Water Margin begins as a captain in Yanggu County

Chapter 159 There's a thief! Help! Help!
The ship was moving, and after a few days, the city of Suzhou was already in sight. If it had arrived a month later, Fang La's troops would have arrived here as well.

Su Wu arrived a month earlier, and Tong Guan's army arrived at least a month later.

Go ashore, unload people and horses, unload cargo.

Su Wu rode quickly to Suzhou City to pay a visit to Zhu Jie, the head of the Suzhou Yingfeng Bureau.

Zhu Zhen's official position was actually not very high. At that time, he was just the honorary position of Jiedushi of Ningyuan Army. In other words, he did not hold a formal official position. The Suzhou Yingfeng Bureau was not a regular government office of the imperial court.

But during the Song Dynasty, by the time of Emperor Huizong Zhao Ji, the political ecology of the officialdom had become chaotic. Eunuchs could add their names to the list of first-class Jinshi, and people without any official position could operate in the Jiangnan area for fifteen or sixteen years and hold absolute power.

Just go to the Yingfengju Yamen. The Yamen is really big, bigger than the Privy Council in Tokyo City. The gate tower is even more majestic. Su Wu stood at the door and had to raise his head to look.

The area it covers is so vast that it probably occupies the land of countless people's residences. Su Wu also knew that Zhu Zhen's family also had a private residence, which also occupied a large area.

The Yingfengju Yamen was almost like a private yamen owned by Zhu Zhen. There were almost no regular officials from the imperial court. Those working inside were all Zhu Zhen's personal subordinates, and those standing guard outside the door were also Zhu Zhen's private farmhand guards.

Even this government office, which had no establishment or funding from the imperial court, was still looking for boatloads of good things to present to the emperor. There is no need to elaborate on what went on behind the scenes.

Su Wu just stepped forward and handed in the letter. After the sentry took it, he said coldly: "Just wait..."

Su Wu was not angry. He thought that a small court in the south of the Yangtze River should have such power!

Wait, then……

After waiting for a long time, someone finally came out. It was a man dressed as an official. He raised his head and raised his chin: "Zhu Jiedu wants to see you. There is only one person. Follow me..."

Of course, there were many people following Su Wu, but it didn't matter. They just waited outside. Su Wu just followed the man into the yamen.

The government office was like a small palace, with pavilions, towers, strange mountains and rocks, exotic flowers and plants, and even animals, fish and insects...

It's true that Zhu Zhen had a good aesthetic sense, or it could be said that Suzhou has a long tradition of building unique garden landscapes.

The path was winding and secluded, and we arrived in front of a pavilion. There were a few people on the pavilion. They were easy to recognize because they were not standing straight, but were all slightly bent.

There was only one person, with his back to Su Wu, looking at the pond in front of the pavilion, slowly scattering a handful of fish food in his hand. On the water surface, all kinds of koi were vying for the food.

"I am Su Wu, the humble general, and I am honored to meet the Governor Zhu!" Su Wu was polite and had his own manners. He did not address Zhu Jie as "sir" because Zhu Jie was not a scholar at all. He was a soldier who had joined the army, and he was even given the position by Tong Guan based on fake merits.

The man did not turn around, but only spoke: "Come closer!"

This little emperor from Jiangnan is indeed quite powerful, which I think is the result of his demeanor developed over the past decade or so.

Su Wu walked closer and stood beside Zhu Zhen, taking a quick look at his profile. He was also round, fair and handsome. If he were not quite old, he would definitely be a handsome man.

"I have been ordered by the Privy Council to serve as the vanguard in the fight against the bandits. I am here to help Suzhou. I have 3,000 light and heavy cavalry, 5,000 infantry, 3,000 naval forces, 5,000 auxiliary troops, and over 9,000 horses. Should we enter the city to garrison, or set up camp outside the city? I would like to ask Governor Zhu to accommodate us!"

Su Wu handled his affairs impartially.

