Chapter 282

Chapter 269 - A Change in Circumstances (Part 1)

Despite the imperial edict, the gossip in Qudu continued to spread like wildfire through the streets and teahouses. The city gates were sealed, but the rumors still reached the other eight cities, seeping into Jiexi.

"Order the capital's military to close the gates immediately," Kong Qiu suggested during a meeting in the Mingli Hall. "We can't let these rumors run wild! The academy is in chaos, and the military must intervene. Chengbi is an experienced official who understands the situation."

Kneeling before the imperial desk, Shao Chengbi wore his newly appointed official robe, though his hair was entirely white, giving him a scholarly rather than martial appearance. His voice was hoarse as he spoke, "Student unrest isn't new, and it's difficult to determine the appropriate response. Deploying soldiers might only escalate the situation."

"Certainly, we can't ignore it," Cen Yu rose to his feet. As a censor, he was well aware of the consequences. "Public opinion can be devastating!"

Li Jianting, having spent the previous night without sleep, sat behind the imperial desk sipping strong tea. After finishing it, he said, "I have a clear conscience, but this rumor seems peculiar. Has the Ministry of Justice found any leads on who wrote that paper?"

"Everyone is copying it," Kong Qiu replied, "but we haven't been able to identify the handwriting."

"The script may be untraceable," Xue Xiuzhuo turned to Cen Yu, "but Lord Cen, please examine the content of this article more closely."

Cen Yu had been consumed with worry after seeing the paper the previous night and hadn't had the chance to study it carefully. Hearing Xue Xiuzhuo's suggestion, he took the article back into his hands. After reading for a while, he suddenly stood up, walked a few steps with the paper in hand, and said, "A few years ago, an article titled 'Tea Stone Lament' caused a sensation in Qudu. This piece seems to have been written by the same person."

Kong Qiu vaguely recalled such an author and hesitantly asked, "Was it perhaps that..."

"Master Pen of Advantage, Gao Zhongxiong," Cen Yu turned back, "It's him!"

Gao Zhongxiong was ambitious but lacked the skills to match. As a counselor to Han Jin in Qudu, he ended up causing the Eight Banners to be led into battle by Xiao Chiye. Back then, when Han Cheng wanted to punish him, he had sought refuge in Dan City for his life. Who could have foreseen that he would eventually throw his lot in with Shen Zechuan?

"Right now, we not only need to suppress the rumors but also persuade the Commander to march his troops," Kong Qiu said. "Shen Zechuan has twelve thousand garrison soldiers in Zhongbo. In terms of military strength, we cannot engage in a direct confrontation."

"I've already sent an imperial decree to Qi Dong," Li Jianting said, "ordering the Eastern Raging King to march through Tianfei Gate and directly attack Dengzhou."

With no reinforcements from Zhongbo, Shen Zechuan had dispatched the Dunzhou garrison to Zizhou and left the Jin Yi Cavalry to guard Duanzhou, leaving Fan and Deng provinces vulnerable.

"There's no need to panic just yet," Chen Zhen said. "Zhongbo's garrison forces are newly established. All Shen Zechuan can currently mobilize are the forces from Dun and Zizhou. He doesn't dare to move the Cha Zhou garrison lightly. Chengbi, you have four thousand provincial troops at your command. In reality, our forces are evenly matched against Shen Zechuan!"

"I'm worried that Shen Zechuan still has more tricks up his sleeve," Li Jianting rose to support Shao Chengbi. "For now, I can only entrust Qudu to Governor Shao."

"As an old servant, I'll give my life to repay Your Majesty's favor," Shao Chengbi limped forward. "There is no time to lose. This old servant will ride out of the capital tonight and head for Dan City. But before I leave, there is one request I must make."

Looking at Shao Chengbi's aged face, Li Jianting felt a sudden surge of emotion. She supported Shao Chengbi and, impulsively, said, "This battle will be treacherous. Regardless of victory or defeat, as long as I remain, I will clear your name as Governor."

