Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

Chapter 1217 Yang Xiuzhong will personally enter the game.

“Instead of standing on the shore and watching, let’s take the initiative to board the ship.” Yang Xiu put down his pen and his voice became even louder. “We don’t need to put on airs as a noble family. Let’s lower our stance: the Yang family is skilled in administration, so we can take the initiative to participate in local governance and prove the value of a noble family with our achievements; the Zhong family is proficient in law and can help improve the criminal law system of Xiliang. Let Ma Chao see that we are not idle people who need to be supported, but help him to stabilize the world.”

"Even if he remains wary of aristocratic families, we have established ourselves through hard work. Are we any worse off than we are now?" Yang Xiu looked at Zhong Yao, his eyes shining with certainty. "Uncle, think about it. Emperor Gaozu of Han rose from humble beginnings and initially valued military achievements over Confucian scholars. But after the country was unified, didn't he rely on capable ministers from aristocratic families like Xiao He and Cao Shen to stabilize the country? If Ma Chao truly has the vision to unify the country, he won't always only value military men—he will eventually need people who understand governance and are knowledgeable in literature to fill and enrich the court."

“So,” he turned to Yang Biao, his tone softening, “instead of being afraid of this and that, we should actively integrate into his game. If we help him pave the way for governance, he will naturally leave us a place. This world is never won by ‘aloofness’, but by ‘being useful’.”

After Yang Xiu finished speaking, the study fell silent for a moment. Yang Biao's hand, which was stroking his beard, slowly stopped, while Zhong Yao gazed thoughtfully out the window—Yang Xiu's words were like a key, unlocking the veneer of "aristocratic pride" in their hearts: Yes, the survival rule in chaotic times has always been "the capable take the place." Rather than clinging to the old ways and living in fear, it's better to earn a place in the new order with real value.

Yang Biao stroked his beard with his fingertips, his brows still furrowed. He gazed at the few withered leaves falling outside the window, his voice tinged with hesitation: "But now that I've returned from Chang'an, wouldn't it seem too deliberate to bring this up again? Ma Chao, though a man who values ​​achievements, is also quite astute. If he senses our eagerness to curry favor, it won't be good."

Yang Xiu walked to his father's side and said in a calm tone, "Father, don't worry, there's no need to rush this matter. When you were in Chang'an, you questioned Ma Chao about the resettlement of refugees, but you didn't offend him. Lü Bu was already wary of the aristocratic families leaving him. Now that he knows you questioned Ma Chao in Xiliang, it's a relief for that scoundrel Lü Bu. This is a good thing."

He paused, a calculating glint in his eyes: "Father's identity is indeed sensitive. He is both the patriarch of the Hongnong Yang clan and a high-ranking official of the previous dynasty. If he is too proactive in front of Ma Chao, he will inevitably become suspicious. It would be better for him to stay behind the scenes and let his son handle things."

"You?" Yang Biao looked at his son with some worry. "I know your talent, but you are still young, and I'm afraid you are not up to the task."

"It's not about age, but about whether you can speak to his heart." Yang Xiu smiled slightly, picked up a file from the table, and said, "Recently, I've been sorting through some old files on water conservancy in Guanzhong. I discovered that during the years of warring states, many canals in Guanzhong were destroyed and have not yet been fully repaired, leading to unstable harvests for the people along the banks. Ma Chao is currently worried about how to stabilize the hearts of the people in Guanzhong. If I can offer a detailed strategy for repairing the canals, it will not only solve his urgent problem but also show that we are different from those selfish and self-serving aristocratic families. Water conservancy is a practical matter that benefits the country and the people, and no one can find fault with it."

Yang Biao took the file and flipped through it, his brows relaxing more and more as he read. The strategies not only detailed the damaged locations of the irrigation canals and the repair plans, but also included estimates of the manpower and resources needed. They even considered how to mobilize displaced people to participate in the labor, which would solve the labor problem and ensure that the displaced people had food, killing two birds with one stone.

"When did you prepare this strategy?" Yang Biao asked in surprise.

"I started making preparations after Lü Bu's defeat at Hulao Pass," Yang Xiu said frankly. "I think Ma Chao wants people who can get things done, not just frivolous young nobles who only know how to talk big. Instead of empty words of loyalty, we should show some real results. Once the irrigation canal is repaired, the people of Guanzhong will benefit, and Ma Chao will naturally remember the Yang family's kindness."