Zhu Zhen said as he was scattering fish food: "This is the matter of the Suzhou government office. Why are you asking about this in the Yingfeng Bureau office?"

Su Wu frowned. What the hell...

It shouldn't be that serious, right? We didn't know each other in our previous lives, and this is the first time we meet in this life. Are you kidding me?

All right, Su Wu nodded, "Then I will go to Suzhou government office to ask..."

"Hmm..." Zhu Zhen nodded.

Su Wu bowed and prepared to leave.

But just as he turned around, Zhu Zhen spoke again: "General Su, right?"

Su Wu stopped and said, "That's right..."

Zhu Zhen threw all the remaining fish food in his hand into the water, clapped his hands, and turned around: "I heard that General Su is the best at suppressing bandits and has won the trust of Secretary Tong. How do you plan to suppress the bandits this time?"

Su Wu simply replied: "We should guard Suzhou carefully and block the waterway of Taihu Lake. When the prime minister's army arrives, we will make plans later."

Su Wu said perfunctorily. Of course, this was also what Tong Guan thought, but it was definitely not what Su Wu thought. He came here to make great achievements and be the first to do so. How could he wait for a month?

"Well, I heard that you brought a lot of big ships?" Zhu Zhen asked again, his tone was condescending. Although his official position was not high, he had the demeanor of a little emperor.

It can also be seen how much Zhu Zhen was favored by Zhao Ji. Zhao Ji had one greatest advantage, which was that he was especially good to those close to him.

Zhao Ji also had one biggest shortcoming, which was that he was too kind to the people around him.

Su Wu was surprised that he talked about this matter right away without any beating around the bush. He got straight to the point. It can be seen that Zhu Zhen had been able to get whatever he wanted in the past ten years in Jiangnan. There was nothing he couldn't get done, and there was nothing that needed to be said in a beating around the bush. He had already developed this habit of asking for something as soon as he opened his mouth.

"We originally brought over 40 large ships, and we also seized over 30 large ships along the way. Now we have a total of 82 large ships. Don't worry, with these ships, we can control the waterway of Taihu Lake."

Su Wu pretended not to understand and thought that Zhu Zhen was asking about the naval strength.

Zhu Zhen nodded: "Well, good... very good. Since there are so many large ships, I think your 3,000 naval forces, plus some auxiliary troops, will not be able to handle it. I do have a group of people who are familiar with naval warfare. You just need to send... 20 large ships and let them take over..."

After listening to this, Su Wu felt that Zhu Zhen was really good at talking and making excuses, and this excuse was really not bad.

Even if he said this straight away, Su Wu would know better that although Zhu Zhen in front of him looked very high-handed, he was actually very panicked. His panic was not because his life was in danger, but what he feared most was that he had too much wealth. How could he be willing to accept it if he couldn't transport it away?
But it requires twenty large ships. How much wealth does Zhu Zhen want to transport?
Would Su Wu be willing?

Of course he was unwilling, so he just said: "In reply to the governor, this is a ship registered under the Privy Council. If it is handed over to someone else, there must be a military order from the Privy Council. I dare not dispose of it casually, please forgive me."

Zhu Jie frowned and looked a little cold when he heard this. He stared at Su Wu and said, "You are a low-ranking official and don't know the details. This time, I want you to use the big ship to transport the auspicious things for the emperor. The emperor works hard for the country and the people. How can a minister not share the worries of the emperor? If you miss the time for the auspicious things to enter the capital, I am afraid that neither you nor I will be able to explain it."

It's no wonder that Zhu Jie has managed to get to where he is now, he is definitely not a man without means.

After Su Wu heard what the emperor said, he became more cautious and frowned as he thought carefully.

But Su Wu still said: "Then we should report this matter to the Privy Council. Otherwise, how can I afford to offend the Privy Council when they count the ships in the future?"

What is Su Wu doing? Acting, the more the opponent is like Zhu Zhen, the more realistic it must be. You can't just give it as soon as you ask, otherwise people will get suspicious.

