Reborn: The First Rank "Madam"

C221 – Master Lu Sailed

“Has he left?” Lu Zheng turned around and asked.

“Yes, I’ve come to inquire about updates,” Zuo Shaoqing said with a smile, carrying Zuo Xiaolang to Lu Zheng’s side. He glanced at the markings on the map and queried in surprise, “What do these signify?”

The deputy general promptly responded, “Thanks to Master San, these leads were obtained from the spies you captured. Though not entirely reliable, it’s better than us groping blindly at sea.”

“Are these denoting pirate hideouts?” Zuo Shaoqing drew nearer to the map, scrutinizing it closely. Many areas were marked, each at considerable distances from one another, indicating individual territories for each pirate.

“Quite so. Master Lu’s strategy is to use this opportunity to hone the navy’s skills by engaging them at sea. Last time, numerous issues surfaced, so it’s an opportune moment to assess our progress.”

Zuo Shaoqing turned to Lu Zheng, expressing his concerns, “What if we fall into a trap again? I may not be fortunate enough to locate you all next time.”

Lu Zheng arched an eyebrow, retorting, “You think I’m naive? To repeat such an oversight would be sheer folly!”

Liang Qi paused his conversation with Soong Hanlin, placing a comforting hand on Zuo Shaoqing’s shoulder, asserting, “Lady Lu, fret not! Unless these pirates unexpectedly unite, they pose no substantial threat. Moreover, this naval expedition won’t solely involve Crane City’s fleet.”

Liu Tie pinched Liang Qi’s arm sharply, prompting a yelp of pain as he withdrew his hand from Zuo Shaoqing’s shoulder.

Soong Hanlin sneered at Liang Qi’s evident smugness.

Without defending Liang Qi, Zuo Shaoqing inquired, “Will other naval units be joining him at sea?”

Lu Zheng nodded, emphasizing, “The crux of warfare lies in tactical collaboration. Merely possessing formidable ships and valiant soldiers won’t suffice.”

Under Zuo Shaoqing’s administration, the treasury had rapidly depleted. Most funds were allocated to shipbuilding and equipment.

On both occasions, Lu Zheng had only provided a fraction of the wealth to Zuo Shaoqing. Zuo Shaoqing barely had time to conceal his assets before relinquishing them.

It wasn’t that the imperial government lacked military funding, but the disbursements were sluggish and limited, constraining Lu Zheng’s actions.

“When do we depart?” Zuo Shaoqing asked with a serious expression, his voice strained, evident even to Zuo Xiaolang.

The officers exchanged glances, silently departing. Before leaving, Liang Qi even gave Zuo Shaoqing a suggestive wink.

After everyone had left, Lu Zheng drew Zuo Shaoqing back to his seat, embracing the father and son. In a solemn tone, he said, “In one month’s time, winter will reach its peak, rendering prolonged sea voyages impractical. Hence, we set sail in two days.”

“So fast? Is everything ready?”

Lu Zheng planted a kiss on his cheek reassuringly. “Certainly, no need to fret. We’ll head to the nearest pirate base. One month should suffice.”

With no charcoal stove in the study, Zuo Shaoqing felt a chill creeping in. Drawing nearer to Lu Zheng, he remarked, “In a month, it’ll be the new year.”

Each year’s end mandated officials above the fourth rank to return to the capital for reporting duties. Following that were the New Year’s Eve festivities and ceremonial obligations. Zuo Shaoqing himself was due to return to the capital by year’s end.

“I’ll endeavor to return by then,” Lu Zheng affirmed, his gaze softening as he glanced at the child nestled in his arms. “It’s about time Mom saw this little one.”

“Speaking of which, has Madam mentioned her return to the capital?”

A fortnight prior, they had received word from Madam. At that juncture, she was in Youuxi Town, purportedly attending Qu Changqing’s wedding.

Recollecting the Madam’s heartfelt letter, Zuo Shaoqing was deeply touched. Only later did he realize that the Madam had inquired extensively about his upbringing in Youuxi Town.

Given Zuo Shaoqing’s upbringing in Youuxi Town, the Madam had spent considerable time there, even acquiring a tranquil courtyard and tending to vegetables and flowers.

“It won’t be long now, just this month. The Zhen Duke’s household cannot remain unmanned.”

