In Hongwu, we started as rebels

Chapter 779 Each Gains Something, Liaodong Commander
The moment Mao Xiang saw the corpses, he knew something was wrong.

They lifted a rock only to drop it on their own foot, and they can't even explain it!
In order to prevent the two sides from completely breaking off relations,

He helped Yingtian Trading Company cover up a lot of evidence that could have led to their mutual destruction.

Including the lingering, unseen spices, and these Koreans before me…

The purpose was to create limited conflict, prevent the situation from escalating, and also to calm down the recent turmoil within the Embroidered Uniform Guard...

But now, Mao Xiang was momentarily flustered and didn't know how to handle himself.

He hadn't felt this way in many years.

When he met those cold faces and all sorts of gazes,
He felt his face burning, his scalp tingling, and the hairs all over his body standing on end.

"Master Mao?"

Zhan Hui, dressed in casual clothes, looked calmly at Mao Xiang, who held the positions of Minister of Personnel and Left Censor-in-Chief.
His power goes without saying; he was one of the few people even Mao Xiang couldn't afford to offend.

Mao Xiang took a deep breath, trying to calm himself, and looked at the neatly arranged corpses, saying in a deep voice.

"Your humble servant greets Lord Zhan. These Goryeo people are infected with a plague..."
Fearing it would cause panic, the officials hastily ordered his men to bury him there, intending to deal with him later after the commotion subsided.

Upon hearing this, Mao Xiang felt a cold sweat break out all over his body, and he greatly admired his own wit...

As expected, upon hearing this, many officials who were still digging paused in their work.

A hint of apprehension flashed in their eyes, and even some of the outer guards involuntarily took a step back…

However, the adults in the room did not make any move, nor did their expressions change at all.

Zhan Hui nodded slightly:

"In that case, Lord Mao, you've worked hard."

"May I ask which imperial physician Lord Mao consulted to diagnose the epidemic? Tell me."

"This... Lord Zhan, please forgive me for not being able to disclose it, but this person is a secret agent of the Embroidered Uniform Guard."

Beside him, the much older Ling Han frowned, staring at Mao Xiang, and said in a deep voice:

"Lord Mao, let's not talk about such tricks that are only for three-year-olds."
We have verified that the person's presence here was the work of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.

"I request that Lord Mao hand over Yu Qixian, Lei Ruixiang, Leng Hongbo, Wang Wei, Zheng Chen, and their entourage for interrogation by my Censorate."

Why interrogate them?

Mao Xiang also found Ling Han very difficult to deal with, and forced himself to soften his voice.

"Foreigners died without cause in the Imperial City of Yingtian, and all of them were strangled to death."
If this gets out,
Wouldn't that damage the reputation of our Celestial Empire?

Ling Han continued in a calm voice:

"Lord Mao said they have contracted an epidemic. Since it is an epidemic..."

Then we should hand the person over even more.

Are we just going to let them roam around the capital and infect others?
What are Chairman Mao's true intentions?

The relentless questioning had completely extinguished Mao Xiang's smugness, leaving him feeling his palms sweating profusely.

"Lord Ling, they have already left the capital and gone to the medical clinic under the Zhili Imperial Guard for treatment. They cannot return to the capital for the time being."

"Um…"

Minister of Justice Yang Jing nodded, agreeing with this statement.

"Lord Mao is truly a virtuous minister, showing great compassion for the nation."
But... I would like to ask,
Where did these foreigners come from? How did they arrive in the capital? What happened to their entourage?

Mao Xiang's face immediately turned extremely ugly.

Yang Jing clearly had no intention of letting him off the hook and continued.

"Lord Mao, please don't tell me that these people have no travel permits, no identities, no travel documents or papers, and that they came to Yingtian from Goryeo all the way here."

At that moment, a cool breeze gently blew across the mass grave, ruffling the stiff beards of the officials and carrying away the sounds in the area.

Mao Xiang's expression was extremely calm; he had no intention of explaining or defending himself, and he would let them say what they wanted.

