Chapter 99: Enfeoffed as a Hereditary Earl! This Title

Seeing Dai Sigong say this.

Zhu Yuanzhang on the dragon throne could not help but show a look of deep emotion.

“Hahaha.”

“Heaven blesses our Great Ming.”

“With such a divine elixir belonging to our Great Ming, our nation’s fortune shall flourish.”

Zhu Yuanzhang laughed loudly.

His voice echoed throughout the grand hall, deafening.

Even upon hearing the news of breaking through Jincheng, Zhu Yuanzhang had never been so moved.

After all, the value of this hemostatic powder was too great—it could save countless wounded soldiers, truly a boon to the entire army.

“Father.”

“Such a divine elixir, Zhu Ying offers it without seeking reward.”

“Though he asks for nothing, our Great Ming cannot fail to reward him.”

“This divine elixir is worth a fortune,” Zhu Biao said at once to Zhu Yuanzhang, deeply moved.

“The Crown Prince speaks truly.”

“Such a divine elixir brings salvation to all our soldiers—how could we not reward him?”

“Zhu Ying.”

“He is truly a prodigy bestowed upon our Great Ming—not only a valiant general, but also the bringer of this divine elixir.”

“Crown Prince.”

“What do you think should be the reward?” Zhu Yuanzhang asked with a smile.

“Your Majesty.”

“Your subject believes.”

“Zhu Ying’s title should be elevated to Hereditary Earl, and a noble title granted, to honor our Great Ming’s gratitude to meritorious ministers.”

“In addition.”

“Grant five thousand gold pieces and a mansion in the region of his military command.” Zhu Ying said, directly settling the reward.

“Hereditary Earl?”

As Zhu Biao finished speaking.

All ministers in the court exchanged stunned glances.

During the founding of the Great Ming, titles were still granted, but after the state was established, noble titles became exceedingly rare, nearly impossible to bestow.

Yet Zhu Ying.

His existence was truly astonishing.

In just one year!

Not only has his official rank risen dramatically, but he is now to be made an earl.

Entered the rank of earl.

He may now be counted among the nobility of the court.

“Sigh.”

“Zhu Ying.”

“A court dignitary.”

“Never imagined he could reach such heights.”

“Under seventeen, granted the title of hereditary earl—so long as he does not rebel, he will surely hold a place of power in the military and court for the rest of his life.”

“Commander of the Guard, elevated to Earl.”

“I’ve served in court for decades and never even received a county viscount—yet Zhu Ying is made an earl.”

“This youth is not only exceptionally capable, but also extraordinarily lucky—he possesses such a divine elixir.”

“His promotions have all been earned through battlefield merit; now, with the gift of this elixir, no one can question it.”

…

The ministers in court all began to think privately.

“The Crown Prince’s proposal is indeed feasible.”

“This divine elixir truly warrants an earldom.”

“But, Crown Prince, what noble title do you intend to grant Zhu Ying?” Zhu Yuanzhang asked with a smile.

Zhu Yuanzhang rarely opposed anything Zhu Biao proposed.

And this time, Zhu Ying had rendered a great service—though not a military one, the value he brought to the Great Ming far surpassed any battlefield achievement, beyond doubt.

“Zhu Ying commands troops with fierce valor, wins every battle—he is the model young general of our Han Chinese people. He roams the northern frontier, slays countless enemies, breaches every city, invincible in his might!”

“He bears the shadow of the ancient Marquis of Guanjun, Huo Qubing.”

“Your subject proposes granting Zhu Ying the noble title ‘Guanjun.’”

After a moment of thought, Zhu Biao spoke decisively.

As soon as “Guanjun” was spoken.

All ministers stared in stunned silence.

To grant “Guanjun” as a noble title.

Supreme among all armies.

The meaning of this title was immense.

For any general in the military to receive such a title would be the highest grace, ensuring eternal fame in history.

It was like the ancient Wuan title from the Warring States period—equally weighty in significance.

Back then,

“Wuan” was the highest honor for a general, the ultimate distinction.

But in the Han dynasty, with Huo Qubing as the pioneer, he stormed the northern frontier, crushed the Xiongnu, and the title “Guanjun Marquis” echoed across China, making him a national hero.

In later generations, anyone bearing the title “Guanjun” would surely be remembered in history.

Now, Zhu Biao grants this title to Zhu Ying—it is a distinction greater than any founding general of the dynasty received; he is now the Guanjun Earl, and in the future, perhaps Guanjun Marquis, Guanjun Duke.

