221-230

Chapter 221

Lu Jiuan felt a deep sense of powerlessness. The people did not have enough to eat or wear or keep warm. He could do his best to provide them with a life, but what should he do if the people died?

Zhu Yue didn't take it seriously: "Every day, many people are born, and many people die. This is something we all experience in our lives, but sooner or later. When two armies confront each other on the battlefield, more people die, don't you think? Do you want to apologize for them one by one?"

Lu Jiu'an collapsed and said, "Then why did you choose Han Zhao? What he wants to do is to rebel. It would be fine if His Majesty is ignorant and unscrupulous, but His Majesty governs the country with kindness and kindness. Han Zhao's move is unjust and unreasonable. Even without me, you are destined to fail."

Zhu Yue touched his unshaven chin and thought for a while, then said half-seriously: "Maybe you want to seek some excitement.

" ?

Just for such a ridiculous reason.

When Lu Jiu'an heard this, he actually wanted to laugh. In fact, he actually laughed, and his laughter was indescribably sad and bitter.

"Han Zhi will kill you." Lu Jiu'an has never hated a person so much.

"Don't look at me with such hatred, beauty." Zhu Yue got up from the ground and said nonchalantly: "I only told you about this matter, Han Zhi won't know about it."

"I will tell him."

"Too naive "Zhu Yue grinned, revealing two sharp teeth, "Do you think you can get out of here? Just be prepared to moan under me for the rest of your life."

Zhu Yue doesn't want to just stand . After spending a whole day talking to him here, he finally got what he had been waiting for for so long. He just wanted to do the happiest thing in the world as soon as possible.

He couldn't stop his blood from boiling when he thought that someone like Lu Jiu'an would writhe, turn, and moan under his attack, with his attractive eyes turning pitiful due to crying.

"Stop talking about this, beauty, the spring night is too short." Zhu Yue leaned closer again.

Lu Jiuan's expression was dull and he let him move. Zhu Yue didn't feel disappointed, so he pulled out the hairpin that bound his hair and threw it away on the bedside.

Lu Jiuan's pupils turned. The hairpin was made of silverware and the head was sharpened. If the hairpin was successfully pierced into the heart, it should be able to cause fatal injuries.

Just as he was thinking about it, a burst of barking suddenly came from outside the house, one sound louder than the other, which seemed particularly abrupt in the quiet courtyard. It fell on Lu Jiuan's ears like a beautiful sound.

It's grain!

The grain found him.

At this moment, Lu Jiu'an suddenly felt like he was surviving a disaster, making him almost cry.

Zhu Yue's good deeds were interrupted one after another, and he cursed irritably: "Where did the dog come from? What did Han Zhao's people do?"

He lost interest, picked up the leather belt on the ground, and tied Lu Jiu'an to the bedpost with his backhand. , after making sure he couldn't get away, he put on his clothes and rushed out angrily.

In the courtyard, the manic barking of dogs soon ushered in a large number of guards. Jiang Yu immediately asked Fu Wenxin to go back and report to General Han. He left three guards behind to hold back the visitor, while he and Lu Qi chased in the direction where Wugu had gone. go.

After passing through two long verandas, Jiang Yu faintly heard Lu Jiu'an's cry for help. Jiang Yu was shocked. He distinguished it carefully and pointed to one of the rooms and said, "Master Lu, over there."

At this time, there were five or six more people . People gathered around him, and they saw one of them was tall, with nothing tied around his waist. His clothes were just open, and he had an angry face.

As soon as this man appeared, Wu Gu seemed to smell something. He roared in his throat, opened his mouth to reveal two rows of dense fangs, and rushed towards him with a clear target.

"Evil beast." Zhu Yue refused to retreat but advanced, "Kill it to death, skin it and cook it."

Jiang Yu pushed Lu Qi: "I'll deal with them. Go find the master."

Lu nodded. While the two sides were fighting, they headed straight to the wing.

Lu Jiu'an was struggling to save himself. Lu Qi walked in and saw Lu Jiu'an's miserable appearance. He felt distressed and blamed himself.

"Lu Qi is too late and has made the young master suffer."

"Now is not the time to talk." Lu Jiu'an said, "Hurry and help me untie the leather belt."

Lu Qi took off the sharp weapon from his waist and broke the leather belt neatly with his hands and feet. Pick up Lu Jiuan and leave.

As soon as he took two steps, Lu Qi felt something was wrong. Before he could turn around, Lu Jiuan stumbled and fell heavily to the ground.

Lu Jiu'an's face was pale, and his lips were trembling in pain: "Lu Qi, I can't walk."

Lu Qi then noticed that one of Lu Jiu'an's legs was swollen like a steamed bun, and the blue was tinged with purple, which was shocking.

Lu Qi's eyes immediately turned red, and he resisted the surge of sourness: "I will carry you, sir."

Lu Qi knelt down and lifted Lu Jiu'an onto his back.

At this moment, night has slowly fallen, and the fighting outside has stopped. There is no one at this moment, and even the grain has gone. Lu Qi raised his head and looked around, his heart beating like a drum.

When he came in, he only wanted to find his master, and he forgot the way out.

But he didn't dare to tell Lu Jiu'an, so he carefully observed his surroundings, and then followed his intuition and ran out through a vertical arch door.

Lu Jiu'an hugged Lu Qi tightly with both hands and asked, "Where's Brother Han?"

Lu Qi said concisely: "Our troops are divided into two groups. Fu Wenxin has already rushed to inform the general."

Lu Jiu'an stopped talking. Lu Qi was now To carry him away with a heavy load, the wisest choice is to reduce unnecessary actions and save his energy.

In the courtyard, torches were lit one by one. King Jin'an had already discovered that Lu Jiu'an had disappeared, and said viciously: "If you find Lu Jiu'an, you don't need to bring him back. Kill him on the spot."

The darkness continued to spread, the branches nearby, and the trees in the distance. The eaves and corners seemed to come alive, and the verandahs were one after another, seemingly endless.

Lu Jiu'an turned his head and glanced back, licking his dry lips uneasily: "Someone is chasing me."

Lu Qi gritted his teeth. His feet were as sore as two noodles, but he did not dare to stop at all. .

Finally, I saw the door of the other courtyard. Two red lanterns hung high, illuminating the small escape path in front of the door.

Lu Qi felt relieved and rushed forward with Lu Jiu'an behind him.

The other courtyard is located in a deep mountain, still a long way away from Jinnan City, and there are constant pursuers from behind. Taking the main road is definitely not a wise choice. Jiang Yu and the others don't know whether they are alive or dead, so they might as well hide in the mountains. Maybe they can find it by then. A hidden place, waiting for General Han to find him.

Lu Qi quickly analyzed the pros and cons in his mind and turned a corner into the jungle.

The mountains were overgrown with weeds and thorns, the birds and animals had all returned to their nests, and the surroundings were eerily quiet.

Lu Qi's breathing became heavier and heavier, and his heart was about to jump out of his throat. In a daze, he seemed to be back in Yingping. There was an hourglass standing under the old locust tree in the county government office. A sharp whistle sounded, and he and Mr. Lu rushed out at the same time.

"I will definitely win this three-thousand-meter long-distance race."

"Okay, if you beat me, I will reward you with a chicken drumstick for dinner."

The sun was shining brightly, piercing him so hard that he couldn't open his eyes...

His thoughts were instantly withdrawn. , Lu Qi realized that there was so much sweat on his forehead that it flowed into his eyes.

He shook his head, not knowing why he suddenly remembered the past at this time.

Lu Qi looked back at the foot of the mountain. The torches were burning brightly, and the pursuers followed the trail.

Lu Qi suddenly stopped and took a deep breath.

"Sir, Lu Qi can't run anymore."

"I know." Lu Jiu'an used his sleeves to wipe the sweat from his face and neck: "Thank you for your hard work, Lu Qi. Please let me down."

Lu Qi put him down silently . Lu Jiu'an found a nearby cave, and after ensuring safety, he moved Lu Jiu'an into the cave.

Then, he stood up and walked out.

"What are you doing?"

Lu Jiu'an became wary and immediately came over and grabbed Lu Qi's wrist.

"We are the same height and have similar backs. Even the eldest son can hardly tell us apart." Lu Qi said calmly, "I will help you divert the pursuers." "

Don't go." Lu Jiu'an said, "Hide here with me. "

Lu Qi shook his head: "You are always smart, how could you not know that if this continues, neither of us can escape."

After Lu Qi finished speaking, he opened Lu Jiu'an's fingers one by one.

Lu Jiu'an didn't know why he ran for so long and still had so much strength. Seeing that he was no match for Lu Qi, he simply rushed forward and hugged one of Lu Qi's legs with both hands.

Lu Qi smiled and knelt down: "Actually, when they said that the young master and I are like two brothers, I was secretly happy. Can I call the young master brother?"

Lu Jiu'an begged with his eyes exposed: "Don't go... "

Don't be willful, brother."

Lu Qi sighed, calmed down, stunned Lu Jiu'an with a palm, and carefully laid him flat on the ground. After thinking about it, he took off his coat and covered him.

He looked at Lu Jiu'an's calm side face and said softly: "I will try my best to come back to see you, sir."

...

Lu Jiu'an felt like he had become a piece of driftwood, floating on the water without any purpose or control. Being carried forward by the current.

From the creek to the ditch, and then from the ditch to the lake, an unknown amount of time passed like this. When passing through a whirlpool, Lu Jiuan was dragged underwater and sank endlessly...

The water pressure was heavily exerted on him, making him unable to breathe. Angry, just when he thought he was going to die in pain like this, someone grabbed his hand and pulled him out of the water.

Lu Jiuan opened his eyes suddenly and stood up.

Han Zhi was half kneeling on the ground, still holding his hand.

Not far away, soldiers in armor lined up with knives, each of them covered with large and small wounds, and the air was filled with a strong smell of blood.

Lu Jiu'an remembered what happened before he fainted and had no time to ask about the situation: "Where is Lu Qi?"

Han Zhi turned to look to the left.

Lu Jiu'an followed his gaze, his pupils shrank suddenly, and in an instant, his heart seemed to be torn apart.

Lu Qi was lying on the grass, with a huge hole in his chest, and blood gurgling out of his body, all over the ground.

Seeing that Lu Jiu'an had woken up, Lu Qi tried his best to smile: "Sir, I said I would come back to see you."

Lu Jiu'an's hands were shaking so badly that he could hardly hold Han Zhi's arm. He picked up Lu Jiu'an and placed him next to Lu Qi.

Lu Jiu'an pressed Lu Qi's wound in an attempt to stop his blood, but there was too much blood and even dyed his sleeves red.

Lu Jiu'an's lips trembled, and he murmured for a long time before he pieced together a complete sentence: "Lu Qi, I didn't protect you."

"It's okay, sir... I also gave you my life." Lu Qi said intermittently, "Sir , I feel pain, please stop pressing it."

Lu Jiuan retracted his hand reflexively.

At this time, the grains also came back.

It slowly climbed up the mountain. It didn't know what it had gone through. There was almost no intact fur on its body. It limped to Lu Qi's side, lay down, and stuck out its tongue to lick Lu Qi's face.

"Good dog." Lu Qi responded weakly.

"Sir." Lu Qi took Lu Jiu'an's hand and pressed it behind his ear, "Do you still remember these moles of mine? When you were little, you loved touching me here the most."

Lu Jiu'an's tears kept flowing . Obscene, I was so choked that I couldn't speak, I could only nod my head.

Lu Qi's eyes gradually became blurred, and his hands lost strength: "I wish I could spend more time with you, sir."

Finally, he wiped the back of Lu Jiu'an's hand with nostalgia.

"Goodbye, my lord."

Chapter 222

Lu Qi's voice no longer sounded, and a heart-rending cry suddenly erupted in the mountain forest. The huge cry was full of pain and brokenness, and it soon came to an abrupt end.

Everyone looked at this scene with compassion.

Lu Jiu'an fainted on his side next to Lu Qi's body. Han Zhi carefully picked him up and put him into a carriage nearby. Then he went to check Lu Qi's pulse, which had stopped beating.

Han Zhi pursed his lips, moved Lu Qi into the carriage together, and got on the horse.

"Return."

Lu Jiu'an's consciousness fluctuated. In a daze, he came to a strange space, surrounded by a large white fog.

He didn't know where this was, and he forgot who he was. There seemed to be an unspeakable depression in his heart that lingered for a long time, making him extremely sad.

He stood there for a long time and stumbled forward.

The fog slowly dissipated, revealing the surrounding scene, and Lu Jiuan realized that he was in a garden.

The courtyard has been carefully carved, with rockeries piled with flowers, making it unique and elegant.

In the winding corridor, the maids and servants looked in a hurry, the ones holding towels and the ones carrying hot water were all running in the same direction.

Lu Jiu'an watched for a while and stopped a maid: "Excuse me..."

The maid seemed not to see him and passed him by.

Lu Jiu'an had no choice but to follow the maid to find out.

Passing through the cloister, passing through the bamboo garden, and finally arriving outside a wing.

There were more people here. Lu Jiuan spotted a familiar figure in the crowd. The man was standing outside the door, pacing back and forth anxiously.

"Master, the hot water is here."

"Bring it in quickly."

The man turned around, revealing a square face. Lu Jiu'an blurted out in surprise: "Dad!"

At this time, he vaguely remembered Remember who you are.

At this time, Lu Shiyan still had no beard on his face, and his figure was not as round as in his impression. He was obviously much younger.

Lu Shiyan tried to follow the maid into the house, but before he even got a foot in, he was scolded by a loud and angry voice. He could only lean on the window and look in with all his strength.

Seeing that his father ignored him, Lu Jiu'an was extremely curious about what was happening now. He walked over and wanted to pat him on the shoulder, but found that his hand went straight through Lu Shiyan's body.

"I...what's wrong with me." Lu Jiu'an's eyes widened and he touched his body in disbelief, "Am I dead?"

There seemed to be a woman wailing in the wing.

Lu Jiu'an followed the example of Lu Shiyan and moved closer. At this moment, a huge suction force suddenly came from the side room. Lu Jiu'an was pulled inside uncontrollably and fell into the belly of the woman who was giving birth in the boudoir.

Lu Jiu'an felt like he was split in half. One half turned into a newborn baby, ignorant, and the other half remained in the form of nothingness, looking at life from a bird's eye view.

The Lu family has a new baby boy. It is said that the day of his birth coincided with the Langdong Prayer Festival. The magistrate personally presided over the sacrificial ceremony, killing chickens and sheep, and all the people congratulated him, so he was named Lu Jiu'an, which means long-lasting peace and stability.

Lu Jiu'an has been different from other children since he was a child. Except for howling once when he was born, he usually lies quietly in his wet nurse's arms. He doesn't make any noise or fuss. He always smiles when he meets everyone. The maids and servants all like to tease him. The old grandmother of the Lu family She is even more precious. She holds her in her arms every day and calls her "good grandson" every day without getting tired of it.

On the first anniversary of Lu Jiu'an's birth, the Lu family invited almost all the prominent people in Langdong. The prefect also came, and little Lu Jiu'an was sent to the arms of the prefect.

Lu Jiu'an has the same appearance as his mother, with pink and jade-like figures, big round eyes, and long eyelashes. From a distance, he looks like a porcelain doll.

Lu Jiu'an was not afraid even when he was in the stranger's arms. He smiled happily and babbling into the prefect's neck.

The prefect fell in love with her as soon as he saw her, not to mention that now a warm little body clinging to the texture softened the prefect's heart.

People who saw this scene immediately flattered him and said, "The prefect is diligent and caring for the people. Even a child who is just one year old knows this."

The prefect was so excited that he took off the jade ornament he had worn for a long time from his waist and hung it on Lu Jiu'an's neck. superior.

"I see that this son has a full courtyard and clear eyes, and his future is immeasurable."

The head of the Lu family was overjoyed: "I have the good words from the prefect."

The prefect got tired after hugging him for a while, Lu Shiyan hurriedly stepped forward to take over, and Lu Jiuan held on to the prefect. He didn't let go of his collar, and in a hurry, he tugged on Lu Shiyan's newly grown beard, which made Lu Shiyan grimace in pain.

"You bastard, you know that you love gold and jade at such a young age, so it's not a big deal to do anything to your own father." Lu Shiyan pretended to be angry.

The onlookers laughed.

Lu Shiyan handed Lu Jiu'an to Lu Niang, and took the opportunity to say some flattering words to the prefect without leaving any trace.

At this time, Lu Shiyan had already begun to take over the family's property one after another, and his dealings with people and things began to show the tact of a businessman. After some words, the governor felt comfortable, and he granted the Lu family many benefits during the meal.

