bestfiction Chapter 310 Rescue
Chapter 310 Rescue
Bathed in the autumn sunset, the royal palace of the Nanzhao Kingdom resembled a golden castle. Its glazed tiles shimmered, and the auspicious beasts atop the eaves were lifelike, seemingly overlooking the bustling palace. After finishing his day's official duties, Xiao Nanyi, led by a eunuch, headed towards the palace where the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Dowager resided. Along the way, a cool autumn breeze blew, ruffling his dragon robe, making the golden dragon embroidery on its hem appear as if it were about to take flight.
"Your Majesty, the palace of the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Dowager is just ahead," the young eunuch whispered.
Xiao Nanyi nodded slightly and stepped into the palace. Inside, Xiao Jingchuan and Gu Liuli were sitting on a couch, leisurely sipping tea. Seeing Xiao Nanyi enter, the two put down their teacups and smiled.
"Your subject pays respects to Father Emperor and Mother Empress." Xiao Nanyi bowed respectfully.
Xiao Jingchuan smiled and waved his hand: "No need for formalities, Yi'er, have you handled the matters in court today?"
Xiao Nanyi walked to the side and sat down, took the tea handed to him by a palace maid, took a sip and said, "Reporting to Father, everything has been taken care of. I came today to talk to Father and Mother about the Mu Zetian family."
Gu Liuli raised an eyebrow, her eyes full of curiosity: "Mu Zetian? Is he Wanqing's brother? What happened to their family?"
Xiao Nanyi put down his teacup, his expression serious: "That's right. Mu Zetian's son, Mu Yixuan, became the top scholar in the imperial examination this year and has performed exceptionally well since joining the Hanlin Academy."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Jingchuan's eyes flashed with admiration: "Oh? This child is so outstanding. To be honest, I haven't seen Mu Zetian for a long time. I only remember that he was clever and quick-witted when he was a child. I didn't expect his son to be so promising as well."
Xiao Nanyi continued, "At first, I thought he was just a novice scholar, but after he entered the Hanlin Academy, he became diligent and studious, and his research on classical texts was quite profound. A few days ago, he presented a memorial on water conservancy projects, which was insightful and thorough in its analysis. Many of the suggestions he put forward are of great benefit to solving the current water conservancy problems."
Gu Liuli looked pleased: "It seems that this child is indeed a promising talent. The Nanzhao Kingdom is currently in need of capable people, and having such a talent is truly a blessing for the country."
Xiao Jingchuan pondered for a moment and asked, "So, how did you deal with this memorial?"
Xiao Nanyi looked slightly helpless: "When I first issued the reply, it was secretly obstructed by some powerful officials in the court. These people only care about their own interests and do not care about the suffering of the people. It is really infuriating."
Gu Liuli frowned: "Is this really true? These people only care about their own interests and completely disregard the overall situation of the country."
Xiao Nanyi nodded: "Fortunately, Mu Yixuan was not discouraged. He personally met with me and argued his case. Seeing his persistence, I discussed the matter with several ministers and finally decided to rectify the water conservancy project and appointed him as the supervisor of the water conservancy project."
Xiao Jingchuan nodded slightly, his eyes full of approval: "Yi'er, you did the right thing. As a monarch, you should be able to distinguish right from wrong and appoint virtuous and capable people. This water conservancy project is related to people's livelihood. Are you at ease letting Mu Yixuan be in charge?"
Xiao Nanyi said confidently, "Your Majesty, rest assured. Although Mu Yixuan is young, he is exceptionally talented and has a strong sense of responsibility. During this period, he traveled to various places, personally inspected water conservancy facilities, formulated repair plans, and solved many problems. Now, the water conservancy project has been completed, and the results are remarkable. The people all praise him highly."
Gu Liuli smiled and said, "It seems that Wanqing's family has produced a promising talent. Yi'er, you must nurture him well and let him contribute to the prosperity of Nanzhao Kingdom."
Xiao Nanyi replied, "Your subject understands. Your subject plans to transfer Mu Yixuan to the Six Ministries after he completes the follow-up matters of the water conservancy project, entrust him with important responsibilities, and let him display his talents in a more important position."
Xiao Jingchuan looked at Xiao Nanyi and said earnestly, "Yi'er, the way to employ people is to know them well and assign them appropriate roles. Mu Yixuan is both talented and responsible, so you must give him enough trust and support. At the same time, you must always pay attention to his growth and guide him onto the right path."