This is the greatest honor the Zhu imperial house can bestow.

“Guanjun as the noble title.”

“The highest honor for a general—never imagined such a young officer would receive it.”

“Never offend Zhu Ying again—he is deeply favored by the Emperor and Crown Prince; he will surely become a pillar of the court.”

“Seventeen—has he married? If not, perhaps I should arrange a match—my daughter is sixteen, perfectly suited.”

“We must cultivate a relationship with Zhu Ying—he will surely become a key minister.”

…

At this moment,

Many ministers began to entertain thoughts of befriending Zhu Ying.

In the court, across the land,

All is driven by interest.

Officialdom, commerce—all the same!

“Guanjun as the noble title.”

“Crown Prince, you have granted Zhu Ying an immense favor.”

Zhu Yuanzhang smiled, speaking with deep emotion.

“Father.”

“Perhaps Zhu Ying’s battlefield merits do not yet merit this title.”

“But by offering this divine elixir, countless soldiers of our Great Ming, for generations to come, will owe their lives to it! This merit is immense.”

“Even a more exalted title than ‘Guanjun’ would be fitting.”

“Moreover, I shall proclaim throughout the entire army Zhu Ying’s gift of the divine elixir, so every soldier knows his merit—ensuring his title of Guanjun is truly deserved.” Zhu Biao said solemnly.

Hearing Zhu Biao’s words,

Zhu Yuanzhang’s smile faded, and he nodded seriously: “The Crown Prince speaks truly.”

“Given the value of this elixir, he truly deserves this title.”

“Then, my ministers, do any of you object?”

Zhu Yuanzhang scanned the court once more and asked.

“Your Majesty is wise.”

“Crown Prince is wise.”

The ministers cried out in unison.

As always,

If Zhu Biao has decided, do not oppose—otherwise, you seek your own death.

“Draft the edict.”

“Zhu Ying is loyal and devoted, serving his country with unwavering fidelity! He offers this divine elixir without seeking reward!”

“We are deeply moved by Minister Zhu’s devotion to the state.”

“Now!”

"Zhu Ying, hereditary county viscount, is elevated to hereditary marquis, with an annual stipend of three hundred shi of grain."

"Additionally, grant him the title 'Champion,' five thousand gold pieces, and a mansion in Danning Fucheng," Zhu Yuanzhang declared loudly.

The moment he finished speaking.

All court officials cried out in unison: "Your Majesty is wise."

Wenyuange!

Zhu Yuanzhang sat, while Zhu Biao stood beside him.

"Older brother."

"You gave Zhu Ying this title—what’s your real intention?" Zhu Yuanzhang smiled, as if seeing through his son’s motives.

"Aren’t you always saying the Huaixi generals are too arrogant and reckless?"

"Ever since Zhu Ying rose to prominence in the military, Father had intended to promote him as a benchmark to weaken Huaixi’s influence within the army."

"Of course I follow Father’s wishes," Zhu Biao replied with a smile.

"You’re bringing up my words now?"

"All these years, if not for you, I’d have dealt with those Huaixi toughs long ago."

"Each one is arrogant and overreaching."

"Especially Lan Yu—what has he done? Embezzling land, abusing women—does he really think I don’t know?"

"If not for your sake, he’d be dead already," Zhu Yuanzhang said coldly.

"Father."

"I will strictly control Lan Yu and the other tough generals—and I am confident I can suppress them."

"Of course."

"Zhu Ying’s emergence makes it even easier for me to suppress them, to make them feel threatened and rein themselves in," Zhu Biao said with a smile.

"Zhu Ying is young—only seventeen."

"I recall Yunling is already twelve, right?" Zhu Yuanzhang asked with a smile.

"Yes."

"Time flies—she’s already twelve."

"She’s only two years younger than her elder brother," Zhu Biao said, a hint of longing in his voice.

"Your late wife bore you two sons and two daughters—Yunling and Yunying. Since her passing, they’ve been raised by two of your concubines; each year, I see them only once," Zhu Yuanzhang said with deep emotion.

"Yunying is only slightly older than Yuntong, but she’s very well-behaved."

"Of the four, Yuntong is the only one who has disappointed me greatly."

Zhu Biao spoke slowly, his eyes filled with disappointment in Zhu Yuntong.

"What’s wrong with Yuntong?"

Zhu Yuanzhang asked.

Throughout the Great Ming, Zhu Yuanzhang’s spies—Embroidered Uniform Guards—were everywhere.

