Late Tang Dynasty: Descendants of the Imperial Clan

Chapter 86 Li Cenji, the Military Governor of Fengxiang and Longyou, Makes His First Three Moves

Footsteps came from inside the door, and the door creaked open, revealing a thin face—it was Jing Xiang.

Today he was wearing a faded blue cloth robe with several patches on the hem, but it was clean and tidy. His hair was also neatly combed. Although his clothes were shabby, there was a sense of integrity between his brows.

When Jingxiang saw that it was a servant of the Wang family, he laughed and said, "Your master has prepared good wine and food again? I was just thinking about how to deal with that millet porridge tonight, and you just happened to come along."

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The servant laughed and said, "Sir, you'll find out when you get there."

Jingxiang turned back and said something to the house, then closed the door and followed the servant toward the Wang family's house.

The servant on the road couldn't help but steal glances at Jingxiang as he walked, secretly wondering to himself:

My master is a prominent figure in Bianzhou City, and he holds this Mr. Jing in high esteem, inviting him to meals and drinks every few days. However, Mr. Jing has always refused my master's help.

On several occasions, the master ordered him to deliver some rice, grain, and cloth, but Mr. Jing politely declined, saying only, "Although I am poor, I can still make a living and dare not trouble you any further."

The servant couldn't understand why someone valued by the magistrate would choose to live in such a dilapidated alley, where even their own stove could barely be lit.

As he pondered this, he couldn't help but speak up: "Sir Jing, if I may be so bold, my master values ​​you so highly. If you were willing to ask, he would be happy to provide you with not only a few bushels of rice, but also a nice house and a few new clothes. Why do you always live in such a place? Every time I go there, I feel that the wind in that alley is cooler than elsewhere."

Jingxiang, upon hearing this, was not annoyed, but merely chuckled and said, "You young man, you're quite the warm-hearted one. Do you even know the meaning of 'no reward without merit'? Your master values ​​me, that's his kindness; if I were to ask for this or that just because he values ​​me, would that be my right? Though I'm poor, I'm not so poor that I've bent my back. Besides, how do you know I don't like the cool breeze in that shabby alley? I've lived there for almost a year, and I find the breeze there the most refreshing, dispelling the summer heat."

The servant was speechless after hearing his words, and could only smile awkwardly before saying nothing more.

As they spoke, the two arrived at the Wang family's gate.

Jing Xiang straightened his robes and stepped into the hall.

Wang Fa was waiting in the hall. When he saw Zizhen arrive, he quickly got up to greet him and said with a smile, "Zizhen is here! Please sit down! Your sister-in-law saw some fresh bream at the market today and had someone buy some. It's been a while since we sat down together, so let's take advantage of this meal to have a good chat."

Jingxiang cupped his hands and said, "Your Excellency is too kind. I was just thinking about how to make millet porridge tonight, and Your Excellency sent someone to invite me, as if you knew my stove was empty."

After saying this, he turned to a woman on the side of the hall, bowed, and said, "I am well, sister-in-law. I am truly sorry to bother you again."

The woman was Wang Fa's wife, around thirty years old, with a gentle and graceful face.

Madam Wang smiled and returned the greeting, saying, "Sir, please don't stand on ceremony. You and my husband are not only from the same hometown but also old friends. He often thinks of you. Please sit down, sir. I'll go to the back and see if the tea is ready."

After saying that, he got up and went to the back hall.

Jing Xiang then sat down opposite Wang Fa.

The servant poured wine for the two men, and Wang Fa raised his cup and said, "Come, drink a cup first to moisten your throat."

The two clinked glasses, each drank half a cup, and then started eating.

The mutton was roasted until fragrant and melted in your mouth; the bream was steamed to perfection, the fish meat was tender and smooth, and when dipped in ginger and vinegar, it was so delicious that it made your tongue tingle.

Although Jing Xiang ate quickly, he remained composed and showed no sign of making a mess.

After several rounds of drinks and dishes, Wang Fa glanced towards the back hall and saw that Madam Wang had led the servants away, leaving only the two of them in the hall. He put down his chopsticks, his expression becoming more serious, and said in a low voice, "Zizhen, I have something I want to talk to you about."

Seeing that his expression was strange, Jingxiang put down his chopsticks and said, "Please speak, Your Highness."

