouds clearing and the moon shine."

Lu Jiuan said firmly . I drank them one by one without thinking, but I didn't expect to drink several glasses of wine in succession. My body, which had been chilled by the cold wind outside, warmed up, and I couldn't help but sigh in comfort.

Xiang Daozhen liked Lu Jiu'an from the bottom of his heart. At the dinner table, he kept introducing him to the customs and customs of the provincial capital, where the snacks were the best, and where the scenery was the most beautiful: "I said before, if you come to the province Cheng, I must take you to visit Qiaosi Lake. After finishing this meal today, we will go. We have already booked a boat."

There was a lot of wine on the table, and all the wine passed behind fell into Han Zhi's mouth. Everyone knew that Lu Jiuan drank a lot. He was shallow, so he didn't deliberately embarrass him, but he was full of praise for the rare friendship between the two of them.

Xiang Daozhen was a little tipsy, so he grabbed Lu Jiu'an's wrist and said, "Lord County Magistrate, after we return to the court, we have to keep in touch frequently."

Seeing Lu Jiu'an's confusion, someone promptly explained his confusion: "Xiang Xue Zheng's term ends this year and he will return to Shanxi at the end of the year."

Lu Jiu'an was sincerely happy and joked: "Then Xiang Xuezheng should remember what he said today. Don't pretend not to know him when you meet him face to face in the future. ."

Everyone burst into laughter and exchanged glasses. Many officials who had been to Yingping and had been warmly entertained by Lu Jiu'an, but who were not very familiar with him, got involved due to their drunkenness.

One of the officers in charge of military affairs glanced at Han Zhi and said to Lu Jiu'an proudly: "In the future, if Magistrate Lu comes to the provincial capital and encounters any trouble that cannot be solved, just come to me. "

Speaking of it, there is something wrong." Lu Jiu'an held the cup, "It's not troublesome, just a little confused."

"But it doesn't matter."

Lu Jiu'an said lightly, as if he just mentioned it casually. How much is the monthly salary of the city's gatekeepers? "

Why...why do you ask this?" Commander Qian did not expect such an answer.

"It's nothing. I just feel that these brothers are working hard all day long. If the firewood is meager..."

"I think there must be some misunderstanding." Commander Qian Shi was afraid that Han Zhi would misunderstand, and everyone Everyone knows that the Zhenyuan general is not bitter for himself but for the soldiers under his command. He quickly explained, "Magistrate Lu, I and the commander-in-chief of the capital are both commanders and co-in charge of the military affairs of the area under our jurisdiction. Normally, the military pay is very generous. Just give it as much as you want, don't dare to skimp on it. "

"Is there something difficult at home among these brothers? Do you know about it privately..."

"If you have something to say, Magistrate Lu, you might as well say it directly," said

Lu Jiu'an . Following the trend, I cut out some of the irrelevant details of what happened at the city gate today, picked up the important parts and told him, and finally concluded: "So I thought, maybe the soldiers were short of money, so they thought of leaving elsewhere. " Is this

really true?

Many people were watching at that time."

The people at the table looked a little embarrassed, and all the officials were furious. The tabletop was slapped loudly: "You are really unreasonable, General Han, County Magistrate Lu, I will give you an explanation."

The two powerful guards were ordered to leave, and it was obvious what they were going to do . , while waiting, Han Zhi glanced at Lu Jiu'an and saw that he was immersed in eating again, as if he was not the one who had just complained to someone.

The two soldiers who were guarding the city got a lot of money, and they planned to go to a brothel to have a drink together. However, when they were changing positions, two guards suddenly rushed out and tried to take them away without saying a word.

The soldiers guarding the city were not stupid. They knew that the person who came was not good. They took a look at the badge hanging on the guard's waist and asked with a smile on his face: "Brother, what order did you give to arrest the two of us? Can you tell me the truth? "

The guard had an expressionless face and turned a deaf ear to the two men's words.

The soldiers guarding the city were uneasy all the way, racking their brains to recall what they had done today and the people they had met, until they were escorted into the small courtyard.

The soldiers guarding the city only raised their heads for a glance, then turned pale with fright and fell to their knees with a plop.

The two of them have been in office in the provincial capital for so long, and they have never seen such a battle before. Just one person sitting here would be enough for them to drink a pot, let alone gathering together like this.

The two of them knew that a disaster was imminent and did not think about what went wrong. They just kowtowed in apology.

The guard walked to the side of the capital commander Qianshi and reported everything he heard from the merchant.

The commander-in-chief's face looked as gloomy as if it could drip from his eyes.

He originally thought that there would be some discrepancies between what Lu Jiu'an said, and indeed there were discrepancies. However, County Magistrate Lu spared him a bit of trouble, and only said the innocuous part. He didn't mention anything about threatening him with a knife. .

It was not good for these two blind people to touch anyone, so they decided to target Han Zhi and Lu Jiu'an.

He had just been boasting to General Han, and in the blink of an eye he revealed this matter. Commander Qian felt as if he had been slapped hard, and his face was burning with pain.

Out of anger, they ordered Qian Shi to kick the soldier severely: "Idiot! Who taught you to be greedy and ask for bribes!"

The kick was urgent and hard, and the soldier did not take precautions. He was kicked to the ground and crawled to the ground. When he got up, he met Lu Jiu'an's eyes. Lu Jiuan smiled and waved to him and said hello: "Master, we meet again."

The soldiers guarding the city were still kicking the warm bribe money in their arms. Now they finally understood where they had fallen, and felt filled with hatred and regret. He was angry that Lu Jiu'an was an official but concealed his identity, causing him to suffer like this; he also regretted that he had acted recklessly and kicked the iron plate.

The general commanded the officials to apologize to Lu Jiu'an: "I am ashamed that such a scandal happened to one of my subordinates." Then he turned around and apologized to Han with sincerity.

Han Zhi said calmly: "A small punishment but a big warning, a two-month salary fine and a half-year suspension."

General Zhenyuan personally spoke and put an end to the trouble. In the eyes of the capital commander, this was already a very gentle punishment. .

After such a delay, after the dinner was over, dusk was approaching and it was getting dark, so the plan to visit Qiaosi Lake was naturally postponed to the next day. Everyone said goodbye to each other and left.

That night, Lu Jiu'an and his party stayed under Xiang Xuezheng's couch. Xiang Daozhen had thoughtfully prepared three empty rooms for them. It was completely silent. After everyone went to bed, a shadow flashed in the dark night, and General Zhenyuan turned over again. The window entered Magistrate Lu's house.

Early the next morning, Xiang Daozhen excitedly came to the yard where Lu Jiu'an was sleeping. He was a little surprised when he saw Han Zhi neatly dressed and coming out of Lu Jiu'an's room, but he didn't think much about it and pulled hurriedly. After the two of them had breakfast, they went to Qiaosi Lake.

Qiaosi Lake is located in the eastern suburbs of the provincial capital. Today, the weather is beautiful, the wind is beautiful, and the sun is shining warmly, making the lake surface sparkling. There are seven or eight painted boats parked not far away, and the beauties with heavy makeup on the bows are looking at them. Handkerchiefs were waved on all sides to attract guests, and the sound of silk, bamboo and wind music could be heard at some point.

There is no such scene in Yingping, and even Lu Jiu'an couldn't help but be tempted to move after seeing it.

Xiang Daozhen saw through his mind at a glance and said proudly: "Magnificent Lu, what do you think? This scenery is not worthy of the reputation of Qiansi Lake West Mu Tianchi. If you ask me, don't think about vocabulary. , Once you return to Shannan, you will never have a chance again."

Lu Jiu'an thought about it and thought about it.

Work hard when it's time to work, and play hard when it's time to play! Lu Jiu'an completely forgot about the vocabulary and had a great time.

Next, Lu Jiuan went to taste the fish rolls with tomato sauce at Tingqi Xuan, the coriander flower soup at Xiangyue House, the Bergamot Ruyi Cake at the dessert shop... Finally, he went to see the branch of Guanxing News Agency, which is an important news agency. Under the control of Xiangdao Town, the business operation is very impressive, which is not inferior to Ying Ping's.

It can be seen that Xiangdao Zhen is very happy to say this: "When I go to the capital in the future, I will ask Your Majesty to open one in southern Shanxi."

Xiangdao Zhen also wanted to take Lu Jiu'an to other places for leisure travel, but he was He refused with righteous words: "Xiang Xuezheng, if this continues, I will soon forget about Shu. Your Majesty's order is still in Yingping, and I dare not delay it any longer."