However, Mao Xiang looked at Lu Yunyi, who stood calmly to the side, and suddenly laughed:

"Lord Lu, you have a good hand. I've really messed up this time. You can do whatever you want with these Koreans."

Having said that, Mao Xiang waved his sleeves and said loudly:
"go!"

The group hurried away, the gold threads on their flying fish robes shimmering faintly in the torchlight before slowly disappearing into the darkness.

Once they had completely disappeared, a faint sound finally broke the silence of the mass grave.

"Sir, shall we continue digging?"

Minister of Justice Yang Jing looked over and waved his hand.

"Dig them out and bring them back to the capital."

After saying that, Yang Jing looked at the coroner who was quietly examining the body.

"How about it?"

The coroner stood up and bowed deeply.

"Reporting to Your Excellency, these Koreans were all in excellent health before their deaths, free from disease, and their diet was very balanced, including meat, vegetables... and..."

"Okay, stop talking."

Yang Jing raised his hand to stop him, signaling him not to continue.

At the same time, he glanced discreetly at the man in the distance who had been disemboweled, his face turning pale!

He came from the Ministry of Revenue, a position of high rank.
I've never seen such a bloody and disgusting scene before.

The Censorate officials, including Zhan Huiling and Ling Han, appeared much calmer.
Although they were civil officials, their actions, whether it was confiscating property or carrying out purges, were inextricably linked to bloodshed.

As for Lu Yunyi, needless to say...
You can't even smell the stench around you.

Yang Jing turned to look at Lu Yunyi, his expression calm, but his eyes held a hint of coldness:
"Lord Lu, the person has been found. The Ministry of Justice is taking him away. Do you have any objections?"

Lu Yunyi smiled and shrugged, looking like a sunny, cheerful young man, as he looked at Zhan Hui:

"I naturally have no objection, but I wonder what Lord Zhan thinks?"
"If the Censorate wants these corpses, you absolutely cannot take them away."

Zhan Hui laughed and waved his hand:
"What use do the Censorate have for these foreigners? The morgue can't even hold the officials who hanged themselves, where would they find room for these people?"
"If Lord Yang wants it, he may take it all."

Yang Jing nodded and looked at Lu Yunyi:
"Lord Lu, take this person back with you."
If the ensuing turmoil affects the Yingtian Trading Company, I urge Lord Lu to make preparations as soon as possible.

"Lord Yang, I am an official serving outside the Great Wall. The affairs of the merchant guild have nothing to do with me. Please investigate."

Yang Jing nodded, a hint of apprehension flashing in his eyes, making him appear enigmatic.

Not everyone is willing to give up the interests of Yingtian Trading Company.
This is not just about money, but also about power!
But the person before me remained completely unmoved from beginning to end.

Yang Jing believed that if the person in charge of Yingtian Trading Company wasn't his father-in-law,
There wouldn't even be today's cooperation.

Such people are undoubtedly the most difficult to deal with in officialdom!
Taking a deep breath, Yang Jing waved his sleeve and gave the order:
"Take the person back to the Ministry of Justice for unified storage, and the coroners will examine the body in turn."

"Yes!"

A group of officials immediately began moving the body onto the prepared carts.

It's clear... they've wanted to leave this gloomy, chaotic graveyard for a long time.

After Yang Jing and his men left, Zhan Hui smiled and looked at Lu Yunyi:
"Lord Lu, today's incident has caused Mao Xiang to lose face. This trick of using a dragon to slay a dragon is brilliant."

Lu Yunyi bowed deeply and replied with a smile:

"Lord Zhan, if the enemy doesn't reveal any weaknesses..."
Even if I possessed extraordinary abilities, I couldn't have accomplished what I've done today; it's merely a matter of taking a shortcut.

Ling Han, standing to the side, also looked at him with some emotion; in his early twenties, he appeared remarkably mature.

Especially his undisguised sharpness, which made him even more spirited than ordinary young people.

He was a former official of the Yuan dynasty and had met many heroes from beginning to end.
Even so, he had to admit that the person in front of him was one of the most outstanding young people in recent years.