Wang Fa pondered for a moment, poured himself a cup, then poured one for Jing Xiang, before speaking in a low and slow voice: "Zizhen, we've known each other for over half a year, and I've always had a regret in my heart. You are a man of great learning and profound understanding; it would be a waste for such a talent to spend his days writing letters for others in Bianzhou. I've considered recommending you to the governor several times, but as you know, he comes from a prominent family and looks down on scholars from humble backgrounds. If he sees you, he might not say it, but he'll likely feel slighted. If I insist on recommending you, he won't object out of consideration for our relationship, but at most he'll give you a minor official position with little hope of promotion. And you'll have to endure his mistreatment every day you work for him—alas, how can I bear to let you go in such a situation?"

Hearing this, Jingxiang felt a surge of warmth in his heart. He picked up his wine cup, took a sip, and sighed, "Your Excellency knows me well. Although I, Jingxiang, am down on my luck, my backbone has never been weak. I feel suffocated whenever I see those self-important nobles who look down on everyone. Rather than be subservient to them, I'd rather write letters for others in this humble alley. Although it's hard work, it's comfortable."

Wang Fa nodded and said, "I know your character, which is why I haven't spoken to the Inspector yet. But these past few days, I've heard some news that might be a way out for you."

Jing Xiang's eyes flickered slightly: "What news is it?"

Wang Fa said unhurriedly, "A few days ago, a group of merchants came from Guanzhong and talked about things in Fengxiang. They said that Zheng Tian, ​​the military governor of Fengxiang and Longyou, issued a notice to recruit talents. Regardless of family background or social status, anyone with real talent and good character can go and take the exam, and the best will be selected. The notice has been posted for more than a month, and I heard that people have already gone. Zizhen, we have always known each other, and I know your talent. If you are willing to take the exam, you will most likely be hired."

After listening, Jing Xiang remained silent for a moment.

He set down his wine cup, tapped his fingers lightly twice on the table, and slowly said, "Prime Minister Zheng—I have naturally heard of him. His fame resounds throughout the land for recapturing Chang'an and forcing Huang Chao to his death. He is a prime minister in public and a general in private, possessing the qualities of a prime minister. However, he is, after all, from the prestigious Zheng clan of Yingyang. Would he truly consider me, a commoner from a humble background, to be of any interest if I rashly went to seek refuge with him?"

Wang Fa smiled and said, "Zizhen, you're overthinking it. If Zheng Tian were truly a man who relied on his family's status, why would he need to post those recruitment notices? He could easily fill the official positions with his own sons and protégés from prominent families. But he insists on posting notices everywhere, recruiting talented people from all over the country. This kind of magnanimity is something that ordinary aristocratic families can't possess. Moreover, in the battles of Longweipo and Chang'an, he heavily relied on a general named Li Cenji. This man was merely a captain in the Shence Army, not from a prominent family, yet Zheng took him in as a disciple and promoted him all the way to the position of military governor of Fengxiang and Longyou. Now, this military governor Li is in charge of Fengxiang. If you don't believe me, go ask those merchants from Guanzhong. Which one of them doesn't know Li Cenji? He can value even a captain, let alone a scholar like you with real talent and learning?"

Li Cenji rarely publicized his status as a member of the imperial clan, so ordinary merchants were unaware of the inside story.

After listening, Jingxiang remained silent for a moment, then cupped his hands and said, "I am deeply grateful for Your Highness's consideration. However—the journey to Guanzhong is long and arduous, and it will take more than a day. I have a wife and children at home, and I cannot leave for even a short time. Please allow me a few days to consider this and then make a decision."

Wang Fa didn't press the matter, but just smiled and said, "Brother, take your time to think it over. I just feel that it would be a waste for someone with your talent to be buried in the streets of Bianzhou writing letters for others. If you are interested in traveling west, just ask me for the travel expenses."

The two drank a few more cups and talked about recent sights and hearsay in Bianzhou and rumors in the court. It wasn't until night fell that Jingxiang got up to take his leave.

Wang Fa personally saw the person out, then returned to the house and instructed the servants, "Go and prepare another table of food and wine; your mistress hasn't eaten yet."

The servant accepted the order and left.

On the other side, Jingxiang returned to the dilapidated alley and pushed open the peeling wooden door of his own house.

A dim oil lamp was lit in the room, its wick long and burnt out, the light flickering on and off.

Jingxiang's wife was sitting under the lamp mending an old robe. Seeing him return, she put down her needlework, stood up, and said, "You're back? Did the Prince invite you to drink again?"

Jingxiang nodded, about to say something, when he felt a weight on his leg. Looking down, he saw a four or five-year-old boy hugging his leg, tilting his round little face up and pouting, saying, "Daddy, I'm hungry."

Jingxiang paused, glanced at the child, then looked up at his wife and asked, "Didn't you cook dinner tonight?"