They were for his control of the realm.

But within the Eastern Palace, Zhu Yuanzhang never stationed any Embroidered Uniform Guards.

First,

Zhu Biao had always opposed the Embroidered Uniform Guards, believing their pervasive surveillance made officials live in constant fear—though useful for securing the state, it was too harsh.

Second,

Zhu Biao was his heir, his eldest son Zhu Zhongba’s successor; all of Great Ming’s future belonged to him, so Zhu Yuanzhang would not spy on the Eastern Palace—it was all Zhu Biao’s private affairs.

Therefore,

Unless Zhu Biao himself spoke of it, Zhu Yuanzhang would never interfere in Eastern Palace matters.

"He’s utterly worthless."

"He skips classes at Daben Hall, disobeys his mother, and repeatedly defies her."

Whenever Zhu Biao mentioned Zhu Yuntong, his disappointment was unmistakable.

Seeing Zhu Biao’s expression,

"Older brother."

"Now you understand how hard it is to raise the younger generation?"

"Yuntong is still young—just discipline him properly," Zhu Yuanzhang smiled.

"I understand, Father."

"But his conduct... words fail to describe it," Zhu Biao shook his head, still deeply dissatisfied.

Clearly,

In Zhu Biao’s heart, his aversion to Zhu Yuntong ran deep.

His most beloved wife died in childbirth giving birth to Yuntong—he naturally bore resentment.

And compared to his eldest son, Xiongying, Yuntong’s conduct was abysmal.

When his eldest son was alive, though mischievous, he was brilliant in literature, hailed as a model of the imperial clan, kind to uncles and younger brothers, and possessed the bearing of a benevolent ruler.

How could Zhu Biao not love such a son?

In comparison, Zhu Biao grew ever more disappointed in Yuntong, and eventually stopped caring altogether.

He left all upbringing to Lü Shi.

"By the way,"

"Father suddenly mentioned Yunling—do you have some plan in mind?" Zhu Biao snapped back to attention and looked at Zhu Yuanzhang.

"Zhu Ying is so outstanding—don’t you want to fully win him over, make him your true right-hand man?"

"Such a remarkable talent, so young."

"Isn’t he worthy of Yunling?"

Zhu Yuanzhang smiled.

"Yunling is only twelve—too young," Zhu Biao said.

"She’s young now, but in two years she’ll be old enough."

"If he becomes your son-in-law, he will surely become your true pillar."

"Though I’ve never met Zhu Ying, his loyalty and righteousness, his selfless offering of the formula—already I feel I’ve seen him."

"This young man truly qualifies to be a son-in-law of our imperial clan."

"I am growing old. Though your Eastern Palace has many officials, in the future you’ll need clear civil-military separation and true foundational strength," Zhu Yuanzhang said with affection.

"As for this,"

"I will consider it carefully."

"Yunling is still young; if in two years Zhu Ying proves worthy, I will arrange their marriage," Zhu Biao smiled.

"Good."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded in satisfaction.

Eastern Palace.

"Your concubine welcomes Your Highness home."

As Zhu Biao entered the Eastern Palace, Lü Shi led a group of maids to greet him.

"Come with me to the inner hall."

Zhu Biao glanced at Lü Shi and spoke immediately.

"Yes."

Lü Shi asked no questions, bowed respectfully.

Then she waved to dismiss the maids.

Soon after,

Inner hall.

"How has Yunling been lately?"

After seating himself, Zhu Biao looked directly at Lü Shi.

Hearing the name,

Lü Shi’s heart fluttered, then she quickly replied: "Yunling has always been cared for by Sister Hui; I only visit occasionally."

"What’s wrong with Yunling? Why has Your Highness suddenly asked?"

As she spoke, Lü Shi watched Zhu Biao with unease.

Chang Shi bore two sons and two daughters.

Their status as legitimate offspring was a thorn in Lü Shi’s heart.

Though she now managed Eastern Palace affairs as the vice-consort, she was not the principal wife—she was not the true spouse.

All her sons were illegitimate—by common folk’s terms, sons of concubines, unworthy of public recognition.

For thousands of years in Huaxia, the word "legitimate" had endured unbroken.

As long as she was not elevated to principal wife, Lü Shi could never rest easy—even though she controlled the Eastern Palace.

"You needn’t be tense—I’m not here to accuse you. All these years, you’ve managed the Eastern Palace well, orderly and without disappointing me."