After everyone had the first-year banquet, they had to prepare for Lu Jiu'an's Zhou Zhou ceremony.

The servant spread a soft woven carpet in the courtyard, and took out the abacus, ingots, writing brushes, gourds, flutes and other items that had been prepared and placed them on it.

Everyone stood nearby, curious about what Lu Jiuan would grab.

The prefect glanced at Lu Shiyan's back: "Is that Lu Shiyan's grandson?"

Hearing this, Lu Shiyan pulled a child who was estimated to be seven or eight years old and had a child's hair tied out from behind: "This is the eldest son Lu Wenjin, greetings to the prefect. "

Lu Wenjin raised her head timidly and called the prefect as quietly as a mosquito.

The prefect asked with a smile: "What did Wen Jin catch when he was one year old?"

Lu Shiyan said modestly: "An item that cannot be put on the table is weighed."

Immediately, someone joined in and congratulated: "Weighing weights is a satisfying thing, and he is good at trading. , It seems that he wants to inherit the mantle."

Lu Shiyan was actually very satisfied with his eldest son's grasp of Zhou Li, but he couldn't show it in the presence of the magistrate. He only said: "How can a businessman be as good as a scholar? Wen Jin is incompetent. "It's a pity that we, the Lu family, are not lucky enough

to be able to catch a book." The man said, "Isn't there a little one?"

Someone in the crowd also speculated: " Will they catch abacus ingots or something like that? If so, the two brothers may be able to make money and work together in business, and maybe the Lu family tea house will be brought to a higher level."

The prefect thought for a moment, then suddenly turned to ask his entourage. : "Have you brought the official seal of this prefect?"

"Yes." The attendant opened the baggage he was carrying and took out a square official seal.

The magistrate said: "Put the official seal together and see if Xiao Jiuan can catch it."

The head of the Lu family was stunned by this sudden surprise. He looked at each other and grandma of the Lu family and stammered: "This... This is not good."

The prefect didn't take it seriously: "If he is caught, he is destined to be with this prefect, and I will accept him as his adopted son." As

soon as these words came out, everyone's demeanor changed. Lu Shiyan even took a breath and moved forward excitedly. Take a step.

The prefect's acceptance of Lu Jiu'an as his adopted son is not only a blessing for his son, but also an opportunity for the entire Lu family. This means that the Lu family has finally climbed to the top of the officialdom, which is something that many families who have been in business for generations can only hope for. i.e. something.

Everyone held their breath and stared at Lu Jiu'an in the middle of the tapestry.

I saw Lu Jiu'an crawling forward two steps on his hands and feet, looking at this and then that, his eyes full of ignorance and curiosity.

Under everyone's gaze, Lu Jiu'an pounced forward, grabbed a long brush, and brought it to his mouth.

The crowd of people watching breathed a sigh of relief, but the head of the Lu family could not hide his disappointment.

The prefect regretfully said: "It seems that the young man from the Lu family has no chance to meet me."

Lu Shiyan was still very happy. It didn't matter that he didn't get the official seal. His son caught a writing brush, which represented the poet's poetry and his wonderful writing skills.

He is very good at writing articles. Yes, the Lu family also has a scholar.

He walked forward happily, ready to pick up Lu Jiu'an and give him a good kiss.

"My dear, you can't eat the writing brush."

​​Who would have thought that Lu Jiu'an glanced at him, holding a writing brush in his mouth, humming and crawling forward a few steps, aiming at the official seal, and hugged him in his arms .

At this moment, everyone was stunned.

"This... has Zhou Li always been able to capture two items?"

"No, we can only count the first item."

Lu Shiyan was also dumbfounded by his son's move. He stepped forward and wanted to take the official seal from Lu Jiu'an's hand. He took it out and returned it to the magistrate. Who knew that Lu Jiu'an held on tightly and wouldn't give in at all? He didn't know where the strength came from in his small body. Lu Shiyan was afraid of hurting him. Some are deadlocked.

Others just thought he was putting on a show in front of the magistrate, and sneered when they heard this: "Master Lu, this is too obvious."

Lu Shiyan's face turned red, and he didn't know how to refute, so he could only coax the youngest son in his arms: "Good boy "Hurry up and give the official seal to daddy."

Lu Jiuan was bleeding all over because he was biting the brush in his mouth. In full view of everyone, Lu Jiuan secretly stuffed his official seal into his clothes and hid it under his belly.

"Hahaha."

This move was so naive that the magistrate was so amused that he burst out laughing like a bell.

He walked down the steps and came to Lu Jiu'an step by step. He lifted him high and said loudly: "From today on, Lu Jiu'an is the adopted son of this prefect."

The prefect has spoken, and even if some people are unwilling, they can't If he said anything else, he could only raise his hands and say congratulations.

Some people wished the magistrate a wise and wise child, and some people wished the Lu family good luck and a happy marriage. The whole scene seemed joyful, but it was unknown how many of them were from the bottom of their hearts. .

The head of the Lu family didn't care what other people thought. He thought he had missed a good opportunity, and he was still feeling sad and sighing, but he didn't expect that everything would turn around in the blink of an eye.

In my heart, I love him as my grandson even more, thinking that he is the Ji Rui of the entire Lu family and will bring infinite good luck to the Lu family.

Because of this, I unknowingly placed high hopes on him.

When Lu Jiu'an was two and a half years old, Lu Wenjin, the eldest son of Lu, was entering school. The Lu family invited a teacher to come to the house to teach Lu Wenjin.

Lu Jiu'an could already speak some complete and complex sentences intermittently at this time. His favorite thing to do is to chase after Lu Wenjin, like a little follower.

Wherever Lu Wenjin goes, he will follow him, "brother, big brother" The ground screamed non-stop.

Although the teacher of the Lu family was just a scholar, he was well-read in poetry and books, and he had taught in a private school in Langdong before.

Lu Shiyan valued his son's teachings very much. Seeing that he was handsome and elegant, he paid a lot of money to hire him. He also promised that he would study while teaching, so that he could continue to take the meritorious examinations in the future.

Such a person is just a childish teacher and makes many mistakes.

Chapter 223

After Lu Wenjin had eaten the morning meal every morning, he would go to the west wing on time to visit the teacher.

Lu Jiu'an got up and couldn't see Lu Wenjin for a long time. His mouth dropped and he cried loudly.

Lu Niang Zhao Shujie took out the rattle and coaxed her: "Brother, I can play with you in the afternoon. Jiu'an, be good, don't cry."

Lu Jiu'an threw the rattle out: "I don't want it, brother, find brother."

This is Lu Jiu'an's first This was the first time I had such a big temper. I cried so much that I couldn't breathe, and my little face turned red from holding back.

"Why is Jiu'an so clingy to Wenjin?" Zhao Shujie was also helpless.

The maid and wet nurse came over to help and hurriedly took out all kinds of rare things. Unfortunately, they couldn't coax the little ancestor, which alarmed the old lady of the Lu family.

"Jiu An wants to be with Wen Jin, which shows that the two brothers have a good relationship. You can just take him to find him. Why did he make such a big fuss? His eyes are so full of tears."

The old lady spoke, but Zhao Shujie couldn't help it. Can pick up Lu Jiu'an and go to the west wing to find Lu Wenjin. Along the way, Zhao Shujie whispered to Lu Jiu'an: "Brother is studying. When I see him, Jiu'an, don't yell or disturb your brother."

Lu Jiuan's eyelashes The tears on my face were not dry yet, and I didn't know whether I understood or not. I lay in Zhao Shujie's arms, hiccupping.

When he arrived at the west wing and saw Lu Wenjin, Lu Jiuan lost all emotion and stretched out his arms for Lu Wenjin to hug him.

Lu Wenjin took his beloved brother and put him in his arms.

Zhao Shujie said: "Jiu'an is naughty. If you let him stay here, I'm afraid he will disturb your purity."

Lu Wenjin stuffed a handful of sweet cakes into Lu Jiu'an's mouth. Hearing this, he shook his head and said, "My brother is fine. Mom, please go back first."

Lu Jiu'an stayed beside Lu Wenjin, and really didn't cry or make trouble, and listened to him reading quietly. And Lu Wenjin no longer finds it boring to read with his younger brother by his side.

At noon, when the classwork was over, Lu Wenjin said goodbye to the teacher respectfully. Lu Jiu'an stayed behind him and followed his example and made a bow, saying in a sweet voice: "Thank you for your hard work, Master."

The teacher is not the kind of person who just Those who were immersed in studying knew that this was Lu Shiyan's second son, but he had never seen such a well-behaved and sensible child. While he was surprised, he also felt fond of him.

The next day, I simply brought a few enlightening books such as "Hundred Family Surnames", "Three Character Classic", "Thousand Character Classic" and so on, and gave them to the children to play with.

Lu Jiu'an threw the book aside, turned around and diligently polished the ink for Lu Wenjin with an inkstone.

...

Lu Shiyan followed the caravan to the north for more than half a year to sell tea. The wind and sun were blowing outside, and it turned dark. It was really hard. After returning to Langdong, the family prepared a table full of sumptuous dishes to welcome him.

Sitting at the head of the table, the head of the Lu family couldn't help but ask about the results of this business trip. Lu Shiyan gave him a ledger. The head of the Lu family took a quick look at it and showed a satisfied smile.

"Last time I went north, the sales of white peony were not very good. This time I made some improvements according to Mr. Guan's taste, and it seems to have a good effect."

Lu Shiyan said proudly: "It's more than good. As soon as white peony arrived in Yinshui, it was sold by local tea. The store has sold out."

The old lady of the Lu family was helped to the banquet. Lu Jiuan slipped out of Zhao Shujie's arms, picked up a red date and handed it to the old lady: "Grandma, eat it."

The old lady caught it happily: " Why did Jiu'an think of eating red dates for her grandmother? "

The doctor said that eating red dates will lead to a long life."

The old lady was so moved: "Oh, my dear grandson, you still feel sorry for your grandmother."

Lu Shiyan was very fond of his two sons. It was because of his longing that he called Lu Wenjin in front of him and tortured him about what he had learned in the past six months.

Lu Wenjin answered one by one. Although it was quite satisfactory, Lu Shiyan was still very satisfied: "It's much better than last time. Wenjin, tell me, do you want to be an official? Being an official is as prestigious as a prefect."

Lu Wenjin raised his head and glanced at Lu Shiyan . , no answer.

Lu Shiyan said: "Just tell me, if you want to enter an official career in the future, just concentrate on studying and ignore family affairs. If you want to run a shop like dad, dad will arrange for you to have another gentleman to teach you arithmetic. " Father."

Zhao Shujie said angrily, "Wen Jin is still so young, it's too early for you to tell him this.

" The Lu family has a great career and needs to be tempered from a young age."

Lu Shiyan picked up Lu Jiu'an again and bumped his butt: "Oh, my dear has become heavy again after not seeing you for half a year."

Lu Jiu'an hugged Lu Jiu'an's neck. , Jianshengsheng called out "Dad".

The old lady of the Lu family smiled and said: "Wen Jin gave in, my mother comforted me, and my grandparents doted on me. It would be strange if I didn't sink."

Lu Jiu'an was born with Yuxue cute, and his personality was well-behaved and lovable. The old lady of the Lu family only loved him. It increases rather than decreases, and often shows off in front of outsiders.

Lu Shiyan pinched Lu Jiu'an's cheek and asked, "What did Jiu'an do today?"

Lu Jiu'an replied obediently, "Study with your brother."

"Oh, you can still study with your brother, and you don't know a single Chinese character." Lu Shiyan couldn't help laughing. , "Tell me, what books did you read with your brother?"

Lu Shiyan asked casually, teasing his own boy.

Unexpectedly, Lu Jiu'an opened his mouth: "Destiny is called nature, willfulness is called Tao, cultivating the Tao is called teaching, and Taoists are also..."

Although Lu Jiu'an still couldn't pronounce words clearly, Lu Shiyan listened carefully and could still identify Lu Jiu'an. What Jiu An memorized was "The Doctrine of the Mean" from the Four Books.

He has been away for half a year and Lu Jiuan has only turned three years old. Can a three-year-old child recite "The Doctrine of the Mean"?

Even though Lu Shiyan traveled all over the country, he had never heard of it.

He turned to Lu Wenjin and asked: "Wenjin, you taught me my brother."

Lu Wenjin shook his head and said: "No."

This is strange. Could it be that the teacher wanted to pay him a generous salary and reciprocated the favor, thinking that teaching someone is also a teacher? , teaching two is also teaching?

He immediately ordered his servants to invite the teacher. Seeing that both the master and the young master looked serious, the servants thought something had happened and hurriedly called for the scholar who lived in the west wing.

Seeing his servant's demeanor, the scholar thought that there was something wrong with Lu Wenjin's studies and he wanted to blame him. He followed him to the lobby uneasily and heard Lu Shiyan eagerly ask him if he had taught Lu Jiu'an how to read.

Lu Jiuan?

The teacher thought for a while and replied: "No, I was just afraid that the young master would be bored, so I gave him a few books."

Lu Shiyan asked: "What books are they?"

The teacher didn't know why: "Three Character Classic", "Thousand Character Classic"

"The Four Books and Five Classics" and other enlightenment readings.

"No."

Lu Shiyan turned to Lu Jiu'an and asked softly: "My dear, tell Daddy, where is

Lu Jiu'an ?" I can respond to him and play with my tongue.

The teacher figured out the whole story and guessed: "When the eldest son was studying, the younger one was right next to him. Perhaps he was influenced by what he heard and saw, and he learned it by himself."

"That's it!" Lu Shiyan was convinced. He clenched his fists excitedly, hugged Lu Jiu'an and kissed him hard. "My good son, our family has a little prodigy."

Everyone in the Lu family was excited . They were extremely excited about this matter, especially the head of the Lu family, who slapped the table and laughed wildly.

"God bless our Lu family. When my grandson grabbed a writing brush as the first thing he picked up during the Zhou Dynasty ceremony, and later he also grabbed a magistrate's official seal, it somehow proves that my grandson, Lu Yaobo, is destined to ride the wind and transform into a dragon one day. , soaring up."

The head of the Lu family tossed and turned happily and couldn't sleep. Early the next morning, he sent someone to inform the prefect about the matter.

After the prefect learned about it, he was really shocked and came to the Lu family to verify the authenticity.

After listening to Lu Jiu'an reciting the first chapter of "The Doctrine of the Mean" word for word, the magistrate couldn't hide his admiration: "With a little polishing, this boy can become a talent, and his intelligence cannot be wasted."

In this way, Lu Jiu'an started from the second chapter From the next day, he and his brother began to receive education in the west wing room.

Four or five years old is the age of innocence. Other children are catching bugs and rolling mud in the streets, but Lu Jiuan has to be detained in front of the desk and study hard.

Zhao Shujie couldn't bear to see her son working so hard, and once asked him: "Jiu'an, are you tired of studying? If you don't like it, we won't study."

Lu Jiu'an held a brush that was longer than his arm and imitated Confucius. With an old-fashioned look on his face, he said: "A gentleman must not worry about his body and mind."

His look like a young adult made the people around him laugh and laugh, and also gave up Zhao Shujie's idea.

Spring turned to winter, and time passed in a blink of an eye. A few years later, the term of the Langdong magistrate had expired. Because he had made no achievements and had average political performance, he was transferred to another place by the imperial court.

When leaving, the prefect gave Lu Jiuan a safety lock.

"You and I have nothing to give you because of the friendship between father and son. There is a peace charm in the safety lock. I went to the temple to find the abbot to ask for it. Although it is not worth a few dollars, it can keep you safe. Grow up."

At this time, Lu Jiu'an had just turned nine and Lu Wenjin was seventeen.

After several years of training, this Lu eldest son has become an elegant, gentle and handsome young man.

Lu Wenjin didn't like fame in scientific examinations, but preferred business calculations. Because he had been running the tea shop at home with Lu Shiyan for these years, he gradually showed his excellent business skills. Lu Shiyan was very happy and gave two small silk and satin shops under his name to Lu Wenjin. He practices.

Lu Jiu'an was holding Zhao Shujie's arm and acting coquettishly, complaining that he hadn't seen his eldest brother for a long time. Lu Wenjin came over and said, "My dear, come with me to the market."

Lu Jiu'an jumped up happily.

Lu Wenjin now has to manage two shops by himself, and sometimes it is inevitable that he is unable to do what he wants, so he plans to buy a younger slave, keep him by his side and train him well, and use him as a book boy in the future.

Lu Wenjin took Lu Jiu'an into the carriage and headed straight to Bei City.

Beishi has become the largest slave trading market in Langdong. Most people will bring their slaves there. If some poor people have too many people in their homes to eat, they will choose to sell their children there. .

