Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

Huai'an, this ancient city, is located more than 300 miles north of Nanjing. It is like the northern gate of Nanjing, guarding the peace and prosperity of this land. Here, the dust of history is everywhere, and every brick and tile seems to be telling the past glory and vicissitudes.

During the Ming Dynasty, Huai'an was particularly important because it was the throat of the grain transport. At that time, there was a governor who was in charge of the grain transport. His duty was to transport grain from the south to the north to meet the needs of the capital and the northern army. At first, they tried various methods such as branch transport and exchange transport, but finally determined the system of long transport. Long transport means that after harvesting the grain, the people need to pile up the grain in the fields first, and then the soldiers of the grain transport will go to collect it in person, and then transport the precious grain to the canal, and then go north through the canal to the capital.

Zhu Guobi was the governor of the grain transport at that time. He commanded thousands of soldiers, and if the coolies and laborers who transported grain were counted, the number of soldiers was over 10,000. One day, Liu Kongzhao heard that Zhu Guobi had sent an envoy, Zhu Gui, and he immediately smiled and said with a happy face: "Oh, the envoy sent by Funing Hou has arrived, what a pleasure to meet you!" Zhu Gui bowed and respectfully invited Liu Kongzhao to sit in the main seat.

After everyone sat down, Xu Hongji first glanced at Liu Kongzhao. Zhao Zhilong and Zhu Gui also stared at him intently, as if they were about to say something but hesitated. Liu Kongzhao smiled and picked up the teacup, taking a sip of tea. Seeing that he was not in a hurry to speak, Xu Hongji could not help but said, "Don't worry, I have already led Qian Qianyi to the prince as planned."

"Okay!" Zhao Zhilong stood up with his teacup after hearing this, "We have to show respect to the Earl of Chengyi (Qian Qianyi's title)!" Although Zhu Gui was a little confused, he also stood up, and everyone congratulated Liu Kongzhao together. After drinking tea, everyone sat down again.

Xu Hongji smiled and said, "Marquis Chengyi did this at a great risk. Now that it's done, we can rest assured." However, Liu Kongzhao frowned and said, "Not necessarily!" Zhu Gui was confused and wanted to ask but didn't dare to. He could only sit and listen quietly.

Liu Kongzhao began to analyze the current situation: "We now hold real power, but we also have to guard against those people in the capital. So, we agreed to Donglin's request and dealt with them together. Since Qian Qianyi has joined the game, Donglin will fight with the people in the capital. As for us, we will hide in the dark and wait for them to show their flaws before taking action."

Xu Hongji asked Liu Kongzhao with a smile: "Which side do you hope will win?" After that, he laughed contemptuously, "It would be best if both sides lose everything!" Liu Kongzhao shook his head and said: "Even if both sides lose, we can only temporarily control the military power, and we still can't touch the six places. Moreover, once the war in the north is over, the power will return to them."

Xu Hongji sighed and said, "It's not so easy to settle the war in the north, don't rush it." Liu Kongzhao continued, "I hope the Donglin in Nanjing can gain power." Zhao Zhilong asked curiously why, and Liu Kongzhao explained, "The people in Donglin are easy to deal with. Although Qian Qianyi is Shi Kefa's aide on the surface, he is actually the prince's right-hand man. This person has been dismissed by the emperor. If the emperor knows that he has betrayed, he will definitely be furious. By then, even Shi Kefa and the people in Donglin will suffer. We can reap the benefits."

Everyone nodded, but Xu Hongji still had some doubts: "You planned this. If Qian Qianyi fails, you can't escape responsibility." Liu Kongzhao smiled and said, "I have no selfish motives, and I helped the prince a lot this time. If I'm in trouble, how can the prince just watch me die?"

Xu Hongji frowned and thought for a while, then said, "The prince may not have the heart to see you suffer, but what if the prince himself is in danger?" Liu Kongzhao was shocked when he heard this, and even Zhao Zhilong and Zhu Gui changed their expressions.

"Duke Wei, how could you say such a thing?" Liu Kongzhao's forehead was covered with sweat. He originally just wanted to disrupt the political situation in Nanjing, let Beijing and Nanjing fight each other, so that the nobles could benefit, but he never thought of harming the prince. The prince was someone that Lin Xiaofeng (a fictional character, probably referring to an important person) valued, and he could not be touched. Instead, he wanted to help the prince so that he could plan for the future.

Xu Hongji said in a deep voice: "The emperor is too suspicious. The prince is regent but he uses the person who was dismissed by the emperor. What will the emperor think? He will definitely suspect that the prince is forming a clique for personal gain." The three people were frightened when they heard this.

"There are so many factions in the Ming Dynasty, including the eunuch party, the Donglin party, the Jin party, the Qi party, the Chu party, and so on. It's not surprising to see another prince's party." Xu Hongji continued, "The prince is alone in Nanjing, and he has military power. How can the emperor not be worried? If he is worried, there will be resentment, and then the prince will be in danger."