The lady looked somewhat embarrassed and said in a low voice, "I did make it—but there was only a handful of millet left at home, so I mixed in some wild vegetables and millet husks to make a pot of porridge. The child didn't like it and only drank a few sips before refusing to eat any more."

Upon hearing this, Jingxiang felt a sudden pang of sadness in his heart.

He looked down at his son's thin face, then at his wife's hands, slightly rough from hard work, under the lamplight, and the hesitation in his heart vanished.

He knelt down, picked up his son, kissed him on the cheek, and said with a smile, "What are you hungry for? Your father will take you out for a good meal during the New Year."

The child blinked, and asked, seemingly understanding but not quite, "What's good to eat?"

Jingxiang said, "Let's eat mutton, bream, and steamed buns."

The child cheered, clapping his hands and saying, "Really? Daddy, don't lie to me!"

Jingxiang laughed and said, "When has your father ever coaxed you?"

He put the child down, went to the stove, lifted the pot lid and saw that there was indeed only a thin layer of porridge left at the bottom of the pot, with a few chopped wild vegetable leaves floating in it.

He looked around for a moment, then turned to his wife and asked, "How much millet do we have left at home?"

The lady said, "There are still about three or four liters left."

Jingxiang said, "Cook it all."

The lady's eyes widened: "Cook it all? What about tomorrow? What about the day after?"

Jingxiang smiled, a confidence and certainty he hadn't shown in a long time: "We won't be here tomorrow. Tomorrow morning, pack a few clothes, take the children, and we'll set off on a long journey. Westward, to Guanzhong."

The woman was stunned: "Go to Kansai? What are you going there for?"

Jingxiang said, "The military governor of Fengxiang is recruiting talented people, regardless of their social status, only those with ability will be chosen. I have decided to give it a try. Tomorrow I will go to ask the princes for some travel expenses. Once I get to Fengxiang, with my talent, I will surely be able to get an official position. Then you and the children will no longer have to eat porridge made from wild vegetable husks."

Upon hearing this, the lady's eyes reddened.

In the years since she married Jingxiang, although life has been hard, she has never heard him say the words "we definitely can" with such certainty.

She put down her needlework, walked to Jingxiang's side, and whispered, "Are you really that confident?"

Jingxiang grasped her hand and smiled, "You still don't believe me? It's just that I haven't met anyone willing to use me. Now that I have the opportunity to realize my ambitions, wouldn't it be a waste of all my talent if I didn't take it?"

Upon hearing this, the lady stared blankly at Jingxiang, her eyes immediately reddening.

She had followed Jingxiang for many years, seeing him copy books for others to exchange for rice, seeing him study hard by lamplight but fail the imperial examinations repeatedly, and seeing him rejected by prestigious families time and time again but never bowing his head.

But she had never seen him so determined and confident.

She turned her face away and wiped the corner of her eye with her sleeve.

The child, oblivious to what his parents were saying, kept tugging at Jingxiang's clothes, tilting his head back and shouting, "Father, cook it all! Cook it all!"

Jingxiang laughed heartily, released his wife's hand, bent down to pat his son's head, and turned to the stove to start a fire and boil water.

The next day, just as dawn was breaking, Jing Xiang changed into a clean blue cloth robe and went to Wang Fa's residence.

Wang Fa was having breakfast in the hall when he saw Jing Xiang arrive. He put down his chopsticks and said, "Brother, you've arrived? Did you sleep well last night?"

Jingxiang cupped his hands and said, "Your Highness, I have pondered this all night and have decided to travel west. However, the journey is long and my funds are running low. I would like to borrow twenty strings of cash from Your Highness for my travel expenses. If I make any progress after reaching Fengxiang, I will repay you double."

Upon hearing this, Wang Fa's face showed relief. He immediately got up and went into the inner room, took out thirty strings of cash, put it in a cloth bag, and handed it to Jing Xiang: "Brother, there's no need to borrow. Twenty strings of cash isn't enough. This thirty strings of cash is a gift from me for your travel expenses. You're going to Guanzhong to seek your future, and as a fellow townsman, how can I stand idly by? If you really want to repay it, then come and treat me to a drink when you've achieved success."

Jing Xiang shook his head, took out paper and pen from his pouch, and immediately wrote an IOU, which he neatly handed to Wang Fa: "Lord Wang, we have known each other for many years, and you know my character. If you say it's a gift, I will not accept it. Consider this money a loan, and I write this IOU as proof. After I establish myself in Fengxiang, I will definitely repay the principal and interest. If you refuse to accept this IOU, then I dare not take the money."