When they arrived at Beishi, Lu Jiuan followed Lu Wenjin and got out of the carriage.

This area is a mixed bag, including local gangsters, merchants and hawkers, rich young masters like Lu Wenjin, and more, slaves kneeling on the ground waiting to be selected.

There was a bad smell in the air.

Lu Jiu'an saw such a scene for the first time and couldn't bear it. He pressed tightly against Lu Wenjin's arm and said, "They are so pitiful."

Lu Wenjin raised her palm and touched his head.

Seeing that Lu Wenjin was wearing silk and satin, Ren Yazi rushed over to him and introduced the slave in his hand.

"Look at me, young master, I am strong and good at work."

"My little girl, with willow eyebrows and almond-shaped eyes, can be used for daily entertainment. If the master doesn't like it, I can serve you tea." Water will do, too."

Lu Wenjin frowned slightly and pulled Lu Jiu'an out of the crowd.

Lu Jiu'an looked back at the clean slaves, pointed to the tops of their heads and asked, "What's that for?"

"That's a grass tag, inserted on the goods to show that it's for sale."

Lu Jiu'an sipped . He pursed his lips and remained silent.

Lu Wenjin took Lu Jiu'an for a while, and her ears became much clearer, so she stopped to observe the people waiting for sales along the way.

After a while, Lu Wenjin fell in love with a young man with a handsome face who looked younger than Lu Jiu'an: "How old is this?"

Ren Yazi replied, "Ten years old."

"It doesn't look like it."

"Young Master. , You know that these people usually eat less and don't grow much. Well, if the young master likes it, it will be easier for you."

While Lu Wenjin was bargaining, Lu Jiu'an looked around boredly. At this time, he was there. In the crowd in the distance, I saw a thin figure.

The child was dirty all over, with his head hanging down, like an abandoned puppy.

The moment Lu Jiu'an saw him, his eyes suddenly froze, and an unspeakable discomfort surged into his heart.

After Lu Wenjin finished negotiating with Ren Yazi and handed over the money, she turned around and saw Lu Jiu'an standing there crying.

Lu Wenjin had never seen him so sad before. She was busy wiping the tears from his face and said distressedly: "What's wrong with Jiu'an?"

Lu Jiu'an shook his head, unable to stop the raging tears.

"I don't know either."

"Brother, I feel so uncomfortable."

Chapter 224

Lu Wenjin followed his gaze and said clearly: "You want to buy that child?"

Lu Jiu'an asked: "Is it okay?"

"Why not, it's just that this group is probably low-class slaves."

Lu Wenjin After holding Lu Wenjin's hand and coming to Ren Yazi, he was so close that Lu Jiu'an understood what Lu Wenjin meant by "low-class slave".

This group of people was very different from what they had seen before. They were all sallow and thin, with dull eyes, and looked lifeless.

Lu Jiu'an pointed to the bruised and criss-crossed wounds under the child's collar and asked, "What's going on?"

"Young master, you don't know something." Ren Yazi explained, "Since this slave was sold by his parents, I tried to run away many times, but there is no need for the young master to worry. Now he has been frightened by me. "

In fact, this batch of goods comes from all over the world, because no owner is willing to buy it. After many times, I no longer know which one it comes from. Yes.

Ren Yazi was really afraid that one day they would die in his hands, and even made a loss-making deal. He just wanted to sell it quickly, so he couldn't wait to agree after only asking for 3 taels of silver.

The child didn't seem to hear the whole process, as if he had become accustomed to it, letting Ren Yazi take off the grass tag on his head, and stood dull and indifferent.

It wasn't until a pair of warm hands came over to hold him that the child raised his head and looked at Lu Jiu'an with dawn in his eyes.

Slaves are not qualified to ride in the carriage, but Lu Wenjin said: "From now on, you two will follow us and serve us every step of the way, so come up."

The outer wall of this carriage is simply decorated, but once inside Inside, the exquisite patterns carved on the wall compartments, the soft velvet carpets laid on the wooden boards, the silver teapot on the table, and the curling cigarettes burning in the corner all reflect its splendor and luxury.

The two children's thoughts were written on their faces. They knew that they were following a wealthy master. They couldn't believe that such a good thing had happened to them, and they both looked at each other happily.

The child knew that he was of low status and did not dare to come forward boldly. He was afraid of staining the clothes of the two masters, so he knelt down on the carpet.

Lu Wenjin asked the clever child: "What's your name?"

"My name is Shanshui."

Lu Wenjin nodded: "It's a good name, it doesn't hurt to keep calling it." Then he turned to the other one and asked, "What about you?"

The child bit He held his lower lip and was silent for a moment: "No name."

Lu Wenjin heard this answer unexpectedly, was stunned for a moment, and then smiled gently: "How come there is no name?"

The child raised his head, with a look of grievance and unwillingness in his eyes: " My original name was given by my parents. Now that they sold me, they can't name me anymore."

Lu Jiuan suddenly came closer, and the child shrank back suddenly.

He looked at the young master who looked like a fairy boy, and then at his clothes that had not been washed for an unknown period of time and smelled sour and unpleasant. He did not know whether he was ashamed of himself or something else. He turned his head and said in a voice as quiet as a mosquito: " "Young master..."

"Let me give you a name." Lu Jiu'an said seriously, "Life is unpredictable, the past is gone with the wind, and you wake up from a dream. The night is gone. From now on, you will lean on the railing and face Dongyang." Take my surname and call it Lu Qi."

Most of the children didn't understand Lu Jiu'an's words as he picked up articles and poems, but he put the word "Lu Qi" on the tip of his tongue repeatedly and tasted it, and he obviously liked it very much.

Back at the house, Lu Wenjin ordered the two of them to clean themselves up first. Lu Jiu'an found a piece of clothing that he had worn since his fifth birthday and gave it to Lu Qi to wear first.

Lu Qi changed his clothes and came out. Lu Jiu'an suddenly noticed something. He said softly, stretched out his hand and touched behind his ear: "You have three moles here, which happen to be connected in a straight line. It's quite interesting. "

During dinner in the evening, Lu Jiu'an told the adults what happened during the day: "Today I went to the market with my elder brother, and each of us bought a book boy."

The old lady smiled and said, "You have to pick out the book boy yourself, and bring it over. Grandma, take a look."

Lu Jiu'an put down his bowls and chopsticks and ran out, dragging Lu Qi and Shan Shui in who were waiting outside the living room.

The two of them followed what Lu Jiu'an had taught them before, and bowed to everyone in the field with awkward hands and feet.

The old lady didn't pay much attention to it: "We, Jiu'an, will be taking the exams for merit and fame in the future. We are servants who need to know the etiquette and propriety."

"Speaking of taking the exam for merit and fame." Lu Wenjin continued, "Today Jiu'an even composed an impromptu poem." The poem Lu Jiuan wrote during the day was read to everyone word for word.

Lu Jiu'an's ears were red: "It's just nonsense, how come the eldest brother takes the lead in making fun of me."

Lu Shiyan pulled him into his arms, his face full of pride: "My son can write poems at a young age, and he can learn from others. We are the elders. It's too late to be happy, how can I make fun of you?"

The old lady said: "This boy is so skinny and looks so pitiful. Now that he has become a Jiu'an boy, he must have a good life so that he won't have the energy to stretch out paper or grind ink in the future. "

Lu Jiu'an echoed loudly: "Yes, we must treat him like a younger brother."

"That's not possible." The head of the Lu family said, "There is a difference between master and servant. How can a book boy be raised as a younger brother?"

Lu Jiu'an hugged the old lady's thigh. Acting coquettishly: "No, I will raise him as a younger brother."

The old lady could only follow him and said: "Okay, okay, Jiu'an can do whatever he wants."

"Grandma is the best." Lu Jiuan rushed to the old lady In the wife's arms, her little mouth seemed to be covered with honey, and she kept saying nice things, which made the old lady laugh.

Lu Qi stood in the corner, looking at the happy family, and sniffed quietly.

After dinner, with dusk closing and a cool breeze blowing, the two brothers took a walk in the courtyard to eat. Lu Jiu'an took Lu Qi's wrist and said happily: "You heard it just now, I will be your brother from now on, please call me brother."

In the darkness, Lu Qi opened his mouth timidly, but his voice was too small It was so pitiful that as soon as I spoke, it was covered up by the chirping of insects and frogs on both sides.

From then on, Lu Qi and Lu Jiu'an went in and out together. When Lu Jiu'an was studying, Lu Qi would carry books and hand over pens for him. When Lu Jiu'an was resting, Lu Qi would act as a competent playmate.

After getting along for a long time, Lu Qi's personality gradually became cheerful. Occasionally, at Lu Jiu'an's insistence, he would call him brother once or twice.

This year's Lantern Festival, Lu Shiyan lost his business and took his wife and children to the streets to celebrate the festival.

The most prosperous and lively street in Langdong is crowded with people of all kinds, with red lanterns hanging high and colorful ribbons flying.

Lu Shiyan was infected, so he lifted Lu Jiu'an up and put him on his neck.

After walking a few steps, Lu Jiu'an couldn't sit still anymore as the freshness wore off, and he wanted to go to the ground to play by himself.

Although Lu Jiu'an is young and mature, he still cannot change the fact that he is a child. Small folk objects such as candied haws, paper pinwheels, and bamboo dragonflies still have a fatal attraction for him.

Lu Shiyan saw that he was having fun, so he let him go. Unexpectedly, Lu Jiuan disappeared after helping his wife choose a hairpin.

"Jiu'an..." Zhao Shujie stopped picking hairpins and looked for Lu Jiu'an in the crowd.

Lu Shiyan comforted her: "I passed by a group of acrobats just now. Maybe Jiu An was having fun and followed him far away. Wen Jin and I went to look for you. You stay where you are and wait. Maybe Jiu An will come back after watching it. "

This wait lasted for half an hour.

Lu Shiyan and Lu Wenjin searched to no avail, and the calmness on their faces did not disappear at this moment. Zhao Shujie was so anxious that she burst into tears: "Jiu An has been well-fed since he was a child, and I am usually afraid that he will bump into him. Now with us We are separated. What should we do if we meet someone with evil intentions?"

The few people no longer wanted to go shopping and immediately went home. When the head of the Lu family learned that Lu Jiuan was missing, he was furious: "There are so many people on the street. People, you don't know how to watch carefully! If something happens to my grandson, Lu Shiyan, don't even think about stepping into the house again."

The old lady of the Lu family beat her chest and almost fainted.

Lu Shiyan didn't care to appease his angry father and sad mother, so he summoned all the servants of the Lu family to go out and search.

However, Lu Jiuan was not separated, but was trapped by the kidnapper.

The kidnapper looks ordinary, but wears clothes made of fine fabrics. No one can imagine that he would do such a thing.

The man in their line of work has rich experience and a sharp eye. Lu Jiuan has a tender skin and tender flesh. The kidnapper can tell at a glance that he is either rich or noble. Such a young man can be sold at a good price.

However, high rewards also mean huge risks. If the other party's family catches him, he will probably be beaten to death with sticks without even a chance to kneel down and apologize.

As long as this child is taken out of the city gate... As long as he is out of the city gate, no matter how powerful the opponent is, there is nothing he can do to him.

Thinking of this, the kidnapper showed a fierce expression and threatened Lu Jiu'an: "Don't cry or scream later, or I will pull out your tongue."

Lu Jiu'an showed no fear at all and opened his big round eyes obediently . nod.

"This is strange. I have been working for so long, and this is the first time I have met such an obedient person." The kidnapper was a little puzzled, but he didn't think much about it, and continued, "You are my son, and I am your father. , Do you understand? Come and call me daddy."

Lu Jiu'an stared at him for a while and said, "Uncle."

" You kid didn't listen. He pinched his arm hard: "I call you daddy when I ask you to, and you dare to talk back." Lu Jiu'an felt pain, and tears instantly filled his eyes: "But you are my uncle." The kidnapper couldn't help but feel sad. Suspicious: "I am your uncle?" Lu Jiu'an said with tears in his eyes: "Last year during the Chinese New Year, I called you uncle, and you were so happy to give me some lucky money." The kidnapper thought to himself, could it be that his uncle really looks similar to me? Tell this kid to admit his mistake? Looking at Lu Jiu'an again, I don't know what he ate when he grew up. He has red lips and white teeth, a pink and jade-like face, and a pair of watery eyes. Anyone who sees him will fall in love with him. Let me be my uncle, I won't suffer any loss if I got such a nephew for no reason. The kidnapper took Lu Jiu'an to a side street and a dark alley. There were almost no people in this area. The local residents had all gone to the market to join in the fun. After walking for a while, Lu Jiu'an slowly stopped, raised his face and shouted softly: "Uncle." The kidnapper looked back at him: "What's wrong?" Lu Jiu'an pursed his lips: "My feet hurt and I can't walk anymore. " So squeamish?" The kidnapper took off his shoes and saw that his feet were red and swollen, so he could only carry him on his back. After a while, Lu Jiu'an's soft voice came from above his head: "Uncle." "What's wrong." "I'm thirsty." The kidnapper didn't have a kettle on him: "Bear it." Lu Jiu'an fluttered his legs: "I'm thirsty ." I can't help it." The kidnapper was afraid that he would cause trouble if he started crying later, so he went to a street stall and asked the shopkeeper for a bowl of water. Lu Jiu'an almost buried his head in the bowl, which showed that he was really thirsty. When the shopkeeper saw it, he asked with a smile: "Is this your son? He is so handsome, just like a piece of jade." The kidnapper replied calmly: "This is my nephew." After drinking the water, Lu Jiu'an thought again To pee, the kidnapper took him to the end of the street and asked him to pee against the corner. Lu Jiuan crossed his legs, wondering: "I can't pee." The kidnapper became angry and kicked the wall impatiently. He yelled at the top of his lungs: "There's so much shit, don't you have to pee? Why can't you pee again?" The kidnapper felt that he had been very restrained, but Lu Jiuan wrinkled his nose and looked like he was about to cry: " The master said that it is not a gentleman to take urine anywhere." "Yes, you are really an ancestor." The kidnapper was defeated and thought, what kind of master is this? He has taught people so pedantically. Fortunately, the magistrate of Langdong built five "Yasi" buildings in the city, which were specially used by literati and scholars to pay tribute, but they required ten cents. Although Lu Jiuan seemed to be honest along the way, he might not have taken the opportunity to escape under the pretext of peeing. The kidnapper had no choice but to grit his teeth and hand over 20 yuan, and stayed with Lu Jiu'an until he finished draining the water. The two returned to the dark alley again. The kid was frightened by the constant calls and was worried that he would never stop. So he raised his face and said to Lu Jiu'an: "You drank the water and peed. This Is everything okay, sir?" Lu Jiu'an shook his head and didn't yell any more along the way. The kidnapper took out his money bag and counted the few dozen copper coins left in it with a frown on his face: "I spent 20 copper coins before I made any money. Who can I talk to?" Lu Jiu'an asked the little cotton-padded jacket thoughtfully: "Uncle is short of money. " Yes , it's been a long time since I went to Zuihualou for a good meal." The kid put away his money bag, "Let's go, it will be dark if we don't leave." Lu Jiu'an asked, "Where are we going?" Without even thinking about it, the kidnapper answered in a familiar manner: "Go find your dad." Lu Jiu'an hesitated and said, "I don't want to go find my dad." "Why?" Lu Jiuan pointed to his stomach: "I'm hungry." The kidnapper's face changed. Hei: "Didn't you say nothing will happen again? I can't help it even if I'm hungry. My uncle has no money." "I have it." Lu Jiu'an said crisply, and then under the kidnapper's gaze, he took out a golden piece from under his collar. The shiny safety lock, "Dad said this is worth a lot of money. You can go to the jade shop to exchange it for a lot of money."

Chapter 225

The safety lock was given by the prefect before leaving. The prefect said it was not worth a lot of money, so it was indeed not worth a lot of money.

Even though the safety lock is shiny and shiny, the craftsman has just covered it with a thin layer of gold paint on the outside, and the inside is made of copper materials. If you don't look closely, you can't tell it immediately.

The kidnapper looked greedy and grabbed him from Lu Jiu'an's hand.

He tremblingly touched the exquisitely carved lotus pattern on the copper lock, unable to conceal his excitement.

This little fool is really easy to deceive, and he can actually come up with such a valuable thing...

It is definitely not possible to go to Zuihualou to eat and drink. Now is a very good time, so it is best to be careful, otherwise all your efforts may be wasted if you are not careful.

As for going to the jade shop to exchange the safety lock for silver...

the kidnapper was a little hesitant.