Lu Jiu'an was afraid that his will was not firm, and the next day it would be dark. When I got up, I took a thick stack of papers and took a carriage to the administrative history office.

Compared with Jiangzhou Prefecture, making speeches in the provincial capital was obviously much more complicated. By the time the official name was removed from the government office, it was already two days later when Lu Jiu'an received the letter of resignation.

Lu Jiu'an lay on the bed exhausted, his head resting on Han Zhi's arm, with a tired look on his face: "No matter how hard I serve the academic administration, I can't be as comfortable as at home. I really want to go back right away."

Han Zhi covered him. Bloodshot eyes: "Let's set off tomorrow, go to sleep."

Lu Jiu'an was indeed very tired, his eyes were pressed by his warm palms, as if he were soaking in a hot hot spring, and he could no longer open his eyes. strength.

It was late at night, the cold wind was howling, and the huge city was shrouded in boundless darkness. Except for the watchmen walking in the alleys, everyone was sleeping peacefully. Even the dogs raised by the people in the city shivered with the cold and shrank back. Sleeping deeply in a simple den made of thatched grass.

In this thick ink-like night, a few gravels rolled down the rock wall.

Lu Jiu'an was half asleep and vaguely felt the bed shaking. With his eyes closed, he kicked Han Zhi and said hoarsely: "Don't bother me."

Han Zhi's voice was clear and clear, as if he was still asleep: "I'm not bothering you."

Han Zhi maintained The way he was holding him, his body was motionless. Lu Jiu'an thought vaguely: He was just asleep. Han Zhi did not move, but the bed was shaking more and more.

The next moment, a bright light suddenly hit his chaotic thoughts, and he woke up from his sleep. The spiritual platform was clear, and he shouted: "The ground is shaking!"

Han Zhi also realized what happened in an instant, reacted quickly, turned over and pushed Lu Jiuan away Press down and hold his head firmly with both hands.

"Fool, run!" Lu Jiuan yelled at Han Zhi, but Han Zhi didn't seem to hear him and still hugged him. He hugged him so hard that Lu Jiuan could even feel the tight muscles on his shoulders.

Lu Jiuan was protected by him and could not see anything. Their chests were pressed tightly against each other, and in their rapid breathing, they could both hear each other's boiling heartbeat.

The ground shook violently, the tiles on the roof slid down like rain, and the porcelain placed in the house broke one after another. The dark night seemed to be forcibly awakened by the earthquake in an instant, and screams rose from all around.

The time waiting for the earthquake to pass was like torture. The two lay on the bed for nearly 2 minutes before the shaking gradually stopped. By this time, both Lu Jiuan and Han Zhi were soaked to the skin.

Only then did Han Zhi let go of his tight arms. Just as Lu Jiu'an was about to pull him out of the house, he saw Han Zhi jump up suddenly with an ugly expression on his face: "Linshen!" He jumped up and ran away.

Lu Jiu'an's eyelids jumped, he grabbed the two coats on the gantry and followed closely.

Chapter 177

The air was filled with an unpleasant smell, dust was everywhere, servants were running around, and the scene was in chaos.

Lu Jiu'an followed Han Zhi out of the yard and saw Xiang Daozhen coming towards him. The scholar was probably frightened by the sudden earthquake and ran out of the house in panic, without even bothering to put on his coat. He was disheveled and very embarrassed.

Xiangdaozhen experienced this kind of natural disaster for the first time. He was frightened, his face turned pale, and his hands and feet were trembling. He grabbed Lu Jiu'an and asked, "Is Magistrate Lu okay? Where is General Han?"

Han Zhi had already disappeared.

Lu Jiu'an knew that Han Zhi must be very anxious at this moment, because he had never seen such a chaotic look on the face of this all-conquering general.

He looked around blankly, but there was no tall figure anywhere. As for Han Zhi, the situation was unclear at the moment and he couldn't find him.

There was a faint sound of landslides and ground cracking in the distance. A timid maid covered her face and cried bitterly. Everyone was like a headless fly. An old servant did not dodge in a hurry and was knocked over by the fleeing boy's arm. On the ground, there was shouting and shouting everywhere.

Amidst this shocking cry, Lu Jiu'an keenly heard the rapid neighing of horses' hooves from far to near. Han Zhi fetched a horse from nowhere, looking straight ahead, wherever it went. Refers to the outer gate.

He wants to respond Ping! Lu Jiuan immediately realized Han Zhi's plan.

We can't let him leave like this! Without thinking, Lu Jiu'an subconsciously made a bold move. Xiang Daozhen beside him didn't know what he was going to do. When he realized what he was going to do, he only had time to touch a piece of his sleeve.

In his widened eyes, the sleeves reached Yimen like a gust of wind. Lu Jiuan stretched out his arms to block the path that General Zhenyuan must pass.

The horse under Han Zhi was so fast and fierce that almost everyone did not expect Lu Jiuan to make such a move. Lu Qi, who came in a hurry, was shocked to see this scene.

Seeing that Pegasus was about to kick Lu Jiu'an to a bloody place, at the critical moment, Han Zhi grabbed the reins in his hands, and the horse's hoof stopped dangerously just one step away from Lu Jiu'an.

Han Zhi was so frightened that he almost lost his mind, and shouted loudly: "Do you want to die?" If this foot stepped firmly, Lu Jiu'an would either die or be disabled!

A layer of skin was rubbed off the palm of Han Zhi's hand due to excessive force, and blood beads rolled out instantly, rolling down the reins and falling on the horse's back.

Lu Qi stumbled over and ran over. His hands and feet became weak, and his voice was filled with tears: "Master, don't scare me."

Lu Jiu'an was actually scared. He swallowed, comforted Lu Qi, and turned to face Han Zhi said: "Han Chaori, come down."

The mixed emotions of lingering fear and uneasiness kept Han Zhi firmly on the horse. His cheeks were trembling and his red eyes were staring at Lu Jiu'an. There was something difficult in his body. The metaphorical things are expanding, as if they are about to explode at the next moment.

"Linshen is in Yingping." He shouted.

Lu Jiu'an shouted louder than him: "I know, you come down first!"

Compared with Han Zhi, who was angry and uneasy, Lu Jiu'an still retained his basic rationality, "Listen to me, usually big earthquakes like this Afterwards, there will be many aftershocks, large and small."

Lu Jiu'an was eager to convince him. Without waiting for Han Zhi's reply, he continued: "The earthquake will cut off many roads. You should remember the Nujiang estuary that was repaired before. "The collapse of houses is not the most dangerous

thing. Earthquakes can cause many subsequent geological disasters. Landslides and mudslides can occur at any time wherever you pass, and barrier lakes can form where mountains and rivers meet."

"It's just past Yinshi. The road is so dark that you can't see clearly. How are you going to go? If you want to go back to save Linshen, you have to save your life."

"The golden period after a geological disaster is the 72 hours after an earthquake . , we still have time."

At the end, Lu Jiu'an held his arm and begged in a low voice: "Brother Han, I beg you, can I accompany you until dawn?" "

Twilight low . Hanging, the wind blowing from nowhere carries a suffocating smell of moisture.

Han Zhi glanced at Yimen, which was close at hand, but did not rush out in the end.

The servants and maids no longer screamed, but there were more painful moans. This large house still needs someone to manage it. When Lu Jiuan saw the owner of the yard sitting blankly on the stone bench, he took the initiative to take over.

In this turmoil, many people were knocked down, trampled and injured, and the doctor must have lost hope. Lu Jiuan first asked the housekeeper to count the number of people to ensure that no one was affected. Then he directed the young and strong servants to briefly bandage the injured, and then sent people to inspect the damage to the house.

The southeast corner of the courtyard wall fell over, crushing an apricot tree growing against the wall, and a side hall at the second entrance to the courtyard collapsed. Fortunately, the servants were up at night when the incident occurred, and the disaster was avoided.

In addition, numerous porcelain items were broken. Because the danger had not passed, Lu Jiuan did not let anyone enter the house to search.

Under Lu Jiu'an's orderly arrangements, everyone no longer panicked.

Xiang Daozhen finally came to his senses, walked up to Lu Jiu'an, and gave him a solemn salute. He didn't say anything, but all his words of gratitude were clearly conveyed through his eyes that were faintly filled with tears.

"Why did the earthquake happen?" Lu Jiu'an heard someone sighing.

Yes, why did the earthquake happen? I don't know if Ying Ping was affected by the disaster. Could it be that when he returned, he saw ruins?

After six years of hard work, the people of Yingping have finally developed their hometown into such a prosperous scene. Will they suffer another devastating blow?