Xiao Nanyi nodded earnestly: "Your subject will follow Your Majesty's teachings. Your subject will certainly nurture Mu Yixuan well and make him a pillar of the Nanzhao Kingdom."
The three chatted for a long time, from court affairs to trivial matters in the harem, in a harmonious and warm atmosphere.
As dusk deepened, the flickering candlelight cast long shadows of the three figures within the hall. Xiao Nanyi spoke with Xiao Jingchuan and Gu Liuli for a few more moments before rising to take his leave, preparing to return to his palace to continue reviewing some urgent memorials. Before departing, Xiao Jingchuan once again urged Xiao Nanyi to prioritize the cultivation and appointment of talent, laying a solid foundation for the long-term stability of the Nanzhao Kingdom.
Back in his palace, Xiao Nanyi sat before his desk, his vermilion brush occasionally circling and annotating memorials, but the image of Mu Yixuan still frequently surfaced in his mind. This young scholar, with his talent and courage, had demonstrated extraordinary ability in water conservancy projects, giving Xiao Nanyi hope for the future of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Xiao Nanyi knew deeply that the prosperity of a nation depended on many talented individuals like Mu Yixuan.
A few days later, Mu Yixuan completed the final inspection of the water conservancy project and returned to the capital. Without resting, he went to the palace to report to Xiao Nanyi. In the imperial study, Mu Yixuan, dressed in official robes, looked dashing and respectfully bowed to Xiao Nanyi.
"Your Majesty, I, Mu Yixuan, pay my respects. The water conservancy project has been fully repaired, and all facilities are functioning well, effectively solving the irrigation problem for the people's farmland." Mu Yixuan's voice was loud and clear, and his eyes shone with pride.
Xiao Nanyi smiled and nodded: "Minister Mu, you have made an invaluable contribution this time. I have seen your efforts and dedication, and the people remember them in their hearts as well."
Mu Yixuan immediately knelt down: "Your Majesty is too kind. This is all within my duty. It is my honor to be able to seek the well-being of the people and share Your Majesty's burdens."
Xiao Nanyi gestured for Mu Yixuan to stand up and said, "Minister Mu, your performance in the water conservancy project has been outstanding, demonstrating exceptional talent and a strong sense of responsibility. I have decided to transfer you to the Ministry of Works as Vice Minister. I hope you will continue to contribute to the development of the Nanzhao Kingdom in your new position."
Mu Yixuan was shocked. He hadn't expected the emperor to value him so highly. He was so excited that his eyes reddened slightly: "Your Majesty trusts me so much. I will do my best to live up to Your Majesty's trust."
After leaving the palace, Mu Yixuan went straight back to the Mu residence. Mu Zetian and Lin Ruoxue had already learned of their son's successful completion of the water conservancy project and were anxiously waiting at the residence. Upon seeing Mu Yixuan return, the two hurriedly went to greet him.
"Xuan'er, how did things go?" Mu Zetian asked with concern.
Mu Yixuan said with a face full of joy: "Father, Mother, the water conservancy project is going smoothly and His Majesty is very satisfied with the results. Moreover, His Majesty has decided to transfer me to the Ministry of Works and serve as the Vice Minister of Works."
Lin Ruoxue covered her mouth in delight: "That's wonderful, Xuan'er, you've really brought honor to our Mu family."
Mu Zetian smiled with satisfaction: "This is all thanks to your hard work. However, now that you're in the Ministry of Works, the responsibilities are even greater. You must be even more diligent and never become arrogant or complacent."
Mu Yixuan nodded solemnly: "Father, rest assured, I understand. I will work hard and live up to His Majesty's trust and your teachings."
Soon after, Mu Yixuan officially took office at the Ministry of Works. He knew that the Ministry of Works was in charge of the country's engineering construction and bore a heavy responsibility. From the very beginning of his tenure, he devoted himself wholeheartedly to his work, carefully reviewing the Ministry's various documents and understanding the current progress of projects and existing problems.
At this time, the Nanzhao Kingdom was preparing for an important royal garden construction project. This project was grand in scale, aiming to create a place for the royal family to relax and enjoy themselves, while also showcasing the prosperity of the Nanzhao Kingdom. After Mu Yixuan participated in this project, he put forward many innovative design concepts and construction plans based on his knowledge accumulated in the Hanlin Academy and his experience in water conservancy projects.
However, the construction of the royal garden was not without its challenges. During construction, a series of difficulties arose, such as land acquisition issues, material shortages, and technical difficulties in construction. Some officials began to doubt Mu Yixuan's abilities, and some even secretly slandered him to the emperor, attempting to remove him from the project.