In fact, he was not the only one who wanted to take action this time. Outside the gate of Langdong City, there were three people waiting to respond to him at any time. The safety lock looked like a child's personal belongings. If they found out, they would definitely get a piece of the pie.

Lu Jiu'an shook his sleeve and looked at him eagerly: "Uncle..."

The kidnapper came back to his senses and touched the back of Lu Jiu'an's head.

This kid has a really lovable personality, and for the first time in his life, he has the urge not to sell it to anyone else. It just so happened that he only had three daughters at home, so he might as well take them back and raise them as sons...

The kidnapper calmly put Ping An Suo in his arms and said, "Let's go to the jade shop."

The largest jade shop in Langdong is here. Not far away on Qingyu Street, I met a hawker on the way. The kidnapper spent another 10 yuan to buy a meat pancake, and he and Lu Jiuan shared half of it.

When the two of them arrived at the door of the jade shop, they were immediately greeted by a waiter, who ushered them in.

When the shopkeeper saw the two of them, his eyes lit up and he praised without hesitation: "Oh, your young master is so handsome."

The kidnapper said as always, "This is my nephew."

"Yes!" Lu Jiu'an agreed loudly. , "This is my uncle."

The shopkeeper said cheerfully: "What are you going to buy, sir?"

"I have a gold nugget here. Can you help me see how much it is worth?" The kidnapper took out the safety lock and said, He looked like he had a lot of money.

The shopkeeper didn't dare to underestimate it and took it cautiously.

Lu Jiu'an was tightly held by the kidnapper's wrist and followed him. He looked around and admired the exquisite jade items displayed in the store: "It's so beautiful. Uncle, do you want to buy one?"

The kidnapper stared at the shopkeeper intently as he inspected the goods. Pay no attention to him, but the waiter in the store introduced him enthusiastically.

"Young Master, you are really discerning. This piece of sapphire, pink skin, and white tiger-patterned gui is of warm and moist color. It is carved from a whole piece of jade by the famous craftsman Immortal Bell. You see there is an Immortal Bell signature on the bottom."

Lu Jiuan raised his head and asked: "Very good. "Is it expensive?"

"Expensive, but the most expensive thing is the ink jade bamboo smoker." The waiter pointed to a half-foot-tall jade item behind Lu Jiu'an.

Lu Jiu'an nodded casually, walked forward, picked up the smoker with both hands, and threw it to the ground.

After the huge shattering sound, the whole hall was filled with silence.

The kidnapper was stunned, and so was the shopkeeper.

The kidnapper was the first to react and became furious: "You little bastard, what are you doing!" He still remembered Lu Jiu'an's identity as Luo Zhi for him, so he grabbed his tiny arm and walked out, "I'll teach you a lesson later."

"Oh . Alas, it doesn't make sense to leave after breaking things wherever you go."

The shopkeeper stopped in front of the door, and five tall and burly men came out of the inner hall, surrounding Lu Jiu'an and the two of them.

The kidnapper had calculated everything, but he didn't expect that something would happen at this juncture. He thought to himself: "What does the shopkeeper mean by this?" "What do you mean?

My piece of jade is worth three hundred silver. You can compensate me according to the price." , then you can go out of this door, I won't stop you."

The kidnapper doesn't have so much money, he just wants to leave as soon as possible: "I'll give you the security lock."

"Bah, I want to come with a piece of scrap metal. You lied to me, grandpa, do you think my eyes have grown white after so many years?"

The shopkeeper said, taking out a hammer from the box, and with a strong hand, the safety lock fell apart, revealing the copper material inside.

"Good or bad, it's so clear, what else do you have to say?"

The kidnapper took a closer look, but he still didn't understand what Lu Jiu'an was doing, and his eyes dug into him like a poisoned knife.

"Every wrong has its owner and every debt has its owner. Whoever breaks it will be punished. I don't know this kid."

"You don't know him?" The shopkeeper sneered again and again. "When you entered the store, you kept saying it was this kid's uncle. Everyone present But they all heard it clearly."

The kidnapper couldn't argue, and he was so angry that he bit his silver teeth. However, Lu Jiu'an was still afraid that the world would be in chaos. He held his head and begged pitifully for mercy: "I was wrong, uncle, don't arrest us and report us to the official.

The kidnapper yelled: "Shut up!" The

shopkeeper didn't want to talk to him, so he let the strong man beat the kidnapper first, and then raised his hand: "You don't want to report it to the official? I want to take a look." How long are you going to be so arrogant?"

The strong man picked them up like chickens and took them to the government office. The county magistrate obviously knew the shopkeeper. After a few words of interrogation, two officials pressed the kidnapper onto a wooden bench, tied his hands and feet, and beat him thirty times.

Guaizi was almost half alive. He was lying on the stool with his eyes closed, breathing more out than in. The county

magistrate asked again: "What should I do with the other one?"

The shopkeeper gritted his teeth: "You smashed the shop at such a young age, but when you grow up you don't kill people and set fires? You should be taught a lesson."

"Okay, then continue to beat."

The county magistrate Throwing a red lottery ticket on the ground, two government officials stepped forward familiarly, but were stopped by a clear child's voice.

"Wait a minute! My father is a tea merchant, Lu Shiyan. I can repay the two pieces of jade together."

Upon hearing this, the shopkeeper looked over and saw that it was the child who threw his jade. Seeing that he straightened his back, he looked completely different from before, and he couldn't help but Feeling suspicious.

"How can I believe you?"

Lu Jiu'an had his own way of saying it, and said calmly: "You don't believe me, so beating me up is just to satisfy the hatred in your heart, and the five hundred silver lost cannot be recovered. Why not Come with me to the Lu family. If I lie to you, it won't be too late for you to catch me again."

The shopkeeper saw that he was so young and spoke so logically and well-founded, and he believed it in his heart. After weighing the two, I feel that what Lu Jiu'an said is reasonable.

"I'll trust you for once, but this person must stay in the Yamen."

Lu Jiu'an glanced at the kidnapper and said with a smile: "Of course, he is my uncle, so he should stay here alone."

The kidnapper retorted angrily: "I'm not... you little brat."

But now, no one cares about what he says.

The shopkeeper of the jade shop took Lu Jiu'an back to the Lu family. From a distance, the Lu family courtyard was brightly lit.

At this moment, everyone in the Lu family was overwhelmed because they could not find Lu Jiu'an.

The old lady covered her chest and cried bitterly: "It's been five full hours. Why haven't they been found yet? Could it be that something unexpected happened to Jiu'an?"

Lu Shiyan looked regretful: "It was my son's negligence that led to such a mistake. "

The head of the Lu family slapped the table and cursed: "You shouldn't go out to the street today. Isn't it good to celebrate the Lantern Festival at home?"

In the lobby, there was a mixture of crying and cursing.

It was a young man who first spotted Lu Jiu'an and shouted excitedly: "Look, is that the young master?"

Zhao Shujie looked up and thought she was dazzled. She stood up suddenly and said in disbelief: "My Jiu'an ..."

Zhao Shujie quickly stepped forward and hugged Lu Jiu'an tightly. The joy of regaining something made her cry with joy.

"Mother..."

"It's my good grandson. Blessed by Bodhisattva, it's my good grandson who's back."

Mother-in-law, daughter-in-law, and grandson hugged each other and cried loudly. Everyone looked at this scene, and their hearts were finally hanging. lay down.

Lu Jiu'an nestled in his mother's arms and recounted what happened to him today from beginning to end. After finishing speaking, he turned to look at Lu Shiyan: "Thanks to the shopkeeper's rescue, I was able to escape."

Lu Shiyan was still frightened . , took out five hundred silver coins from the warehouse and handed it to the shopkeeper: "I am very grateful for the kindness of saving my son."

The head of the Lu family also stood up and thanked the shopkeeper profusely: "You must accept this money."

A family The polite attitude made the shopkeeper who was about to launch an attack on the crime feel embarrassed, and accepted the money half-heartedly: "But it was an unintentional act. It was the young master's quick wit, and it has nothing to do with me."

The head of the Lu family disagreed: "Although it was unintentional. The shopkeeper's kindness was truly saved.

The shopkeeper thought to himself: Any shopkeeper would be anxious about this young master...

But he received the money for nothing. I formed a good relationship for no reason, it was too late to be happy, I didn't say anything more, and left with satisfaction.

After the shopkeeper left, the old lady was particularly worried. She pulled Lu Jiu'an and inspected her body carefully. In order to appease him, Lu Jiu'an had no choice but to rub her belly and act coquettishly: "Grandma, I'm hungry and want to eat."

"Yes, eat. " ." The old lady came to her senses and immediately ordered the kitchen to cook a table of delicious food. "You have been frightened and frightened outside for a day, and you are exhausted physically and mentally. It's time for you to have a good meal."

The whole family sat together . Watching Lu Jiu'an eat and seeing him finish a bowl of rice in just a few seconds, he felt distressed and happy at the same time: "The kidnapper is really hateful. If my dear grandson hadn't been smart, I'm afraid it would be difficult for us, grandson and grandpa, to see each other again in this life."

After dinner, the old lady took him and talked to him carefully for a while before letting him go.

Lu Jiu'an returned to the bedroom, and Lu Qi, who had been peeking in the darkness, rushed out from the darkness and ran into Lu Jiu'an's arms.

"Aww, Master, you scared Lu Qi."

Lu Jiu'an said, "Don't cry. Look, Master, didn't I come back with my beard and tail intact?" She turned around in front of him as she spoke.

Lu Qi still kept sobbing.

Lu Jiu'an had no choice but to comfort him: "Don't cry, it's making my head hurt."

Lu Qi was so frightened that he burped and stopped crying.

The next day, Lu Shiyan personally went to the county government office. Not long after he came back, the news that Langdong had captured a kidnapper spread throughout the city.

The people were deeply disgusted by the abduction and trafficking of children and wished they could be cut into pieces to relieve their anger. They flocked to the county government office and strongly petitioned that the kidnappers should be severely punished.

The county magistrate is willing to strive for a good reputation in front of everyone for making decisions for the people, so he is naturally happy to see the success. On a sunny afternoon, the kidnapper was tied outside the county government office and publicly whipped.

Then they sent government officials across the city to vigorously investigate, and the thunderous tactics lasted for nearly a month before stopping.

During this period, Lu Shiyan was not idle. After this incident, he was shocked to realize that it was really dangerous for Lu Jiu'an to go out unprotected. He was afraid that such a thing would happen again, so he briefly explained to his family and went away alone.

No one knew where he had gone. When they saw him again, Lu Shiyan brought back seven burly charlatans, claiming to be the bodyguards he had specially found for Lu Jiuan.

The head of the Lu family saw some clues in the visitor's expression and behavior. He secretly pulled Lu Shiyan aside and asked, "Where did you get it? You smell like grass. What did you do before?" "

As a escort. "

These are all people who lick blood from the edge of a knife. The head of the Lu family took a breath: "Are they reliable?"

Lu Shiyan patted his chest and assured: "Don't worry, dad, don't look at these brothers, they are not bad in character. The important leader also has a pair of aces. If I hadn't saved his life by chance, I wouldn't have paid him any money."

As he said that, Lu Shiyan asked his servants to invite the young master. Jiu'an said: "In the future, they will follow you when you go out. This is Jiang Yu."

Lu Jiu'an had never seen such a tall man in Langdong, and he could only see the whole thing by raising his neck.

The leader had clear outlines and resolute features. He took a step forward and saluted Lu Jiu'an with clasped fists: "I've seen you, young master."

Lu Jiu'an showed a cute smile and imitated him and saluted with clasped fists.

"Hello, Brother Jiang."

Chapter 226

Since the Lantern Festival incident, Lu Jiu'an has become more and more reclusive, spending all day in his study, pondering and studying the classics. In addition, he has a brain that is naturally suitable for reading, and his literary attainments are improving by leaps and bounds.

On this day, the teacher wrote a question to test him as usual. Lu Jiu'an wrote as soon as he picked up the pen, and in less than a moment, two beautiful articles appeared on the paper.

The teacher read the whole volume and praised it highly. He also praised it in front of Lu Shiyan: "The young master has outstanding literary talents. He is truly a literary star."

Although Lu Shiyan was happy in his heart, he only regarded it as a favor: "Thank you for your praise, sir. The child is young and still needs guidance and support from his teacher. "

The teacher said solemnly, "I'm not just talking. The young master has a photographic memory and a quick mind. With his current talent and learning, he might be able to give it a try."

Lu Shiyan was startled . , half-convinced and half-suspected: "What if I fail?"

"It doesn't matter if you fail. How old is the young master? You should go to the examination room to practice your courage."

It happened that the academic administration came to Langdong for the first time, and he had to personally test local students and teach. The gentleman is a scholar from Langdong, so he is naturally one of them.

Academic Affairs was not intended to be difficult. He drafted the question using commonly used excerpts from the Four Books. The teacher did it easily, and the article he wrote received top marks among the scholars, making Academic Affairs look upon him with admiration.

Xuezheng loves talents, so he called the teacher to the front and tested his knowledge face to face. The teacher answered one by one. After hearing this, Xuezheng became more and more satisfied: "Qingliu Fangjun, brocade weaving palindrome, good, keep it up, next time You will definitely be on the list for the provincial examination. Go back." The teacher hesitated and asked

him, "Are you still a problem?" Xuezheng was puzzled and asked him why. The teacher did not dare to hide it from him and explained the whole story: "The students received the questions for the young master of the Lu family." Xuezheng then found out that because of his poor family, he was now employed by a businessman. He was a teacher at home, and he couldn't help but look at him with a hint of admiration in his eyes: "You are quite qualified, and you can still think about this for the young master of the Lu family." The teacher said: "If the Lu family hadn't hired students as teachers, the students would have been in poverty. I'm so poor that I can't even buy pens, ink, paper and inkstones for calligraphy. Now I just do some trivial things for the young master. "There are many scholars in Dazhou, but there are very few people like you who repay kindness." Xuezheng agreed. , and asked, "The young master of the Lu family is also going to take the provincial examination?" "No. The young master has just matured in academics and is about to take the children's examination." The so-called children's examination refers to the county examination, government examination, and examination held before the imperial examination. There are a series of preparatory examinations such as the Academy Examination. Only those who pass these examinations and become a scholar are eligible to participate in the Provincial Examination. However, Lu Jiu'an was still young, and the Lu family master really lacked confidence, so he asked the teacher to take back the questions for the academic examination, so that Lu Jiu'an could try them out at home in advance. "A boy who is not even a child yet has to answer the questions of the provincial examination..." The academic administration didn't care. "I don't know anything about the academic administration, but Young Master Lu is very talented..." The teaching teacher was grateful for the Lu family's usual preferential treatment, and took this opportunity to say a lot of good things for Lu Jiu'an in front of the academic administration. "Oh?" Xuezheng became very interested in the person he was talking about: "In that case, after the Lu family boy makes it, if you bring his article, I want to see how credible your words are." So that afternoon, the teacher took the topic back and informed him of the academic affairs. "Academic administration actually wants to personally check the article written by the child?" Lu Shiyan was excited and nervous, pacing back and forth in the study. "Don't worry, young master, just write as usual." Lu Shiyan couldn't help but ask Lu Jiu'an, "How is it?" Lu Jiu'an read the title again: "Simple." He casually picked up the writing brush on the table and explained the scriptures There was almost no need to think about writing the meaning, and it was completed in two hours. It was obviously very easy. Before nightfall, the teacher went back to see the academic administrator with the article in hand. At this moment, Xuezheng had changed his clothes and was ready to attend the banquet. He didn't expect him to come back so quickly, and he was not in a hurry to leave: "Tell the prefect that I have something to do here, so I will be delayed for half an hour." He took the article and at first I didn't care much about it, but the further I looked down, the more surprised I became. "Did he do it himself?" The teacher understood the reason why Xuezheng asked, and smiled implicitly: "Yes." "There is no ghostwriter?" "No." Xuezheng was stunned for a moment, and he praised the case: "This interpretation of the article The angle is really novel and unique, and it actually starts from 'opening and closing'. It's really tricky and bold, and it's really hard to imagine that such a masterpiece was written by a child..." Academic Affairs said to Lu Jiu'an. He was full of praise: "If he can write such an article, he can take the exam with confidence." So in February of the next year, Lu Jiuan was sent to the county to take the exam, and as expected, he passed the county exam and the government exam in one go. When it came to the college examination, the academic administration personally presided over it. During the roll call at the beginning, he finally saw Lu Jiu'an's appearance. "Are you Lu Jiu'an? I specially ordered someone to read the articles you wrote for the county examination. These days, the articles have been improved a lot. I know a lot because I am smart and agile, but you are good at poetry and calligraphy at such a young age. This is the first time I've seen someone who is proficient in scriptures. Tell me, how did you do it?" Lu Jiu'an said: "Students don't know, as if they know something innately in their minds. The same is true for articles. Remember." If someone else had said this, it might have seemed like he was being arrogant, but Lu Jiu'an's eyes were clear and his answers were straight, which was really hard to dislike. The academician gently tapped his forehead with his index finger: "Photographic memory? Is this because God is chasing after the reward. If you keep studying diligently, you will definitely have a place in the literary and official circles in the future." After the college examination, Lu Jiuan passed easily as always. Since then, Lu Jiu'an has become the youngest scholar in Langdong. The teacher came to say goodbye. He felt that he was not knowledgeable enough and was no longer qualified to teach Lu Jiu'an, who was also a student. Lu Jiu'an needs to go to a local school to study, and the teachers there will be responsible for continuing to impart knowledge. Lu Shiyan repeatedly tried to persuade him to stay, but could not stop the teacher, so he had to prepare a generous salary to reward him. Lu Qi suppressed the sadness in his heart and packed up pens, ink, paper and inkstones for Lu Jiuan. Lu Jiu'an came up from behind and stuffed a candy into his mouth: "Why are Lu Qi unhappy?" Lu Qi looked sad: "I'm going to separate from the young master." As a book boy, Lu Qi was not qualified to go to the mansion. learned. "The separation is only temporary. Don't I have to go back to my house in the evening?" Lu Jiu'an said with a smile, "When Lu Qi has nothing to do at home, just study and practice calligraphy in my study." Lu Qi was so frightened that his hands shook and he continued He shook his head and shouted: "I don't want it, reading is so boring!" Children all hate reading, and Lu Qi is no exception. Lu Jiu'an pinched his ear and followed his lead: "You are my book boy. You can't read a single word." , If you tell others, I will be so embarrassed."