"I am old, yet still able to serve the country to my last breath. That alone is a great honor bestowed by Your Majesty," Shao Chengbi said solemnly. "I request that the armory of Chunquan Camp be opened."

Li Jianting was slightly taken aback.

Shao Chengbi said, "The Spring Fountain Camp is equipped with copper fire guns. This old minister wishes to take this batch of fire guns with me."

"I approve," Li Jianting immediately turned around, called for Feng Quan to bring wine, and personally poured a cup for Shao Chengbi. He said, "I'll be waiting for your victorious return in Qudu!"

* * *

Gao Zhongxiong put down his pen and asked Yao Wenyu, "According to Yuanzhuo's opinion, how should we approach the battle in Qudu?"

"First, quell the rumors, then persuade the general to march out," Yao Wenyu maneuvered his wheelchair to the other side of the table, pushing aside a map. "Shao Chengbi is defending Dan City, so Xue Xiuzhuo will certainly use the Duke's background as leverage. He needs a legitimate reason to go to war."

"It's true that there are still 40,000 garrison troops in Fan and Deng Provinces, but they're all new recruits. We can only wait for Huo Lingyun's reinforcements," Zhou Gui said, somewhat worried and reflective. "Xue Xiuzhuo is highly respected among the people in Dan City after returning to civilian life. If the court brings up Shen Wei, it would complicate matters for us."

Kong Ling interjected, "They've benefited three cities, while our Duke has brought prosperity to six provinces. His accomplishments across the three regions are tangible, not something a new emperor could compare to. The Tea Stone River defense line was also taken by our alliance with Linbei and Qidong. Second Master also has the impressive military achievements of pacifying border regions and advancing into the Great Desert. In terms of achievements, Zhongbo Linbei is unparalleled."

Shen Zechuan sat alone in the highest seat, deep in thought.

"There's one thing I just can't figure out," Zhou Gui pointed at Qudu. "Although the land distribution for the three cities has been settled, the number of refugees seeking asylum in Zhongbo territory keeps increasing this year. What could be the reason?"

"The noble families have controlled these eight cities for a long time. When we talk about the occupation of civilian farmland, it's not just referring to the Eight Great Families. Back then, the Grand Tutor implemented the Yellow Register system precisely to curb the phenomenon of land annexation. Dan, Wu, and Chuang cities indeed sorted out their land taxes, but those taxes were forcefully collected from the Pan, Han, and Fei families. In other words, there are still many 'bandits' who are affiliated with but not born into noble families, illegally occupying civilian land within the territory. They continue to shift this burden onto the common people," Yao Wenyu explained, looking at Shen Zechuan. "Since the noble families are referred to as 'chronic ailments,' they cannot be easily eradicated."

"Yuan Zhuo speaks the truth," Shen Zechuan said, opening and closing his teacup. "Implementing the Yellow Register isn't difficult; the challenge lies in its continuous updating, requiring internal governance, supervision, and the careful selection of local officials. In recent years, Qudu has been consumed by factional struggles, causing losses to both the commoners and the noble families. When the new emperor ascends the throne, the court will be empty, with key positions unfilled. Even if Xue Xiuzhuo has the determination to turn things around, he can't do it alone."

Kong Ling commented, "Qudu is now struggling to even pay monthly stipends, let alone fund the 40,000-strong garrison. The longer this goes on, the more strained they'll become. The people can't engage in productive enterprises, and Xue Xiuzhuo's treasury won't last through this winter."

"At this point," Shen Zechuan said, "it's a battle of wits. Let's see how Qudu responds."

The bamboo curtain lifted slightly as Fei Sheng entered, holding a letter. "Master, Second Master has sent a letter."

Kong Ling observed the late hour and, accompanied by Zhou Gui and Gao Zhongxiong, rose to bid Shen Zechuan farewell. "It's getting late today, Lord. It's time for you to retire. We'll take our leave now."