Lu Jiu'an felt sad. He was very depressed, but he had been holding on. Now that he was suddenly relaxed, his heart felt very uncomfortable. He returned to Han Zhi and sat down, too lazy to move.

Han Zhi touched his cold hands, closed his eyes tightly, turned and left. After a while, he came back with a quilt and wrapped it layer by layer on Lu Jiu'an.

Lu Jiu'an's voice was hoarse: "Have you gone back to the house?"

Han Zhi said: "Your lips are blue from the cold. You can easily catch a cold if you wear such thin clothes."

During the earthquake, Lu Jiu'an and Han Zhi were covered in sweat, and their inner clothes were soaked. Wet. After escaping from the wing, I saw the wind again. The wind in the middle of the night was no better than during the day. It blew against my body like a sharp knife, causing my skin to hurt. At this time, many people were coughing in the yard.

Han Zhi carefully wiped off the dust on Lu Jiuan's face and pressed his neck: "I'll go out for a while, and you stay in the yard until I come back to pick you up."

With such a big earthquake, the entire provincial capital was shaken . Alarmed, the three departments, namely, the Administrative Envoy Department, the Provincial Envoy Department, the Provincial Envoy Department, and the General Command Department gathered together to urgently dispatch troops to deploy and organize rescue.

Torches were lit in rows, lighting up the city brightly, and the sound of marching teams could be heard from all directions. In just two quarters of an hour, Lu Jiuan had already seen three waves of heavily armed soldiers running past the courtyard gate.

On the way, the inspector made a personal trip and was a little surprised to see that the yard was in good order.

However, he was only stunned for a moment. The situation was urgent and he could not allow him to dwell on it. He called his friends to give a brief explanation to Daozhen. Lu Jiu'an vaguely heard the words "The pasture is flooded, and we are organizing to put out the fire." Without saying a few words, there were subordinates outside urging him, and he left in a hurry.

Lu Jiu'an looked up and saw flames filling the sky in the northwest, and thick black smoke coiling into the sky.

The noisy crowing of cocks and the barking of dogs could not stop at night. Everyone stayed outside all night without closing their eyes, forcing themselves to keep their eyelids open until dawn.

As soon as Mao Shi passed and dawn broke, Han Zhi came back with two shiny and muscular horses.

There were two completely different smells on his body...the damp river water and the pungent fire. A section of his coat was also singed, making him look nondescript.

"Get on the horse." Han Zhi shouted to him before he entered the door.

Lu Qi seemed to realize that he couldn't go back together. He tugged on Lu Jiu'an's sleeve tightly, his eyes pleading.

At the critical moment, Lu Jiu'an knew not to be sloppy, so he touched Lu Qi's head and said with a solemn expression: "Listen, Lu Qi, I will give you a task now."

"You immediately summon all the staff of the provincial capital news agency, including Dan Qingshou, Everyone is dispatched. Keep up with the local disaster situation and record the following with pictures and texts: including but not limited to the affected houses, the number of casualties, the rescue progress, etc. "

The task is urgent and we must start immediately. Can we do it

at this moment ?" Bursting with an unprecedented sense of mission, he couldn't bear to give up, and with the determination to face death, he loudly said: "It can be done!"

Xiang Daozhen came up from behind: "I didn't do anything just now, little brother, I will follow you Let's go and call the disciples. It's a big deal if you can."

Lu Jiu'an patted him on the shoulder and said in a serious tone: "Be careful" and got on his horse and left without looking back.

Logically speaking, the waterway is the fastest. You can go down the river and pass through Jiangzhou Prefecture to Yingping. But as mentioned just now, earthquakes will trigger a variety of subsequent geological disasters, and waterways are dangerous. Once in trouble, there is a narrow escape.

Lu Jiu'an finally saw the impact of the earthquake. The provincial capital was okay, with only a few collapsed houses, and only a handful of them. After leaving the city, it would not be an exaggeration to describe it as a miserable scene on earth.

The river changed its course and the river overflowed. The road was overturned and boulders strewn across it. Many people sat on a pile of abandoned rubble and cried, or there was simply no sound around the ruins.

King Yama held up the Book of Life and Death and ruthlessly took away every living life.

On the way, Han Zhi clenched his teeth and said nothing. He only whipped the riding crop in his hand fiercely and hurried forward like a man. Lu Jiuan was almost thrown out of sight by him several times.

But he never took the initiative to stop and rest, because he knew very well that although Han Linshen and Han Zhi were not biological father and son, their relationship with each other day and night was extraordinary. Besides, Han Linshen has a noble status, he is a prince or even a heirloom. If something goes wrong...

there will be Hongtu College.

There are some school-age students from Quanyingping and even surrounding counties gathered inside. These are the future pillars of the Great Zhou Dynasty. They are full of vitality, the same age as Hua Hua, and are full of hope for life. According to inference, they were sleeping in the dormitory of Hongtu College when the earthquake occurred.

Lu Jiu'an didn't dare to think about it anymore. For the first time, he sincerely prayed to God in his heart, please don't... don't let anything happen.

If you are hungry on the road, you will eat dry food to satisfy your hunger. If you are thirsty, you will endure it. If you can't bear it anymore, you will drink the stagnant water on the roadside. The journey of several days was shortened to just over one day. When they arrived at Hongtu College and dismounted, Lu Jiuan's knees softened and he knelt straight on the ground.

The inner thighs of his thighs were bruised and bloody from running around on horseback without rest, and they were already in so much pain that they could no longer feel anything.

Chapter 178

Han Zhi held Lu Jiu'an in his arms. He smelled a strong smell of rust at the tip of his nose. He looked down and saw blood stains under his robe, soaking through the fabric. The blood traced along his pants and reached his knees. .

"Jiu'an..." Han Zhi's chest suddenly felt painful and his voice was hoarse. At this moment, he felt helpless, as if his soul was being roasted on a blazing fire. There was Han Linshen on one end and Lu Jiuan on the other, but no one took it into consideration.

Lu Jiu'an was in such a miserable state as he had never seen before. His mouth was chapped and bloodless, and his face was pale and pale.

At this time, when the pain slowly returned to his body, Lu Jiuan couldn't help but take a breath, and cold sweat broke out on his forehead instantly. He thought about how he had to hold back and rush back without saying a word all the way. Purpose, pressed Han Zhi's arm and slowly propped him up: "I don't blame you, I am just as anxious as you are. Please help me, let's go into the college to see the situation."

There was no one in Hongtu College, from the classroom With the books scattered all over the place and the classroom door that had not yet been closed, it is easy to see that all the students left in a hurry. The only thing that is reassuring is that the school buildings are intact.

At this time, Fan Chengqiu came out of the business center and happened to take a photo with Lu Jiu'an face to face. He was surprised and happy at the same time: "Your Majesty the County Magistrate..."

This was not the first time Fan Chengqiu experienced an earthquake, but he still had lingering fears in the face of natural disasters. What's more, he shouldered such a heavy responsibility and brought up so many children and students. Looking at Lu Jiu'an, he almost burst into tears.

Lu Jiu'an got straight to the point and asked: "Fan Jiaoyu, were there any casualties among the students during the earthquake?"

"None of the students were injured or killed. Only Master Meng accidentally sprained his foot while leading the students to escape." When mentioned this, Fan Chengqiu was very happy. He also sighed, "Fortunately, you insisted on the college doing earthquake escape drills, so we can survive this time safely."

"And General Han, many students were frightened and cried. He stood up at the critical moment and calmed everyone down ." Emotions."

Lu Jiu'an and Han Zhi got the answers they wanted, and their hearts were relieved.

Under questioning, Fan Chengqiu successively told some of the school's temporary plans and arrangements.

When the earthquake occurred, the Master led the students to evacuate in an orderly manner, and later invited psychological counselors Xie Yi and three others to provide psychological comfort to them. After the initial estimate that there would be no earthquake, Hongtu College issued a holiday notice, and everyone, including the masters, left school and returned home.

"Thank you for your hard work, Fan Jiaoyu." Lu Jiu'an praised sincerely. Drilling is one thing. When things really happen, the entire college can stay calm and arrange things properly. Fan Chengqiu is indispensable. .

This time, hundreds of people in the college evacuated at the same time. There was no stampede and no one was injured. Even in his time, it could be said to be a model of escape.

"Being a teacher is what you should do." Fan Chengqiu said as a matter of course.

"You and all the masters are both righteous and virtuous people who deserve praise. It is an honor for the students and me at Hongtu College to have you." Lu Jiu'an waved his hand, "Fan Jiaoyu, please close Hongtu College first. The gate of the college, you should go back."