Yang Biao was silent for a moment, then nodded: "You're right. But... we need to be careful."

“Your son understands.” Yang Xiu cupped his hands and said, “Your son will request an audience as a ‘disciple’ and will only discuss water conservancy, nothing else. After the matter is settled, he will only say that it is because of your good teachings, Father, that he will be grateful that although you have not directly intervened, you have always cared about the people of Guanzhong.”

Looking at his son's composed demeanor, Yang Biao was filled with mixed emotions. He had always worried that Yang Xiu was too sharp and outspoken, but now it seemed that the boy not only had talent, but also a maturity and foresight far beyond his peers.

"Alright, I'll do as you say." Yang Biao patted his shoulder. "Be careful in everything you do. If you encounter any difficulties, come back and discuss them with me."

Yang Xiu bowed in agreement, a hint of confidence flashing in his eyes as he turned away. He knew this irrigation canal strategy was just the beginning. As long as Ma Chao could see the value of the Yang family, and understand that the Hongnong Yang clan was not a parasite clinging to the old era, but a cornerstone capable of contributing to the new dynasty, then their opportunity would eventually arrive.

Yang Xiu turned to Zhong Yao, his gaze falling on Zhong Hui beside him, and said earnestly, "Uncle, in my opinion, why not let Brother Zhong go to Xiliang with me?"

Zhong Yao was taken aback and looked at his son: "Shi Ji?"

Upon hearing this, Zhong Hui's eyes flashed with a hint of eagerness, but he still bowed first and said, "It is entirely up to Father, Uncle Yang, and Brother Dezu to make arrangements."

Yang Xiu smiled and waved his hand: "Brother Zhong, there is no need to be too modest. In terms of commanding troops, I am far inferior to you. Back then, you followed your father to guard Guanzhong and repelled the Qiang people's harassment with only a few thousand soldiers. It is a pity that such talent is hidden in Xuchang."

He turned to Zhong Yao, his tone solemn: "Uncle, think about it, Ma Chao's fear of aristocratic families is simply because he's afraid we'll use our status to enrich ourselves at the expense of the public and mistreat the people. But Brother Zhong is different—he joined the army at a young age and knows best about military discipline, as well as the hardships of the common people; although I am skilled in literature, I also know the importance of practical matters. If the two of us go together, one a scholar and the other a warrior, it will be a good opportunity for Ma Chao to see that not all the sons of aristocratic families are just empty talkers, but also those who can don armor and fight on the battlefield and get things done."

"Furthermore," Yang Xiu changed the subject, "although Xiliang is currently at the height of its military might, it still needs capable administrators and generals to command troops. If Brother Zhong can distinguish himself in the army, it will not only prove the value of a noble family's sons, but also lay a more solid foundation for our two families in Xiliang. It's better than us waiting idly in Xudu and missing the opportunity."

Looking at the expectation in his son's eyes, and recalling Yang Xiu's words, Zhong Yao gradually formed an idea. He knew Zhong Hui's talent best, but due to his noble family status, he had never had the opportunity to use it in Xuchang. If he could go to Xiliang and try his luck, perhaps he could really find a way out.

"But... Shi Ji is going, under what pretext should he do it?" Zhong Yao still had concerns. "Wouldn't it seem too hasty to offer his services directly?"

"It's alright." Yang Xiu had already planned it out. "Just say that Brother Zhong admires the military might of the King of Liang and wants to go to Xiliang to observe military affairs and exchange military strategies with the generals there. As for me, I'll offer my water conservancy strategy as an excuse. We each have our own business to attend to, so it won't seem deliberate, and it will feel natural."

Zhong Hui stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said, “Father, what Brother Dezu said is absolutely right. I also want to see the Xiliang army formation with my own eyes and learn their military management methods. If I can do my part for both families, it would be my duty.”

Zhong Yao pondered for a moment, then finally nodded: "Very well. The two of you can go together and look out for each other. Just remember, once you arrive in Xiliang, be sure to be careful with your words and actions, and don't ruin important matters because of your youthful impetuosity."