Zuo Shaoqing felt a pang of guilt. Should Lu Zheng wed his master’s daughter, Wu Steel Manor would have no shortage of mistresses to send their way at this time, sparing the Madam the need to exert herself.

If Lu Zheng were privy to his thoughts, he’d be torn between laughter and tears. Did Zuo Shaoqing truly believe just anyone could preside over the Zhen Duke’s residence? Even if he were to marry, his wife would be merely decorative; she could never usurp the household management.

To Lu Zheng, a married woman paled in comparison to a servant attendant of the Zhen Duke. At the very least, the latter’s loyalty remained unquestioned.

On Lu Zheng’s departure day, Zuo Shaoqing bid farewell alongside Crane City officials. This time, the farewell was more ostentatious, signaling to Crane City residents that Duke Zhen led troops to sea to combat pirates.

Given Crane City’s substantial overseas merchants and some citizens reliant on fishing, Master Lu garnered considerable support for pirate eradication efforts.

Having been previously abducted by pirates, Wang Xu and his son furnished an entire ship’s worth of supplies to bolster the navy’s cause on departure day.

Zuo Shaoqing noted his increasing warmth toward the Wang Family, eliciting rueful feelings among other merchants who regretted not fostering similar relationships.

Recognizing the significance of the deal to Master Lu and the Left Prefect, coupled with its potential to enhance his reputation, Zuo Shaoqing deemed it a truly worthwhile endeavor.

Consequently, in subsequent years, whenever the navy embarked on sea voyages, the merchants of Crane City took it upon themselves to gather provisions. Not only did this enhance the soldiers’ living conditions, but it also resulted in significant savings for the treasury.

Over time, this ethos permeated the seaport cities, elevating the navy’s status. Through prolonged training, the navy grew increasingly courageous, and its renown spread far and wide.

With Lu Zheng’s departure, Zuo Shaoqing had no time to dwell on the passage of time, for the grand trading companies’ election loomed. It marked his initial encounter with numerous merchants.

On the appointed day, Yellow Crane Tower was reserved for the officials. The main hall on the first floor was transformed into an assembly room, while the second floor awaited the guests and the third floor was readied for the officials.

Zuo Shaoqing’s treatment of every merchant instilled a sense of pride in them. Ordinarily, they wouldn’t even dream of receiving such hospitality from a Prefect, yet now they found themselves enjoying it.

He Min, under Zuo Shaoqing’s direction, invited over a hundred merchants of various scales from Crane City.

However, most attendees were merely observers. Less than ten trading companies possessed the qualifications to contest the election. To avoid any accusations of favoritism, Zuo Shaoqing meticulously maintained an appearance of fairness.

“The Prefect approaches…” Zuo Shaoqing’s palanquin had just arrived at the entrance when eagerly waiting merchants crowded around, nearly obstructing their path.

As the sedan chair was lowered, a young man clad in official robes emerged before the assembly. Although not everyone present had encountered Zuo Shaoqing previously, they were all taken aback by his youth and striking appearance.

Even though Wang Xu had interacted with Zuo Shaoqing extensively, each encounter left him marveling at the intelligence and charm of the young official. Compared to his own sons, Zuo Shaoqing was truly enviable.

“Lord Zuo An!” echoed the unified salutations. Zuo Shaoqing offered a friendly smile and remarked, “No need for excessive formality. Your presence here is a show of support for this official.”

“Indeed, indeed…”

“We are honored by Lord Zuo’s genuine invitation.”…

In terms of social standing, these meticulously groomed individuals were not inferior to government officials. Throughout the procession, Zuo Shaoqing maintained a gentle smile, leading the way into the restaurant amid a chorus of praise.

As everyone settled into their seats, Zuo Shaoqing gestured for silence. With the room hushed, he began, “Today, the purpose of inviting esteemed guests here is quite evident. I trust you’re all aware of it. When I proposed restrictions on coastal trade, many of you expressed discontent. However, as a responsible official, I must prioritize the welfare of the nation’s citizens and safeguard the security of Great Yang. Consequently, some sacrifices to the interests of coastal merchants are unavoidable. I hope for your understanding.”

Zuo Shaoqing’s words resonated with loyalty and righteousness, leaving no room for dissent. The once distant Prefect now earnestly explained and apologized, stirring restlessness among the attendees.

Another round of compliments and praises ensued. At this juncture, none dared to voice opposition against Zuo Shaoqing’s actions, fearing the stigma of being labeled traitors to the nation.