After saying this, Lu Jiu'an said goodbye. The whole Yingping County was not only filled with this group of students, but also other common people. The county was in chaos, and Yingping was still waiting for him. Ling takes charge of the overall situation.

Han Zhi and Lu Jiu'an rushed back to the county government office. The left-behind people in the lobby heard the commotion. When they went out and saw the two people, the panic of the past few days was instantly replaced by surprise, and even their wandering hearts settled down. He cried excitedly and shouted into the house: "General Han and Mr. Lu are back!"

No general can make an army.

All the people came out cheering, as if they had found a backbone, and their eyes turned red when they looked at the two of them.

Wu Heng knelt down first, like a child who had done something wrong, unable to hide his self-blame: "When my lord left, I promised you that I would look after Ying Ping, but in the end..." Wu Heng couldn't say any more: "My lord, I have been responsible for my entrustment. "I'm sorry for you."

"This disaster has nothing to do with you. Get up and talk first." Lu Jiu'an grabbed him and patted his wrinkled collar. "My face looked tired. I haven't slept much in the past two days." Did you have a good sleep? I think there are only a few people in the county government, and you have sent out the rest of the government officials. You have done a good job. What is the situation in Yingping now? "

Wu Heng wiped his face randomly. With tears in her eyes, she regained her composure as the chief clerk and said: "Now only eight villages have reported the disaster, with a total of fifty-three collapsed houses. The casualties are not yet known. The government officials went to various places to check. Rescue will be carried out depending on the critical situation. "

In addition, the buildings in the county were damaged to varying degrees, and the roads were cracked. No one was injured yet. "

This level of damage is actually minimal compared to this earthquake. .

In fact, on the way to respond to Ping, the disaster became less obvious as we walked toward Jiangzhou Prefecture. Lu Jiuan speculated that the source of the earthquake should be in the opposite direction, and Ying Ping was only affected.

There is another reason. People in Yingping have become increasingly prosperous in recent years, and many of them have newly built houses. Even the old residents followed Lu Jiuan's suggestion and renovated it into a bed and breakfast. Compared with the crumbling old buildings he saw when he went to the provincial capital, the earthquake resistance was much better.

Lu Jiu'an took off his coat and quickly gave instructions: "Gather all the rescue teams in the county. We have trained for so long. Now the people of Yingping are in dire straits. It is the time when they are needed. The rescue is against time. There is no delay. Bring your own search and rescue teams." Dog, come with me."

Han Zhi interrupted him: "There are many things waiting for you to deal with in the county. You stay in the county office and I will lead the team out."

Lu Jiu'an retorted: "But..."

"No but." ." Han Zhi took out a tube of ointment and placed it in his hand, "Jiu'an, be obedient."

Han Zhi's hint couldn't be more obvious: You are injured and should not run around anymore. You can stay at the county office to handle county affairs and you can recover from your injuries.

While waiting for the government officials to prepare rescue equipment, Han Linshen, Yang Miaomiao, and Aduo ran in. Seeing that there was no one around Lu Jiuan, Yang Miaomiao asked worriedly: "Where is brother Lu Qi?"

Lu Jiuan touched his head: "Brother Lu Qi is the editor-in-chief of the news agency. He is leading people outside to report on the earthquake scene."

Yang Miaomiao pursed her lips sadly. The earthquake still caused indelible trauma to his young mind.

Han Linshen was silent and thought for a moment before walking to Han Zhi: "Dad, when I entered the house just now, I heard you saying that you wanted to lead a team to rescue. Let me go with you. I can also do a lot of things."

Han Zhi looked straight at him . Seeing his firm gaze, he nodded in agreement and gave a rare compliment: "You finally look like a prince. In that case, hurry up and change into light clothes."

Lu Jiuan personally heard from Han Zhi . Hearing Han Linshen's true identity, he was not surprised at all.

He had already guessed from all the signs.

He was even sincerely happy for the people of the world that Han Linshen was trained to be a prince who shared the people's worries.

If the emperors of every dynasty were virtuous monarchs who cared deeply for the people, with clear rivers and seas, good times and good years, good mountains and rivers, and ordinary fireworks, would such a harmonious society be far away?

Not long after, the team was assembled in the county government office. With an order, Han Zhi led the rescue team and ran towards the disaster area without hesitation.

Lu Jiu'an's injured position was relatively sensitive. He was a little embarrassed when Qin Jizhi checked him, but seeing how serious Qin Jizhi was, he despised himself for being a mediocre person and waited peacefully for him to treat it with topical herbal medicine. He was also busy with the earthquake disaster. .

During this period, he wrote a request to the emperor, requesting that his return to Beijing be postponed for two months, sealed the fire paint, and ordered people to hurry up and deliver it to the south of Shanxi.

Han Zhi led the search and rescue team to carry out rescue operations in different towns. New disaster data were updated every day, but so far the situation was still acceptable. Only four people died and the rest were injured. After the local barefoot doctor simply treated the wounds, He was carried to the county hospital for treatment.

Even so, several medical points in Yingping are overcrowded every day, let alone other places?

The earthquake special articles of Guanxing News Agency were circulated one after another, and were posted on the display boards of Life Plaza one after another. The contents were shocking.

The hardest-hit area of ​​the earthquake here is in a place called Xingxiang. The people in Yingping have never heard of this place name. They didn't expect to learn about it for the first time in such a horrible way.

Lu Qi took the county news agency deep into the disaster area. This time, the editorial team was assisted by disciples who were specially recruited by Xiang Daozhen.

The literary talents of this group of students are more outstanding than the others. After witnessing this hell on earth with their own eyes, they were greatly shocked. The words written with full of emotions will make the readers cry.

After seeing the death data displayed by the reporter, people in Yingping could not help but empathize with the paintings, and they all felt worried about this group of victims who had never been masked.

Natural disasters are ruthless. In the face of the angry nature, human life seems so small and fragile.

When Lu Jiu'an walked on the streets of the county town, he could always hear all kinds of comments and lamentations.

In ancient times when science and technology were underdeveloped, rescue was particularly difficult. Even though Yingping was slightly affected by the disaster, it took the rescue team more than ten days to return to the county government exhausted.

They were working around the clock every day to rescue and never had a good rest. After they came back, Lu Jiuan told them not to worry about anything and go to bed immediately.

Han Zhi's eyes were red from the sleep. If he had only been separated for a short time, he would have been warm to him for a long time. But now he was so tired that he didn't even want to talk more and fell asleep next to the pillow.

Lu Jiuan threw away his worn leather soap boots and brought a basin of hot water to clean the dirt between his nails.

He had a lot of wounds on his hands, the most serious one was the tiger's mouth on his right hand, where the skin was almost torn. Lu Jiuan took warm wine to disinfect him, but even so, Han Zhi failed to wake up.

Lu Jiu'an scrubbed his whole body, kissed his forehead, stood up and left.

Han Zhi slept for a full day and night before getting up. At this time, he was so hungry that his chest pressed against his back. Lu Jiuan had already asked the county government cafeteria to prepare food so that the warriors could have a hot meal as soon as they woke up.

Han Zhiben had a huge appetite and had to eat three large bowls in a row before he was full. Lu Jiu'an had been quietly waiting for him to finish, and then asked about the rescue process.

Han Zhi was not good at speaking, and did not explain in detail in many places. After hearing this, the Yamen servant next to him occasionally added a sentence or two. There were a total of 28 victims this time, including men, women, and children. The youngest was a baby who was less than half a month old. Before we have time to take a good look at the world, the light of life is extinguished.

The topic was a bit heavy, and at the end of the conversation, everyone looked depressed in unison: "The search and rescue dogs kept barking, telling us that there was someone below. We gradually opened up the ruins, but what we pulled out was a lifeless body. We have obviously tried our best... Wuwuwu, Mr. Lu, this feeling is too uncomfortable."

Lu Jiu'an also felt his breath hitched. Only Han Zhi could remain calm. He thought for a while and said casually. : "I have been a general for so long. In fact, I see different soldiers die every day on the battlefield. Disasters are the same as fighting. You also see dead people, but this is different from fighting."

"On the battlefield, I watch them die, but I can't Stop them, because this is their destiny as soldiers, and even I, as a general, am taking the lead in the charge."

"In this experience, I pulled so many people out of the ruins, and every time one of them survived, the shackles in my heart became stronger. Being a little lighter seems to make up for the soldiers who were unable to survive under my command all those years."

The light in the Yamen servant's eyes flickered, and finally fell silent. Even Lu Jiu'an, who was not involved in the rescue, was touched by it.