Zhao Zhilong argued, "The prince is the heir to the throne, how could the emperor treat him like this?" Xu Hongji shook his head and said, "Power is a devilish thing. Once you have tasted power, you cannot extricate yourself. Although the emperor was born a prince and had no ambitions at first, he wanted to control the people after he ascended the throne. This is the devilish nature of power. The emperor may not understand the prince, but he certainly understands power."

"There have been countless examples of fathers and sons fighting each other since ancient times, so it's not impossible that there will be a prince's party." After Xu Hongji said this, everyone fell silent, and the topic gradually shifted from the struggle for power to the possibility of a prince's party.

Seeing the heavy atmosphere, Zhao Zhilong said, "Let's get ahead of ourselves. Let's solve the problem at hand first." After saying this, he was already sweating. Liu Kongzhao also sighed and said, "We can't ignore the problem at hand. We have to think about it carefully to be sure of success."

Zhao Zhilong asked in a panic, "What should we do then? Tell the prince? Or induce him to rebel?" Liu Kongzhao pondered for a long time before sighing and saying, "There are three ways to try. First, assist the prince with all your heart and soul, and then ask for credit and reward after he ascends the throne; second, maintain a neutral relationship with the prince, neither distant nor close, so that you will have no credit and no fault; third, wait and see, and decide which side to take after seeing the situation. If the emperor's power becomes strong, we will protect Prince Ding or Prince Yong, and one of them will definitely become the crown prince."

After discussing for a while, Xu Hongji said, "Let's stop here today. Let's go back and do our own things and see how Donglin and Jingzhong fight. When it comes to suppressing the rebels, a small victory will suffice. A big victory will not do us any good. The longer the war drags on, the safer we, the commanders of the army, will be."

"Let's just wait and see what happens with other things. We are one, and we share honor and disgrace." Everyone nodded in agreement, and after a few polite words, they left without even having time to eat.

At this time, the city of Huai'an outside the window has been dyed golden by the setting sun. The streets are bustling with people coming and going, but no one knows that in a corner of this ancient city, a conspiracy concerning the fate of the country has just come to an end. And Huai'an is still quietly guarding this land, witnessing the changes and vicissitudes of history.

In the military camp in Nanjing, the early autumn breeze blew by, but it could not take away the tense atmosphere. The tents were densely packed, the flags were fluttering, and all military deployments were in full swing. The sun shone through the sparse clouds, shining on the busy soldiers, casting a piece of resolute shadow.

Lord Shi Kefa sat at the desk, his majestic face looked even colder in the interweaving of light and shadow, like ice in winter, revealing an unquestionable fortitude. He flipped through the memorial presented by Hua Ruiqi, and every line of the words was like a heavy hammer, hitting his heart.

At this time, Lu Daqi, the right assistant minister of the Ministry of War, stepped forward quickly, his steps were somewhat anxious, and he lowered his voice and asked, "Sir Shangshu, you seem to be worried. Are you worried about something?"

Shi Kefa did not answer immediately, but gently pushed the memorial to Lü Daqi. Lü Daqi took it and read it carefully. The memorial listed four major events, each of which was related to the safety of the country. After he finished reading, he showed a look of surprise and confusion on his face: "Sir, Hua Ruiqi said he wanted to cut troops while recruiting new soldiers. Isn't this contradictory?"

Shi Kefa shook his head slightly, his eyes were deep, as if he could penetrate all the fog. "That's not the case. Murong Jiongran's men are said to have 150,000 troops, but in fact they are just a mob. The elite troops were lost in the battle of Zhuxian Town, and now most of his men are bandits, vagrants, stragglers, and even some captured civilians. Although they are powerful, their combat effectiveness is really worrying. Hua Ruiqi wants to lay off these old, weak, sick and disabled people and recruit strong warriors to restore the prestige of the army." His voice was low and powerful, and every word revealed his deep insight into the situation.

After hearing this, Lu Daqi suddenly realized what was going on, but then he became worried about Hua Ruiqi's situation. He was about to take over Shi Kefa's position. If Hua Ruiqi deliberately delayed or was incompetent, then he might have to lead the army in Wuchang. He couldn't help but ask, "Sir, what are you worried about?"

"What I'm worried about is that such a move might shake the morale of the army," Shi Kefa said worriedly. He knew that before the war, the morale of the army was the most important thing. He recalled that Zhang Xianzhong's army, although it had hundreds of thousands of soldiers, was not good enough, but it was able to rely on the power of unity and surrender wherever it went. In his opinion, Hua Ruiqi should have kept the old, weak, sick and disabled to strengthen the momentum, instead of cutting them off. But Hua Ruiqi did the opposite and adopted the strategy of elite troops.

After hearing what Shi Kefa said, Lü Daqi wanted to say something but stopped himself and just asked Shi Kefa's opinion. Shi Kefa pondered for a moment and said, "Ruiqi must have his own long-term plans for doing this. We should not interfere lightly." His tone was somewhat helpless and trusting. So, he signed and approved Hua Ruiqi's request, and asked Lü Daqi to submit the memorial to the prince as soon as possible, and to get a reply before sunset to calm the hearts of the soldiers on the front line.