Mu Yixuan was not defeated by these difficulties and doubts. On the one hand, he actively communicated and coordinated with relevant departments to resolve issues related to land acquisition and material supply; on the other hand, he conducted in-depth research on construction techniques and organized craftsmen to tackle technical challenges. In order to find better solutions, Mu Yixuan often stayed up late at night in the Ministry of Works' study, sometimes even for several days and nights without rest.
Thanks to Mu Yixuan's efforts, the construction of the royal garden gradually got on track. The land acquisition issue was properly resolved, the supply of materials was guaranteed, and the technical difficulties in construction were overcome one by one. As the project progressed, the garden's basic form gradually emerged, with pavilions and towers arranged in a well-organized manner, artificial hills and ponds complementing each other, and flowers, trees, and shrubs growing lushly.
Several months later, the royal garden was finally completed. Xiao Nanyi personally went to inspect it and was very satisfied with the magnificent garden before him.
"Minister Mu, you have once again surprised me. This royal garden is truly another masterpiece of the Nanzhao Kingdom," Xiao Nanyi said to Mu Yixuan with a smile.
Mu Yixuan quickly bowed and said, "Your Majesty is too kind. This is all thanks to Your Majesty's wise leadership and the hard work of all the craftsmen. I only did what I could."
Xiao Nanyi looked at Mu Yixuan with admiration in his eyes: "Minister Mu, you don't need to be modest. I have seen your talent and hard work. Now that you have established yourself in the Ministry of Works, I hope you can continue to use your talents to contribute to the construction of the Nanzhao Kingdom."
Mu Yixuan said firmly, "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will do my utmost and die for you."
From then on, Mu Yixuan performed even better in his work at the Ministry of Works.
In the late spring of the capital city of Nanzhao, the warm sun shone brightly, and the streets and alleys were filled with the rich fragrance of flowers. Willows along the streets drooped their tender green branches, swaying gently in the breeze, creating a vibrant scene of everyday life alongside the bustling crowds. Mu Yixuan, dressed in a moon-white brocade robe, a blue silk sash tied around his waist, and a warm jade pendant, strolled leisurely along Zhuque Avenue. Having a rare moment of leisure today, he planned to search the streets for rare and ancient books to enrich his collection.
As they approached the entrance of a small alley, a sudden burst of shouts and cries from a woman rang out. Mu Yixuan frowned slightly and looked in the direction of the sound. He saw a group of wicked servants dressed in fine clothes surrounding a woman. The leader was a fat young master with a face full of fat and menacing features, who was lewdly tugging at the woman's sleeve.
"Young lady, come with me, and I'll guarantee you a life of luxury. Why suffer here?" the young master said, reaching out to touch the woman's face.
The woman struggled desperately, her eyes filled with terror and anger: "Let me go! You villains, how dare you abduct a woman in broad daylight!"
A surge of anger welled up in Mu Yixuan's heart. Without hesitation, he strode forward and shouted sternly, "Stop! In broad daylight, how can you villains be allowed to act so recklessly!"
The group of servants were startled by the sudden shout and turned around. The young master sized Mu Yixuan up and down, noticing his distinguished attire but not recognizing him. Though somewhat wary, he still said in a fierce but intimidating tone, "Who are you? Mind your own business, or I'll make you regret it!"
Mu Yixuan snorted coldly, stepped forward, and blocked the woman's path: "I am Mu Yixuan, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works. You are forcibly abducting a woman in broad daylight. Do you have no respect for the law?"
Upon hearing the words "Vice Minister of Works," the group of wicked servants turned pale, exchanged glances, and were somewhat at a loss. The young master had not expected to encounter an official of the imperial court, and felt a surge of panic, but was unwilling to give up so easily.
"Lord Mu...Lord Mu, I was blind and didn't recognize you. I offended you. But this woman is engaged to me. I was just taking her home." The young master's eyes darted around as he tried to argue.
Upon hearing this, the woman hurriedly cried out, "Sir, don't listen to his nonsense! I've never met him before. Today, he suddenly brought his men to stop me, intending to do something immoral. Please, sir, do me justice!"
Mu Yixuan turned to look at the woman. She had delicate features, and although her face was streaked with tears, she still looked incredibly pitiful. Her eyes were full of pleading as she tightly gripped Mu Yixuan's sleeve, as if she had grasped at his only lifeline.