Han Linshen seemed particularly silent among the crowd. He had lived in the palace since he was a child, and later went to the border. When he saw the people in their most miserable state, they were no more than beggars on the streets who couldn't afford to eat.

He had never even participated in the refugee war and epidemic in Yingping with Han Zhi. He never knew that people's lives would be like this.

How could it be so difficult? Just a small twist and misfortune can cause a family of several people who can still afford food and clothing to be burned down.

This was just the tip of the iceberg of the disasters he had seen. Han Zhi told him that on Huiping Road in the provincial capital, there were ruins everywhere and cries of grief everywhere.

During this rescue, he was the one who felt the deepest impression, which was more effective than the tens of millions of sage books he had read in the past.

He seemed to understand why his father and his father asked him to come to Yingping.

How can we feel the suffering of the world without going deep into the people? How to plead for the people?

When they returned to the private room that night and there were only two of them, Han Zhi took off Lu Jiuan's underpants to check the injuries in his legs. When he saw an ugly scab on his skin that was as white as fat, he immediately frowned and said in distress: "Does it still hurt? "It doesn't hurt anymore, it's just a little itchy. "

Lu Jiu'an smiled and slapped his hand away, "Don't touch it. The doctor said you shouldn't have sex until the injury heals."

"I don't..." Han Zhi choked. , when he realized that he was teasing himself, he rubbed the back of his neck and said tenderly, "Jiu'an, if something like this happens again in the future, you must not keep it silently in your heart. You must tell me."

Lu Jiu'an blinked and shone brightly . His eyes nodded obediently, and Han Zhi's throat felt dry. He kissed him carefully along his face for a while, and then said, "Jiu'an, do you remember the night we first met, in Yang Gengqing's house, when you told me that I was like a soldier and a civilian?"

" Huh?"

"Now, I finally understand." Han Zhi talked about other things that were not mentioned in the cafeteria. "During the rescue, the Yamen lay down so tired that he woke up several times and was covered with thin clothes. "

When they see the government officials eating dry food, the people will spontaneously take out the food stored at home, and they will also secretly stuff the eggs under the bowls that they usually don't want to eat."

Lu Jiu'an nodded: "The soldiers love the people, and the people are grateful. That's how the army and the people are like water. So I plan to open a warehouse to provide relief to the hardest-hit areas while Ying Ping still has the ability."

"He is busy rescuing all the time, and he doesn't know the news from the outside world.

Lu Jiu'an showed the important news to Han Zhi. Han Zhi's eyes fell on the pictures and words and he was silent for a while: "The Imperial Brother will send food down."

"I know, but water far away cannot save the fire near."

"Then follow your instructions . Just think of it," Han Zhi said.

Lu Jiu'an began to prepare food for relief. At that time, a team of fifty government officials would be sent to escort the supplies. The news spread out at some point. To Lu Jiu'an's surprise, the county government opened the door the next day and received the goods. Fundraising comes from all directions.

Lu Jiu'an was surprised: "This is..."

These supplies were all different. Lu Jiu'an saw old clothes, unsoiled sweet potatoes, fresh cabbage... It was not difficult to guess that each family raised some. Five bull carts were fully loaded and delivered. Li

Zheng, who was delivering the donations, cupped his hands and said, "These are the thoughts of the folks."

Lu Jiu'an seemed to have been lightly knocked on the chest by something, and he murmured, "Why do people..."

In ancient times, when Xiaoan was rich, most people adhered to the concept that wealth should not flow to outsiders. He thought that opening a warehouse to provide relief to disaster areas would require a lot of words to explain. Unexpectedly, the people knew about it and voluntarily gave away what they produced in their homes without saying a word. Although it was meager, it showed their sincerity.

Li Zhengdao: "The villagers know the content of the news every day, and they feel uncomfortable in their hearts. Because they have experienced it before, they know what it feels like, so they thought that they could help a little bit, maybe with a small external force. Can you get over this hurdle? "

Is it because I have been caught in the rain that I want to hold an umbrella for others?

At this moment, Lu Jiu'an could clearly see the brilliance of humanity from these simple people.

This brilliance is more dazzling than the scorching sun in the sky, and brighter than the clear moon. It is like a piece of charcoal fire on a frosty day, suddenly comforting the softest part of the body.

This accident lasted until noon. The rescue team headed by Zhan Weizhu and Zhao Laosan, with nearly a hundred people, volunteered to go to the rescue.

Lu Jiu'an reminded: "The situation in the hardest-hit area is even more terrible than that in Yingping. Under the ruins are all broken arms and limbs. Can you bear it?"

Zhao Laosan's words were not so sonorous, but every sentence was resounding: "General That's right, don't feel guilty and sad because you didn't save one person. At least more people survived because of us. This is the meaning of the existence of the rescue team."

The next day, donations were raised by the Yingping government and private citizens. Relief, escorted by large troops, set off for the disaster area in a mighty manner.

Less than a week after the rescue team left, the carriage that took over as the new county magistrate of Ying Ping arrived at the county seat.

The new county magistrate is named Ma Fanyou. He passed the imperial examination six years earlier than Lu Jiu'an. However, in terms of qualifications, he is older than Lu Jiu'an, but his fame is not as good as that of Lu Jiu'an, who was born in Tanhua. He is not even a Jinshi.

He was registered in the Literary and Selection Department of the Ministry of Civil Affairs, but it was not his turn to become an official because local officials were like carrots and pits. Only when the carrot in front left, would there be a pit for the next carrot.

His imperial examination results were relatively low, and he didn't know that he had to wait until the Year of the Monkey and the Horse. For this reason, he sent a lot of things to the Ministry of Civil Affairs and waited for six years before finally getting the good news.

In Yingping, Jiangzhou, he asked people to ask around. Ma Fanyou was a little dissatisfied before he was in a poor place, but at least it was better than nothing.

The official could easily see through his mind and lowered his eyes and said, "If the square inkstone you gave me had not won my favor, do you think you could get such a good job?"

Ma Fanyou hurried down the slope and said: "I am stupid, please." Your Majesty made it clear."

"Did you get the news a few years ago? Appreciation, promotion to the capital." The official said, "So after you go there, you should know what you should and shouldn't do. Don't go astray and lose this hard-won official status.

" ? But how did I hear that Lu Jiuan was wronged because of the Qin burning case..."

The official glanced at him and said, "Just listen to what the superior officer says. This is also a knowledge. It seems that you are not very knowledgeable. If you still have something to learn after you get there, take the appointment documents and leave quickly."

In short, according to the official's words, the place has good mountains and rivers, and it is not a remote place.

Ma Fanyou felt happy and made many predictions about the future along the way. This good mood lasted until he entered the territory of Quang Mok Province and encountered an earthquake.

Chapter 179

There were floods before, snowstorms after, and earthquakes next. The Great Zhou Dynasty was really a series of disasters, one wave after another.

And he is unlucky, so unlucky! This happened before we even got to Yingping. Does this count as a bad start?

Ma Fanyou feebly reflected in his mind: He must have been so complacent before that God couldn't stand it anymore, so he deliberately tormented me like this.

Lu Jiu'an didn't pay too much attention to the arrival of the new county magistrate. Although Ying Ping was not particularly severely affected by the disaster, he still had a lot of post-disaster reconstruction work that he needed to arrange. He couldn't spare time to deal with Ma Fanyou at the moment.

The yamen could not mobilize any extra manpower, so he personally took Ma Fanyou to the post house. Yi Cheng, who was in charge of carriages and horses, took a look at the mountains of luggage piled up in the bed frame room behind Ma Fan and muttered to himself that this was a move, so he habitually asked Shangguan about his origins.

Ma Fanyou can no longer make any waves with his new identity: "I am your future county magistrate."

Xiao Si suspected that he heard wrongly: "What did the adults say?"

Ma Fanyou frowned and repeated: "Why? , Did you not hear clearly? I said I am your new county magistrate."

As if struck by lightning, the boy's first reaction was that this person was joking, and he subconsciously turned to look at Lu Jiu'an.

Lu Jiu'an acquiesced to Ma Fanyou's words: "Be careful. In addition, now that people are panicked, the most important thing is to deal with the disaster. Don't publicize this matter everywhere. Just keep it to yourself." Lu Jiu'an had something to say. refer to.

The boy was shaken and couldn't believe what he heard.

Now that the new county magistrate has arrived, where will Mr. Lu go?

Lu Jiu'an placed the people in the post house and explained briefly: "...That's it. I have informed your majesty that it will not be too late after handing over the arrangements for appeasement and reconstruction. If Magistrate Ma is interested in taking over in advance, we can also come together Come. Please forgive me for the poor reception."

