Sweep Yuan

Chapter 206 Great Victory Followed by Great Worries

Inside the Marshal's Mansion's rear quarters, the matriarch, Liu Ruoyun, moved with steady steps and commanded with composure. Shi Erhe, Li Chuba, and the others who had traveled from afar settled into the newly cleaned and tidy row of rooms. The smell of the fresh, sun-dried bedding brought them a sense of peace.

Liu Ruoyun handled these household affairs with ease, and every detail reflected the thoughtfulness and dignity of a mistress. However, she remained dutiful and never crossed the invisible boundary that separated the inner quarters from the front office.

Although Zhou Wendao, Hua Yun, and Bian Yuanheng were meritorious officials who traveled thousands of miles on the orders of the Marshal to safely bring Shi Shan's relatives to Hefei, these were official matters to ensure the stability of the Red Flag Battalion. After the three of them finished handing over with Liu Ruoyun, they went directly to the front office of the Marshal's Mansion to formally hand over the work.

Before setting out on the expedition, Shi Shan had already instructed his chief clerk, Liu Xingge, on this matter—Zhou Wendao and the other two had made great contributions and were each rewarded with three hundred strings of cash and granted half a month's leave. After they had rested and recuperated, they would be assigned specific duties.

After Hefei came under the jurisdiction of Hongqiying, it underwent significant changes.

Zuo Junbi started his rebellion as a Yuan general, but he lacked ambition and his control over Hefei was very incomplete.

The corrupt officials left over from the Yuan Dynasty, the wealthy and powerful families who colluded with them, the military leaders and ruffians who took advantage of the chaos to grow stronger, and the scoundrels who ran rampant in the city, etc., all had their interests intertwined and had long since eroded this "giant city" of Luzhi, leaving it riddled with holes.

Without breaking down the old, there can be no establishing the new!

Shi Shan was an outsider with no roots in Hefei, unlike Zuo Junbi who had many concerns. After taking control of Hefei, he used the army under his control to carry out a bloody crackdown, including thoroughly investigating those who colluded with the Tartars, clearing up long-standing wrongful convictions, and rectifying the chaos in the city.

Corrupt officials with irrefutable evidence of their crimes were publicly executed; wealthy merchants who preyed on the local people had their homes confiscated and their families wiped out; and thugs who bullied and monopolized markets were publicly flogged to death. In those days, the city was filled with heads rolling and rivers of blood flowing. A chilling atmosphere permeated the entire city, and even the scorching sun of the hottest days of summer seemed to dim in comparison.

However, these swift and decisive measures were not indiscriminate killings. Every execution was preceded by a detailed public disclosure of the crimes committed, each one shocking and appalling. The killings were brutal, but also precise, justified, and met with applause from the vast majority of the common people.

The property of those executed under the Mingzheng Code was subsequently used to fuel the growth of the Red Flag Battalion. Vast amounts of money and grain filled the treasury, and large mansions and prime shops in bustling areas fell into the hands of the Red Flag Battalion.

Shishan then consolidated these properties, converting some into military camps, armories, and workshops, transferring some to the Veterans' Association for management, and rewarding some meritorious civil and military officials for their settlement.

Zhou Wendao's family had already been settled in Haozhou. After the Marshal's Mansion moved to Hefei, Shishan granted them a new residence. Hua Yun was not yet married and his previous rank was only a squad leader, so he was not qualified to be granted a residence. However, Shishan kept both of these matters in mind and reserved a residence for Hua Yun.

Although Bian Yuanheng brought his wife and children, he had not yet started his job or been granted a residence, so he could only stay temporarily at his cousin Shi Nai'an's house.

The next day, early in the morning, Bian Yuanheng got up, dressed, and just as he stepped out of his room, he saw Shi Nai'an already waiting with his hands behind his back in the courtyard filled with the fragrance of osmanthus. Shi Nai'an stopped Bian Yuanheng and handed him a stack of manuscript papers.

"Yuanheng, come quick, help me take a look at this!"

Bian Yuanheng took the manuscript paper, glanced at his cousin's heavy eye bags, and said with concern:
"Did you stay up all night again last night?"