Wang Fa looked at him, remained silent for a moment, then finally sighed, took the IOU, folded it and put it in his sleeve, and said with a wry smile, "Brother, your temperament is really... you're unwilling to owe anyone a favor. Fine, I'll accept it. Take care on your journey to Guanzhong."

He then summoned a servant and instructed him, "Go and hire a mule cart for Mr. Jing, take him outside the city, and prepare some dry food and water for him."

Jingxiang thanked Wang Fa and returned home to find his wife had already packed his belongings, which amounted to only two bundles:

A bundle of clothes, a bundle of books, plus thirty strings of cash and a few pieces of dry biscuits.

Jingxiang slung the bundle over his shoulder, held his son's hand in one hand and supported his wife with the other, and left the dilapidated house, locking the door behind him.

With a gentle flick of the reins, the mule cart slowly made its way along the official road, its back to the rising sun in the east.

In early November, the imperial decree of bestowal of honors from Chang'an finally arrived in Yong County.

On this fine day, Li Cenji was discussing the county examination questions with Zhao Zhang in the military governor's mansion when he suddenly heard hurried footsteps outside the hall.

The soldier lifted the curtain and entered, clasping his hands in greeting, "Your Excellency! The imperial envoy has arrived, carrying the imperial edict, and is already outside the city!"

Upon hearing this, Li Cenji sent someone to burn incense and set up an altar. He also invited the generals and civil officials from the military to come out of the military headquarters and line up outside the ceremonial gate to welcome him.

Before long, a middle-aged eunuch dressed in a scarlet robe, carrying a yellow imperial edict, slowly entered the room, surrounded by two attendants.

He was fair-skinned and beardless, with a composed demeanor. His gaze swept over the civil and military officials of Fengxiang, finally settling on Li Cenji, who stood at the forefront. He smiled slightly and said, "Li, the acting governor, may you receive the decree."

Li Cenji bowed again, and the civil and military officials behind him followed suit.

The eunuch unfolded the imperial edict and read it aloud.

The writing was ornate and elegant, employing parallel prose and six-character phrases. As usual, it began with praise of the victories at Longwei Slope and Chang'an, followed by a detailed account of how Li Cenji had executed Shang Rang, forced Huang Chao, pacified the people, and reformed the bureaucracy. Finally, the main point was made: "You are hereby granted the title of Grand Master of the Palace, Pillar of the State; enfeoffed as Duke of Qi (this is a Duke of Qi, Duke of Qi), with a fief of six hundred households; appointed as General of the Left Guard, Acting Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, Military Governor of Fengxiang and Longyou, and Commander-in-Chief of the Military Forces of this Circuit. This is the imperial decree."

Li Cenji kowtowed to express his gratitude, accepted the imperial edict with both hands, and stood up.

Behind them, civil and military officials stood up in unison, exchanging glances, their faces filled with undisguised joy.

Li Cenji carefully put away the imperial edict, then turned to the eunuch and bowed, saying, "Your Excellency has come from afar and must be tired. Please come inside and rest. I have already ordered someone to prepare tea and refreshments."

The eunuch waved his hand and said with a smile, "General, you are too kind. I have something to say to you."

As he spoke, his gaze swept casually over the civil and military officials beside him, the meaning of which was crystal clear:

Some things are not convenient to say in front of others.

Li Cenji felt a slight chill in his heart, but his face remained calm. He simply smiled and said, "Angel, please follow me."

He gave Sun Chu and the others a wink, signaling them to go about their business, and then led the eunuch through the side corridor into a quiet little hall on the east side of the military governor's mansion.

The door closed, leaving only the two people in the room.

The eunuch didn't mince words. He sat down in his chair, took a sip of tea, and slowly said, "General Jie, before I left the palace, Lord Tian specifically instructed me to deliver a message. Lord Tian said that when you, General Jie, were presenting your audience with the Emperor at the Baoji military camp, you were unwilling to display your strength before him. Although this was a sign of humility, the Emperor, being young and impetuous, felt that your title as General Jie was undeserved and held you in some contempt. Therefore, this reward, compared to your merits, is truly somewhat unfair. Lord Tian felt very apologetic upon hearing this, and he asked me to convey a message to you: Please rest assured and remain in Fengxiang. Lord Tian will certainly speak well of you before the Emperor. At most, within half a year, your official titles and rewards will surely be promoted another level. General Jie, please rest assured."

Upon hearing this, Li Cenji thought to himself: They really came.

He had already sensed on the day he arrived at the Baoji military camp that Tian Lingzi's attitude towards him was ambiguous, neither malicious nor entirely benevolent.