Lu Jiu'an said it seriously, as if it was really happening. Lu Qi twirled his fingers and showed hesitation on his face.

"Let's do this. Let's learn something simple first. Just be able to understand the text."

Lu Jiu'an entered the government school. He had been at home before and didn't have many opportunities to make friends of the same age. During the days of studying here, he made a lot of friends. The children sent in by noble officials.

The old lady of the Lu family has been getting worse and worse in the past two years. Lu Jiuan went to school during the day and returned to the house at night. As soon as he put down the pen and paper, he disappeared.

One time, Lu Shiyan had something to do but couldn't find him, so he asked the boy to look for him, and finally found him in the kitchen. Lu Jiuan was squatting next to the stove, holding firewood in his hand, his little face was blackened by smoke.

Lu Shiyan was furious at Lu Jiu'an for the first time.

"Our whole family has high hopes for you. It would be better if you don't think about making progress and do some... some chores done by servants here. How can you let the young master come to a place like this? This is what he should come in. "?"

A group of cooks knelt on the ground anxiously.

Lu Wenjin protected Lu Jiu'an behind him: "Dad, don't be angry first. Listen to what Jiu'an has to say."

In Lu Wenjin's heart, his younger brother has always been well-behaved and sensible. When he first learned to walk, he would follow him and call him brother softly. When he was scolded by his grandfather, he would babbling to defend him, and when he was sad, he would clumsily comfort him.

Except for the time when he got lost, Lu Jiu'an had never let his family really worry about him. What else could a father be dissatisfied about?

He believed that Lu Jiu'an would not appear here for no reason, and there must be a reason for him to do so.

Lu Wenjin turned around and rubbed Lu Jiu'an's head gently: "Let's ignore the bastard dad. Dear brother, tell me why you are here?"

Lu Wenjin's voice was too soft and too soft. He was patient and careful. He always stood in front of Lu Jiu'an without hesitation, using his body to block all possible harm to him, even though these injuries were not painful to Lu Jiu'an.

Lu Jiuan pursed his lips.

Lu Wenjin encouraged: "Don't be afraid, brother knows that you are not a fun-loving person. But even if you play here, I will not blame you. In brother's heart, nothing is more important than your happiness."

Lu Jiu'an moved. Moved, grabbed a handful of ingredients from the bowl, and Lu Wenjin smelled a faint medicinal aroma.

"Is this?"

"I'm not neglecting my duties. Grandma is not in good health. I'm making medicinal meals for her."

The cook next to him also plucked up the courage to add: "The young master is afraid that our servants will be careless, so he has been using others' hands. , It's not that the slaves didn't stop it, it's that they couldn't stop it at all. "

Sure enough!

Lu Wenjin turned to look at Lu Shiyan with an angry look on his face, and said solemnly: "Dad, I apologize to my little brother."

This news soon reached the old lady's ears, and she was moved to the point of confusion.

The old lady first scolded Lu Shiyan, then wiped away her tears and held Lu Jiu'an in her arms: "It's true that I always love my dear grandson. How can my dear grandson cook medicinal meals?" "

I saw it in a book. "Grandma, don't worry. I went to the drugstore and asked the doctor. If you insist on drinking a bowl every day, the disease will be cured."

"Also," Lu Jiu'an said clearly, "Grandma can't lie in bed every day. "You need to get some sunshine and exercise your muscles more. Even if it doesn't work, you should take a slow walk in the yard."

The old lady obeyed: "How does my dear grandson know this?

" I just know."

The old lady's heart was burning: "I still have to live to see my dear grandson get the honor, so you just have to study hard."

The old lady is getting weaker day by day. This is a fact that everyone can see. Lu Jiu'an's eyes are red. , leaned forward and hugged her: "Grandma will live a long life."

Next, Lu Jiu'an was circling in the kitchen as usual. Without anyone else to stop him, Lu Jiu'an became more and more aggressive. Lu Jiu'an would even take care of the old lady's food personally.

If it is inconvenient due to busy studies, he will also tell the cook, saying that the old lady is old and needs to eat less oil, meat and salt, and pay attention to calcium supplements and so on.

The servant didn't understand and asked the reason, but Lu Jiu'an couldn't explain it.

Lu Jiu'an was fourteen years old and was about to take the exam in the autumn. The whole family sat in front of the door eagerly waiting for three days. Exam results.

"How is the writing in the exam?"

"Is the question difficult?"

"Are you expected to be on the list?"

Lu Jiu'an said: "The writing is smooth and the whole article is smooth. I will definitely get a good position in the list."

Lu Jiu'an was so confident There must be no problem, and the family immediately let out a long sigh of relief.

Lu Wenjin saw that he looked miserable and knew that he must be exhausted after sitting in the cramped examination booth for the past three days without eating or sleeping well, and having to work hard on writing articles, so he hurriedly asked him to go back and rest first.

"Wen Jin is right, Jiu'an, have a good sleep and leave the rankings to us."

As expected, Lu Jiu'an went to bed and really let go.

In a few days, the results of the provincial examination will be released. The Lu family sent the boy there early. Before the boy came back, he could hear the noise outside, and the sound of gongs and drums stopped all the way to the door of the Lu Family Courtyard.

The head of the Lu family stood up suddenly, unable to hold back the ecstasy on his face: "This news, we must have been hit for a long time."

The family couldn't wait to walk to the door. In addition to the reporter outside, there were also a series of neighbors who joined in the fun. .

The head of the Lu family was mentally prepared. He shook his beard and asked, "But the grandson of the family is on the list?"

"He is on the list!" The reporter reported the news at the top of his voice, and the words he said made the head of the Lu family almost dizzy.

"Congratulations, Mr. Lu, not only did Ling Sun win, he also got to understand Yuan!"

Chapter 227

: Jieyuan, top of the list in the test!

The neighbors and villagers exploded. You know, this young master of the Lu family is only fourteen years old now.

Lu Shiyan hurriedly helped his own father steady, took a piece of silver with good quality and thanked the person who reported it.

The person who made the report was beaming. He had other candidates to congratulate, so he picked up some nice things to say and said goodbye to the head of the Lu family.

The team left with the beating of gongs and drums, but the group of people who were joining in the fun were still gathered around the gate talking about it, as if they could enjoy the talent of the young master of the Lu family by staying a little longer.

What happened next became smoother. The Lu family celebrated happily and held a big banquet. They invited all the relatives and neighbors they knew, and even those who couldn't reach him rushed to join him.

People who congratulated him came in an endless stream. Those who originally looked down on Lu Shiyan changed their previous contemptuous attitude. Lu Shiyan felt proud and proud in the light of his son.

Lu Qi is also happy for his son. He can now understand many words. The most intuitive feeling is that when Lu Jiu'an and other literati sang poems and poems, he could even guess the meaning of most of them. , this made him feel that the distance between him and the young master had become much closer.

Lu Qi was so happy that he couldn't help but speed up his pace. He wished he could appear in front of Lu Jiu'an immediately and take a look at his elegance.

At this time, a figure blocked his way.

Lu Qi frowned.

He recognized the other party. Jiang Qin was Lu Jiu'an's cousin. She had a slim appearance and often came to Lu's house every now and then. She was very attached to Lu Jiu'an.

But Lu Qi had heard his servants whisper in private more than once that the two of them were talented and beautiful, and that this cousin would most likely be betrothed to Lu Jiu'an in the future.

But how could she be worthy of her own young master if she was so arrogant and domineering?

Just like now -

"Lu Qi, Lu Jiu'an is my cousin, not your brother. You are not allowed to call him that in the future."

Lu Qi lowered his head and did not answer her.

Jiang Qin stamped her feet and said angrily: "Are you deaf? Didn't you hear what I said? Don't think that because the same surname is Lu, you really think you are your cousin's younger brother." Lu Qi

's face turned pale and he stepped back. Stepping forward, he couldn't help but retort: ​​"But the old lady..."

"Shut up!" Jiang Qin interrupted him, almost poking Lu Qi's face with her finger, "What is your identity? You are just a low-level servant. Cousin Yun Ni Zhi, don't have such wishful thinking. If you let me hear you call him brother again, I will slap your mouth."

Lu Qi glanced in the direction of the courtyard.

There was a lot of people there, and Lu Jiu'an was surrounded by people. Everyone was in a state of drunkenness, and they were clamoring for the new person to write a poem. No one noticed this small corner.

Jiang Qin was still chattering and cursing.

Lu Qi clenched his palms unwillingly and whispered softly, "I know."

The next day, Lu Jiu'an changed his clothes and went to the Luming Banquet in high spirits.

The Luming Banquet was a banquet specially set up for new imperial examination candidates. As Jieyuan, it was natural for Lu Jiuan to stand in front of everyone and take the lead in apprenticeships.

The examiner Luo Jinshen helped them up with a smile on his face and looked at Lu Jiu'an specifically.

This short boy looked out of place in a crowd of green and yellow people. He was too immature, like a fledgling lamb, but he happened to win the first place in the autumn.

Fourteen-year-old Jieyuan is a young genius. There is no doubt that he will be a rising star in the night sky.

And I, Luo Jinshen, am his teacher.

Thinking of this, Luo Jinshen's smile became more amiable: "You will participate in the Jinnan examination next March."

Lu Jiuan shook his head.

Luo Jinshen was stunned.

Almost all candidates will choose to take the examination in the second year. If they win the exam, they will directly take the palace examination in April and May of the same year. There is no question of demotion in the palace examination. At that time, they will be the real minister of Tianshe in the morning and ascend to the emperor's hall in the evening. .

If you fail the examination, you will have to wait for another three years, unless you meet Enke, but you also have to catch up with the new emperor's enthronement or the royal celebration, which is a rare opportunity. No one wants to miss this opportunity.

Luo Jinshen didn't know why: "Why don't you just rush to take the exam?"

Lu Jiu'an replied neither humble nor arrogant: "Students' calligraphy and classics are shallow, so it's just a fluke that they won the exam. If you are eager to go to Beijing to take the exam next year, you may have run in vain. It would be better to stay in Langdong and practice hard until you become more knowledgeable and live up to the teacher's expectations.

"It would be too modest to say that your article was a fluke." It is really valuable to be able to be neither arrogant nor impetuous, and to be confident. "Well, then I will wait for you in southern Shanxi for three years as my teacher." Naturally,

Lu Jiu'an's plan could not be hidden from his family, but Lu Jiu'an had already made up his mind. , the whole family took turns to persuade him, but they could not sway him at all.

The head of the Lu family was very troubled by this: "Jiu'an is fine everywhere, but he is too stubborn. Even ten oxen can't be pulled back if he gets too stubborn." The

head of the Lu family had no choice but to leave angrily, and when there was only one person left in the lobby When they were two people, Lu Wenjin stopped Lu Jiu'an alone: ​​"Stop, I have something to ask you."

Lu Jiu'an stood still.

"The words you said today can fool others, but they cannot fool me." Lu Wenjin looked straight at Lu Jiu'an with waterless eyes, "Tell me the truth, the reason why you don't go to Shannan is because of your grandmother."

Although Lu Wenjin looked straight at Lu Jiu'an with waterless eyes. Jiu'an took good care of the old lady's health every day, but still could not change her deteriorating condition. In the middle of this year, the old lady fainted once, and her memory was intermittent when she woke up.

The old lady is like a candle that is about to burn out. No one can hold on to her vitality.

Lu Jiu'an pursed his lips, and mist slowly filled his eyes: "Brother, I'm a little scared."

Lu Wenjin noticed that his body was shaking slightly, and patted his back gently: "Brother is here."

" I want to raise my son, but I can't wait for him. I'm only fourteen years old, and I still have a lot of time in the future. Brother, I don't want to leave any regrets."

Five months after Lu Jiu'an passed the imperial examination, the old lady of the Lu family died of illness. The Lu family hung up white flags, and Lu Jiuan stayed at home to observe mourning for one year.

From then on, everyone finally realized it and kept silent about Lu Jiuan's stay in Langdong.

Lu Wenjin knew that Lu Jiu'an was sad, and would occasionally take him to the shop to relax. When Lu Wenjin was negotiating with businessmen in the backyard, Lu Jiu'an moved a bench and sat in the corner with his chin propped up to listen.

As time passed, Lu Jiu'an discovered that although his eldest brother seemed to be an elegant and gentle person on the surface, when it came to matters in the business world, he became sharp-tongued and uncompromising, completely different from his usual self.

"Brother, you're so awesome."

Lu Jiu'an's adoring look made Lu Wenjin laugh. He cleaned his hands and asked, "Are you bored in the shop?"

"Fortunately, Uncle Liu is afraid that I can't sit still, so he washes his hands every now and then. " You can give me some gadgets. But I'm not interested in them. You know, brother, I'm no longer a child."

"Oh?" Lu Wenjin said with a smile.

Lu Jiu'an sounded excited: "I picked up some account documents in the store and looked at them. My brother's business methods are so good! There are just some small flaws."

Lu Wenjin knew that Lu Jiu'an was smart and transparent. Even if he had never been in contact with the family business, he could understand it. Not surprising: "If you have any problems, please tell me. Big brother is here to listen."

"For example, this." Lu Jiu'an took out the notebook he had recorded, "You don't need to throw away the poor-quality tea leaves. It's a pity. Maybe it's better." There are other uses, such as trying to make it into a dish condiment. "

"White peony is of high quality, why should it be mass-produced and widely sold? Doesn't the book say that scarcity is the most valuable thing?"

Lu

Wenjin listened quietly and felt what he was saying. Deshi was reasonable: "What else?"

"The other thing is this copywriting. I always feel it's not perfect enough." Lu Jiu'an said slowly, holding his chin, "It only mentioned the business method and product pricing, and didn't mention the follow-up services." And emergency plans, I think these are still necessary."

"How did you come up with this?"

Lu Jiu'an blinked: "When I saw these copywriting, I naturally felt that maybe I was born with something missing. Do you have a brain suitable for business? "How about I go into business with my eldest brother?"

"Little ancestor, please let me go. If my parents find out, they will break my legs." Lu Wenjin touched his head. "I'm very tired from all the business at home. Big brother makes money to support you, so you just have to study without any worries."

Smoke slowly rose from the street. Seeing that it was getting late, Lu Wenjin called Lu Jiu'an home.

People were coming and going on the street, and there were obviously many more Confucian scholars wearing t-shirts.

"It's almost night, why are these scholars still hanging around outside?" Shanshui looked at the groups of people not far away.

"You don't know this." Lu Qi immediately answered, "These scholars have just finished this year's provincial examination and are planning to attend an elegant gathering tomorrow and then prepare to go to Beijing."

Shan Shui pouted: "You are quite well informed."

Lu Qi said proudly, "That's because my sense of smell is very sensitive. No matter where something new happens, I can detect it immediately, and Young Master also knows it."

Lu Jiu'an stared at him: "I How did I find out that you haven't called me brother much in the past two years?"