After thinking for a moment, Ling Han offered encouragement:
"Well done. We can't let the Embroidered Uniform Guard get so arrogant."

Zhan Hui smiled and said in a deep voice:
"The Embroidered Uniform Guard has accomplished many significant feats these days, demonstrating an astonishing level of power."
The high-ranking officials and nobles in the court have members of the Embroidered Uniform Guard by their side; you and I may very well have them as well.
I'll investigate this thoroughly when I get back.
"Don't let all your family secrets become known to others."

Ling Han pursed his lips, completely unconcerned. Someone like him, with one foot in the grave, wouldn't care about such things.

Lu Yunyi nodded:

"Lord Zhan, the reason the Embroidered Uniform Guard acted so drastically this time is because I eliminated some of their hidden sentries in Daning, which prompted his hasty intervention."

"I am deeply grateful to Lord Zhan for today's matter. I will do my utmost to fulfill any future requests."

Zhan Hui waved his hand and said:
"That's fine, it's good to teach Mao Xiang a lesson."
His meddling in the capital went unnoticed, but if he went outside, he had to be prepared to have his hand cut off if he reached out.

As for you and me, there's no need for thanks.
As officials under the Crown Prince, they acted recklessly as long as their actions benefited His Highness.

However, I must remind you that some of the people involved in the case involving the Yingtian Trading Company this time...

The Three Departments will punish him severely, showing no leniency, which can be considered a way of giving the palace some closure.

"Yes, I understand."

"Alright, everyone go back now. After today's events, Mao Xiang can finally have some peace of mind."

Zhan Hui waved his hand and led his entourage toward the carriage parked on the mountain road. Lu Yunyi and Ling Han bowed behind him.

"Respectfully seeing off Lord Zhan."

The carriage swayed and wobbled away. Ling Han exchanged a few more pleasantries with Lu Yunyi before also leaving.

The huge, chaotic graveyard suddenly became quiet, with only the torches lit by a hundred or so people illuminating the blank tombstones and grave mounds.

Lu Yunyi stared at the large pit that had been dug, speechless for a long time.

This turmoil came and went quickly, but everyone involved had their own agenda and got the "bargaining chips" they wanted.

Mao Xiang displayed the confidence to fight to the death, which also somewhat diminished his own sharpness.

The officials demonstrated their resolve by confronting the enemy and suppressing the Embroidered Uniform Guard, something the Market Transaction Bureau could never achieve.

Whether by choice or by force, the business guild achieved positive results, at least sweeping away long-standing problems through the intervention of external enemies. As for themselves, they dealt a blow to Mao Xiang and gained a clearer understanding of the intentions of the court officials, further clarifying the situation…

Perhaps, the only ones who will suffer losses are the smugglers who are about to be executed and the Koreans who died.

Taking a deep breath, Lu Yunyi looked north, a hint of weariness in his eyes.
No matter when...

It's much harder to make a living in the capital than in Da Ning.

Above him was the emperor and crown prince, below him were civil and military officials.
Neither of them is easy to deal with; trying to gain an advantage from such people is far too much effort.

It's still simple and direct to dominate a region outside the Great Wall.

“Yun Fang”.

"grown ups."

"How's the investigation into Su Wanheng going?"

"Sir, the investigation is still ongoing, and there are no results yet."
However, judging from the information available in the capital, it seems that a rather famous courtesan was chosen by the Xinchen Trading Company to work in their household.

"Yes, send people to continue the investigation, and also investigate the Xinchen Trading Company."
If we don't have enough manpower, we should ask Xu Zengshou to lend us some.

"Yes!"

"After we get back, we'll make some preparations. Once the meeting at the Governor's Office is over, we'll leave the capital."

"Yes!"

The sun rises in the east and sets in the west; a day passes in the blink of an eye. The investigation into smuggling has been handed over from the Embroidered Uniform Guard to the Three Departments.

The tense atmosphere in the capital gradually subsided, and officials finally breathed a sigh of relief.