"As you wish." Lu Daqi put away the memorial and stood aside respectfully. He looked at Shi Kefa's resolute back and felt an inexplicable respect in his heart.

Shi Kefa picked up other memorials and continued to review them. His eyes shuttled between the lines, sometimes solemn, sometimes thoughtful. He stopped writing and sighed until he finished processing them all. He turned to look at Lu Daqi and said, "Yanruo, did you know that Qian Qianyi might join us soon?"

Lu Daqi was shocked when he heard this: "Qian Qianyi is a criminal, and Your Majesty has not yet restored his official position. Why do you want to use him?" There was some confusion and questioning in his tone.

"The reasons behind this are complicated and hard to explain. I had no choice but to do this." Shi Kefa sighed. His eyes became deeper, as if he could penetrate the barriers of time and space and see the undercurrents hidden behind.

Lu Daqi seemed to understand something, and he sighed and said nothing more. He knew that the only person who could make Shi Kefa feel helpless was the prince. He looked at Shi Kefa's tired face, and an inexplicable sadness surged in his heart.

Shi Kefa calmed himself and continued, "Let me tell you this first so that you can be prepared. If I am convicted and have to resign for this, I hope you can take over my position to stabilize the Ministry of War." His voice was low and powerful, and every word revealed his deep insight into and firm belief in the future.

"Your Excellency, you are too kind. I am still one level below the rank of a minister." Lu Daqi declined hastily. He knew that although he was capable, he was still inexperienced and could not handle such an important task.

"Don't worry, I have my own arrangements." Shi Kefa said confidently. There was an inexplicable light in his eyes, as if he could see through all future changes.

Lü Daqi had no choice but to accept. He knew he could not refuse Shi Kefa's request because it was his responsibility and mission as a soldier. Shi Kefa then asked about armor and weapons, and Lü Daqi replied: "Four thousand sets have been prepared, and the rest are still being made. It will take about three months to complete."

"Why are you so slow!" Shi Kefa glared at Lu Daqi and said, "Didn't I ask you to borrow armor from the Beijing Camp? I went to see it myself, and there are at least two thousand sets of unused armor there!" There was some anxiety and dissatisfaction in his voice.

"Please calm down, my lord. The Beijing Camp is under the joint management of you and Duke Wei. Duke Wei believes that Nanjing is more important and refuses to lend it. In addition, the Jiangjiang Navy, the Canal Transport and other departments also declined, saying that they have no extra armor to allocate." Lu Daqi explained. There was a bit of helplessness and bitterness in his voice.

Shi Kefa was filled with grief and indignation after hearing this, but he could do nothing. He had no choice but to write a letter to He Tengjiao, the governor of Huguang, asking him to help Hua Ruiqi prepare more than a thousand sets of armor, and let Hua Ruiqi solve the weapons himself. He knew it was a difficult decision, but for the safety of the country, he had to do it.

However, Lu Daqi said with some doubt: "I'm afraid He Tengjiao won't help so easily." There was a bit of worry and uncertainty in his tone.

"Why do you say that?" Shi Kefa asked. He looked at Lu Daqi's worried face, and an inexplicable irritation surged in his heart.

"It's just a hunch." Lu Daqi didn't want to say more, just perfunctorily said it. He knew that his intuition was often accurate, but this time he hoped that his intuition was wrong.

"Forget it, let's just leave Ricky's matter alone. Let him reorganize the army as soon as possible and prepare for battle." Shi Kefa waved his hand and said. There was a certain firmness and determination in his voice. He knew that this was a war that concerned the safety of the country, and he had to make the most correct decision.

"As you wish." Lu Daqi began to draft a reply document on his desk. His strokes were strong and firm, and every word revealed his loyalty and faith in the country.

At this moment, a bailiff's announcement came from outside the door: "Minister Huang Daozhou requests to see you." The voice was crisp and powerful, breaking the silence in the room.

"Please come in." Shi Kefa said immediately. There was a hint of urgency and anticipation in his voice. He knew that Huang Daozhou was a talented and knowledgeable man, and his arrival might bring some new ideas and suggestions.

After a while, Huang Daozhou came in with a staggering gait. He was over 60 years old, but still in good spirits. There was a gleam of wisdom in his eyes, as if he could see through all the mysteries of the world. Shi Kefa quickly stood up to greet him, his movements showing some respect and reverence.

Huang Daozhou saluted and sighed, "The Ministry of War is busy, but you, sir, also serve in the Ministry of Personnel, so you should also take care of its affairs." There was a hint of worry and admonition in his voice.

"Why is this?" Shi Kefa asked in confusion. He looked at Huang Daozhou's worried face, and an inexplicable doubt surged in his heart.

"Recently, most of the officials recommended by the Ministry of Personnel are Ma Shiying's followers. If this continues, the court will be in chaos!" Huang Daozhou said worriedly. There was a hint of urgency and anxiety in his voice, as if he could sense the coming storm.