Shi Nai'an, however, didn't take it seriously and kept urging Bian Yuanheng to look at the manuscript.

"After fifty-six, you're practically half-buried in the earth. Who knows when you'll close your eyes and never wake up again? Why worry about a couple of nights of rest? Hurry! Get to the manuscript!"

Bian Yuanheng reluctantly unfolded the manuscript paper, and saw three large characters written at the beginning: "The Story of Catching Thieves".

Last night, after Bian Yuanheng recounted the story of a farmhand in Hezhou who captured Yuan soldiers and received a reward for "capturing thieves to offset taxes," Shi Nai'an was inspired and worked through the night to create the outline for a zaju play.

Byun Won-hyung quickly and attentively scanned the script outline; the plot of "Catch the Thief" was divided into three acts:
Act One: The peaceful countryside is suddenly ravaged by the iron hooves of the Mongol invaders;

In the second act, Zhang Tieniu, a young man whose family has been destroyed, rises up in resistance and kills his enemies, but is surrounded by Yuan soldiers. Fortunately, he is rescued by the soldiers of the Red Flag Battalion and is rewarded according to the new policies.
In the third act, the young man undergoes a complete transformation, responds to the call of the Red Flag Battalion, organizes training for the local militia, and works with the Red Flag Battalion soldiers to achieve new merits, finally turning his life around.

After reading it, Bian Yuanheng looked up, met his cousin's expectant gaze, and said frankly:

"The framework is excellent, and the plot is captivating. However... the transition from pastoral bliss to the atrocities of the Yuan invaders in the opening act is too abrupt, and the conflict is not sufficiently built up. The audience's emotions may not be able to fall from extreme joy to extreme sorrow in an instant."

If the opening act could be split into two acts, the first act would vividly depict the idyllic pastoral scene and the joy and peace of marriage.

The second act, with its vivid and detailed depiction of the Yuan dynasty's ruthless brutality—the destruction of fields and the massacre of villages—is designed to deeply etch the audience's hatred for the Manchus into their hearts and their empathy for Zhang Tieniu's suffering. This makes the hope brought by the subsequent new policies all the more precious.

He paused, then pointed to Act III.

"The ending also felt a bit rushed. The male protagonist received a reward and turned his life around, but what happened next? Repairing his house and marrying a new woman is certainly a good thing. But since my cousin's play aims to showcase the new life of farm laborers under the new policies, why not go deeper?"

Find some farmhands and ask them, if they truly had this merit and received the money, what would they most want to do? Would they want to repair the graves and erect tombstones for their tragically deceased relatives? Would they want to send their younger siblings to school? Or would they want to buy farm tools so that their lives would have more hope?
If these subtle, genuine aspirations can be touched upon, the characters come alive, and it better demonstrates that Marshal Shi's new policies bestowed upon the common people not only tangible benefits, but also hope and dignity for changing their destiny.

"Brilliant! That hits the nail on the head!"

Shi Nai'an's eyes gleamed, and he clapped his hands excitedly, his gaze towards his cousin filled with undisguised admiration. Xuan Cao's task was heavy, far beyond the "minor arts" of writing vernacular stories and plays; educating the people, promoting the new policies, and building consensus—each and every task required great talent.

He knew that his younger cousin was quick-witted and insightful, a true polymath whom the Xuan Cao yamen (a government office) desperately needed.

Shi Nai'an couldn't help but pat Bian Yuanheng's strong arm warmly, his voice filled with expectation:

"Yuanheng! The affairs of Xuan Cao are numerous and complex, and we are in dire need of a capable person like you who is proficient in both civil and military affairs! Why not..."

Bian Yuanheng met his cousin's gaze, a gentle yet unwavering smile on his face, and said:
“I appreciate your kindness, cousin. However, the important task of Xuan Cao is neither my forte nor my wish. I will decide on my destination after the Marshal returns to his post.”

Shi Nai'an knew that Bian Yuanheng's will was unwavering. Although he felt sorry for him, he could only sigh with understanding and did not try to persuade him further.