Now that these words have come from the mouth of this eunuch, it is a clear indication of goodwill.

His heart remained calm, but he feigned a touch of emotion, cupping his hands and saying, "Lord Tian's kindness is too great for me. I have indeed lost my composure during my audience with the Emperor that day. I was thinking that since the Emperor had just established the empire, it would be a breach of my duty as a subject if I were to act rashly or rely on my strength. I never expected that Lord Tian would have to worry about me like this. I am truly ashamed."

Seeing his earnest words, the eunuch smiled with satisfaction, but then changed the subject, seemingly casually saying, "Speaking of which, there is something I don't understand. The General's reward this time, considering his merits, is really not generous. Why didn't Minister Zheng say a few words in his defense of the General before the Emperor? Minister Zheng is now a high-ranking official, receiving daily audiences with the Emperor. If he had spoken up, the General's rank and title would certainly have been much higher. Yet he didn't mention it at all—could it be that there's some kind of rift between Minister Zheng and the General?"

He said this in a casual tone, as if it were just a casual question.

But the provocative intent in those words was like a fine needle, gently pricking me.

Li Cenji heard it clearly and sneered inwardly:

This was a test on behalf of Tian Lingzi.

If I were to defend my mentor now, they would think I was covering something up, further confirming their suspicions about the "master and disciple being of one mind."

Li Cenji's mind raced, but a perfectly timed helpless smile appeared on his face. He sighed and said, "Your Majesty may not know. It is true that Lord Zheng is my mentor. But precisely because of this, it is inconvenient for him to say much on my behalf before the Emperor. If he were to fight for my official rank, others would inevitably say things like 'Lord Zheng is cultivating his own faction,' which would not be good."

Although I felt somewhat disappointed, I understood my mentor's difficulties. However, I am deeply grateful to Master Tian for his understanding of my grievances.

As he spoke, he cupped his hands in a gesture of gratitude towards Chang'an in the east.

Seeing his explanation, the eunuch didn't press further and simply smiled, saying, "The commander is indeed a man of great principle. In that case, I can rest assured. Lord Tian said that the commander should just focus on governing Fengxiang, and that he will keep an eye on things in court to ensure that loyal and virtuous officials are not wronged."

Li Cenji bowed again in thanks, then rose and took a bolt of new silk from the inner chamber, presenting it to the eunuch with both hands: "The envoy has come from afar to deliver a decree; you must be tired from your journey. I am but a crude and uncouth warrior, and I do not know how to express my gratitude. This thin bolt of silk is but a token of my respect; please accept it, envoy."

Upon seeing the silk, the eunuch smiled so broadly his eyes narrowed into slits. After a few polite refusals, he accepted it, repeatedly saying, "General, you are too kind. How could I possibly accept such a gift?"

She said she was sorry, but she had already carefully put away the silk and happily followed the servant who had led the way to rest.

When Li Cenji saw the eunuch off and returned to the front hall, Fengxiang cultural relics were gathered under the corridor talking.

When they saw him come out, they all surrounded him to congratulate him.

Li Cenji smiled and waved his hand, saying, "It's all thanks to everyone's concerted efforts. How could one person accomplish this alone?"

He paused for a moment, then said, "Tonight I am hosting a banquet at the General's Mansion. I would like to invite you all to attend, firstly to celebrate the imperial court's favor, and secondly to reward you for your hard work over the past few months. The food and wine may be simple, but the sentiment is sincere. Please do not refuse."

Upon hearing this, everyone cupped their hands and said in unison, "How could we dare refuse the invitation from the Commander?"

After saying that, they all dispersed to continue their duties.

Li Cenji raised his hand and stopped everyone in their tracks.

He slowly scanned the hall, first pointing to Sun Chu, Wang Chu, and Zhao Zhang, then to Li Changyan, Li Changfu, Wang Lu, Chen An, Zhou Ping, and Song Wentong, saying, "Please wait a moment, everyone, I have a few things to instruct you on."

The people whose names were called went back to their seats.

Li Changyan and Wang Lu exchanged a glance, their expressions unchanged, but both were secretly speculating:

The commander deliberately left behind the military commanders on the left and right flanks, and also had Chen An, Song Wentong, and others accompany him, which probably means he's about to make changes to the military structure.

Li Changyan felt a slight pang in his heart, but on the surface he acted as if nothing was wrong, picked up his teacup and slowly took a sip.