Lu Qi hesitated and didn't reply. Lu Wenjin came to the rescue: "I guess Lu Qi has grown up and can't help but tease him like this."

A group of scholars were excited . The ground passed in front of several people, and the laughter gradually faded away. Lu Wenjin said with emotion: "Time flies so fast, it has been three years in a flash, little brother, you should also prepare." In

the Geng Yin year of the Great Zhou Dynasty, a new round of rural examinations in Langdong After the event was held, all the old and new candidates packed their bags and prepared to cross the single-plank bridge with thousands of troops and horses to go to southern Shanxi to participate in the Xinmao Annual Examination.

Lu Jiuan is no exception.

Everyone in the Lu family was busy. Lu Shiyan, with his rich belly, was ordering the servants around. Lu Shiyan had to take care of everything for his son and make sure he was comfortable when he was away from home.

"Don't worry if you go to southern Shanxi alone. Ask Jiang Guards and the others to follow you."

"This is the white peony produced at home. It is also considered to be the best in tea. You can bring more than a dozen jars with you. After you go to southern Shanxi, you will need a few. " Be kind to the world."

Lu Shiyan said while wiping the moist corners of his eyes sensibly.

Not to mention Lu's mother Zhao Shujie, she was immersed in the sadness of the impending separation and couldn't extricate herself.

When did Lu Jiu'an leave her, and now she has to go for such a long time? Sometimes she is worried that he has treated her badly in life, and sometimes she is worried that he will be bullied by the playboy named Jinnan. She grabs Lu Jiu'an's hand and murmurs instructions, looking worried.

At first, Lu Jiuan listened patiently and carefully, but later on, the topic became more and more inappropriate.

"What do you think of my cousin Jiang Qin? Mom thinks she is gentle and polite, and she is considerate. And we know the truth. It is just right for her to marry into our house. Why not settle down first..."

Lu Jiuan shuddered: " Mom, what are you talking about? My son's future is unclear, so don't waste time on your cousin. I think your eldest brother is at the age of marriage, so why not marry him?"

A helpless expression appeared on Lu Wenjin's face: "Brother, you If you don't like it, you don't have to push it to your elder brother. "

Lu Jiu'an said confidently, "This is called a dead Taoist friend."

"..." Lu Wenjin's clear and elegant face was chapped for a moment.

Lu Jiu'an waved his hand: "I'm just kidding, brother, don't marry cousin Jiang Qin. Close relatives can't marry."

"Where did you hear this nonsense?" Zhao Shujie said, "That's how cousins ​​get married at Uncle Wang's house next door."

Lu Jiu'an suddenly realized: "No wonder the son they gave birth to is a retard."

"What a retard, you kid, why do you always say some weird things." Zhao Shujie didn't know whether to laugh or cry, "It's just that he was a little stupid, and he drooled It was an unintentional act on your part, so why have you held a grudge for so many years?"

Lu Jiu'an didn't argue with her. Subconsciously, he felt that it was wrong to marry close relatives.

Zhao Shujie was interrupted by him, and most of the depression in her heart had gone away, but she was still worried: "After you go to Shannan, remember to be more careful. It's all because we usually spoil you too much. People outside are sinister. I don't know if you can adapt to it."

Lu Wenjin said, "You are being cunning, mother, please relax."

At this moment, Lu Qi came in and said that someone was looking for him outside: "It's the young masters you usually have good friends with. I heard that you are going to Shannan, and I said that I would do it for you."

Lu Jiu'an pulled out his legs and fled quickly.

Today is the Yun'an Temple Fair, and the streets are very lively. The young masters wanted to take Lu Jiu'an to the largest flower house in Langdong to gain experience, but they were blocked by girls after just two steps in.

Lu Jiu'an sniffed the rouge and gouache, finally broke free and became a deserter before the war.

"I just said I won't go to Hualou. Wei Yi, you have to insist."

"Because it is said outside that Mr. Lu is a romantic and talented man. Who knows that he has never touched a woman? Now he is going to Shannan, so of course he has to take him with him. "He's a bitch."

"It's not your fault that Jiu'an's reputation has been ruined because of your frequent visits to Fengyue places."

Several people accused each other angrily, and finally had no choice but to move the practice banquet to a side courtyard in the suburbs.

The high-spirited young man, with picturesque features and handsome features, was chatting and laughing with three or five high-ranking disciples as he galloped past the street, attracting the sidelong glances of the girls attending the temple fair on the roadside.

Amidst the howling wind, faint sounds of conversation could be heard.

"My little sister is in love with you?"

"Do you know who this is? Hey, I don't think you know either. Who told you to think about business or arithmetic all day long?"

"Where is this young master? But Langdong is a famous romantic talent, and everyone is saying that he is the future number one scholar, and many beauties from Langdong are flocking to him."

Chapter 228

Lu Jiuan set off early and had plenty of time. He slowly arrived in Shanxi Youzai. There were still four months left before the examination.

Southern Shanxi and Langdong are completely different in terms of customs, customs, and construction equipment. As the capital of the Zhou Dynasty, southern Shanxi has a lot of land and a lot of money. Many scholars who are rushing to take the exam have little financial resources and can only rent a house in the suburbs five miles away from the city. Farmhouse.

Lu Jiu'an no longer had such worries. Lu Shiyan's payment was enough. Lu Jiu'an asked Jiang Yu to spend dozens of taels of silver to rent a large, spacious and quiet house in the capital for the accommodation of the master and servants for half a year.

After resting for two or three days, Lu Jiuan wrote a post and handed it to his master, Luo Jinshen.

Luo Jinshen had always been thinking about his favorite disciple and was very happy for his arrival. He sent someone to invite him that day and prepared good wine and food to entertain him.

Lu Jiu'an brought two cans of white peonies in an inconspicuous bamboo basket and paid a visit.

"It's a small gift to honor the teacher. I hope the teacher won't dislike it."

Luo Jinshen saw that the bamboo basket was just ordinary, so he didn't open it to look at it. He accepted it with a bright face and handed it to the boy behind him.

During the dinner, Luo Jinshen inevitably had to test his knowledge of classics. Lu Jiuan answered fluently, making Luo Jinshen smile from ear to ear: "You are new here. When I take a break, the teacher will take you to have a good time in southern Shanxi."

On the day of rest, Lu Jiuan put on a simple and elegant navy blue gown. As soon as the two met, Luo Jinshen scolded: "Why is the gift you gave the teacher so expensive?"

After Lu Jiuan came home that day, Luo Jinshen I happily opened the bamboo basket and found that it contained white peonies that had been selling like crazy in southern Shanxi a few years ago.

Lu Jiu'an's face remained as usual: "I got it by chance. The students don't understand tea, and it would be a waste of money in their hands. Teacher, just accept it."

Lu Jiu'an gave the white peonies after careful consideration.

In addition to being favored by tea lovers, tea, like pens, inks, paper and inkstones, is regarded as a refined object for gentlemen. It is often mentioned in poems and poems among literati, and gifting each other has become a polite and beautiful thing, so it is not worth mentioning. strange.

Luo Jinshen took Lu Jiu'an for a brief tour of Jinnan City, and then went straight outside the city, rented a building, drank a boat and went boating on the lake, showing off his friendship as a landlord.

On the ship, Luo Jin spoke to him in detail about some taboos in Beijing, so as to prevent Lu Jiu'an from suffering unreasonable disasters in the future due to ignorance.

When night fell and the sky became dark, Luo Jinshen stood up and said, "Go back, the city gate will be closed later."

The two of them only brought a few followers, no more than ten people in total, when they arrived outside the city gate. The sun has completely disappeared. Pedestrians hold lanterns and torches, and the light of the flames illuminates the city gate brightly.

Suddenly, I saw a group of fully armed soldiers coming out of the city, their momentum was like a rainbow, and pedestrians gave way. Lu Jiu'an followed the people and retreated to both sides of the road, standing on tiptoes to look into the distance.

Among the crowds of figures, the leader was standing tall and straight, like an unsheathed arrow, sitting on a tall horse, and his face could not be seen clearly.

The soldiers marched in formation, well-trained, and the ground seemed to tremble with the rhythmic footsteps.

It was the first time Lu Jiu'an saw such a scene, and he couldn't hide his excitement. He pointed at the tall figure in front of him and asked, "Who is that?"

Luo Jinshen said without raising his head, "Who else could it be, General Zhenyuan?

" General Zhenyuan!" Lu Jiu'an, a young and famous general, had heard about it even as far away as Langdong.

He mingled among the crowd, trying hard to pick up the people next to him and try to see the general's face clearly. Unfortunately, the group was getting further and further away, and soon even his back became blurry.

After the team left, order was restored among pedestrians. Vendors in the city rushed out and businessmen outside the city walked in.

Lu Jiu'an saw Luo Jinshen's expression was wrong, and couldn't help but curiously said: "The teacher seems to be afraid of this general."

Luo Jinshen shuddered, as if recalling some terrible memories, and said with lingering fear: "This general is vicious and has a bad temper. , Not only me, but many people in the court dare not mess with this big devil."

"But he is a general." Lu Jiu'an disagreed, "He led the soldiers to guard the border and defend the Zhou Dynasty. He was fighting the surrounding enemies. Aren't you afraid of those barbarians?"

Luo Jinshen couldn't say anything, and said sadly: "In short, you should stay away from this general, but he is going to Yunluo this time, so it is unlikely that you will have anything to do with him."

Lu Jiu'an . Looking back again, I saw that the team was moving very fast. In the thick night, only a little tail could be seen.

In the days that followed, Lu Jiuan locked himself in a temporarily rented house and studied without distraction in order to prepare for the exam in March.

One day when he was reading in the yard, there were noisy conversations around him. Lu Qi went out to inquire about it. When he came back, he diligently told Lu Jiu'an that two more candidates who were going to Beijing to take the exam came next to him.

After dinner in the evening, Lu Jiuan was walking in the alley and happened to bump into him. After exchanging pleasantries, they learned that one of them was from Yinshui and looked older than Lu Jiu'an. The other is from Yokozawa and has a gray beard in his thirties.

"The young master is born with a lot of talent. I wonder which family in southern Shanxi he comes from?"

Lu Jiu'an answered politely: "My surname is Lu and my last name is Jiu'an. I am not from southern Shanxi. Like my two brothers, I came to southern Shanxi for Spring Festival." "Yes."

Both of them were stunned.

No wonder they were surprised. When they first met Lu Jiu'an, who was young and noble, they naturally thought that he was a rich kid from a certain family in southern Shanxi. He would not care about scientific examinations.

When I heard what he said, I couldn't help but feel anxious in my heart. After saying a few words in a hurry, they went back to their homes.

Lu Jiu'an was as unhurried and calm as usual. He knew the importance of state of mind. He ate well and slept well. The day of the exam soon came.

The examination was sponsored by the Ministry of Rites and located in Southeast Gongyuan in southern Shanxi. More than 6,000 candidates came from all over the country to take the exam.

These talented people come together to compete for more than 100 places. You can imagine how fierce the competition is.

Under such pressure, Lu Jiuan rarely felt a little nervous.

The items tested in the general examination are divided into four types of writing, five-character and eight-rhyme poetry, five scriptures, and policy questions, which are similar to those in the provincial examination. After three exams, Lu Jiuan was sweating profusely, but he felt more relaxed than ever before.

That night, Ju Ren, the young man from Yinshui next door, invited him to have a drink with him at the restaurant. There would be other Ju Ren at the banquet.

After the exam, you have to go through a series of tedious steps such as sealing, transcribing, proofreading, grading, and filling out the exam results. It will be at least a month before the exam results come out.

Since he has nothing to do, he might as well go meet these candidates for a while. If he succeeds in passing the examination, he might even get to know one or two of his future colleagues.

Thinking of this, Lu Jiu'an changed into fresh clothes and went with the judge.

The banquet was set at the most prosperous restaurant in southern Shanxi. This group of people came from all over the world, old and young, with beaming smiles on their faces. They gathered in the lobby and chatted, which was very lively.

"I don't know who is the author of the paper this time. It's hard to blame me for being

such a fool." "Who says otherwise? I boast that I have thoroughly studied the topic of the Four Books. Who would have known that I would draft such a biased topic this time? Gu Jing..."

There were many different opinions and sighs, and one of them interrupted them loudly: "After the exam, we have finally finished the exam, so don't talk about these classics and history collections anymore. It's such a disgrace."

Everyone laughed, toasted glasses, and introduced each other to their hometowns. The customs and customs of the country.

One said that our Yanyu Jiangnan scenery is unique, and the other said that our Hengze has a vast blue sea and vast sky. The topic unknowingly shifted to the ranking in the provincial examination. Some people brag about it, and some people pursue it.

Lu Jiu'an was the youngest among them and was particularly eye-catching. Everyone inevitably focused their attention on him.

"Where is this young man from?"

Lu Jiu'an was picking up a dish of duck with sauce and eating it with gusto. Hearing this, he cupped his hands and said, "I'm from Langdong."

A head poked out from the crowd: " Are you Langdong Lu Jiu'an?"

Lu Jiu'an said calmly, "That's right."

The man grinned and said, "It's really you. I guessed it was you based on your age."

Others saw it . , was very puzzled: "I wonder what good things there are that make Xiongtai so excited."

The man Yu Yourong said: "This is our Langdong Pearl, the Jieyuan of the Provincial Examination." As

soon as these words came out, everyone was stunned . I was very surprised. There are Jie Yuan in every province, but it is rare to see such a young Jie Yuan. His face looks so pink and tender that he may not have even reached his crown.

Everyone had different thoughts, and one drink after another was handed to Lu Jiu'an.

Lu Jiu'an has one head and two heads.

Under the strict supervision of his family, Lu Jiu'an had not touched a drop of alcohol and had no idea how much he drank. Besides, the wine that was handed over had a spicy and pungent taste when I smelled it. I expected it to be very strong. After one drink, you might get drunk on the spot. It would be fine if he fell asleep, but if he acted ugly in front of everyone...

Lu Jiuan declined politely, replaced the wine with tea, and clinked glasses with everyone one by one.

The restaurant was bustling with activity.

After thirty years of drinking, these people gradually became familiar with each other and began to talk drunkenly. The smell in the air was mixed and unpleasant.

After Lu Jiu'an had eaten and drank enough, he looked at the people in the lobby and saw the moon hanging high outside the window, so he stood up and left.

The night is as cool as water, and there are fewer and fewer pedestrians on the street. Occasionally, a few police officers with sabers on night patrol pass by.

Lu Jiu'an walked back slowly alone. When passing an arch bridge, Lu Jiu'an suddenly stopped, patted the head of the stone lion on the bridge, and sang a song as if no one else was watching.

"When will the bright moon come? I'll drink my wine and ask the blue sky. I don't know the palace in the sky, what year it is tonight..."

The song spread far away, attracting two strangers.

"What words did you sing just now?"

Lu Jiu'an turned his head and looked. Under the moonlight, he saw a man in rich clothes and an indescribable sense of grace and splendor. He was followed by a young boy with his waist bowed and his head bowed. He couldn't see Clear your face.

"Shui Tiao Ge Tou." Lu Jiuan blurted out.

"Did you do it?"

Lu Jiu'an thought for a moment: "I saw it in the book, but I forgot who did it."

The visitor smiled softly, with a gorgeous and mellow voice. Lu Jiu'an asked: "Where did you come from? "

The visitor pointed in a direction. Lu Jiu'an looked over and found that in the distance was the restaurant he had left. He couldn't help but said in surprise: "Are you also a student in the same department?"

The visitor smiled and said nothing, which was regarded as acquiescence. .

"Why haven't I seen you at the banquet? My name is Lu Jiu'an, what about you?"

"Nobody, you can call me...Ji Ce."

"Planner, planner, good name."

Chapter 229

The two of them stood at the end of the bridge, looking at the waning moon on the lake. The sound of silk and bamboo could be heard from the boat in the center of the lake, but no one spoke.

Ji Ce untied the silver gourd vase hanging from his waist. The boy who was waiting behind him immediately came forward and took out an exquisite jade cup from the cloth bag he carried with him. Ji Ce poured a cup, slowly one after another. Drink slowly.

Lu Jiu'an glanced at him out of the corner of his eye and sneered secretly in his heart: Just drink the drinks outside directly with your mouth, and you have to bring a separate cup. It's so pretentious and arty.

Ji Ce didn't know what he was thinking. When he saw him looking straight at the cup, he mistakenly thought he was greedy and raised the gourd vase in his hand: "Would you like a cup?"

Lu Jiuan waved his hand politely: "No."

"No really. "Would you like to try it? This drink is sweet and refreshing, just right for this night. If it had been anyone else, I wouldn't be willing to give it to you," Ji Ce said, ordering his descendants to take out a new cup and fill it with a cup. He handed it to him and said, "Da Zhou's fine wine is valuable, don't waste it."