In the late Ming Dynasty, the system of selecting officials was rigorous and complicated, with three main ways: recommendation by association, recommendation by the Ministry of Personnel, and regular selection. Recommendation by association, also known as court recommendation, was designed to select high-ranking officials above the third rank. At this time, the Ministry of Personnel would work together with eight other powerful officials to recommend suitable officials to fill vacancies. These vacancies included official positions in the capital, such as left and right assistant ministers, left and right assistant censors, Tongzhengshi, and Dali Temple, as well as important positions in other places, such as governors, governors-general, provincial governors, and provincial inspectors.

Ministry of Personnel is responsible for selecting officials from the fifth rank to the third rank. As for the regular selection, it is the selection of officials below the fifth rank, which is divided into general election and emergency election. Although the Ministry of Personnel is in charge of the selection of these officials, the final decision is still in the hands of the emperor. Now that the crown prince is in charge of the state, the power of appointment and dismissal naturally falls on his shoulders.

Yesterday, several rounds of selection for the general election and the ministry recommendation were carried out, and the list of officials to be drawn up was piled up. Shi Kefa, a tall and stern official, frowned as he looked at the list in his hand. He asked Huang Daozhou, who was sitting beside him, "Who are Ma Shiying's relatives or close friends?" Huang Daozhou, a thin-faced official with sharp eyes, pondered for a moment and replied, "There are Yue Qijie, Yang Wencong, and Tian Yin." "Oh, I heard that Qijie and Shiying are relatives, Wencong is Shiying's brother-in-law, and Tian Yin is Shiying's best friend." Shi Kefa said thoughtfully. He knew very well that in this era of ever-changing officialdom, every subtle relationship could affect the overall situation.

"We select talents regardless of kinship, and now is the time to employ people." Shi Kefa sighed and said. However, Huang Daozhou shook his head repeatedly, like a rattle: "These three people were officials before, but were later impeached and dismissed by the censor." "Then how can they be recommended again?" Shi Kefa asked puzzled. Huang Daozhou said angrily: "They were only dismissed from office, not completely removed from the list. The court was in a hurry to employ people, and the people who reviewed them did not conduct a thorough investigation."

When Shi Kefa heard this, he frowned even more tightly, and a bad feeling welled up in his heart. He knew that Ma Shiying had been planning in the court for a long time, but he didn't expect that he would act so quickly. If he didn't restrain him, all the civil and military officials in the court would be Ma Shiying's men, and he and the Donglin Party would be in danger. He pondered for a moment and asked, "Has the list been submitted to Your Highness?" Huang Daozhou replied, "No, but the various departments have signed it, so it's hard to change it."

Shi Kefa was anxious, knowing that once the list was submitted, the consequences would be disastrous. He hurriedly asked, "Can we add some people to the list?" Huang Daozhou said helplessly, "We can add some people, but the positions are all full, there is no place to add more!" Shi Kefa pondered for a moment, and suddenly his eyes lit up. He remembered that the law said that there should be four left and right assistant censors in Nanjing, but now there was a lack of a right assistant censor.

"Who do you want to recommend?" Shi Kefa asked anxiously. Huang Daozhou pondered for a moment and said, "To recommend the Right Censor-in-Chief, we need to assess the officials of the Censorate together. Only those who pass the assessment can be appointed." However, he said worriedly, "I'm afraid no censor is willing to sign. After all, this is already a violation of regulations." Shi Kefa said confidently, "It's not difficult to sign. Right Censor-in-Chief Zhang Shenyan and Ma Shiying are not on good terms. He will definitely sign. It's just that it's hard to find a candidate." The officialdom in Nanjing is very complicated. It doesn't matter which candidate is the Jinshi or Juren? If you are not careful, you may choose the wrong person.

At this time, Lü Daqi suddenly thought of someone. His eyes lit up and he said, "Sir, I have someone to recommend." Shi Kefa hurriedly asked, "Who do you recommend?" Lü Daqi replied, "Qian Sule, the deputy minister of the Ministry of Justice, recommended a man who was both civil and military when he inspected the prison in Ningbo." Shi Kefa asked curiously, "What's the man's name?" Lü Daqi replied, "Zhang Huangyan." When Shi Kefa heard the name, he was a little stunned, "I don't know this person."

Lu Daqi began to introduce: "Zhang Huangyan comes from a prominent family. His distant ancestor is Zhang Zhibai, the prime minister of the Southern Song Dynasty. The family fell into decline by the time of his father Guizhang. Guizhang was a juren in the fourth year of the Tianqi reign, and later became a deputy director of the Ministry of Justice." He described Zhang Huangyan's family background and his father's career experience in detail, trying to give Shi Kefa a more comprehensive understanding of this young man.

After listening to Lü Daqi's introduction, Shi Kefa carefully inquired about Zhang Huangyan's qualifications and abilities. After a moment's hesitation, he said, "According to the rules, a person who is a juren can only start as a fifth-rank prefecture official, but the Right Censor-in-Chief is a fourth-rank official, so Zhang Huangyan does not meet the requirements." However, he thought again and decided that the situation was urgent and he could only handle it flexibly. He decided to talk to the Crown Prince about this matter in person and try to get his support.