Ma Fanyou was happy that he didn't have to clean up this mess. As for Lu Jiu'an's suggestion of taking over in advance, he immediately ordered his entourage to unload the necessary items and go to the main room in the backyard. .

He has been busy with travels and travels for the past month, and he is already old. How can he compare with the young and strong County Magistrate Lu? It is better to rest and recuperate in the post house.

Lu Jiuan was very busy.

It is necessary to distribute burial expenses to the families who unfortunately died, provide different amounts of relief subsidies according to the degree of damage to the houses, and repair cracked and severed cement roads and blocked ditches.

In addition, the news agency included the donations from the common people and the rescue team in the special article. After Ying Ping circulated it widely, several waves of donations from wealthy gentry appeared one after another. Whether they were coerced by morality or sincere, the original intention was not important. Lu Jiuan Just look at the results.

Also coming together was a medical team formed voluntarily by the students of the medical school: "First of all, I have a heart of great compassion and vow to save the suffering of souls everywhere." "Keep yourself healthy and maintain your health"

"Sir, time waits for us. After studying medicine for so long, it's time for us to take action."

"Okay! Okay!" Lu Jiuan said three times and came out of the Yamen. More than thirty people were dispatched to escort this group of medical students to the disaster area.

This kind of earthquake is very rare. The last time such a serious disaster occurred in the Great Zhou Dynasty was during the reign of Taizu of the previous dynasty, more than two hundred years ago.

Both the government and the public were shocked, and even Mu Lin, who had always been aloof and unconcerned, wrote a letter to express his regards as soon as he learned of the incident.

Not to mention that as Emperor Yongxi who ruled the entire Zhou Dynasty, he wrote a self-incriminating edict overnight.

"... Floods and droughts have occurred frequently, and earthquakes have occurred frequently. This is all because I listened to slanderous words and used traitors in vain. I did not think about the integrity of the people, did not promote the virtuous, did not manage the business clearly, and did not cultivate the internal affairs. As a result, I saw different stars, the yin and yang were not in harmony, and caused strange disasters. As a warning..."

Lu Jiu'an sneered after hearing this. This was clearly a natural disaster, but because of some ulterior motives, he used high-sounding banners to forcefully push it on people and put forward such "sends of heaven" theory.

Such nonsense remarks, if he were beside His Majesty the Emperor at this moment, he would definitely tell him: "Earthquakes are caused by the movement of the earth's crust. They can happen at any time, and they have nothing to do with you. There is no need to take all the responsibility on oneself."

Then Emperor Yongxi urgently summoned the ministers in Beijing to go to court to arrange the next disaster relief and other matters.

Earthquakes occur in almost every dynasty and every generation. The entire process of providing disaster relief and providing financial support has been inherited and is quite mature. All you need to do is follow the steps step by step. The only thing that needs to be considered is the issue of candidates.

Emperor Yongxi walked condescendingly around the court. The ministers lowered their heads and held their breath, their eyes flickering and they did not dare to look at the emperor.

Everyone is in danger, lest this dangerous job happen to him accidentally.

There was no emotion or anger on Emperor Yongxi's face, and he said to a minister with long beard and hunched back in the second row: "Servant Wang, come here. You are a handsome and resourceful person who is good at planning and making decisions. You are the most suitable candidate." "Yes."

Wang Shilang's face remained unchanged, he had already thought of his excuse: "I am already old, I am afraid that I may not be able to handle it."

Emperor Yongxi didn't say anything, and turned to another minister with a naturally solemn face: " Then Qin Yushi, you are usually the most powerful in terms of rhetoric, impeachment, and refutation of my orders. Why don't you stand up now at this critical moment?"

Qin Yushi said tremblingly, "Go back to the emperor, I will introduce you to the official . What they did was to pick up the officials and tell them frankly, and to do this disaster relief. If it failed, it was the people who suffered."

Emperor Yongxi called several more people, but no one responded.

"They are all blaming each other." Emperor Yongxi smiled casually, "What? I am full of civil and military officials in this dynasty. Isn't there anyone who can be used?"

No ministers answered him, and they all knelt down and kowtowed to apologize: "Your Majesty, please calm down."

Emperor Yongxi held his temples: "It would be great if Lu Aiqing was here, I wouldn't have to worry so much."

Here he comes again, everyone looked at each other tacitly: You have to mention Lu Jiu'an for everything, why? Was he sent directly to Yingping because of a disagreement?

Oh, I forgot, you were protecting him and had no choice but to transfer him out through the Qin Burning Case. It can be said that you have good intentions.

Hey, it's true that different ministers have different fates.

Then I heard the noble and graceful voice directly in front of me saying: "You must be slandering me in your heart for mentioning him again."

The ministers knelt down again: "I don't dare." "I am scared." "

I'm here to tell you the reason." The accompanying eunuch next to him understood the situation and respectfully handed over a letter. The paint had been peeled off and must have been read. Emperor Yongxi raised the page to the courtiers below: "I received this seal yesterday. It is from Lu Aiqing. The request was handed over quickly, asking to delay returning to Beijing for two months and voluntarily stay in Jiangzhou to fight the earthquake and restore order to the people's livelihood."

Everyone wiped the sweat from their faces in shame, but remained unmoved.

Emperor Yongxi waved his hand with a disappointed look on his face: "That's all, I have already decided on the candidate in my mind. Fu'an will send the list to the staff later. Why are you nervous? It's not any of you. Each yamen interacts with each other and cannot be lazy and push the blame. Retreat from the imperial court."

All departments worked overtime, including Taichang Temple, which was usually the most leisurely place. It was also particularly busy because Emperor Yongxi was going to the ancestral temple to worship in order to comfort the souls in distress.

In response to disasters, relief, tax reductions and exemptions, government orders were issued one after another to appease the people affected by the disaster.

In Yingping, Lu Jiuan was doing post-disaster reconstruction in an orderly manner, but Ma Fanyou was bored in the hotel and walked around Yingping, shocked.

For the next few days, they all took the initiative to follow Lu Jiu'an to learn from him, wanting to see how he performed his official duties, and that was why he managed Ying Ping like this.

But Lu Jiuan was too busy at that time to take care of him at all. After being ignored several times, Ma Fanyou asked for trouble and went back to the inn to sleep.

In the early spring of the next year, the rescue team and medical team that set out for the disaster area returned to Yingping.

After two months of rescue, a layer of weather-beaten marks were added to everyone's faces. After the medical team said goodbye to Lu Jiu'an, they each returned home, while the rescue team returned to the county government with their search and rescue dogs.

Not all search and rescue dogs returned. One search and rescue dog named "Changfeng" died in Xingxiang. It was exhausted and its bones were buried under the green hills.

The tragedy of the scene cannot be described in any words. Half of the mountain collapsed and the lake overflowed. There were all kinds of strange deaths, some were stabbed through the chest by a broken piece of wood, some had their lower bodies broken off, their intestines and internal organs were scattered all over the floor, and there was blood everywhere, either fresh or dried and coagulated blood.

But most of them can't even find their bodies.

The beautiful scenery of Xingxiang was full of devastation. I heard that there were many flowers and trees in this place and the fragrance was fragrant. But for more than a month, all the officials could smell was a stench. It was the rotten smell caused by too many corpses to be buried.

Although they were mentally prepared, everyone was still affected by this shocking scene.

No one can face death peacefully.

Three psychiatrists from Xie Yi worked hard to provide psychological counseling for this group of people, and the depressive atmosphere gradually improved.

Before the officials could fully recover, they learned another piece of news: Magistrate Lu was about to leave Yingping and return to southern Shanxi after receiving the order from today.

The newly appointed county magistrate has been living in the post house for a month. The ironclad evidence is in front of them, and they cannot help but not believe it.

Different from the depression after the rescue, this is a kind of sadness and sorrow that is difficult to leave.

The atmosphere among the government officials was gloomy.

Lu Jiu'an wiped his face. This day has come, and he will eventually face it.

Transfer orders came one after another from above, urging him to go to Beijing as soon as possible. He must not put everything on the agenda and have it all settled before leaving.

He first summoned the chief clerk. Wu Heng remained silent. Lu Jiuan pressed his shoulder and said, "You were promoted by me and you have outstanding abilities. A second-in-command officer like the chief clerk is the second-in-command of the county government. Usually there are many You have a say in making decisions, and I feel relieved to leave it to you."