He carefully put away the manuscript paper, and with the exhaustion of staying up all night and the excitement of creating, he yawned deeply and said:
"I'm going back to my room to lie down for a while. Don't call me for breakfast. I have to go to the government office to handle some official business this morning."

The Shi and Bian families were not only cousins ​​but also close friends, sharing a deep bond. Although Bian Yuanheng was staying here as a guest, he felt completely at ease.

After having breakfast, he left the Shi residence, walked through several increasingly bustling streets and alleys, and arrived at Hua Yun's newly acquired secluded courtyard.

The courtyard features blue bricks and gray tiles, with newly painted doors, exuding a neat and tidy appearance.

Hua Yun opened the door and saw Bian Yuanheng holding a book, the familiar "Marshal Shi's Monthly Pacification of Luzhou." A smile instantly spread across his dark, simple face, and he hurriedly greeted him:

"Brother Bian, come inside quickly!"

A few days ago, in Dongliuji, the two casually mentioned it, but they never expected that Bian Yuanheng would not only remember it, but also send over a signed copy of "Marshal Shi's Ten Months to Conquer Luzhou" so quickly.

This trust and friendship stirred a warm feeling in Hua Yun's heart, a man of integrity.

"Brother Hua has given his orders, how could I dare to neglect them?"

Hua Yun knew too few characters to read the book right now, but she still rubbed her hands vigorously on the hem of her clothes before solemnly taking the book. She then took out a new piece of cloth, wrapped it up, and put it in the wardrobe, planning to read it properly when she knew enough characters in the future.

"Good bro! You're a true friend!"

Hua Yun grabbed Bian Yuanheng's strong forearm and said:
"I'm all alone now, and I haven't cooked. Come on, let's go find a restaurant. I absolutely have to treat you to a good meal today!" Bian Yuanheng felt a warmth in his heart at Hua Yun's heartfelt enthusiasm, but he smiled and shook his head, saying:
"Brother Hua's hospitality is appreciated by Yuanheng. But our brotherly bond needs no wine to express it. Besides, we've just had breakfast and our stomachs are full. Drinking wine now would be a waste of such fine food and wine."
I have a suggestion: since we're both new to Hefei and unfamiliar with the local customs and culture, why don't we find a lively teahouse, sip tea, and listen to the conversations of passersby? That would relieve our boredom and allow us to learn about the city—wouldn't that be more enjoyable than being confined to a private room drinking in silence?

Hua Yun found Bian Yuanheng's words reasonable and insightful. Moreover, the two had escorted the marshal's family and fought side-by-side, their bond deepening with each passing day. Whether drinking or having tea, it was all to strengthen their camaraderie. Hua Yun readily slapped her thigh in agreement.
"Alright! As you say! We'll have tea in the morning and drinks in the afternoon!"

The two walked side by side. Bian Yuanheng looked at the shops lining both sides of the street and the bustling crowds, and sighed:
"To be honest, Brother Hua, I was on high alert during the trip to Yidu Road and dared not slack off in the slightest. Now that I've suddenly been relieved of this burden, I'm still a little unaccustomed to it."

A sincere smile bloomed on Hua Yun's dark face as he replied:
"I feel the same way. If Brother Bian hadn't come today, I would have gone to the Imperial Guard Camp to listen to the teacher teach me to read and write."

"The Imperial Guards?"

Bian Yuanheng withdrew his gaze from the patrolling soldiers. He was well-informed and knew that the term "Yulin" originated from the Jianzhang Cavalry unit established by Emperor Wu of Han. He immediately became interested in this "Yulin Camp" and said:
"What kind of camp is the Imperial Guard? Why don't they accompany the Marshal on his campaigns, yet they teach others to read?"

The Imperial Guard Camp has expanded to more than two hundred orphans and is under military management. Naturally, it is impossible for outsiders to enter and leave at will. Hua Yun was able to enter and leave the Imperial Guard Camp because Marshal Shi knew that he was illiterate and often went on field missions. He specifically made arrangements for Chen Daye and Tong Si'er, who were in charge of the Imperial Guard Camp.