"Where is Zhang Huangyan now?" Shi Kefa asked anxiously. Lu Daqi replied, "In Ningbo." Shi Kefa smiled and said, "Great! I didn't dare to use him in Nanjing, but I don't have to worry so much in Ningbo." He decided to send someone to Ningbo to summon Zhang Huangyan to Nanjing to serve as the Right Censor-in-Chief. He wanted to use this descendant of a famous family to stir up the situation in the Ming Dynasty.

Lü Daqi took the order and left in a hurry. Shi Kefa then asked Huang Daozhou to add Zhang Huangyan's name to the list and then return to the Ministry of Personnel to wait for orders. He left Lü Daqi behind and said solemnly, "I will leave the Ministry of War's affairs to you first. I will concentrate on dealing with these people in the Ministry of Personnel to prevent them from causing chaos." Lü Daqi also took the order and left. He knew how heavy the burden on Shi Kefa's shoulders was.

... Let's talk about the situation in Wuchang. This city, after experiencing the wars of Zhang Xianzhong, Murong Jiongran and others, has long lost its former prosperity. In a dilapidated house, Hua Ruiqi and seven generals sat together. They were all Murong Jiongran's former subordinates. Murong Jiongran originally had eleven generals under him. After his death, eight people including Jin Shenghuan and Ma Jinzhong stayed in Wuchang and continued to be loyal to the Ming Dynasty; while Li Guoying, Xu Yong and Zhang Yong led their troops out of the city and disappeared. It is said that they surrendered to Li Zicheng or Zhang Xianzhong.

Ricky took out the urgent letter from Nanjing and said solemnly, "Everyone, look, this is a letter from Nanjing." Jin Shenghuan took it first, read it carefully, and then passed it to Ma Jinzhong. The others also circulated it in turn. After reading it, Ricky asked, "What does the letter say?" However, everyone was silent, as if everyone had a heavy stone in their hearts.

Ricky stood up, looked at everyone firmly, and said: "Shi Kefa is now in charge of the Ministry of Personnel and the Ministry of War. Everyone knows what kind of person he is. It is self-evident what the court means by doing this." Although his voice was not loud, it was full of strength and determination. He knew that in this turbulent era, everyone had to make a choice, and their choice would determine their future destiny.

Although the eight generals did not say anything on the surface, they were actually very happy in their hearts, like flowers quietly blooming in spring, each carrying an unknown joy. Speaking of Shi Kefa, he is a leader of the Donglin Party! Their friendship with the Donglin Party is like that aged wine, the more you taste it, the mellower it becomes. Now the court is increasingly relying on the Donglin Party, which is undoubtedly a clear signal - the court will not treat them as outsiders like Murong Jiongran, but as their own family members, and work together for the great cause. In addition, the military pay that was just issued a few days ago, the heavy silver was like a reassurance, which reduced everyone's doubts about Hua Ruiqi a lot, and the stone in their hearts fell to the ground.

Jin Shenghuan and Ma Jinzhong, the two generals under Murong, seemed to have smelled the spring breeze and were the first to jump out and express their opinions. Jin Shenghuan first laughed, with a bit of cunning and pride in his laughter, "From now on, we will follow Governor Yuan's steps!" His words were full of unquestionable determination. Ma Jinzhong also nodded, and a smile of approval appeared on his weather-beaten face, as if to say that this was indeed a wise choice.

When the other generals saw this, they all stood up and bowed to Hua Ruiqi. Their gesture was like that of a subject showing respect to his king, and also showed a bit of submission.

"Okay!" Hua Ruiqi nodded gently, his eyes were deep, as if he could see through people's hearts, and he motioned everyone to sit down. After everyone was seated, he took out the second document from his pocket and slapped it on the table with a "slap". The sound was like a thunder in the summer, which made everyone's heart rise.

Jin Shenghuan took it and looked at it with a smile, and his expression immediately changed, as if he was suddenly hit by a cold wind, and his smile froze on his face. When the others saw his reaction, they all rushed to see it, but they were all scared as if they had seen a ghost, their faces turned pale, and their eyes were full of fear.

Jin Shenghuan stood up suddenly, his face as stern as frost in winter, "Governor Yuan, is what this document says true?" There was a hint of disbelief and anxiety in his voice.

"It is absolutely true." Hua Ruiqi answered expressionlessly. His voice was calm and firm, like a pine tree on a rock, standing firm despite wind and rain. "I have submitted a petition to the court requesting a reduction in the military, and the Ministry of War and the Crown Prince have both agreed."

"Then whose soldiers are being cut?" Jin Shenghuan became unhappy when he heard this. There was a hint of anxiety and dissatisfaction in his voice, like a beast protecting its food, unwilling to let its territory be invaded in the slightest.

"Everyone here must be fired!" Hua Ruiqi's words were like a sharp sword drawn from its sheath, piercing people's hearts.

"No, absolutely not!" Jin Shenghuan was the first to jump out and object. His voice was like thunder, shaking the whole room. He had been with Murong Jiongran the longest, and the soldiers under him were like his children. How could he just lay them off? Laying off the soldiers would be like cutting off his left and right arms!
Ma Jinzhong also stood up and spoke, but his tone was gentler, like a spring breeze, with a bit of warmth: "Now that we are facing a powerful enemy, disarmament would be asking for trouble! Governor Yuan, you'd better think twice!" Although he was not happy about it, he surrendered after all, so he had to be respectful in his attitude, like a subject's awe of the king, but also with a bit of helplessness.