Seeing that everyone was seated, Li Cenji stood up, took two steps with his hands behind his back, and said, "Today, I have been granted the honor of being appointed as the Commander-in-Chief by the Emperor. I should naturally make long-term plans for the Fengxiang Garrison. After much deliberation, I feel that there are still some aspects of the current military system that can be improved."

He paused, his gaze falling on Chen An and Song Wentong, and said, "Fengxiang already has two flanks of troops, each with seven or eight thousand men, more than enough for defense. However, beyond the flanks, the vanguard and rearguard are still lacking. In the event of battle, without support from both ends, we will inevitably be stretched thin. I intend to establish two more armies, a vanguard and a rearguard, each with five thousand men, alongside the left and right flanks, as permanent forces in the town. Chen An will be the commander of the vanguard, and Song Wentong will be the commander of the rearguard, their ranks equal to those of the left and right flanks. Are you two willing to accept this order?"

Upon hearing this, Chen An was taken aback at first, then clasped his hands and said, "This humble general is willing to serve the commander-in-chief!"

He had followed Li Cenji the longest, having risen through the ranks of the Imperial Guard and fought his way to Chang'an. Considering himself a direct subordinate of the military governor, his promotion was not unexpected.

Song Wentong, however, was different.

He stood up abruptly, his face beaming with undisguised joy, and bowed, saying, "Commander! This humble general—this humble general is utterly unworthy of such high regard from you! I have only been here for a few months, and have made only minor contributions, yet I have been granted such a high position. I am truly humbled!"

He spoke with such emotion that his voice trembled slightly.

He was originally a commander of the Boye Army. After wandering around to the west of the capital, he joined Li Cenjimo with only a thousand or so remnants of his army. He was content with having a place to receive pay and food and not having to wander around.

Unexpectedly, the new military commander promoted him directly from commander to military commander, placing him on equal footing with veteran generals like Li Changyan and Wang Lu.

Overwhelmed with gratitude for such recognition, Song Wentong immediately knelt on one knee, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and said, "This humble general is willing to serve the commander with his life! If I have any disloyal intentions, may I be struck down by heaven and earth!"

Li Cenji gestured for him to rise, and said with a smile, "There's no need for that. You were able to defeat Wugong with just over a thousand Boye soldiers, and you also helped me resist Huang Chao in the western suburbs of Chang'an. I have seen your achievements. As long as you do your job well, I will naturally not treat you unfairly."

Song Wentong repeatedly agreed before stepping aside.

Wang Lu sat at the lower end, saying nothing, simply sipping his tea slowly, as if these matters had nothing to do with him.

He was getting old, and after being severely reprimanded by Li Cenji that night in Mei County, he had already made up his mind to protect himself and not get involved in these power struggles.

Whether it's the left and right flanks or the front and rear armies, he can just guard his own little plot of land and retire peacefully when he gets old.

Meanwhile, Li Changyan had already vaguely sensed that something was amiss.

As expected, Li Cenji changed the subject, saying, "The left and right flanks each have seven or eight thousand troops, which is a bit bloated. I propose reducing each flank to five thousand, making a total of twenty thousand troops for each of the four armies, which should be sufficient for the defense of the town. What do you all think?"

The atmosphere in the room changed immediately upon hearing this.

Wang Lu lowered his head and remained silent, only glancing at Li Changyan out of the corner of his eye.

Li Changyan frowned even more, and said carefully, "Does the commander know that both flanks are filled with elite veterans who have been through many battles? If two or three thousand men are laid off at once, how will those laid-off soldiers be placed? Moreover, they have followed me and Commander Wang for many years. If they are suddenly dismissed, I'm afraid the morale of the army will be unstable."

Li Cenji had anticipated his response and calmly replied, "That's easy. The soldiers who are cut need not be dismissed; they can all be assigned to the vanguard and rearguard. The elite troops on the left and right flanks will still be soldiers of Fengxiang when they are assigned to the vanguard and rearguard, and will still serve the court. How can that be considered a waste?"

Li Changyan's expression darkened slightly.

How could he not understand the meaning behind those words?

Allocating his troops to the front and rear armies may seem like a way to avoid wasting resources, but in reality, it diverts his forces and weakens his military power.

Li Changyan was by nature fierce and arrogant, and as a man who held considerable military power, he felt as if he had been slapped in the chest upon hearing this explanation. He abruptly stood up and slammed his hand on the table, causing the teacups to jump and spill tea all over the table.

"General!"