At least the Embroidered Uniform Guards are no longer as unbridled as they were when they raided and confiscated the rebel party a few days ago.

Yingtian Trading Company is also rapidly returning to normal.
After a struggle, the captured managers and employees were replaced.

The busy atmosphere returned at lightning speed, as if something had been affected…

The entire capital city seemed to have returned to its former peaceful and tranquil state.

The officials and ordinary citizens do not interfere with each other.

Left Army Commandery Office
Three days later, the council meeting was held again.

A host of governors and officials rushed to the scene, and this time there were even more people listening in than before.

Representatives from all four governorates were present, and even Shen Jin, the Minister of War who rarely appeared in public, came to listen in.

Seeing this display of force, the group of people who had arrived were almost certain that...
The selection of the Liaodong Regional Commander must be made today.

Inside the main hall, the seating arrangement was exactly the same as last time.
The person at the head of the table was Commander Zhu Shou.
To the left, at the bottom, are Li Xin, the Vice Commander-in-Chief, and Lu Yunyi.
On the lower right are two assistant commissioners, Xiao Qi and Chen Chun.

The Duke of Wei, the Marquis of Wuding, the Marquis of Changxing, Shen Jin, and others sat on the outer perimeter, their expressions somewhat serious.

Once everyone had arrived, Governor Zhu Shou directly announced, "Begin."
The group's expressions changed slightly, becoming filled with anticipation.

Zhu Shou sat upright at the head of the table, his gaze sweeping over the group, and said in a deep voice:
"Today's meeting is still about the position of Commander-in-Chief of Liaodong."

After three days of summarizing and organizing the past achievements of each general,
This Governor still believes that Chen Gong, the Commander of the Wude Guard, is the most suitable candidate, possessing profound experience, outstanding military achievements, and a thorough understanding of the situation in Liaodong.

No sooner had he finished speaking than Marquis Chongshan, Li Xin, changed his usual attitude, cupped his hands towards Zhu Shou, and said:
"I believe that Pan Jing, the deputy commander of the Left Guard of the Imperial Guard, is also a rare talent."

Young in age, but decisive in action.
During his tenure at the Left Guard of the Imperial Guard, he was skilled in military administration and had unique insights into the situation in Liaodong.

The situation in Liaodong is currently complex and volatile, and a general who is both prudent and energetic is needed to oversee it.

Upon hearing this, Vice Commander-in-Chief Xiao Qi nodded slightly and then echoed his sentiments.

"What Marquis Chongshan said is absolutely right."

Pan Jing was known for his wisdom and competence in the military, and he had served in Liaodong and had in-depth knowledge of human geography.

Today, Liaodong needs not only seniority, but also innovative development.

If Pan Jingruo can take office and work together with the Northern Pacification Command, he will surely bring a new look to Liaodong.

Upon hearing this, the people in the hall immediately began to discuss among themselves, quite surprised by the change in Marquis Chongshan's attitude.

Chen Chun, the Vice Commander-in-Chief sitting to the lower right, frowned, pondered for a moment, and then said to Zhu Shou:

"Commander, this humble general believes..."

Lord Chen Gong is experienced and has a solid foundation.
If he were appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of Liaodong, the situation could be quickly stabilized, ensuring the safety of Liaodong.

While Pan Jing is a cautious and prudent person, he lacks experience in handling matters independently.

Faced with the complex situation in Liaodong, it may be unable to manage on its own.

For a time, both sides held their own opinions and argued endlessly.

Zhu Shou frowned, looking at the crowd below, lost in thought.

In effect, local commanders were excluded, as were members of the capital's military.
Only the members of the Twelve Upper Guards remained.

This inevitably involves elements of the palace.

After a moment, Zhu Shou raised his hand to signal everyone to be quiet, and said in a deep voice:

"Since everyone has different opinions, let's vote by raising our hands."

This governor, along with the Marquis of Chongshan, Lord Xiao, Lord Chen, and the four vice commissioners, plus Lord Lu, make a total of seven.