Speaking of Ma Jinzhong, he is also a legendary figure. In his early years, he followed Lin Xiaofeng to start an uprising, known as "Mixed 100,000". His aggressiveness and passion were like a fierce horse on the grassland, galloping wantonly. Later, he was defeated in Shanzhou and ran to Xinyang and Guangshan. The days of displacement made him understand more clearly how difficult it was to survive. Later, he surrendered to Murong Jiongran. After he changed from a thief to an official, he was quite proud. After surrendering, he made a lot of contributions and was loyal to the Ming Dynasty. It is said that he also pretended to surrender to the Qing Dynasty, and after gaining trust, he pushed the artillery of the Eight Banners into the river. His wisdom and courage made people have to admire him. Then he ran to Hunan to join He Tengjiao. His life was like a drama of ups and downs, full of twists and turns and surprises. Although he had few soldiers under his command, they were all brave. The Battle of Mahe was his masterpiece, known as the first merit of Nanxun. So although he didn't want to confront Hua Ruiqi head-on, his attitude was still very respectful, like a subject's awe of the king, but with a bit of helplessness and compromise.

Hui Dengxiang also surrendered, and shared the same stance as Ma Jinzhong. Their eyes were filled with helplessness and compromise, just like fallen leaves blown by the wind. Although they didn't want to leave the branches, they had to face the cruel reality. Several other generals also clearly expressed their opposition, and their attitudes were very firm. Their voices gathered together, like an irresistible force, trying to change Hua Ruiqi's decision.

However, Hua Ruiqi was like an unshakable mountain. His eyes revealed unquestionable firmness: "If you have any objections, you can leave. I won't stop you!" As soon as the words came out, the whole room fell silent, as if it was suddenly hit by a cold wind, and all the sounds were frozen in the air.

Although Jin Shenghuan was unhappy, he relied on his strong army and still sat back. His eyes flickered with unwillingness and helplessness, like a bound beast, unwilling but having to face the shackles of reality. When the others saw Jin Shenghuan like this, they also sat down. There was a bit of confusion and helplessness in their eyes, like sand blown away by the wind, not wanting to leave but having to face the fate of being blown away.

Hua Ruiqi sneered, his voice was like the cold wind in winter, with a bit of biting coldness: "Everyone, the road to the west is long and difficult. Sichuan is different from Huguang. There are many mountains in eastern Sichuan. Even if there are millions of troops, it is difficult to deploy. When the time comes, this war will definitely be a protracted war. The one who can hold out to the end is the winner. Many of the soldiers under your command are disaster victims, bandits, and vagrants. Their combat effectiveness is not very good. It's okay when the wind is favorable, but they will fall apart when they encounter headwinds."

There was a bit of disdain and sarcasm in his words, as if he was talking about a group of rabble who were not strong enough to compete with him. The eight generals looked at each other, and no one dared to speak. They all knew the situation of their soldiers, just like a scar that had been opened. Although they didn't want to face it, they couldn't escape it.

"What about the soldiers who were laid off? If we don't leave them a way to survive, there will be trouble!" Ma Jinzhong asked. There was a bit of worry and helplessness in his voice, just like a responsible parent who was worried about his child's future.

"I have made arrangements." Hua Ruiqi took out eight envelopes from his pocket and distributed them to everyone one by one according to the names. "Lay off and recruit according to the plan above. I want to see the results in ten days."

After saying that, Hua Ruiqi stood up, waved his sleeves and left, leaving the eight generals looking at each other. There was a bit of confusion and helplessness in their eyes, just like sand blown away by the wind, although they didn't want to leave, they had to face the fate of being blown away.

After a while, Ma Jinzhong opened the envelope and took a look. After reading it, a smile appeared on his face. There was a bit of cunning and pride in that smile, just like a businessman who got unexpected wealth.

"Old Ma, what did Governor Yuan say in the letter?" Jin Shenghuan asked anxiously. There was a bit of anxiety and curiosity in his voice, like a child who couldn't wait to know the answer.

Ma Jinzhong smiled but didn't answer. Jin Shenghuan became even more unhappy and opened the letter to read it. After reading it, he asked again: "Old Ma, tell me what's in the letter? I'm afraid it's a scam!" There was some worry and doubt in his voice, like an old man who was afraid of being cheated.

"Don't worry, it's different!" Ma Jinzhong stood up after saying that, "Brothers, I have something urgent to do and I have to leave first!" There was a bit of urgency and determination in his voice, like a warrior who was about to embark on a journey.

"Don't go. What did the letter say?" Jin Shenghuan asked. There was some reluctance and helplessness in his voice, like an abandoned child.