He then explained the matter in detail, and by the way mentioned Marshal Shi's requirements for officers' literacy and training. Hua Yun didn't really understand it very well, but Bian Yuanheng still understood it in general terms—the Marshal really cared about cultivating talents, from children to young adults, leaving no one out!

As they spoke, the two arrived at a bustling spot on the street, where the four large characters "Qingyuan Teahouse" on the signboard were quite eye-catching. The teahouse had a spacious storefront, and although it was currently between the morning and afternoon market hours, there were still quite a few people there.

The waiters, with white towels draped over their shoulders and large, long-spouted copper kettles in their hands, moved nimbly between the tables and chairs, their shouts rising and falling.

"Two bowls of perilla drink—", "A plate of fried dough twists—", "A pot of snow-soaked plum blossom wine—".

The air is filled with the fresh aroma of freshly brewed tea, the enticing scent of freshly steamed meat buns, the smoky aroma of fried dough sticks, and the savory fragrance of various side dishes, all blending together to create a vibrant, bustling atmosphere.

In the most conspicuous spot by the entrance, there is a simple bookshelf with several best-selling books on it. The most prominent books are the storybook and comic book of "Marshal Shi Conquers Luzhou in Ten Months". The edges of the pages have been worn rough by countless fingers turning them over, which shows how popular they are.

There were about ten tables in the teahouse, but only two or three were empty. The two found a small square table by the window and sat down. Hua Yun was tidying up her belongings in the morning and hadn't eaten yet. She ordered a basket of steamed buns, two bowls of San Sheng soup, and a plate of osmanthus cake for herself.

Breakfast time has passed, and diners come to the teahouse mainly to relax and unwind.

At the table in front, a few men dressed in shorts were discussing yesterday's wages at the dock and the fish market prices; at another table, two elderly men in plain clothes were slowly sipping tea and talking in hushed tones about whose son was getting married in the alley and whose daughter was making a living.

Of course, the most talked-about topic is the great victory in Xuzhou that we just received yesterday.

"...Hey! One hundred thousand, a full one hundred thousand Tartars! Our Marshal Shi chopped them down like vegetables. You didn't see it, the soldier who came to report the victory rode in through the Gongchen Gate on a fast horse, his voice hoarse from shouting 'One hundred thousand Tartars have been annihilated! Xuzhou is now at peace!' That voice...!"

A burly man in a short jacket, his shirt open, waved his chopsticks, spitting almost onto his companion's face. His dark complexion turned even darker with excitement.

"My cousin, who works in the yamen, told me this himself. The Yuan dogs were completely surrounded by our Red Flag Battalion. They were slaughtered, crying for their fathers and mothers, fleeing in disarray. They even captured ten of their damn banners of the Ten Thousand Commanders! That was truly satisfying!"

His tablemate immediately chimed in, his voice equally loud and his face beaming, as if he too had been a part of that glorious victory.

"If you ask me, well done! Now that we've captured Xuzhou, we should press our advantage and chase those plague-ridden Tartars all the way back to their homeland in the Gobi Desert to eat sand and drink the northwest wind!"

An elderly man with white hair and beard, yet remarkably vigorous, slammed his hand on the table, causing the dishes to rattle softly. The veins on his withered hands were prominent, and his cloudy old eyes gleamed with fanaticism.

"With Marshal Shi in charge in Hefei, he's like a pillar of stability! As steady as Mount Tai! What's there to be afraid of!"

"well--!"

A man in his thirties standing nearby sighed heavily, slapped his thigh in frustration, and said:

"I only regret that my leg is still injured from years ago, and I can't run fast anymore! Otherwise, I would have joined the Red Flag Battalion and fought alongside Marshal Shi in real battle! I would have earned a title and honored my family! It would have been better than living such a pathetic life now!"

These words, whether impassioned, exaggerated, or filled with regret, all overflowed with ecstasy at victory and confidence in Marshal Shi and the Red Flag Battalion. There was no fear of war, no worry about potential tax increases, only a strong sense of identification with the rising power.