Zhu Zhen would have to use all his tricks before Su Wu had to obey. In this way, Zhu Zhen would think that he was smart.

Zhu Jie himself said: "I just borrowed it for use. I just asked the Yingfeng Bureau to leave a document for you. The Yingfeng Bureau is in Jiangnan. Whether it is allocating ships or dispatching laborers, it is a holy mission. When the mission is completed, the ship will be returned to you. Even if there is a mistake, you will not be blamed in the court or in front of the emperor. It's just a call from the Yingfeng Bureau. The call from the Yingfeng Bureau is the call of the emperor..."

That makes sense. Su Wu nodded slightly, but there was still worry on his face. He just said, "Since it is the emperor's call... the documents of Yingfeng Bureau should also be explained clearly. Just because it is borrowed, it must be returned. If there is any mistake, Yingfeng Bureau will bear it fully..."

Zhu Jie was already unhappy, and he even scolded him: "You are such a fool. Since I have said so, how can I not explain it to you in writing? You are a warrior, why are you so chattering? When you come to Jiangnan, you just do as I say. In the future, I will inevitably mention you in front of the government. You are so ignorant..."

Su Wu was not angry, really not angry, not angry at all. Don't be angry, don't be angry. Why the hell was he angry?
Just look up and remember this face, this is a dead person!

Don't be angry with the dead. There is no need. Absolutely no need.

Su Wu finally...slept smoothly.

Su Wu simply asked, "Should we camp inside the city or outside it?"

"Just set up camp outside the city. Even if the enemy army comes, we can enter the city to garrison!" Zhu Zhen waved his hand, and the affairs of the Suzhou government office became the affairs of the Yingfeng Bureau again.

Is this a war?
Su Wu asked again: "I wonder when Zhu Jiedu will send someone to pick up the boat?"

Zhu Jie's face looked better. "There have been many auspicious signs in the past few days. We still need to prepare a few things. Once they are ready, someone will come to pick up the boat and load the auspicious signs to go north."

Isn’t this a good omen? Isn’t this a lot of your wealth? You have to count it, make a list, and be afraid of losing it or embezzlement. You have to find boxes to hide it, and find a frame to load it. You also have to find a close and trusted person to do the work. It’s a big project!
"Then let's go out of the city and arrange for the camping." Su Wu bowed and hurried away. There was no point in staying with the dead for too long.

Zhu Jie waved his hand and said, "Just go!"

Su Wu has already left.

Zhu Zhen looked at the people around him and said, "Country warriors don't know their own limits..."

Someone immediately responded: "Sir, why bother to be angry with him? He is just a fool who has never seen the world..."

Then someone else continued, "That's right. He probably doesn't know the prestige of the lord, doesn't know that the lord is a close confidant of the government, doesn't know that the lord has been working diligently for the government for so many years, and yet he dares to talk nonsense here. Whose influence is he relying on? Does he really think that he is so great just by clinging to a eunuch?"

Others said, "Sir, don't be angry with him. You are smart. You can send this muddle-headed soldier away with just a few words."

Zhu Jie looked around and felt relieved after hearing these words. He just said, "Keep a close eye on it when the time comes. This is a serious matter. The people you find should be the most considerate. Keep your mouth shut. If anything goes wrong, you will be held accountable!"

Several people hurriedly bowed: "Yes, sir!"

Zhu Zhen suddenly looked a little sad again, and said, "I have been harmed by this big thief this time. I am afraid that the emperor will have some complaints about me in his heart. Alas..."

"It's all right, sir. It's because the emperor doesn't know the evil intentions of the thieves. Just wait for you to return to the capital and tell me a few things. Then the emperor will not listen to those rumors that spread the word..."

"Yes, yes, yes. When the time comes, many people will help you to explain the situation. Of course, it's fine. How can this Yingfeng Bureau be without you? If you were not here, who could do this job so well?"

"For so many years, my husband has worked diligently and conscientiously, and he has won the emperor's favor!"