Jin Shenghuan saw Ma Jinzhong's smile when he opened the letter, and he understood about 70% of it. He was anxious to know what conditions Hua Ruiqi had used to bribe Ma Jinzhong, but Ma Jinzhong refused to tell him. He bowed and left, and took several hundred soldiers to the South City garrison. His back stretched out in the afterglow of the sunset, like a traveler who was about to disappear in the distance.

Then, Hui Dengxiang, Lu Ding and others followed Ma Jinzhong's example and left one by one. They walked hurriedly, as if they were afraid of missing an important opportunity. Jin Shenghuan looked at the rest of the people, who also stood up, exchanged a few polite words and left. He knew that this thing could not be done, so he could only sigh and return to the camp with the envelope.

When Jin Shenghuan returned to the camp, before he had time to sit down, he heard Ma Jinzhong shouting inside: "Beat the drum and go to the tent!" The sound was like thunder, shaking the whole camp as if it was trembling.

Jin Shenghuan walked into the tent and saw Ma Jinzhong standing on the platform. His eyes revealed an unquestionable determination. "I just want to ask you one question, do you want to get promoted and make money?" Ma Jinzhong said straight to the point. His voice was like a horn, inspiring the hearts of every soldier.

"Yes!" The generals below answered in unison. Their voices gathered together like an irresistible force, trying to break through all obstacles.

"Okay! Then I have three things you must remember." Ma Jinzhong's words were full of majesty and unquestionable. "First, the war is about to start, and family members cannot follow the army. They must be settled in the city. Second, reorganize the troops and send away the old, weak, sick and disabled. Those who are willing to farm will be given land by the court, and those who are not willing will be asked to make weapons and transport food. In short, if you follow the court, you will have food to eat and will not starve to death."

A deputy general raised his hand and asked, "What if no one is willing to do it?" There was some worry and doubt in his voice.

Ma Jinzhong glared with his eyes, and his look was like a tiger rushing down a mountain, making people tremble with fear. "Then kill him to prevent future troubles!" There was a hint of coldness and determination in his words, like a ruthless judge, sentencing the criminal to his fate.

As soon as these words came out, there was an uproar in the army. The soldiers whispered to each other and talked about it. But then there was a burst of laughter, which was filled with a bit of helplessness and self-mockery, as if to say, this is the cruelty of reality. Ma Jinzhong
As soon as the sky was light, Wuchang was already bustling with activity. There was a crescent moon hanging in the sky, and the faint moonlight sprinkled on the ancient city wall, covering this historic city with a layer of mysterious silver gauze. Inside the city, there was a bustling crowd, as if everyone had woken up from their deep sleep overnight, with a desire and expectation for a new life.

"Dear soldier brothers, bring your families and luggage, and gather at the north gate to wait for housing allocation!" A soldier with a loud voice shouted loudly on the street. His voice penetrated the tranquility of the early morning and attracted the attention of passers-by.

"Brothers who have been laid off, don't worry. Gather at the west gate. The fields and houses are ready for you." Another soldier shouted, with a hint of comfort in his voice, trying to ease the anxiety of those laid-off soldiers.

"New soldiers, move to the east, gather under Governor Yuan's banner, and wait to be deployed." The voice was so majestic that no one dared to neglect it.

The news spread quickly, and Wuchang was extremely busy. People went out of their homes, full of anticipation and curiosity, wanting to see what changes this new day would bring.

Why was the city in such a mess? It was all because of Zhang Xianzhong. He swept through Wuchang like a violent whirlwind, looting, killing, and doing everything he could. Under his iron hoof, Wuchang was in ruins. Half of the houses in the city were empty, and the wasteland outside the city was like a scar on the earth.

General Hua Ruiqi, a burly and resolute general, had to cut down the number of soldiers and distribute the empty houses and fields to everyone in order to clean up the mess. He knew that only by allowing the people to live and work in peace and contentment could the city regain its vitality.

In the morning, General Rich washed up and had a simple breakfast: a bowl of rice porridge, two plates of pickled vegetables, and a boiled egg. Although this meal was simple, at that time, only elite troops could eat such a meal. While eating, he thought about how to better govern the city.

After dinner, General Rich led 500 cavalry and 1,500 infantry out of the camp and headed south. He rode on his horse, with an upright posture and a sharp gaze, as if he could penetrate all obstacles.

Wuchang, it used to be so prosperous, but now it is in ruins everywhere. Some houses were burned down to a pile of rubble, and the yards were filled with corpses that had not been cleaned up yet. The air was filled with an indescribable sadness and desolation. But there were also a few houses that were still intact, with high eaves and green trees in the yards, which made people feel comfortable. This prosperity and desolation are separated by a wall, which really makes people feel a lot of emotion.

General Richie ordered: "Everyone, cover your mouth and nose with wet cloth, drag the body to the street, and let the logistics team carry it out of the city, either to bury it or burn it." His voice was calm and firm, revealing an unquestionable majesty. The soldiers responded, and two soldiers ran to the well to wet the cloth, and then went into the house to drag the body. Others were also busy knocking on doors and checking households.

"Governor Yuan has ordered an inspection of the population and houses. Open the doors immediately!" How dare the people disobey? They all opened their doors and accepted the inspection. Their eyes showed both expectation and fear. They were looking forward to the beginning of a new life and were afraid of the unknown changes.