Bian Yuanheng and Hua Yun exchanged a glance. Without a word, they both saw satisfaction and pride in each other's eyes.

Marshal Shi's iron-fisted purges and successive victories over the past few months acted like the strongest adhesive, firmly uniting the people's hearts under the banner of the Red Flag Battalion. This cohesion was a more valuable asset than any fortified city or powerful weapon.

But amidst the fervor of the diners in this teahouse, there is a discordant element.

At the table to Hua Yun's left was a middle-aged scholar dressed in a worn blue Confucian robe. He had only ordered a pot of tea and two plates of plain pastries. As he listened to the lively discussion, a deep and unyielding worry shrouded his brows, and he would occasionally shake his head slightly.

Bian Yuanheng hesitated for a moment, greeted Hua Yun, then rose from his seat, walked to the scholar in the blue robe, bowed respectfully, and said:
"My lord, the Marshal's great victory at Xuzhou has driven out the Tartars and relieved the people from their suffering, a truly joyous occasion for all. But I see you sitting here alone, your brows furrowed, as if you have some hidden worries on your mind. May I ask what troubles you?"

Bian Yuanheng spoke in a calm tone and in a soft voice, with a pure sense of inquiry, without the slightest hint of aggressiveness.

The scholar was clearly lost in his own thoughts, and was startled by the sudden conversation, nearly dropping the teacup from his hand.

He looked up abruptly, a hint of wariness in his eyes. When he saw Bian Yuanheng, he was handsome and upright, dressed simply but with a clear and sharp gaze and a calm and composed demeanor.

The dark-faced man beside him was even more imposing, with eyes that shone like lightning, exuding a unique military aura of strength and menacing presence.

The scholar in the blue robe knew that Bian and Hua were no ordinary commoners, so he hurriedly stood up, returned Bian Yuanheng's deep bow, and spoke in a thick Zhejiang accent:

"I dare not accept such praise! Your Excellency is too kind. Marshal Shi's divine might has swept away all villains and saved the people from suffering. He is truly a hero of unparalleled stature. I am but a humble wanderer, sheltered under your rule, seeking only to preserve my life in this chaotic world. How dare I speak so presumptuously?"

Just now... just now I was merely feeling the hardships of life, having some trivial thoughts, nothing to mention, nothing to mention.

The man's eyes darted around as he spoke, and he tried his best to distance himself from the conversation, clearly not wanting to discuss it further, and even wanting to end the conversation immediately.

Observing the man's expression, Bian Yuanheng knew he must be deeply worried, and the man's refined manner of speaking made him seem even more unusual. He took the opportunity to sit down on the bench opposite the scholar, lowering his posture and speaking in a gentler tone.

"Brother, there's no need to worry. Brother Hua and I only arrived in Hefei yesterday. We are delighted to see that all industries in the city are starting to thrive, the people are living in peace and the people are in high spirits. If you have any observations or feelings, please feel free to speak them, no matter how small or big. It's just a casual chat over tea to exchange our thoughts."

Seeing Bian Yuanheng's earnest words and hearing him mention "the people's enthusiasm" again, the scholar in the blue robe felt even more worried. After hesitating for a moment, he lowered his voice and said:

"Marshal Shi's efforts to bring peace to the people and defend against powerful enemies are indeed a great thing. What I was worried about just now was that Marshal Shi might be infected by the war-worshiping atmosphere in the city, forget his roots after taking Xuzhou, lose his southern base while defending against the northern enemy, and ruin this excellent situation!"

Bian Yuanheng's heart skipped a beat, realizing he had encountered a master. He quickly stood up, bowed respectfully again, and said:
"Brother, your few words today have been like a wake-up call for Yuanheng, from which I have benefited greatly. May I ask your esteemed name and where you reside? Perhaps we can receive further instruction from you in the future."

Seeing that the other party was no longer pressing the matter, the scholar in the blue robe relaxed slightly and quickly returned the greeting:

"I dare not accept your instruction. I am Ye Dui, a native of Haining Prefecture in eastern Zhejiang."

(End of this chapter)