After these words, Zhu Jie felt more comfortable. He stopped sighing and said, "It is common for people to have ups and downs. Just like the former Grand Tutor Cai, he had ups and downs many times. If the emperor wants to use me to blame, then I am useful. Let the emperor use me. This is how loyalty to the emperor should be done! This is great loyalty and righteousness!"

"You are a wise official, and you will know that your Excellency is unparalleled in loyalty and righteousness!"

Zhu Zhen stood up and waved his hand: "Alright, alright, send someone to the government office to clear the situation. Don't let those thieves from other places bring troops into the city to cause trouble!"

"As ordered!"

Su Wu had already left the city and started to ride his horse around it, first looking at the city defenses and then the terrain, so that he could decide where to set up camp...

After much consideration, we decided on the key locations, water sources…most importantly, we had to be far away from the river wharf so that support could not be provided too quickly.

While the camp was being set up, several people had already left the team. A medium-sized boat never came to Suzhou and had already entered Taihu Lake.

The width of Taihu Lake is larger than that of Liangshan Lake and is comparable to the land area of ​​a small prefecture. There are countless islands of various sizes in it, which have been a place for thieves to hide since ancient times.

But these Taihu thieves are more like a gang most of the time, and are different from the Liangshan thieves. They rarely kill or rob, but are more interested in human relationships, collecting protection fees from the fishery, and shipping tolls.

Among all the islands, the island in Dongting Mountain is the largest, and there are even villages and towns on it.

There are countless ships docking at the island every day. Today there is one more ship, but it is not noticeable. Only a few people got off the ship.

The leaders were Yan Qing, Zhu Tong, and the three Ruan brothers.

No one else spoke, only Yan Qing spoke, because Yan Qing could speak Mandarin with a southern accent, which he learned from the girls in the brothels...

Yan Qing was used to traveling around the world. He wandered around the wine shops and gambling houses in the town, looking at the characteristics of various people. He took a fancy to a man. The man was bare-chested and strong. He had a short knife on his waist, but he was not wearing shoes...

As soon as the man came out of the gambling house and went to the tavern, Yan Qing stepped forward and bowed: "Brother, I came from Yangzhou. I'm new to your place. I met you at the dock to get on the boat. I saw that you must be a good man. It's just that I can't find a way. I would like to invite you to have a drink!"

Why Yangzhou? Yangzhou is famous for its numerous prostitutes, which are well-known all over the world. Yanqing can speak Mandarin with a Yangzhou accent, but when it comes to Yangzhou dialect, Yanqing can't speak much.

The man looked at Yan Qing, but was also very alert. After looking him up and down, he also formed a preliminary impression that he was indeed a man of the Jianghu...

The man replied: "It's okay to have a glass of wine from you. It's a matter of fate. Please!"

Just follow the man into the hotel, the waiter will come to greet you first, and the shopkeeper will also come forward from behind the counter to greet you.

Yan Qing was thinking a lot, knowing that he might have found a very important person today.

They just ordered food and wine, and the two of them sat together, while Zhu Tong and others sat at another table.

After a few rounds of wine and food, and some greetings, the man's name was Jiang Lu. He wasn't the host, but he looked like someone of status, so he just kept drinking.

Yan Qing's stories about coming to the south and going to the north were all very interesting, and he knew everything about the interesting things he had seen and heard in the martial arts world...

Jiang Lu gradually relaxed his guard, knowing that Yan Qing was truly a hero who was used to traveling around the world. He also saw Yan Qing showing off his beautiful embroidery, and was filled with envy, praising him repeatedly.

Yan Qing finally spoke again: "I have brought a large sum of money to buy my way here. I only hope that you can introduce me to the four famous heroes in Taihu Lake. If the matter is successful, I will definitely give you a share to thank you!"

As he spoke, Yan Qing took out a small cloth bag from his arms, which contained money.

