However, when this powerful general and this prince who might rebel in the future have a close relationship.

This is the real, enormous threat.

Fu Youde seemed to collapse, and suddenly sat down in the chair.

He stammered, "Because I was really courting death! I was really courting death! How could I forget this connection? It's all over, I'm probably going to die... My whole family is probably going to suffer the same fate..."

Historically, Fu Youde's rise to power was indeed due to his close relationship with his in-law, Zhu Gang.

In addition, he was also extremely greedy. Zhu Yuanzhang believed that such a greedy person would inevitably support his in-laws in rebellion in order to gain more benefits in the future.

Fu Youde himself clearly understood this principle; he seemed to have already foreseen the possible end for himself.

Seeing Fu Youde slumped in the chair, Zhu Yunwen remained calm. Once Fu Youde had calmed down enough, Zhu Yunwen slowly spoke:

"You don't need to be so afraid. It's not like you and your whole family can't be saved."

In Fu Youde's state of fear, Zhu Yunwen's sudden words were like a ray of light shining in the darkness, instantly pulling Fu Youde back to reality.

He was breathing heavily, and looked at Zhu Yunwen, saying:

"Your Highness, Your Highness, please tell me, how can I possibly be spared? Even if it's just to save my family, I don't care if I die."

Zhu Yunwen remained calm, his face expressionless. He wanted to project an air of unfathomable mystery and an aura of complete control.

He said calmly, "In the Imperial Study, the Emperor was dissatisfied with you and had already begun to think about how to deal with you."

You must understand that once your grandfather has this idea, you will likely die a terrible death no matter what.

However, I cleverly used some words to help you defuse this crisis.

Upon hearing this, Fu Youde immediately sat up straight and looked carefully at Zhu Yunwen.

Zhu Yunwen then said, "I will belittle you military generals by saying that you are nothing more than physically strong but simple-minded people who are easily manipulated."

Therefore, I suggest that Your Majesty treat you with a clear system of rewards and punishments. You won the battle and should be rewarded. However, you were greedy and acted arrogantly in many villages on your way back, becoming somewhat conceited because of your achievements.

They've repeatedly seized farmland from ordinary people, and this time they even want Your Majesty to take away thousands of acres of fertile land again. Therefore, I suggest Your Majesty punish them as well. Listen carefully, what I'm about to say is crucial.

When that time comes, your grandfather will reprimand you in court and punish you publicly. Remember, you must not show any dissatisfaction or utter any rebuttal.

If the Emperor decides to punish you, you must immediately recognize your mistake and show remorse.

For example, resolutely obey the Emperor's punishment; proactively return the land you previously seized to the people and make compensation; or proactively return anything you previously obtained through any means.

In short, do more work and ask for less reward; that might be the only way to protect yourself.

Upon hearing this, Fu Youde immediately felt that what Zhu Yunwen said made perfect sense.

He then rose, his body trembling slightly, and bowed deeply to Zhu Yunwen, saying:

"I, Fu Youde, will never forget the kindness of Your Highness, the King of Wu. You are my Fu family's second parents. From now on, I, Fu Youde, will follow your lead."

When Fu Youde said these words, he was genuinely impressed by Zhu Yuntong, because Zhu Yuntong had given him a chance to save his own life and that of his entire family.

At the same time, Zhu Yunwen's ability to cleverly save his life from Zhu Yuanzhang's clutches is enough to demonstrate his capabilities.

If someone is very capable and has been kind to you, you have no reason not to express your loyalty to them.

Zhu Yunwen waved his hand and said:

"I just felt you were a talented leader, and I couldn't bear to see you go like this. Remember, there are already many examples of what happened before you."

For example, Li Shanchang and Hu Weiyong. Their achievements were considerable, but what became of them?

Look at Tang He. His contributions were no less than yours, and his abilities were no less, yet he asked for nothing. He was the one among the many meritorious officials who had the least to worry about.

Fu Youde bowed to Zhu Yunwen again and said:

“Your Highness, Fu Youde understands. From this day forward, Fu Youde will obey Your Highness's will. I only ask that Your Highness will spare Fu Youde and my family from disaster in the days to come.”

Fu Youde had already realized the situation.

He knew that since Zhu Yuanzhang had such intentions, even though Zhu Yunwen had saved him and his family this time, what about next time?

As a mere soldier, he lacked cunning and was bound to make mistakes or be suspected of wrongdoings.

If no one like Zhu Yunwen appears to save me and my family, won't we be doomed again?

So at this moment, his only thought was to cling to Zhu Yunwen's coattails.

Such a talented and resourceful grandson of the emperor, who was often by Zhu Yuanzhang's side, was able to obtain a great deal of information.

If I could always save myself by simply saying a few words like this, I would naturally be extremely grateful.

Zhu Yunwen also understood the meaning behind Fu Youde's words.

As long as Fu Youde remains loyal to him, he can protect him.

So Zhu Yunwen said, "Don't worry, as long as you don't go too far, I will definitely not let you die."

This statement fully demonstrates Zhu Yunwen's confidence in his own abilities and his attitude towards Fu Youde.

This was also a subtle reminder to Fu Youde that as long as Fu Youde satisfied Zhu Yuntong, Zhu Yuntong could protect him.

At this point, Zhu Yunwen had completely controlled Fu Youde.

Fu Youde became the fourth military general, after Lan Yu and the Chang brothers, to be loyal to Zhu Yunwen.

Actually, it has come to this point.

Zhu Yunwen has already gained the support of four powerful generals.

His power has grown considerably, though this is limited to military officers.

On the civil service side, he also began to take control of some power.