"Your children will remember your teachings, Father," Zhong Hui and Yang Xiu replied in unison.

The sunlight streaming through the window shone brightly on the two young men, casting a glimpse of their spiritedness. They both understood that this journey to Xiliang was both an opportunity and a challenge. But as long as they could demonstrate the true talent and abilities of the scions of noble families to Ma Chao and break down those preconceived prejudices, their future path would only become wider.

Zhong Yao looked at them, his heart filled with both expectation and concern. He knew that the era of the old aristocratic families was passing, and these young people were about to use their own methods to earn a future for their families in this new landscape.

The night was as dark as ink. A blue cloth carriage silently drove out of the east gate of Xuchang. The wheels rolled over the thin frost, leaving two shallow tracks. Yang Xiu and Zhong Yao were both dressed in plain long robes, with simple luggage and only two capable servants. They traveled day and night, avoiding checkpoints along the way. In just eight or nine days, they could see the majestic city walls of Chang'an.

Upon arriving in Chang'an, the two did not go to the post station, but instead found a secluded inn in a corner of the city to rest. Early the next morning, Yang Xiu personally wrote a name card, simply signing it "Yang Xiu and Zhong Yao, scholars from Nanyang, wish to offer strategies for pacifying the country," and sent it to the Liang Prince's residence by servants.

When the visiting card was delivered to the mansion, Ma Chao was discussing matters in the study with Li Ru, Pang De, and Zhou Yu. Seeing the neat and vigorous handwriting on the card and the humble yet respectful tone, Ma Chao raised an eyebrow and smiled, "A scholar from Nanyang? He has quite the courage. Recently, many have come to Chang'an to serve, but few have spoken so directly about 'stabilizing the country.' Let's invite them in."

A moment later, Yang Xiu and Zhong Yao entered the study. Although they were dressed simply, they stood tall and straight. When they saw Ma Chao and the others, they bowed with their hands clasped in greeting, their demeanor composed and without any sign of unease.

"My name is Yang Xiu," "My name is Zhong Yao," the two introduced themselves, without mentioning their family background.

Ma Chao's gaze swept over the two men's faces, then he gestured to the guest seats: "Sit. Since you're offering a suggestion, feel free to speak frankly."

Yang Xiu first stood up, took out a roll of drawings from his bag, and presented it with both hands: "Your Majesty, please calm your anger. Guanzhong has suffered from war for a long time, and the water conservancy has been neglected. The people have long suffered from drought and flood. I am not very talented, but I have investigated the Wei River and Jing River basins along the way and drawn up this water management strategy, which may be able to solve this predicament for Guanzhong."

Li Ru took the blueprints, unfolded them, and examined them closely. He saw that the blueprints clearly marked the river course, the location of the dams, and even the materials, construction period, and the number of laborers to be conscripted. He nodded and said, "These blueprints are detailed and thorough. They even took into account the siltation at the confluence of the Jing and Wei rivers. They really put a lot of thought into it."

Zhou Yu took a closer look and praised, "The idea of ​​dredging the old canals and opening new ones is feasible. If it can be implemented, tens of thousands of acres of fertile land in Guanzhong will surely increase."

Seeing that Li Ru and Zhou Yu both agreed, Ma Chao's smile deepened. He looked at Yang Xiu and said, "If this plan succeeds, its merit will last for generations. However, flood control is not something that can be accomplished in a day; it requires someone to supervise it. Since you understand this, are you willing to take on this task?"

Yang Xiu cupped his hands and said, "If the King of Liang trusts me, I am willing to go."

Zhong Yao added at the opportune moment: "The construction of the canal requires the allocation of grain and fodder and the recruitment of craftsmen. I may be able to assist in handling the general affairs."

Pound, standing nearby, said in a muffled voice, "It's easy to talk about war on paper, but when it comes to actually doing it, there are many difficulties! If you mess it up, don't blame me for turning against you."

Yang Xiu calmly replied, "Success or failure depends on human effort; I am willing to sign a military pledge."

Ma Chao laughed and stood up: "Good! With such courage, I'll trust you this once. Li Ru, draft the document, temporarily appointing Yang Xiu as the general manager of the Guanzhong water conservancy, with Zhong Yao assisting. All necessary personnel, funds, and materials shall be drawn from the treasury!"