Li Changyan's voice was deep and cold, striking the hall with a harsh thud. "What do you mean by that? My left wing has over seven thousand soldiers, all veterans who served under me before Prime Minister Zheng even arrived. We charged into battle at Longwei Slope without retreating a single step! The court merely bestowed upon me a nominal title and rank, that's the court's business, I don't care. But you've just taken over as commander, and you want to use us veterans as scapegoats? You contributed to the suppression of Huang Chao's rebellion on both sides, and now you want to reduce our troops? What kind of logic is this! In the Battle of Longwei Slope, many brothers of my left wing also died; that blood was not shed in vain! If you think we're in your way, you can just say so directly; there's no need to use the pretext of troop reduction to carry out this drastic measure!"

After he finished speaking, he looked around at everyone, and then his gaze lingered on Li Changfu's face for a moment before he suddenly turned around and strode out of the hall.

The boots stomped heavily on the blue brick floor, making everyone in the hall hold their breath.

The curtain was lifted and then closed again, and the figure disappeared outside the door.

The hall was completely silent.

Chen An, Zhou Ping, and Song Wentong looked at each other, none of them daring to speak.

Li Cenji neither got up to stop them nor ordered anyone to chase after them.

He simply picked up his teacup, took another sip, then slowly put it down, turned to Wang Lu, and said gently, "Commander Wang, what do you think?"

Wang Lu had been sitting in the corner, head down, without saying a word.

He originally intended for Li Changyan to lead the way, while he would follow behind, cheering and waving the flag.

Unexpectedly, Li Changyan slammed his fist on the table and left, leaving him with a mess.

Upon hearing Li Cenji call his name, he inwardly groaned. He could only cough dryly, stand up, and cup his hands, saying, "General, what are you saying! This humble general—this humble general has absolutely no such intention! It's just that this matter of reducing the army is indeed of great importance, and this humble general hasn't figured it out yet—General, please don't be offended, please don't be offended."

His words were ambiguous; he neither explicitly opposed nor fully supported the idea, but rather left himself an out.

Li Cenji sensed the wavering in his words but didn't expose it, his tone remaining calm: "Commander Wang, I know what you're thinking. You think I want to weaken the power of the left and right wings so that I can concentrate all military power in Fengxiang in one person's hands. I might as well be frank with you: I am indeed worried. Worried about what? Worried about the fact that you hold seven or eight thousand elite troops. If one day someone has any disloyal thoughts, whether I still have my head or not will depend on your whims. Ask yourself honestly, is my thinking excessive?"

Sweat began to trickle down Wang Lu's forehead.

He opened his mouth, wanting to say something like "I dare not" or "I have no such intention," but his throat felt like it was blocked with cotton, and he couldn't utter a single word.

This is because such things are not uncommon in this day and age.

Li Cenji didn't wait for his reply and continued, "I'm not talking about you. It's just that the rules in this town need to be clearly defined. Each of the four armies has five thousand men, with complete organization and equal distribution of rations and pay. No one can be too powerful. I'm not trying to dismiss either of you, but I want to create a check and balance on the power in the army. Doing so will be good for you, for Commander Li, and for Fengxiang."

When Wang Lu heard the words "it's just to have a check and balance on power," his unease subsided somewhat.

Upon careful consideration, he realized that Li Cenji's words did make some sense.

If he were a military governor, with two military commanders under his command who were not his trusted confidants, each commanding seven or eight thousand elite troops, he would inevitably have sleepless nights.

Li Cenji has only reduced the army to 5,000 and has not mentioned replacing the generals, so it is not too difficult for him.

Moreover, Wang Lu was a man who valued self-preservation. Since Li Cenji had said "no dismissal," there was no need for him to confront this young military commander for the sake of two or three thousand soldiers.

After much deliberation, he finally sighed and bowed, saying, "Since the Commander-in-Chief has this intention, how dare I disobey? I will return and begin to take stock of my troops and coordinate with the military disbandment. However, regarding Military Commissioner Li—I would like to go and persuade him."

Li Cenji smiled slightly, cupped his hands and said, "Then I will trouble you, Commander Wang."

Wang Lu responded and was about to get up to take his leave, but hesitated for a moment, took two steps closer, and lowered his voice to say, "General, I have a private matter to discuss, but I don't know if I should speak of it."

Seeing his hesitant expression, Li Cenji knew he needed something from him, so he led him to the back hall and raised his hand, saying, "Commander Wang, please speak freely."

Wang Lu entered the inner hall and then said in a low voice, "I have a son, but he's good-for-nothing, spending his days idly. I can't count on him. However, I have a grandson who has just come of age. He's quite strong and has studied military strategy for a few years. He's also quite steady. I was thinking—if the Commander-in-Chief doesn't mind, could he be allowed to train in the Imperial Guard for a few years? I don't expect him to rise to the top overnight; I only hope he can stay by the Commander-in-Chief's side and learn some skills. If he can achieve something after I retire from the army, I can die in peace."