Lu Jiu'an took a sip with hesitation. The taste was indeed sweet and fruity, so he drank it down with a gulp in his cup.

After finishing the drink, Lu Jiu'an realized he tasted alcohol: "Is this wine?"

"Of course." Ji Ce stood with his hands behind his hands, "Although the stamina is a bit strong, it's just one cup, so it won't hurt."

Lu Jiu'an His eyes shone, he licked his mouth and said, "I didn't expect the wine to taste quite good."

"Donglan." Ji Ce ordered, and the boy behind him walked out of the darkness, and respectfully left Lu Jiu'an. He took the cup in his hand.

The boy's entire face was clearly visible in the moonlight.

Lu Jiu'an was surprised to find that the young man named Dong Lan had a fair face. Except for the wrinkles on his face, he was even brighter than the average woman. He couldn't help but pinched his face with his hand: "Hehe, it's slippery and hairless."

Dong Lan was so frightened that he took a few steps back, stamped his toes and said, "How could this young master be like this? " His behavior is stateless."

Ji Ce's eyes were strange. He turned around and stared at Lu Jiu'an carefully for a long time. He saw that his eyes were wandering, and he was obviously drunk.

"This little thing can actually pour it in just one cup..."

This fact made Ji Ce couldn't help laughing for a moment.

Dong Lan didn't believe it: "How can there be such a light drinker in the world? From what I saw, he was obviously pretending to be crazy and acting stupid."

"You have to be optimistic." Ji Ce raised his eyebrows and asked, "Lu Jiu'an, this year's scientific examination, are you going to do it yourself?" How many ranks do you think I can get?"

Lu Jiu'an thought seriously for a moment and said confidently: "As for my talent and writing skills, even Xie Huo was alive. If the emperor was not blind, he would give me a first rank. . "

Xie Huo was a great talent in the former dynasty and was well-known.

Dong Lan was startled, and almost covered his mouth: "Be a good boy, this young man talks nonsense when he's drunk, and he's not afraid of offending Tianwei."

Ji Ce found him very interesting, and asked him questions one after another. After asking a few questions, Lu Jiuan spoke freely and said everything. Donglan was so frightened that he became completely silent.

"I said he was drunk." Ji Ce said with a smile, "Such a drunkard cannot be left alone on the street. Let's give him a ride."

Fortunately, Lu Jiu'an still remembered his temporary residence, Donglan, after he got drunk . After coaxing him into the carriage with some persuasion, the coachman gave a soft "hush" and the carriage slowly set off.

In the quiet night, the sound of rolling wheels was particularly obvious. Lu Jiuan couldn't sit still in the carriage and was tossing and turning in an uneasy manner. Ji Ce, who had closed his eyes to rest, opened his eyes and asked good-temperedly: "What are you going to do?"

Lu Jiu'an was restless. Jiu An opened a pair of piercing eyes and said loudly: "I want to assist His Majesty to establish a peaceful and prosperous age."

The two of them were talking like ducks, each talking about his own thing. Ji Ce put his hands on his knees and said displeasedly: "Does this Zhou Dynasty, in your eyes, not count as a peaceful and prosperous age?"

"Not enough." Lu Jiu'an shook his finger, "The real peaceful and prosperous age is when the warehouses are abundant and the people are happy. , everyone has no worries about food and clothing, and everyone has books to read. When such a society is established, your majesty will become a famous king through the ages, and I will also become a famous minister through the ages."

Ji Ce's eyes were deep, and he looked at it intently. After a moment, Lu Jiu'an suddenly laughed and cursed: "I'm not ashamed to say that this kind of thing is not easy."

"It's not difficult." Lu Jiu'an glanced at Ji Ce, as if complaining about his lack of ambition.

"It's not difficult for you to say. Throughout the ages, for thousands of years, when has there been such a prosperous age?"

Lu Jiuan anxiously twirled his fingers and vowed: "Yes, some..."

"Then tell me, where is it? "

Lu Jiu'an's lips moved. The more anxious he became, the less he knew where to start.

In his impression, he had indeed seen such a prosperous time.

While struggling, a mysterious force seemed to appear in mid-air, injecting a spiritual light into his head, causing him to suddenly fall into a state of half-dream and half-awake.

Ji Ce was still looking at Lu Jiu'an, waiting for his answer.

Lu Jiu'an turned his head in confusion, and two lines of tears fell unconsciously on his face: "Yes."

"I am from here, my... my country."

As soon as these words came out, Ji, who was originally casual , Ce calmed down, Donglan's face turned pale, and he trembled as he leaned down and said cautiously: "Isn't this person a spy from the enemy country?"

Ji Ce waved his hand to signal him to shut up, and turned around . After taking a good look at Lu Jiu'an, I saw that he was still in a dazed state. He must have been drunk and uttered the truth in a daze.

"Tell me, what is your country like?"

Lu Jiu'an said the first sentence, and when he spoke again, he was already speaking smoothly: "My country was once an ancient, wealthy aristocracy in the East. , due to some reasons, he gradually fell into ruin. Everyone wanted to step on him, and everyone wanted to bully him. The family was humiliated, and the family property was snatched away by robbers and bandits.

"What happened later?"

"Later, our ancestors were unwilling to be humiliated and used millions of blood and flesh to repel the foreign powers. Then the whole country worked together to develop rapidly in just a few decades and became a superpower. The people were rich, the country was strong, and no one was around. Dare to attack."

Lu Jiuan's tone was full of nostalgia, and he didn't even know why.

Ji Ce sneered: "If it's true as you said, why did you stay in Dazhou? Why didn't you go back?"

Lu Jiu'an shook his head.

"If you can't go back, how can you cross the chasm of time? Can Confucius travel through thousands of years and come to our era?"

"You mean..." Ji Ce was stunned on the spot. For a moment, he actually felt Could it be that he was so frustrated that he listened to a drunk man talking for so long?

The wheels rolled over the bluestone slabs and slowly stopped in front of the house where Lu Jiuan temporarily rented.

The car window screen was blown open by the wind, and the moonlight poured in, reflecting Ji Ce's stunned face.

Lu Jiu'an approached Ji Ce and showed a confused smile: "You don't believe it."

Ji Ce frowned and exhaled: "How can I trust you in such shocking things?"

"Then follow me. ." Lu Jiuan turned around and got out of the carriage.

Ji Ce didn't know why, so he sent Donglan away and followed Lu Jiu'an to his study alone. Then the lights dimmed and brightened, and Ji Ce saw an incredible scene.

The shiny and transparent glass, the smooth and flat floor, the strange and square utensils, no... not only that utensil, but also the whole room looked strange.

Lu Jiuan fell down on the sofa and stretched out comfortably.

"Where is this?" Ji Ce clenched his fists and tried to calm down.

"This is my office, on the 28th floor." Lu Jiuan ignored his surprise, turned on the computer, and clicked on one video after another.

"In our era, going to heaven and earth is no longer a dream. Look, this is called an airplane. It can carry hundreds of people from Langdong to Shannan. Such a long distance can be reached in two hours."

"And this. The long trains running at high speed on the ground are called high-speed trains, with speeds of hundreds of kilometers per hour. Even if you put a glass of water in them, they will not spill anything. "

"In the future, wars will be fought with hot weapons. At the beginning, we closed the country and claimed to be big, so we called other countries. Bullied to the point of being unable to fight back, you see, if the soldiers of Dazhou are charged with these hail of bullets, how can their flesh and blood resist? Therefore, if you fall behind, you will be beaten. The last priority is to develop technology. "

Lu Jiuan didn't care about him. Whether he could accept it or not, he said it all at once.

Ji Ce closed his eyes tightly: "Are there many more countries?"

"About two hundred." Lu Jiuan turned the globe on the table.

"I actually thought..." Ji Ce laughed secretly and asked, "How long can the Great Zhou survive in the world?"

"How do I know?" Lu Jiu'an spread his hands and said, "But the general trend of the world, combined with What lasts a long time must divide, and what lasts a long time must unite. Nothing is eternal. From a historical perspective, rise and fall is a cyclical process. This is a natural law and law, and no one or thing can escape it." Lu Jiu settled down. , "I can only guarantee that the country and people in my era will be peaceful and peaceful."

Lu Jiu'an said bluntly and cruelly. Ji Ce knew that his words were reasonable, and looked straight at him: "You have such shocking secrets, so you are willing to surrender. ?"

Lu Jiu'an didn't realize it, and smiled casually: "The years are just a blink of an eye. Why do you have to ask for those things in life?"

"Ji Ce, why don't you just imagine that there is a person in the long history? The rotating gear, and that gear that only took hundreds of years to rotate once, has actually turned a full circle under your push. Isn't this an exciting thing?"

Lu Jiu'an said with a smile. Happy without expense: "Compared with getting promoted to an official position or becoming a wife, it's totally different from this."

Lu Jiu'an's innocent laughter echoed in the office all day long, and the laughter gradually died down. Jiu An half-closed his eyelids and lay on the table, feeling drowsy.

Ever since Ji Ce was born, never had he heard or seen such bizarre things. He sat in a daze on the sofa for an unknown amount of time. It wasn't until Lu Jiuan's shallow breathing sounded in the office that Ji Ce suddenly came back to his senses.

He looked around, picked up a metal watch from the table and stuffed it into his sleeve, then shook Lu Jiu'an awake.

"What?" Lu Jiuan said sleepily.

Ji Ce looked at him with complicated eyes and asked the last question of the day: "Which one do you think is the best among the first-class Jinshi?"

Lu Jiu'an no longer had the extra energy to deal with him, so he answered feebly: " Of course he is the number one scholar."

"The number one scholar? That's my ambition..." Ji Ce shook his head and said with unclear meaning: "If a tree is as beautiful as a tree, the wind will destroy it. I think it is better to be a flower."

...

Xin Maonian. In the joint examination, Lu Jiu'an Lianjie won Huiyuan. Lu Jiu'an had no expression for this result, but Luo Jinshen, a teacher, was ecstatic.

"Work hard and strive to get the top prize in the palace examination. In this way, you will get three yuan."

Winning three yuan in a row, this achievement is very rare in history. Luo Jin deeply thought about such a scene, and even his breathing became rapid.

On the tenth day of April, all the tributes put on uniform costumes, walked through Yemen, and stepped into the magnificent palace full of longing.

Lu Jiu'an stood in the middle of the team and quietly raised his head to glance up. It didn't matter why the Nine-Five Master sitting on the dragon throne looked so familiar.

This... isn't this the person named Ji Ce whom I met by chance on the bridge that night?

Lu Jiuan's eyes widened for a moment.

Policy person refers to planning; Ji person refers to the surname of the princes. Why didn't he react to such an obvious name?

Lu Jiu'an vaguely remembered that he was drunk during the second half of the night. He shouldn't be talking nonsense or saying something treasonous...

Lu Jiu'an was sweating profusely, and he plucked up the courage to glance quietly, and met Emperor Yong Xi's eyes.

Emperor Yong Xi lowered his head and looked over from a high position. He obviously saw Lu Jiu'an's little movements and raised the corners of his mouth imperceptibly.

According to the usual practice, the first-class examination papers need to be sealed and presented to the palace for the ministers to view. Firstly, it is indeed to appreciate the literary talents of the new subjects, and secondly, to prevent the occurrence of favoritism and malpractice.

One of the ministers looked at the long scroll, another looked at the short scroll, and when it came to Lu Jiu'an's scroll, although they didn't know who had written it, they all circulated it in turn and were full of praise.

"The words are golden and stone, the sentences are autumn frost, the words are covered with clouds, and the chapters are embroidered..."

"The names and principles are profound, the talents are great, the scriptures are included in the history, and they are extremely elegant..."

"Such articles should be regarded as Yuan Dynasty ..." Volume." All the ministers agreed.

When the seal was opened, it turned out to be Huiyuan's paper.

The examiner, Mr. Dage, was so proud that his beard almost reached the sky. The ministers turned to the examiner and repeatedly praised him for his sharp eyesight.

Emperor Yongxi nodded and praised: "Lu Qing has the talent of a general."

Then the palace examination began. There was only one policy question in the palace examination. The questions were drawn up by the cabinet and determined by Emperor Yongxi.

Lu Jiu'an himself couldn't say how well he did in the imperial examination this time, because when he was answering the exam, Lu Jiu'an always felt like a gaze from above was looking at him, like a light on his back.

However, the result seemed to be unsatisfactory, and Emperor Yongxi appointed him as the third best candidate.

What a glorious status for a young man who has not yet reached the crown.

Everyone he knew or didn't know came to congratulate him. He was truly a minister of the emperor, and the hall was full of people from all walks of life.

The girl who had not left the court in southern Shanxi was even more interested. During that time, the house Lu Jiuan rented was full of people, and there were so many matchmakers who came to inquire about their in-laws, both covertly and overtly.

Many celebrities and lay people also mentioned meeting Lu Jiu'an as a source of conversation.

Lu Jiu'an was awarded the title of Jinshi by Yijia and was appointed editor of the Hanlin Academy. Luo Jinshen loved him very much and wished he could hold this disciple at the top of his heart, hang it on his belt, and show off to everyone.

Lu Jiu'an was very ambitious, but after he actually took up his post, he discovered that officialdom was not as peaceful as it seemed. Under the water, there are still various conspiracies lurking.

At that time, the fight for life and death between the two parties was particularly fierce. Among them, the Lin faction headed by Dage Lao and the Luo faction headed by Lu Yanggong were the most serious. Emperor Yongxi was caught in the middle, and there was a faint worry about losing power.

Lu Jiu'an could see clearly that although the old faction in the Grand Pavilion was deeply rooted, their strength was too old. Their forward strength was exhausted and their remaining strength was exhausted. By the end, they were already at the end of their strength.

On the eve of the Dragon Boat Festival, Dage Lao held a family banquet and invited literati from all over the world. Anyone could see that this was the Lin sect's death struggle.

Of course Lu Jiuan also knew.

On the night when he received the famous post from Dage, Lu Jiuan sat alone in the study for a long time.

Dage was always his examiner and nominal teacher in the examination, so he should go because of the situation; however, the party disaster continued, and many people chose to protect themselves wisely, so there was nothing wrong with him not going.

The candles were brightly lit in the study, and no one knew what he was thinking. The next day, he asked Lu Qi to submit a reply and decided to accept the invitation.

Luo Jinshen learned about this and came to remind him overnight: "You don't want your life! This is a serious crime of losing one's head. Even a master would not dare to participate in it easily. You, a little prostitute, are overestimating your abilities."

"Teacher, you don't understand."

"What on earth are you thinking!" Luo Jin deeply hated the fact that iron cannot become steel. "Are you also eager for quick success and want to achieve success in one step? I'll tell you, this banquet, even if you go If you haven't done anything, you won't be able to escape the punishment once Grandpa Lao falls."

"I just have a feeling in the dark," Lu Jiu'an frowned and said with some uncertainty, "It seems like a distant land. They are calling me, they need me, I have to go this time."

"I think you are stupid in studying."

"Teacher, your destiny has its own plan."

Not long after, Mr. Dage was dismissed because of the piano burning case. After being jailed, everyone in the court who had some relationship with the elder was implicated.

Tanhualang, a new member of the imperial court, is no exception. As a nominal disciple of the old man, he was recruited into the palace by Emperor Yongxi.

In the afternoon of that day, the sound of broken porcelain was heard from the imperial study room, and the Emperor's personal father-in-law Dong Lan said that His Majesty was very angry that day.

Many powerful officials waited with gloating.

Sure enough, the next day, His Majesty drafted an imperial edict and demoted this new talent to Jiangzhou.

Lu Jiu'an, even if you are extremely talented and charming, even if you go to Jiangzhou, it is difficult for a clever woman to make a meal without rice.

As the carriage left the city, Lu Jiuan opened the curtain and looked back at the towering city wall.

In a daze, he seemed to see through the city wall the sensual dogs and horses inside. The streets were bustling with people, and the warm lanterns and candles were lit one after another, winding along the river in the city...

But these had nothing to do with him.

The night sky in southern Shanxi is filled with stars.

The moon is silent in the high sky. It seems to be watching this land, watching the most beautiful city and the brightest lights in this era.

Chapter 230

Lu Jiuan slowly opened his eyes and woke up from a dream. The mixed memories were like deep waves crashing in his mind, giving him a splitting headache.

It felt like he had worked overtime for two nights. Lu Jiuan was so groggy that he couldn't tell what night it was.

A figure was illuminated above his head, and his hair fell straight down to his neck. Lu Jiuan couldn't help but tilt his neck.

