Nancheng County, Yanzhou.
A carriage headed toward the south of the city, with armored guards escorting it in front and behind. It looked rather intimidating.
The passersby were not surprised and hurried to clear the road.
They knew where this party was headed without even having to think.
A scholar asked with a smile, "Has the imperial court sent someone to recruit him?"
"So it seems. Judging by the size of the escort, they were probably sent by the Grand General or the General Who Conquers the West."
The scholars struck up a conversation. As they discussed the recruitment, their eyes held both envy and pride.
These people must have come for Yang Hu.
Yang Hu came from a prominent clan. He had lost his father at twelve, and his filial conduct and grief exceeded the customary rites, bringing him renown. Once he grew up, his talents became known to everyone. Xiahou Ba married his daughter to him, further enhancing his reputation.
The Yanzhou administration had recruited him four times to serve as an assistant and nominated scholar, and the Five Offices had also offered him appointments in turn. In the end, even Grand General Cao Shuang had wanted to recruit him, but Yang Hu had always refused to enter service and had never held office.
Xiahou Ba later defected to the Shu Kingdom, but thanks to Yang Hu's elder sister, he was not implicated. In fact, none of Xiahou Ba's children were arrested and executed. They all received special pardons. His daughter remained at Yang Hu's side as before, while his sons were exiled to the frontier.
Xiahou Ba's affair had little effect on Yang Hu. If he wanted to enter service, it would not be difficult.
Yet he chose to remain at home and cultivate his reputation, holding