Jiang Lu's face was red with alcohol, and he just waved his hand and said, "It's easy to talk about. It's the same as before. But now, my four brothers have been much more cautious and told us a lot. They are afraid that Fang La's bandits will come to ask for trouble. My four brothers don't like them. You came from Yangzhou, so you are not Fang La's bandit. After a few words, they also know that you are a hero in the world, so this matter is easy to talk about. Just drink more, and then follow me to meet him..."

After saying this, Jiang Lu took the bag of money that Yan Qing took out and weighed it.

Yan Qing quickly cupped his hands and said, "That couldn't be better. Let's drink again, brother!"

As soon as they finished eating and drinking, Yan Qing and his companions followed them. They got on the boat first and stayed in the cabin to watch the boat move forward.

After walking for two hours, we finally reached a small island. I don’t know if it’s really that far or if we took a detour by water…

After reaching the island, we walked along the path in the forest and finally saw a small village.

Finally, the real culprit was found. After reporting, Yan Qing and others entered again.

It was also a gathering hall with four people sitting in it.

Yan Qing knew that they must be the Four Heroes of Taihu Lake: the Red-bearded Dragon Fei Bao, the Curly-haired Tiger Ni Yun, the Taihu Dragon Bu Qing, and the Thin-faced Bear Di Cheng.

He just stepped forward and greeted them: "Greetings to the four village leaders!"

Fei Bao, who was sitting in the center, asked, "Where are you going by boat, brother? What cargo are you carrying?"

Yan Qing simply replied: "Please ask the village chief to dismiss the attendants. This matter is confidential."

The four of them were already frowning with displeasure, but they still waved their hands left and right, and even Zhu Tong and others left the Juyi Hall.

Fei Bao had already stood up and asked, "Are you a thief or an official?"

If they were to take the boat at this time, they would either be thieves or officials. No matter which way they took, the four of them were actually not happy.

"Neither a thief nor an official!" Yan Qing replied.

"Huh?" Fei Bao glared angrily. How could the man who could control the huge Taihu Lake under his control be an easy target?

Yan Qing immediately said: "I have something to tell you, the four village chiefs will definitely be delighted!"

These are the lines given by Su Wu.

"Then just tell me!" Fei Bao usually doesn't kill people or rob, but that doesn't mean that the number of lives taken by his men is small. In the disputes in the martial arts world, he killed countless people before he was able to take control of Taihu Lake.

If nothing goes well, the young man in front of me today might die here.

"Kill Zhu Jie!" Yan Qing said directly. It was also Su Wu's order. Yan Qing actually hesitated and asked his uncle if this was really feasible.
My uncle replied, just do it and you will not go wrong!
When they heard the three words "Yan Qing", all four of them were shocked. Fei Bao immediately asked again: "You still say you are not Fang La thief?"

How could the person who wanted to kill Zhu Zhen at this time not be the thief Fang La?
Yan Qing took something out of his bosom and said, "Look, everyone. I am a soldier. This is my identity certificate. I am here with General Su, the commander-in-chief of the two armies in Jingdong, to fight against Fang La!"

Di Chengli immediately got down and took the thing from Yan Qing's hand. The four of them looked at each other.

Fei Bao came and asked, "Since you are a government soldier, why do you want to kill Zhu Jie? Why do you dare to kill Zhu Jie?" Yan Qing said calmly, "You probably don't know the reputation of my General Su! My General Su hates evil as much as his enemy, and is a man of great righteousness. This time, I came here to suppress the bandits first, and to kill Zhu Jie second. Without Zhu Jie, how could there be the bandits like Fang La, and how could the people in the south of the Yangtze River live so miserably? Even if it is a bandit, I will kill him, and I will kill Zhu Jie too!"

Fei Bao sneered and said, "Are you trying to trick us into falling into your trap?"

"If you don't believe it, just make an appointment and have my general come to see you in person. How about that?" Yan Qing said this because Su Wu had instructed him to do so. It was not so easy to gain people's trust in such matters.

What's more, there are still many details to discuss, and it cannot be done by others. It is safer only if Su Wu explains it in person.

Fei Bao looked at the three brothers first, then asked, "Does he really dare to come?"