Shen Zechuan waited until they had all left before opening Xiao Chiye's letter. As he unfolded the paper, a few origami wolves tumbled out.

My dearest wife, this letter is my presence to you.

Shen Zechuan traced his fingertip over these words.

The campaign has been uneventful, and our iron cavalry have reached the Three Moors. By November, we will arrive at A'muer, my ancestral home. Taking advantage of my visit to the Yan Clan, I've negotiated mutual trade benefits to rally the Three Moors against the vultures. Our supplies are ample, and there's plenty of taro to eat, but alas, Lu Guangbai is too noisy. If we triumph in this battle, I shall return home in time to celebrate the new year with you. I miss you.

Shen Zechuan observed below as Xiao Chiye sketched a starry night with charcoal. He pondered over the few lines of text for a long while. The candlelight illuminated the paper-cut window decorations, and the night in Chizhou was still relatively cool. East of the Tea Stone River, however, autumn had already set in. The Mo Three Rivers region was barren and desolate, with harsh winds and sand; it remained to be seen whether Xiao Chiye would return leaner from such an environment.

Countless thoughts swirled within Shen Zechuan, all condensed into those two tender words, "Miss you."

Behind Xiao Chiye's family letter was an official memorandum sealed with the insignia of his command; Shen Zechuan opened it to discover that it was a missive from Lu Guangbai.

* * *

After several days, the sound of galloping hooves shattered the tranquility of the pre-dawn night. Before the darkness lifted, the rider presented his waist badge and called out to the soldiers guarding the camp, "An urgent dispatch from the relay station! Open the gates at once! I must see Duke Donglie!"

As Qi Zhuyin draped herself in her robe, she had an inkling of what was to come. Stepping out from behind the curtain, she gazed at the clear blue sky and noticed the official emblem of the courier service. "A military dispatch?" she queried.

"A military dispatch indeed!" The courier official dismounted, prostrating himself on the ground as he bowed, his voice echoing loudly, "By special order from the Ministry of War, Duke Donglie Qi Zhuyin is to march immediately to Dengzhou and quell the rebellion in Zhongbo!"

The corners of Qi Zhuyin's lips twitched slightly, but she didn't respond straightaway.

The courier official promptly rose to his feet, holding up the fire tablet. "By imperial command, His Majesty has personally designated Duke Donglie for this military campaign!"

"Forty thousand troops are stationed in Dancheng," Qi Zhuyin pointed out. "Why hasn't Shao Chengbi made a move? Tianfei Gate is a crucial stronghold of the Great Zhou Empire. Each time my soldiers cross it, it drains tens of thousands in military provisions."

"The Cabinet has approved the request from the Ministry of War, and the troops for the East Rising Army will arrive soon," said the official with an elongated face, originally a former subordinate of Shao Chengbi. He had come specifically to ask Qi Zhuyin to mobilize his forces. Maintaining a composed demeanor, he continued, "The traitors' intentions are clear as day. The Governor's troops in Dan City are there to protect the capital. Shen, that rebel, is currently pouring his forces into Ci Province, leaving his back exposed. If Prince East Raging were to march out, he could coordinate with the Governor to launch a pincer attack and crush the rebels."

Qi Zhuyin did not respond.

The official stepped closer, his waist adorned with an imperial yellow sash and a renowned sword bestowed by the emperor. Qi Wei immediately stepped forward, standing protectively in front of Qi Zhuyin and bellowed, "Draw your sword before the king!"

"My sword was granted by the Son of Heaven himself," the official replied fearlessly, his tone cold. "The rebels have already threatened the capital, reaching the very doorstep of the emperor. Why won't Prince East Raging answer the call to defend the monarch?" With a sudden tug, he removed the yellow sash. "The Qi family serves under the Son of Heaven's command; we are subjects of Great Zhou. Qi Zhuyin, why do you not answer?!"

Qi Wei was already seething. "Our king's name is not for you to utter so casually!"