"I haven't had time to get in touch with the new county magistrate, so I think it's not bad. However, everyone's behavior is different, and you may not be able to adapt to it at first. , the running-in and running-in will be over. Don't be disobedient when you change your boss. After all, it is you who are annoying and suffering because of your superiority."

Wu Heng asked hoarsely: "What if you are new? The county magistrate's behavior is unclear, and Ying Ping has become a mess. Should I just obey

him ? How can you allow others to waste your hard work? Magistrate Ma, write to Shanxi and I will make the decision for you. If I can't do it, General Han will never let it go.

" The military discipline is very strict, and this kind of thing is the last thing to be tolerated. His bottom line was touched with one word: death!

After explaining everything to the chief clerk, Lu Jiuan then gathered all the government officials.

After five or six years of development, the number of government servants has grown from a few dozen to more than 300. The vast majority of them are white servants without official salaries, whom he trained for rescue work.

The government officials stood tall and straight and lined up neatly. Even though they are all a group of military officials with strong muscles and rough minds, they are the ones with the most profound friendship. They all looked at Lu Jiu'an and told themselves not to cry.

Lu Jiu'an pinched his thigh and his throat choked several times before he spit out what he wanted to say.

"I have received the news that Governor Guangmu reported the disaster truthfully, including the government officials and medical students who you took the initiative to rescue. Your two teams are well-trained and disciplined, and your performance is very eye-catching. The governor has already I have noticed you, and I have said a lot of good things for you in the paper I submitted. "

You should also know that when there is a vacancy in the local military preparedness, a group of people will have to be replaced, and some of them will come from the state capital. Recommendation, this time you have to be personally recommended by the governor. Needless to say, I know that this opportunity is rare. You stand out in disaster relief and do things that benefit the people. It is definitely a sure thing to be selected. Once you get in, you will be judged on merit. "Reward."

"As the Yamen servants rise, they will still be the Yamen servants, and the Imperial Guards will reach the rank of commander. If anyone is willing to return to southern Shanxi with me, please report it to the Lord. If you are unwilling to leave, you can do it." If you don't force it, I will do the last thing for you and reject this matter for you."

"It concerns your future. It's not too late to tell me after careful consideration."

Zhao Laosan asked seriously. "

The dog follows its owner. You can take it according to your own abilities." Lu Jiu'an thought for a while and then said: "I went to Shannan and I am not familiar with the place. You can come to me at any time and treat you as your own." As a county magistrate for six years, this busy man is still willing to help. If you cause any trouble, don't come to me, and don't say you know me."

Lu Jiu'an's last few words were intended to adjust the atmosphere . Yes, the yamen officer understood and showed a smile that was uglier than crying. Lu Jiuan felt even more uncomfortable.

In the end, Lu Jiuan waved his hand tiredly: "Disband on the spot."

Chapter 180

Lu Jiuan has done too many things during the six years he has served as county magistrate. He has too many things to consider, including who should stay and who should follow him. These must be planned. These two things alone have already made him physically and mentally exhausted.

The government officials felt very uncomfortable, and they tried to pretend to be happy for him. Several government officials were listlessly packing his luggage. Zhao Laosan had just loaded two cans of snow salt into the carriage when Lu Qi came over and asked him to follow him to live in my hometown.

Lu Jiu'an was in the study, cleaning up one item at a time. Every time he picked up an item, he was reminded of a memory. He couldn't bear to throw it away, but putting it on the carriage would add to the burden.

Lu Jiu'an picked out a tiger head gold object from the drawer.

"The token of the Exhibition Pavilion given by Mu Xiaohou." Yes, you should also write a letter to Mu Lin before leaving Yingping, and ask him to send it to Shannan when he replies in the future, so as to avoid losing contact when he gets it.

Lu Jiu'an took up his pen and wrote a letter to Mu Lin. Lu Qi came in with his people and directed the yamen to pack the things in the study into boxes.

Zhao Laosan looked around: "Everything must be packed up?"

"Everything." Lu nodded and emphasized, "All the things that the young master values ​​and cherish are kept here in my hometown. Especially these books, the young master usually rarely keeps them with him. It's like gold."

Lu Jiu'an stopped him and said, "There is no need to move the book. It will be kept in the storage room for the people in Yingping to see."

Han Zhi saw that he was in a low mood and hugged him to comfort him: "If he is sad, just let him know. "Take it easy. There's no need to be in such a hurry. The emperor has already spoken, so there's no need to worry about the officials' orders."

Lu Jiu'an shook his head and said, "You can't escape."

Han Zhi had no choice but to accompany him out of the yamen.

Walking on the street, the people met Lu Jiu'an and greeted him as usual. The news that he was transferred back to Beijing is still circulating within the county government, and the people don't know yet.

Passing by the Life Plaza and seeing the Huacaifang shop, Lu Jiuan couldn't help but stop. Due to the earthquake these days, the shop has been a little deserted. The waiter responsible for welcoming customers stood outside the shop and dozed off like a chicken pecking at rice.

"Go in and take a look?" Han Zhi suggested.

Lu Jiu'an's eyes fell on the huge plaque and nodded: "I have missed Huacai Fang."

Lu Jiu'an and Han Zhi rarely go to the shop in person. They usually need some style of clothes or look at the account books. They were all delivered directly to the house by the shopkeeper Cheng Nan, so Cheng Nan was still surprised when he saw the two of them here.

"It's okay. You can go and do your work. Let's take a stroll."

After being transferred back to Beijing, Han Zhi and Lu Jiu'an may never set foot in Yingping again, so how to deal with Huacai Fang also needs to be taken into consideration. In this regard , the two have completely different ideas.

Han Zhi was inclined to transfer Huacai Fang to another person together with the house deed, but Lu Jiuan was reluctant to part with it. He wanted to keep Huacai Fang. Not to mention that this sign had become famous in Jiangzhou, and the income it provided him every year was still Quite impressive.

Han Zhi gave him a strange look.

Lu Jiu'an threw his hands helplessly to both sides: "I want to raise two gold-swallowing beasts, but I am short of money..."

"Gold-swallowing beasts?" "

Two research teams led by Taoist priest Feng Jing and Xie Huailiang."

Han Zhi realized.

In the past few years that Cheng Nan has been the shopkeeper, Huacai Fang has been well managed by him. Under his management, there have been no incidents of robberies, dogs or thefts in the shop. At least his character and morals are trustworthy, and Lu Jiu'an plans to continue to use him.

Han Zhi felt that Lu Jiu'an's move was a bit too bold: "Do you believe him so much? If he enriched his own pockets, how would you know if you were thousands of miles away?"

Lu Jiu'an raised his eyebrows: "You come to Yingping, leave. Yun Luo is so far away, leaving tens of thousands of troops to the people below you, how can you rest assured?"

Han Zhi's mouth tightened: "It's different.

" Besides, it's not completely impossible. When I return to Jinnan, if I have the chance, I plan to open Huacaifang into a chain store, set up the main store in Jinnan, and find a general manager here every year. Just inspect the branch for us."

After leaving Huacaifang, Lu Jiuan went directly to the two laboratories. He attaches great importance to these two R&D teams. The people inside are all scientific research talents he has selected, so no matter what, , they have to persuade them to go to southern Shanxi together.

Just like the yamen's reaction, everyone was shocked when they heard that he was leaving.

He said, "Master Lu, you are Pindao's food and clothing parent. Wherever you go, Pindao will follow you."

The others were hesitant.

Lu Jiu'an knew that their concerns were nothing more than reluctance to leave their hometown and be separated from their families. So he made a serious promise that he could move his family to southern Shanxi, and then he could help settle his wife, daughter and parents.

Now, no matter who was still hesitating, they all readily agreed.

Lu Jiu'an then went to Qin's Medical Center to bid farewell to Qin Zhao and the others in advance, and by the way asked them whether they wanted to return to southern Shanxi.

Qin Jizhi was stunned for a long time, not knowing what he was thinking. He stared at him in a complicated and unspeakable manner for a moment, then pushed the door open and went back to the backyard with a clang.

"This child..." Qin Zhao complained neither lightly nor seriously. He first congratulated Lu Jiu'an, and then declined Lu Jiu'an's kindness. "I won't go to Shannan. It's good to stay in Yingping. I don't want to go to Shanxi anymore." When people get old, fallen leaves return to their roots."

Lu Jiuan felt a little regretful, but he also respected their decision.

As for Qin Jizhi...

the mountains are high and the rivers are long. See you again when we are destined.

It took nearly half a month to get everything basically settled. If there was anything that Lu Jiu could not place, it was the library.