After listening, Li Cenji understood about 80-90% of what was going on.

Wang Lu is making a trade-off, sacrificing his grandson's future for his own peace of mind:

He sent his grandson to the military camp to show his loyalty, keeping a "hostage" by his side to prove he had no ulterior motives, and also to ensure his grandson's future.

Li Cenji naturally wouldn't refuse, so he nodded and said, "Since he's the grandson of Commander Wang, I'll naturally take care of him. Have him report to the military headquarters tomorrow. I'll have Zhou Ping train him for a while first. If he really has some ability, I'll promote him slowly in the future. After Commander Wang retires, your position will naturally be filled by someone else."

Upon hearing this, Wang Lu felt a great weight lifted from his heart and quickly bowed in gratitude, saying, "Thank you, Commander! Thank you, Commander! I will have that boy report to me as soon as I return!"

He was thinking to himself that if he could use his grandson's future to get on Li Cenji's good side, the Wang family would have a powerful backer in Fengxiang in the future.

As for Li Changyan—

Just try to persuade him; if he won't listen, then let Li Cenji have his own headache.

After Wang Lu withdrew, Li Cenji summoned Zhou Ping and, in the same corner, whispered, "There's something I need you to do."

Zhou Ping clasped his hands in a fist and said, "General, please give your orders."

Li Cenji said, "Previously, in order to investigate the illegal activities of officials in various counties, I dispatched many scouts and officers to search everywhere. Now that the anti-corruption campaign is over, these people have gained experience, and it would be a waste to let them go back to the army. I want to organize them into a separate army, specializing in secretly investigating the movements of all sides: whether it is unusual activity in the army, the sentiments of the people in the counties, or the rumors of merchants, they can all be reported to me. I want to put this force under your command."

A glint flashed in Zhou Ping's eyes, and he whispered, "Does the commander mean—to establish a separate department?"

Li Cenji nodded: "Then appoint the scouts. Ostensibly, they will be patrol scouts, but secretly they will be my eyes and ears. Select them from the regular army, choosing only the best. In the next few days, arrange the training of the regular army well, with two shifts, ensuring that half the troops are always on duty in the main city. At the same time, have the scouts disguise themselves as ordinary civilians and secretly monitor the movements of the left and right flanks. If they discover any signs of troop gathering or unusual troop movements, report immediately."

The troops on the left and right wings were scattered throughout the city and suburbs of Yong County, guarding the county. Their attempt to gather together would inevitably be discovered by others.

Zhou Ping's expression hardened, and he clasped his hands in a fist salute, saying, "This subordinate understands. Rest assured, Commander, this subordinate will handle this matter properly."

Li Cenji patted him on the shoulder and said, "Go."

Zhou Ping accepted the order and left.

Only Sun Chu, Wang Chu, and Zhao Zhang remained in the hall.

Li Cenji returned to the main seat and let out a long sigh.

The response just now, though seemingly composed, actually required careful consideration of the importance of each step.

He picked up the teacup, took another sip, and then realized that the tea had gone cold.

Wang Chu spoke first, sighing, "General, if I may say something unpleasant, you've been far too hasty in today's matter. Such a significant matter as troop reduction should have been brought up only after both the front and rear armies had been fully manned and had established a foothold. At that time, with troops under your command, even if Li Changyan and Wang Lu harbored resentment, they wouldn't dare to act rashly. Now, both the front and rear armies are merely empty shells, and you're already trying to snatch food from the tiger's mouth. If those two truly turn against you, what will you use to suppress them?"

Li Cenji put down his teacup, picked up the conversation, and sighed, "Wang Sima, you are mistaken. You do not know that the town's treasury is now severely depleted. Where will we get the money and provisions to recruit soldiers? Although the inheritance I have from Huang Chao is substantial, it is used to pay military salaries, repair water conservancy projects, and support displaced people. The money and provisions are like water poured onto sand, and they are about to run out. The recruitment of soldiers can only be postponed. As a result, if we want to wait until the front and rear armies can form a force that can balance the left and right armies, I am afraid it will be after next year's autumn harvest at the earliest."

Almost a year's gap!

It would be better to take advantage of the new official's rise to power, while the soldiers in the army have not yet forgotten Li Cenji's bravery in beheading Shang Rang and defeating Huang Chao, as well as his kindness in inspecting the various armies and comforting the wounded and injured, and launch an attack as soon as possible.