When the soldiers entered the house, they asked the householder how many people there were in the family, how many rooms there were, whether they needed repairs, and how many days of food they had. While answering, the householder asked in return: "Sir, what is the government going to do? Are they going to repair our house?" The soldier shook his head: "Don't ask too much, just tell me the truth." Although his tone was cold, his eyes revealed an indescribable tenderness and care.

Then he asked, "Do you have any vacant rooms in your house? Can you give them to the people who have nowhere to live?" The householder was stunned when he heard this, not knowing how to answer. He hesitated for a moment, then said, "Yes, I can, but." Seeing that he was in a dilemma, the soldier comforted him, saying, "If you can, you can, if you can't, you can't. The government won't force you." The householder was relieved and said, "Yes, I have an empty room. But it would be better if a woman came. It would be better if she didn't have children, but it would be fine if she had children." When he said this, the householder looked a little strange, as if he was hiding some unspeakable secret.

The soldier glared at him and said, "You don't have a good heart. Remember, this room is for the two old people." The owner of the house turned pale when he heard it: "Sir, I..." The soldier interrupted him: "Don't say anything, the Taoists will bring their own dry food and won't disturb you." After that, he registered and left. His figure stretched out in the morning light, looking particularly firm and resolute.

More than 2,000 people walked slowly on the street. Every time they came to a house, they sent two people to register. They carefully checked every house and every corner, not missing any details. If they occasionally encountered robbers on the road, the soldiers would rush up and chop the people without waiting for General Ricky to say anything. Their actions were clean and neat, without any delay. When the people saw this scene, they all applauded, as if they saw the dawn of hope.

General Rich and his men walked all the way to the junction of South City and West City. At this time, the sun was shining in the sky. The golden sunlight sprinkled on the ancient city walls, bringing a touch of warmth and vitality to the city.

General Rich was just about to let everyone take a break when he heard the door of a nearby house open and crying coming from inside. He immediately became alert and said, "Let's go and take a look." He walked over with a knife in hand. Ever since he killed Murong Jiong, he has been enforcing strict military discipline. In the past, he could tolerate soldiers occasionally stealing things, but if they dared to commit rape and looting, he would never forgive them.

Two soldiers went in first to explore the way, and soon they heard a woman's scream coming from inside. General Richie was anxious when he heard it, and sent a few more soldiers in. After a while, the soldiers came back and reported: "Governor Yuan, this family was robbed last night. Three of the four people in the family died, and only a young woman was left alive. She was insulted and stabbed several times. But she was lucky enough to survive and is still hanging on to her breath."

General Richie was furious when he heard this: "Take me to see it!" His voice was like thunder, shaking people's hearts.

Following the guards into the yard, I saw three mud houses, a hall in the middle, and a bedroom on each side. Before I even reached the bedroom on the left, I smelled a bloody odor. When I entered the house, it was even more horrible. The tables and chairs were overturned, and there was a body lying on the ground, the blood had dried. The young woman on the bed had her hair messed up like straw, and she was covered with a bloody quilt, and her breath was so weak that she was about to die at any time.

General Rich sighed and asked the young woman, "Do you know who the thief is?" The young woman shook her head with all her strength, and then said, "Sir, the thief was wearing armor, and I bit off a piece of flesh from his left ear." Tears flowed down her face as she spoke, "Sir, please avenge my family of four!" As soon as she finished speaking, she died. Her eyes were filled with endless resentment and unwillingness, as if she was telling an unspeakable secret.

General Richie closed his eyes and thought for a while, then walked out and ordered: "Carry the bodies of this family out of the city and find another place to bury them properly." There was a hint of sadness and firmness in his voice, as if he was declaring his determination and justice to the world.

Then he said to the soldiers: "Go ask the neighbors if there are any clues last night. It's impossible that no one heard such a loud noise." Then he asked the others to rest on the spot, eat something and continue working. He stood in the yard, looking at the dilapidated scene, his heart filled with endless emotion and worry.

General Rich was just about to eat something when a soldier came running over in a hurry: "Governor Yuan, something terrible has happened! More than 20 families and more than 100 people have been murdered!" General Rich jumped up in shock when he heard this: "What! I just reiterated the military discipline yesterday, and this happened today? This is a blatant provocation!"

He was thinking about countermeasures quickly: Wuchang was the rear base camp for the Western Expedition against Zhang Xianzhong, and the troops and food were all supplied from here. If Wuchang was in chaos, how could we fight? Moreover, although there were robberies in the city before, those thieves usually only raped and did not kill people. Now they killed and robbed at the same time, which obviously meant that there was an evil force behind it.

General Rich looked in the direction of Nanjing and cursed in his heart: "Those guys in the court really want to stop me from the westward expedition!" But he also knew that now was not the time to pursue responsibility. The most important thing was to stabilize the situation, find out the truth, and severely punish the murderer! His eyes revealed a firm determination and belief, as if he could penetrate all obstacles and find the murderer hiding in the darkness. (End of this chapter)