Seeing Lü Shi’s nervousness, Zhu Biao smiled.

"Your concubine understands."

"All this is due to Your Highness’s great kindness toward me."

“To be entrusted by my lord with the responsibility of overseeing the Eastern Palace is my honor,” Lady Lu immediately replied, her heart slightly easing.

“Have you ever heard of Zhu Ying?” Zhu Biao asked with a smile.

“Though I have always remained within the Eastern Palace and rarely left, I have indeed heard the name Zhu Ying.”

“They say he is a young, valiant general of our Great Ming, achieving numerous military exploits at a young age, and deeply favored by both His Majesty and my lord. He has even been granted the title of Earl, and my lord bestowed upon him the honorific title ‘Champion.’”

“No doubt this man is extraordinary, to be held in such high regard by my lord,” Lady Lu replied at once with a smile.

“Indeed!”

“He truly is extraordinary.”

“From a common soldier to his current position, every promotion was earned through his military merit, making his rise the fastest since the founding of our Great Ming,” Zhu Biao said with a smile.

Seeing Zhu Biao so pleased when speaking of Zhu Ying, Lady Lu’s eyes lit up and she said at once: “Zhu Ying’s reputation is now considerable. Yunwen has heard of him too, and said he wishes to meet this General Zhu, to see our Great Ming’s national hero, and to personally seek his advice on battlefield matters to enrich himself.”

Hearing Lady Lu’s words, Zhu Biao’s face showed a hint of approval: “Yunwen is commendable! As a prince of our Great Ming, he must excel in both literature and martial arts.”

“Zhu Ying is not yet seventeen, only a few years older than Yunwen. Though he comes from the military, there is much Yunwen can learn from him. If Zhu Ying ever comes to Yingtian, you may arrange for Yunwen to meet him.”

Upon hearing this,

Lady Lu’s face immediately lit up with joy.

“My lord is wise.”

“If Yunwen finds out, he will surely be delighted,” Lady Lu said happily.

Of course.

In Lady Lu’s heart, her joy was not merely because Zhu Biao intended to let Yunwen meet Zhu Ying, but because of Zhu Biao’s recognition of Yunwen.

Zhu Ying is now a rising star in the military, young yet with glorious achievements, his future boundless.

Moreover, Lady Lu could plainly see that Zhu Biao truly held Zhu Ying in high esteem.

He would surely become a pillar of the state in the future.

If Yunwen could befriend Zhu Ying, it would open another path forward, perhaps even securing Zhu Ying’s support.

Know that.

Zhu Yunwu may be unremarkable, but as the legitimate son, he is inherently superior to my son Yunwen, who is illegitimate. In ancient times, illegitimate sons were least valued and had no right to inherit property.

The distinction between legitimate and illegitimate was strictly observed.

Moreover, Zhu Yunwu’s mother is the daughter of the late Prince of Kaiping, Chang Yuchun. Zhu Yunwu naturally commands the support of the Huaixi aristocracy—a force so powerful it left Lady Lu anxious and sleepless.

Currently, the Emperor and the Crown Prince are promoting Zhu Ying to weaken the Huaixi faction.

If we could win Zhu Ying’s support, we would gain another ally within the military.

That is why Lady Lu was so delighted.

“By the way, my lord.”

“Why did you suddenly mention Yunling?” Lady Lu asked cautiously.

Only then did she recall what Zhu Biao had just said.

“His Majesty intends to arrange a marriage for Yunling.”

“And the intended groom is Zhu Ying,” Zhu Biao said slowly.

In this era,

marriages were arranged by parents and matchmakers.

There was little room for personal choice. Since Zhu Yuanzhang had already considered this, it would surely come to pass, so Zhu Biao was weighing the matter.

If Zhu Ying could truly become one of the imperial family, it would indeed be advantageous.

“Arrange Yunling’s marriage to Zhu Ying?” Lady Lu froze, a flicker of concern in her heart.

Yunling is a legitimate daughter. If she were betrothed to Zhu Ying, would it not further strengthen Yunwu’s faction?

“My lord,”

“His Majesty truly holds Zhu Ying in high regard—to betroth Yunling to him,” Lady Lu said with a smile, though inwardly reluctant, she dared not show any discontent.

“His Majesty is merely considering it for now, not making an immediate decision, since Yunling is still young,” Zhu Biao chuckled.

…

PS: It’s the third day of the New Year. Thank you, brothers, for your continued support. Wishing you continued joy in the new year.





(End of Chapter)