The official declared unapologetically, "The dynasty is on the brink of collapse! If Eastern Raging King does not march his troops, Zhou will fall, and at that time, there will be no king or subject. You and I would merely be subjects of a fallen land, with no distinction of rank!"

Qi Wei seethed with anger. "Seize him—"

"Step back!" Qi Zhuyin suddenly raised her hand. The cloak on her shoulder fell, revealing her plain attire and the Jujue sword at her waist. She said, "Keep the tablet. This king is well aware."

In the tense atmosphere, the official took the fire tablet and respectfully presented it to Qi Zhuyin with both hands. He bowed once more and said in a grave voice, "This humble official awaits Eastern Raging King's triumphant return in Dan City."

With that, he turned around, mounted his horse, and didn't even take a sip of water before immediately setting off on his journey back.

"How impudent!" Qi Wei took a few steps after Qi Zhiyin and turned back to say, "Why should Commander put up with such disrespect when Qidu is begging us to send troops?"

"This is an admirable official, calm in the face of danger and unflustered in times of change. You could learn from him," Qi Zhiyin flipped through the fire tablet. "He's been breeding horses and training soldiers for this day. All the food he's eaten will have to be repaid."

"Are we really going then?" Qi Wei followed closely behind Qi Zhiyin. "Second Master is away on a campaign. Attacking Zhongbo now would be taking advantage of their vulnerability."

"Taking advantage in war?" Qi Zhiyin entered the military tent, placing the fire tablet on the table and looking at the map hanging on the wall. "Shen Zechuan is currently lacking generals. Only Huo Lingyun can temporarily replace the commander of Dengzhou, but his soldiers aren't exactly the best. Two thousand troops would be enough to take Dengzhou."

Qi Wei interjected, "But I'm afraid..."

"Tan Taihu is stretched thin," Qi Zhiyin continued. "Shen Zechuan hasn't fully recovered from his injuries, and if I make a move, Jiming will come."

With Qi Zhiyin's interruption, Qi Wei forgot what he was about to say and exclaimed, "The prince – His Highness plans to return to the battlefield?"

"Xiao Chiye has placed his heart here," Qi Zhiyin glanced at Qi Wei. "If he didn't have a backup plan, would he dare leave?"

"Only three thousand iron riders remain in Liubei," Qi Wei began to worry for Xiao Jiming instead. "His Highness is still recovering. If anything were to happen, wouldn't Consort Lu weep until Qidong is flooded?"

Qi Wei could already picture Lu Yizhi pounding her fists against Qi Zhiyin's chest while crying with closed eyes.

"Iron Horses and Icy River Xiao Jiming," Qi Zhuyin said. "This is the Xiao Jiming who rode through the snow at night, crossed the river to the south, and launched a surprise attack on the Border Sand cavalry. Forget about the current 30,000 iron riders of Libei; even if there were only 5,000, he would still dare to come."

Qi Wei was already in a panic. He was no stranger to battles against the Border Sand cavalry, but when it came to Libei... he said, "General, if we really engage in combat, both sides will suffer heavy losses. Putting aside the casualties among soldiers, the civilians in both territories will live in fear. The harvest in Lantern State this year has been excellent. If we trample over it, people will starve next year. Aren't the Censors capable? Let them use their persuasive tongues to convince Shen Zechuan. From what I've seen, as long as the General Army doesn't move, Shen Zechuan won't either."

"You need to understand one thing," Qi Zhuyin turned around and spoke solemnly. "If we don't fight this war, you and I will become slaves of a conquered nation. In the future, we'll be officials of the former dynasty. From then on, the world will change its surname. We'll either kneel before Shen Zechuan or Xiao Chiye."

Qi Wei was speechless.

"Throughout history, loyalty and righteousness have been hard to reconcile," Qi Zhuyin looked back at the map. "That's precisely the situation now."

Footsteps suddenly sounded at the door, catching Qi Wei's attention. He turned to look.

"Hua Xiangyi entered, lifting the curtain. Her plain attire accentuated her delicate features. "Ah Yin, is it a military report?"