"Don't move." The visitor ordered softly, then stretched out a hand as cold as jade, gently tried it on Lu Jiuan's forehead, and then put it on his wrist to feel for his pulse.

Lu Jiu'an's vision gradually became clearer, and he could clearly see the face close at hand.

"Jizhi?"

"You're finally awake." Qin Jizhi stuffed his hands into the bed and tucked them in.

Lu Jiuan frowned.

The appearance of Qin Jizhi made Lu Jiuan's confused brain even more confused.

How could I see Qin Jizhi? Could it be that I am still in Yingping now?

Qin Jizhi stood up and brought a bowl of soup, carefully helped Lu Jiu'an up from the bed, and stuffed a soft pillow behind his back: "Since you're awake, drink some soup while it's hot to warm your stomach."

Lu Jiu'an felt weak all over. , He leaned weakly on the soft pillow and took a breath, looking around. The decorations in the room were very familiar, it was clearly the small house he bought in Beijing.

"Why...have you arrived in southern Shanxi?"

Qin Jizhi sat down in front of him: "You are sleepy and the imperial doctor in the capital is helpless. Han Zhi traveled day and night to beg Yingping. If I don't come again, your general will Going crazy."

Qin Jizhi still remembers the scene that day.

Han Zhi rushed into the hospital in panic and begged Qin's father to save Lu Jiu'an's life. This incident really shocked everyone in the hospital.

"My father originally wanted to come here in person to repay his past kindness, but he is already old, so I have to do it for him."

Lu Jiu'an put his forehead with both hands, looking confused: "How long have I been asleep?"

"More than a month. If not for this. For a period of time, General Han was fed liquid food with no clothes on, and supplemented it with ginseng. No matter how strong your body is, it will be too much for your body to lie unconscious for so long. "

So long has passed...

Lu Jiuan lowered his head, and the soup was in the bowl. The soup reflected his waxy and thin face.

The overlapping phenomena of his escape, Lu Qi's tragic death, and the long years in his dream were all connected in a thread, flashing before his eyes one by one like a marquee.

Yes, he remembered everything, and now...

Lu Jiu'an turned his head: "Where's Brother Han."

Qin Jizhi glanced at the untouched soup cup in his hand, sighed, and pointed to the right wing. "He was forced to take him there to rest by his subordinates," he said.

Han Zhi stayed beside Lu Jiuan's bed for three days and three nights. Even if he closed his eyes now, he still slept restlessly.

Lu Jiu'an's injured leg was carefully treated by the imperial physician and would not cause any further problems. However, he lay in bed and fell asleep for a long time, and no one could diagnose the cause.

He was so scared that he woke up several times from nightmares.

This time, Han Zhi just fell asleep and dreamed that Lu Jiu'an was holding his hand and saying that he wanted to return to the original world from the underworld and came to say goodbye to him. Han Zhi was so frightened that Han Zhi suddenly opened his eyes, no longer sleepy.

Han Zhi's eyes went dark, and everything that happened in the dream made him shudder. Han Zhi felt flustered for no reason, as if the things in the dream were coming true in reality. He wiped his face hard and jumped up from the bed.

He wanted to see Lu Jiu'an.

Han Zhili opened the door in a panic and was suddenly stunned.

The person he was thinking about was standing on the verandah at the moment, being supported by Qin Jizhi. The sun shone on him, making him dazzlingly white.

"Jiu'an..." Han Zhi trembled his lips, almost unable to believe his eyes.

Lu Jiuan stared blankly at the tall man in front of him. He seemed to be even more haggard than his patient. His face was unshaven and his eyes were covered with red bloodshot eyes.

Lu Jiuan waved to him.

Han Zhi stepped forward quickly, using his fingers to carefully trace his eyebrows, nose, mouth... and finally hugged him into his arms.

Han Zhi's back was stretched like a fully-drawn bow. The despair and exhaustion of the past few days weighed on him, making him almost breathless.

"I don't know what to do anymore. All the doctors have no choice but to leave me to fate." Han Zhi's voice was hoarse and he asked again and again, "Why are you always unconscious? Do you know how scared I am?"

"Don't Scared." Lu Jiu'an patted his back with his hand and comforted him softly, "I just... had a long dream."

The man who had been in a coma for more than a month suddenly woke up, causing chaos in the house.

Lu Jiu'an is very weak. According to the doctor's orders, he needs to rest for ten days and a half.

Emperor Yongxi issued an imperial order to allow Lu Jiu to recuperate at his residence peacefully, while courtiers took over all matters in the government office.

Han Zhi, who had never had a good rest, was forced to go to bed by Lu Jiuan, but Han Zhi was not sleepy at all. He was afraid that when he woke up, he would find that everything in front of him was just an illusion.

Lu Jiu'an had no choice but to take off his soap boots and climb onto the bed to lie side by side with him.

Han Zhi pulled him into his arms, and Lu Jiu'an's breath lingered on the tip of his nose as if nothing existed. Han Zhi finally relaxed, hugged Lu Jiu'an and closed his eyes.

It was already the next day when Han Zhi woke up again, and the sky was bright. Lu Jiuan was still sleeping, breathing lightly. Han Zhi stared at his peaceful sleeping face, as if he couldn't get enough of it.

After a while, Han Zhi got out of bed. He remembered that people who had just recovered from a serious illness should not eat too fishy and meaty foods, but should mainly eat light foods.

Han Zhi found Qin Jizhi, got a suitable recipe from him, and went to the kitchen to cook it for an hour. So when Lu Jiuan opened his eyes, what was in front of him was a bowl of hot medicinal porridge.

Han Zhi held Lu Jiu'an on his lap, circled his wrist and looked at him: "I have lost weight. Is there any discomfort in my body?"

Lu Jiu'an shook his head.

Han Zhi picked up the bowl, scooped out a spoonful of porridge, carefully cooled it, and then handed it to his mouth.

Lu Jiuan tilted his neck back.

"What?" Han Zhi immediately asked nervously.

"I haven't brushed my teeth yet." Lu Jiuan whispered.

Han Zhi's expression softened: "You are already sick, and you still care about so many things."

"Do you know that disease enters through the mouth?"

Han Zhi had to wait for him to clean his face and brush his teeth before Lu Jiuan took the bowl and took a small sip. Drink porridge.

Halfway through the drink, Lu Jiu'an suddenly put down his bowl and slowly raised his head to look at Han Zhi: "I want to go see Lu Qi."

Han Zhi's heart thumped and he avoided his eyes.

Ever since Lu Jiu'an woke up, everyone in the house had tacitly avoided this topic in front of him, fearing that Lu Qi's death would stimulate him again.

Lu Jiu'an smiled bitterly, his throat tightening: "I'm ready. Lu Qi passed away, right? Where is he now?"

Han Zhi clenched his fists: "The weather is hot, and we don't know when you will wake up. So he took it upon himself to bury him."

...

Lu Qi's cemetery is on a mountain outside Shannan. Lu Jiu'an's legs and feet were not yet strong enough and he was walking with a limp. Han Zhi picked up Lu Jiu'an and gently put him into the carriage.

He walked to the carriage, picked up the reins, and acted as the groom.

The carriage drove steadily out of the city. Lu Jiuan opened the curtain and stuck his head out: "Where is Ding Xin?"

He remembered that before he disappeared, he and Ding Xin were hiding from the rain in a ruined temple, and were later kidnapped. , suffered a lot, and according to Han Zhi's character, Ding Xin might be charged with insufficient protection.

What Lu Jiuan was most worried about was that Han Zhi was so angry that he directly executed the person.

Han Zhi didn't look back: "Ding Xin neglected his duty. I punished him with fifty military battles and demoted him to three levels. He is now recuperating in the mansion."

Fortunately, Lu Jiu'an breathed a sigh of relief, hesitated for a moment, and couldn't help but persuade: "At that time, we knew that the enemy was hiding, and we were unable to guard against it. Besides, in that situation, no one could guarantee my safety 100%, and I can't blame Ding Xin."

Han Zhi snorted coldly: "Why are you still doing it for him? "

I'm just stating the facts. After all, it's me who was responsible for his misfortune. Let him resume his duties after he recovers." "Let's talk about it

later."

At that time, there was light rain in the sky, and a slender figure stood in front of the tomb. His clothes were wet, and he didn't know how long he had been here.

Han Zhi recognized the other party's identity at a glance.

"Linshen." Han Zhi frowned and pulled him, "Why are you here alone?"

Han Linshen turned around, not sure if it was rain or tears on his face.

"Dad." Han Linshen called weakly and lowered his head, "I once promised Lu Qi that when I became emperor in the future, he would be my minister. How come things turned out like this in the blink of an eye?"

Han Zhi touched his head like he did when he was a child: "Go back, you are very cold. Go back and take a shower and change clothes."

The cemetery was covered with light yellow copper paper money, and the ground in front of the grave was covered with burnt remains. The ashes were soaked by the rain and turned black.

There is a monument in front of the grave, which is simply inscribed "Tomb of Lu Qi". Because his biological father and mother are unknown, his family and friends are blank. Apart from this, there is only an epitaph carved by Xiang Daozhen.

Lu Qi died when he was in his prime. He died so young that the inscription on the inscription summarized his life in just a few words.

Lu Jiuan remembered the scene when he bought Lu Qi in the slave market when he was a child, and remembered his stubborn and pitiful eyes. He pursed his lips and placed the flowers in his hand in front of the monument.

Then he picked up a sharp rock, squatted down, and added four characters on the tombstone one stroke at a time.

"Brother Lu Jiuan".

"Don't be too sad." Han Zhi didn't know how to comfort him, so he could only hold his hand awkwardly, "... people can't be resurrected after death."

"I know." After thinking of all the past, Lu Jiu'an was confused about life and death. With more understanding and insights, his voice was light and airy, "I just feel that Lu Qi just came into my life once to protect me from this disaster, and then went back again."

Lu Jiu'an sighed . He spoke nostalgically of interesting things from his childhood: "... He was introverted at that time. He was always teased by the mountains and rivers. He wanted to resist, but couldn't beat the opponent. He came to me with tears and snot in his eyes to complain."

Han Zhi But he suddenly grasped one of the key questions: "Do you remember?"

"Yes." Lu Jiu'an nodded: "I told you in the past that I took someone else's body, but in fact I have always been me."

" I'm Lu Jiu'an."

"Great." Han Zhi's heart suddenly relaxed.

What he actually didn't tell Lu Jiu'an was that he had been worried because of those words, fearing that the original owner would suddenly wake up from the body. If this is the case, where will his long-term peace be at that time?

Now that I heard him say this, the stone in my heart was finally put down, and I no longer had any worries.

When the two returned to the house, Lu Jiu'an asked about King Jin'an's fate and what happened next.

When he mentioned the other party, Han Zhi's face was cold, and the anger was as real as the sky: "Rebels have only one ending since ancient times..."

Then Han Zhi explained the whole story exactly.

It turned out that after Han Zhi received the news from Fu Wenxin, he immediately mobilized his troops and rushed to the other courtyard to surround him tightly. When the people inside saw that something was going wrong, some wanted to escape and some abandoned their weapons and surrendered. , some resisted desperately.

But the soldiers under General Zhenyuan were no match for this group of stragglers. The battle was decided in less than a cup of tea. King Jin'an was captured by his hands and pushed to Han Zhi.

Han Zhi glanced at Han Zhao emotionlessly.

He didn't expect that he would be the mastermind behind it, and he couldn't figure out what his purpose was. He had no intention of asking about the reason behind it. The top priority was to find Lu Jiu'an.

Han Zhi led his men and horses to search all over the mountains and fields, and finally found Lu Jiu'an in a hidden cave. When they found Lu Qi again, he was already dying.

Han Zhao was handed over to Dali Temple to await trial.

As a member of the royal family, Han Zhao killed an important official in the court. This was already a thing that shocked Xiaoting. In addition, Emperor Yongxi ordered a thorough investigation, and the people in Dali Temple did not dare to take it lightly. They were "offended" by King Jin'an while strictly executing the order.

Perhaps Han Zhao saw that the situation was over and no longer covered it up, or perhaps it was for other reasons. In short, the officials of Dali Temple easily found some clues, and then followed the clues and uncovered many shocking things.

The warehouse is full of sharp weapons, the house is full of gold and silver jewelry, and the dense correspondence...

As soon as these things are exposed, the mood is completely different. This is a rebellion!

The people in Dali Temple took a breath of cold air. No one expected that the case would go round and round, and in the end, it would be such a major case.

The civil and military officials in the court were also surprised. In fact, King Jin'an usually gave people the impression that he was an idle prince who ignored government affairs and devoted himself to Buddhism. Unexpectedly, he had such ambitions hidden in private.

However, thinking of what his mother, Concubine Liao, had done, everyone felt that everything had a reasonable explanation.

Those who raise troops to rebel will be punished by beheading. Anyone in the family who is over 16 years old will be hanged. Those under 16 years old will be sent to the frontier, and all women will be used as military prostitutes.

Lu Jiu'an heard a familiar name among the conspirators: "Master Liao? How could he be involved?" Master

Liao's presence in the court was weak. If it hadn't been for the werewolf killing in Lingshan, the other party would have killed him. He left a deep impression, Lu Jiuan may not be worthy of the call.

Then he thought of something and frowned: "No, what is the relationship between Master Liao and Concubine Liao?"

Han Zhi nodded approvingly: "The two of them are from the same clan, but in fact after so many years, this humble clan has The relationship has long been in name only. I don't know what he thinks, but he actually listened to Han Zhao's suggestion that he would be the uncle of the country after his success, and secretly helped him make suggestions and take charge of the temple property.

" " Lu Jiu'an sneered, "Is fame, fortune and wealth really so important? It makes a person willing to take such a big risk and commit such a heinous act. "

"Not everyone thinks like you... ..." Han Zhi shook his head.

"As for Zhu Yue, was he also executed?"

Han Zhi raised his eyebrows.

"Who?"

Lu Jiuan briefly described his facial features.

"He..." Han Zhi sneered with unknown meaning, then turned around and ordered his subordinates.

After a while, the soldier came forward holding a big dog.

"Wugu!" Lu Jiu'an was surprised. He didn't expect that Wugu survived despite such serious injuries. This couldn't help but give Lu Jiu'an a little comfort.

Wu Gu's whole body was shaved clean, and his body was covered with scars criss-crossed. The most obvious one was the one on his face, which almost ran through his entire cheek from his left ear to his right eye, making him look particularly ferocious.

The scars had simply begun to scab under the treatment, and even pink new flesh had grown in some places.

"You're still alive..." Lu Jiu'an's heart surged. He didn't know how to describe his mood at this moment. He hugged Wu Gu tightly, grabbed its ears and kissed it hard.

Han Zhi said: "That Zhu Yue was bitten to death by grains."

Han Zhi would not have had any impression of him at first, but the death of Zhu Yue was too shocking. When the soldiers found him, Zhu Yue fell in a pool of blood with his throat There was a big hole, and his face was hideous and terrifying, as if he couldn't believe that he died like this.

"Good bite! The kind of person who treats human life as nothing but trivial matters will deserve to die!" Lu Jiu'an remembered that deep in the other courtyard he discussed murder lightly, and then remembered that Zhu Yue was the culprit who killed Mu Lin. He couldn't help but feel very happy, and he rubbed it A handful of Wu Gu's ears praised, "Good dog, can I add chicken legs to you tonight?"

Wu Gu shook his tail and barked "Woo" twice in response.

The soldier next to him muttered twice, but stopped talking.

He actually wanted to tell Lu Jiu'an to take good care of his body.

After Lu Jiu'an fell unconscious, his general rushed to the prison where King Jin'an was imprisoned and punched Han Zhao one after another. The whole cell echoed with Han Zhao's maniacal laughter and the sound of punches hitting the flesh. Everything looked scary to their subordinates.

He didn't know if it was because of the murder of a sinner, but the shadow of Lu Qi's death faded a lot in his heart. Lu Jiu'an said in a brisk tone: "How did you confirm that I was kidnapped by the gangsters? What if I got lost myself, or something like that?" As the people say, it was taken away by the Buddha."

Han Zhi said: "I saw the distress signal you left."

"Sure enough..." Speaking of this, Lu Jiu'an remembered an incident from the past. Remember the string of sounds I made with the white jade porcelain cup when I first told you about Morse code?"

"Remember." After Han Zhi finished speaking, he picked up the things at hand and reproduced them one by one.

"Then do you still remember what it means?"

Han Zhi said helplessly: "You scolded me."

Lu Jiu'an shook his finger: "I lied to you before."

"You lied to me for what." The general asked calmly.

"That string of Morse code is not 'you are a bastard'." Lu Jiu settled for a moment and said, "It's because I like you."