The construction of the library has been more than half progressed, but the candidate for the director has not yet been decided. Even the provincial capital has no suitable candidate for academic affairs. Either he cannot bear the loneliness or he is working in an official career.

Xiang Xuezheng mentioned in the letter that he would be leaving for southern Shanxi soon and could help him find people in the capital.

But Jinnan is so far away, how long will it take to come and go? I'm afraid that Lu Jiu'an is no longer in Yingping yet.

"Is it so difficult to find someone who loves books and loves Jing Yu?" Lu Jiu'an held the thin letter paper unwillingly.

He originally thought that this matter could only end like this with regret, but that afternoon, an unexpected person took the initiative to appear in front of him.

The visitor has white hair, a long beard, and an arched back. He is wearing a wide shirt, and his sleeves are carrying wind as he walks, giving him a scholarly air. Holding a piece of paper in his hands, he walked to Lu Jiu'an in a few steps.

Not only Lu Jiu'an, but even General Han, who was usually expressionless and only changed his expression when he saw Lu Jiu'an, suddenly stood up from the round stool with a look of surprise on his face.

"Uncle Yang?" Lu Jiuan confirmed in a voiceless voice.

Although the old man in front of him still had a familiar face, his eyes and demeanor had undergone earth-shaking changes at this moment.

He is no longer the old country man who only had three meals a day, but an old man who is well-trained and perhaps even knowledgeable.

Lu Jiuan had many questions in his heart, such as: Who is he?

It seemed that he was acting too strongly. Before he could speak, Old Man Yang raised his hands and saluted him: "I, Yang Conghuo, was the second-class Jinshi named on the gold list in the eleventh year of Taihe. This is a document issued by the imperial court. , I came here to seek the position of curator."

Taihe was the reign name of the previous emperor. In other words, Old Uncle Yang had achieved fame more than thirty years ago, but he had been living a frugal life in Yingping. And if he hadn't become the county magistrate here by chance, maybe Old Uncle Yang would have gone to Hexi.

For some reason, Lu Jiuan suddenly remembered the farmhouse where he stayed for a short night, and more neglected memories passed through his head one by one like a slideshow.

"I don't know who originally chose to build this Yang family house here. It looks like a return to the garden."

It turned out that it was not his misunderstanding at that time. The Yang family house was built by Yang Conghuo in order to stay away from the hustle and bustle and live a life of leisure like Tao Yuanming.

Lu Jiu'an thought about how he had bumped into him several times in the county government office holding books and accompanying Yang Miaomiao. At that time, he subconsciously thought it was a child teaching his grandfather how to read, but it turned out that Yang Conghuo had been teaching scriptures and literature.

No wonder when Meng Yitai taught Yang Miaomiao, he said that he had made rapid progress. It was probably not because of his high understanding, but because he had been exposed to the books of sages since he was a child.

"Hahaha." Lu Jiu'an couldn't help but shook his head and chuckled, hoping that this comedy would develop normally. Looking at Han Zhi's expression, he thought that Yang Gengqing had also been kept in the dark.

Old Man Yang kept it a secret.

Lu Jiu'an didn't go into the details of why Old Man Yang, no, it was Yang Jinshi who made such a puzzling decision. Isn't this exactly the person he needed?

But he still had one thing unclear: "How did the old man know that I was here?" "I rarely mention it in the house to find the curator."

Yang Conghuo explained: "On that day, when the magistrate Lu came to write to Master Xuezheng, Lu Qi bumped into me when he was going out. The page fell to the ground, and I leaned over to pick it up. I saw the content of the letter. Please don't blame me for this unintentional act."

"In my life, I have passed the exams and been a civil servant, and I am very tired of what else can attract me. , there are only two or three of these classics. "

So, this series of coincidences are really destined. Yang Conghuo has gone through so much and gone round and round, as if just for this moment to come.

Yang Conghuo planned to devote the rest of his limited life to the Tibetan Keeping Room. Before leaving, he entrusted Yang Miaomiao to Lu Jiu'an.

He did not seek fame and wealth, and stayed away from officialdom. He was worthy of the world and himself, but he was not worthy of his wife, children, and children. From then on, he truly became a lonely man.

But it doesn't matter, he won't feel lonely at all, and he still has a huge golden house.

Seeing history books is like seeing sages in person.

...

Ma Fanyou and Lu Jiu'an handed over Yingping County files, warehouses, criminal lawsuits, money and grain accounts, and many other aspects one by one. If there was anything that needed to be negotiated, Lu Jiu'an explained it in a good voice. and give in.

During the time Ma Fanyou stayed in the post house, he saw all aspects of Yingping, and learned that the wine worth thousands of gold was originally produced in Yingping. The cement roads that only appeared in southern Shanxi this year have also been popular in Yingping. When Lu Jiu'an left and took charge of the county government, he was gearing up and couldn't wait to do something big.

At Youshi, Lu Qiuqi asked Lu Jiuan when he would set out the next day. Lu Jiuan was silent for a moment and said, "At five o'clock, while the people are still sleeping."

At Maoshi, everything was dark, and a group of carriages and horses quietly drove out of the county. Yamen, when they reached the intersection of Porcelain Lane, there was already a group of Wu Yangyang waiting here. These were the people who finally decided to follow Lu Jiu'an north to Kyoto.

Lu Jiu'an looked around and saw Zhan Weizhu, Zhu Hao, Shen Zhi, Xie Yi and others inside, and he knew this in his heart.

He didn't ask anything, just said briefly: "Let's go."

A group of people gathered behind the carriage with their families. Some of them were confused about their future, but most of them were excited about their expectations for the future.

Yang Miaomiao wiped away her tears and kept crying. He was still immersed in the emotion of separation from his grandfather and couldn't extricate himself. Aduo held his hand tightly and comforted silently in his own way.

Houses were closed on the street. One of the government officials in the team looked back in the direction of the county government office and thought sadly: "The common people slept soundly. They may not know that when they wake up, Yingping has changed hands."

The team slowly arrived at the county gate. Usually at this time, the city gate is closed, and only a few people on duty are here. But from a distance, Lu Jiuan actually saw lights and a crowd of people under the lights.

At some point, people gathered and surrounded the city gate tightly. There were so many people that at a glance, there were almost everyone in the city.

The night was so cold that they clung to each other closely, absorbing each other's warmth. I don't know how long they waited quietly like this.

The white servant who looked back at the county government office saw this scene and his eyes widened in disbelief.

As Lu Jiu'an's carriage approached, the people stood up one by one and looked in his direction.

The groom stopped driving the carriage involuntarily.

"Master Lu." Xie Suiqian, the leader, raised his round, fat face, "We are here to see you off."

"Fellows..." Lu Jiu'an suddenly felt a sore nose, his eyes were uncontrollably red, and his eyes were filled with mist. .

Xie Suiqian said again: "You have been an official in Yingping for six years, and you are just like our food, clothing and parents. Now that you are gone, many people may never see you again in this life. Why did you leave without notifying us all?" "

I just don't know how to face the scene of being separated from you.

Lu Jiu'an pursed his lips hard. He tried to speak several times, but was blocked deep in his throat, and his tears could not help falling.

Xie Suiqian shook his head with a smile, and comforted him in turn: "You don't have to say much, sir. We understand. You can't let go, and we can't let you go either. I'm a big guy and can't say anything polite. I can only wish you a good journey."

Qin Jizhi, who had not spoken much in the crowd, came forward. He brought two glasses of wine, handed one to Lu Jiu'an, and looked at him silently and intently.

I advise you to drink a glass of wine and leave Yangguan in the west without any old friends.

Lu Jiuan took it, raised his head and drank it in one breath.

The crowd automatically dispersed to both sides, leaving a road in the middle for a double-column carriage to pass.

The heavy wood creaked and turned, with a roar, the city gate opened, and the groom took up the whip in his hand again.

There were faint sobs in the crowd, and the cries became louder and louder, floating restlessly in the air. Despite this, the people still restrained themselves and did not make any oversteps, as if they were abiding by some agreed-upon promise. They only watched the team slowly leave with tears in their eyes.

Once out of the city, Lu Jiu'an could no longer maintain his image in front of others, and broke down crying while holding Han Zhi in his arms.

Han Zhi put his arms around his waist and stroked his back.

The howl was the only sound in the silent night. No one in the crowd behind the carriages spoke. The morning light shone brightly in the mist, gradually outlining the outline of the town not far away.

"Boom!" The bell sounded for a long time.

Everyone turned around in unison.

This is a sound that everyone in Yingping is very familiar with.

At six o'clock in the morning, we arrived.

A new day has arrived.