Upon hearing this, many adults secretly clenched their fists, their eyes narrowed slightly, revealing a hint of anticipation.

Zhu Shou said in a deep voice:
"Those who support Lord Chen Gong, please raise your hands."

Having said that, Zhu Shou was the first to raise his hand.
Immediately afterwards, Chen Chun slowly raised his hand, and the other, Assistant Magistrate Xu, also raised his hand…

Upon seeing this, Zhu Shou's heart sank, but he showed no sign of it on his face.
He said again:
"Those who support Lord Pan Jing, please raise your hands."

As soon as he finished speaking, Li Xin raised his hand without hesitation.

Seeing this, Xiao Qi followed closely behind.

Immediately afterwards, two more people in the hall raised their hands: another assistant commissioner and Lu Yunyi.

Zhu Shou looked at the four people below the hall with their hands raised, feeling a mix of emotions.

Although he was the governor,

However, at such a critical moment, one should not act unilaterally.

He took a deep breath and said slowly:
"In that case, let's go with the result of the show of hands."

"Lord Pan Jing, as a candidate for Commander-in-Chief of Liaodong, is submitted to the palace for His Majesty's decision."

These words elicited varying reactions from the people in the hall.

Those who supported Chen Gong looked regretful, while those who supported Pan Jing smiled with satisfaction.

Some adults secretly shook their heads.
The list of ten... eventually only two remained.
The other eight people had a chance to soar to great heights, but now they have all failed.

After the meeting concluded, everyone rose and walked out of the main hall one after another.

At the entrance of the Governor's Mansion, Pan Jing stood tall and straight, dressed in a dark official robe, his expression a mixture of anticipation and nervousness, having been waiting there for quite some time.

He glanced into the mansion from time to time, secretly speculating about the outcome of the council meeting.

Before long, Marquis Guo Ying of Wuding stepped out first.

Pan Jing hurriedly stepped forward and bowed respectfully.

"Master Hou."

Guo Ying nodded slightly, a gentle smile on her face, and patted Pan Jing on the shoulder, saying:
"Lord Pan, the results of today's court meeting are out. You have been nominated as a candidate for the position of Commander-in-Chief of Liaodong. The matter will be submitted to the palace for His Majesty's decision."

This result was achieved thanks to everyone's support.
"Come, follow me to thank these gentlemen."

Pan Jing was overjoyed and hurriedly replied:

"Thank you for your kind offer, Your Excellency. I will go with you now."

The two returned to the main hall together, where the crowd had not yet completely dispersed.

Next, Guo Ying led Pan Jing to Li Xin, and Pan Jing bowed.

"Many thanks to Marquis Chongshan for speaking up for me in the court meeting. I am deeply grateful."

Li Xin laughed heartily and said:
"Lord Pan, you needn't be so polite. I only value your talent."

The Liaodong region needs a dynamic and insightful general like yourself to take command. I hope you can achieve great things.”

Pan Jingzheng nodded.

"Your Excellency's teachings are etched in my mind, and I will certainly do my utmost to uphold them."

Afterwards, they thanked Xiao Qi and other adults who supported Pan Jing in turn.

Xiao Qi looked at Pan Jing, her eyes full of expectation.

"Lord Pan, the situation in Liaodong is changing rapidly. After you take office, you will need to work closely with the Northern Pacification Command to deal with the chaos."

Pan Jing responded respectfully.

"Rest assured, Lord Xiao, I will work with all parties to ensure stability in Liaodong."

Lu Yunyi stood to the side, looking at Pan Jing, a faint smile appearing on his lips.

Pan Jing also noticed Lu Yunyi, stepped forward, and cupped his hands in greeting:

"Lord Lu, I am only able to have this opportunity because of your support."

Lu Yunyi waved his hand:
"Lord Pan, Liaodong is a crucial region for the stability of the imperial borders. From now on, we will help each other."

Pan Jing bowed again.

"Rest assured, Lord Lu, I will certainly not fail in my mission."

(End of this chapter)