"Hmph, utter nonsense!" Mu Yixuan's gaze was sharp as he stared at the young master. "You claim to have a marriage contract, but do you have the marriage contract document? If you cannot produce it, then you are abducting a woman, and I will definitely take you to the government office to punish you!"
Fine beads of sweat appeared on the young master's forehead, and he stammered, unable to speak. He was used to acting arrogantly and domineeringly, relying on his family's power, and had no concept of any marriage contract.
"Get out of here!" Mu Yixuan stomped his foot, scaring the group of wicked servants into scrambling away. The young master followed behind in a dejected manner, not forgetting to glare fiercely at Mu Yixuan before leaving.
Once the villains were out of sight, Mu Yixuan turned around and gently comforted the woman, "Miss, don't be afraid, they're gone. Are you alright?"
The woman then released her grip on Mu Yixuan's sleeve and curtsied slightly: "Thank you for saving me, sir. I am safe and sound. If you hadn't appeared in time, I fear I would not have escaped your clutches today."
Mu Yixuan nodded slightly: "No need to be so polite. It's only natural to help those in need. May I ask your name, young lady? And where do you live? I'll send someone to take you home."
A hint of hesitation flashed in the woman's eyes, then she said, "My name is Su Yao, and I live nearby. I wouldn't dare trouble you, sir. I can go back by myself."
Seeing that she was determined, Mu Yixuan did not press the matter further: "In that case, Miss Su, please be careful on your journey. If you encounter any further trouble, you can come to the Ministry of Works to find me."
Su Yao glanced gratefully at Mu Yixuan and said, "Thank you, sir. I will remember this." With that, she turned and left in a hurry.
Mu Yixuan watched Su Yao's departing figure, a strange sense of unease creeping into his heart. He shook his head, a bitter smile playing on his lips. What was wrong with him? It was just a chance encounter.
In the days that followed, Mu Yixuan remained busy with the affairs of the Ministry of Works, but Su Yao's image often appeared in his mind. Occasionally, when he had some free time, he would unconsciously walk to the vicinity of the alley where they had met that day, hoping to meet her again, but he never succeeded.
One day, Mu Yixuan finished his official business at the Ministry of Works, and it was already late. He walked out of the government office, preparing to return home, when he saw a familiar figure lingering not far away. Upon closer inspection, it was Su Yao.
"Miss Su, what are you doing here?" Mu Yixuan was both surprised and delighted.
Su Yao's eyes lit up when she saw Mu Yixuan, but she lowered her head again, looking somewhat flustered: "Lord Mu, I... I've come to thank you. I've been wanting to find an opportunity to properly thank you for saving my life that day, and I've finally been able to wait for you today."
Mu Yixuan smiled and said, "Miss Su, there's no need to be so polite. It was just a small favor. It's getting late, and it's not safe for Miss Su to be out alone. Let me take you home."
Su Yao hesitated for a moment, then nodded gently: "Then I'll have to trouble you, sir."
Along the way, the two chatted idly. Mu Yixuan learned that Su Yao had lost both her parents at a young age and lived with her elderly grandmother, making a living by embroidery. Mu Yixuan couldn't help but feel sympathy for her plight, and at the same time, he admired her strength and independence.
Before they knew it, they had arrived at Su Yao's house. It was a simple little house, old and worn, but clean and tidy.
"Lord Mu, thank you for bringing me back." Su Yao stood at the door, blushing as she said, "If you don't mind, please come in and have a cup of tea before you leave."
Mu Yixuan wanted to decline, but seeing the expectation in Su Yao's eyes, he nodded as if possessed: "Then I'll have to bother you, Miss Su."
Inside the room, an elderly woman with white hair was sitting at a table doing needlework. Seeing Su Yao and Mu Yixuan enter, the old woman put down her needlework and looked at them with a puzzled expression.
"Grandmother, this is Lord Mu who saved me," Su Yao quickly introduced.
Upon hearing this, the old woman immediately stood up and tremblingly tried to bow: "So it's Lord Mu. I thank you so much for saving my granddaughter."
Mu Yixuan quickly helped the old woman up, saying, "Grandma, there's no need for such formalities. It's all just what I should do."
Su Yao brewed a cup of tea for Mu Yixuan, its fragrant aroma rising gently. Mu Yixuan picked up the cup, took a small sip, and felt a unique warmth welling up inside him. He chatted with Su Yao and the old woman for a long time, until night fell, before finally getting up to take his leave.