"My brother, you can go with thousands of troops and horses, so there is no place you dare not go?" Yan Qing just said this.

Fei Bao and the other three looked at each other again, then waved their hands and said, "You go out and wait first. The four of us brothers will discuss this and then give you an answer."

Yan Qing nodded and went out.

Fei Bao has already spoken: "As for Su Wu, I think you have heard of him. The famous Liangshan Song Jiang died at his hands. He destroyed tens of thousands of troops at once. In the martial arts world, some people say he is a bloody butcher, while others say he is a man of great righteousness. Which one is true?"

The second brother, Ni Yunlai, replied: "Brother, no matter which one is true, Su Wu is a brave man, and most of his brothers must be brave and willing to die for their country, otherwise how could they defeat Song Jiang, the timely rain?"

The third brother Bu Qinglai said, "So, we have to be on guard. Why would he want to kill Zhu Jie? He must be thinking... he knows that we hate Zhu Jie, so he wants to trick us and lure us into a trap... Anyway, thieves can't be trusted, and officials can't be trusted!"

The fourth brother, Di Cheng, frowned and said, "Then... if he said he would come to meet in person, then Su Wu would come to our village to meet? If so, will he meet?"

The third brother Bu Qing said: "Does he dare to come? He is just lying!"

The eldest brother Fei Bao suddenly said, "What if he really dares to come?"

"Hmm?" Bu Qing was stunned for a moment, then answered: "If he really dares to come, I... I still respect him as a hero!"

The second brother, Ni Yun, asked, "Then let him come? If killing Zhu Jie is true, he would be willing to die if he does it!"

Bu Qing asked again: "How many elite soldiers are under his command? Why does he have to go through so much trouble to kill Zhu Jie?"

The fourth brother Di Cheng answered: "He is a general of the imperial army. If he wants to kill people from the imperial court and doesn't let us do it, is he stupid?"

"Oh, is that so..." Bu Qing nodded, as if he suddenly understood.

Fei Bao frowned, and after thinking for a while, he said, "Then... let him come to us as we arranged, how about that?"

"As long as he dares to come!" Bu Qing nodded.

"Okay, if it's true, with Su Wu and our cooperation, maybe we can really succeed. By then, we will have eliminated a great threat to the people of Jiangnan. We have accomplished what Fang La couldn't do. How can the people not carve our four names on the longevity tablets and worship them every day? Haha..."

The second brother, Ni Yun, was talking about this matter and he got excited just thinking about it.

The fourth brother Di Cheng said: "Let's see what he says when he comes..."

The eldest brother Fei Bao nodded seriously: "Please invite that brother in!"

That night, Yan Qing quickly landed from the Gusu Mountain and rode his horse to the camp outside Suzhou city.

On the second night, after the gates of Suzhou were closed, Su Wu, Wu Yong, Lu Da and Wu Song all changed their clothes and covered their faces. Yan Qing led the way, and they left the camp, riding fast horses in rotation, heading straight for Gusu Mountain.

Just get on board, stay inside the cabin and don't leave; the boat is moving.

It was a long time before we finally arrived at the place. It was that small island somewhere and that small village.

Inside the village, four leaders were already waiting.

Even before Su Wu entered the village, the four of them were already discussing.

"Are they really coming like this?" The third brother Bu Qing still didn't believe it.

"It's really coming!" The second brother Ni Yun answered confidently.

It was the eldest brother Fei Bao who said, "Since he is here, let's talk in detail. This matter can be taken seriously. Let's see what strategy he comes up with."

But outside the door, a big man walked in with the gait of a dragon and a tiger, looking really powerful. He was followed by a middle-aged Confucian scholar. Behind him, there were two giants like iron towers following him, one with a waist as circumferential as a barrel, one as strong as an ox, and the other was an acquaintance who had been here last night.

Several people came into the room with extraordinary momentum. The one in front bowed and said, "I am Su Wu, nice to meet the four leaders!"

Fei Bao subconsciously looked around and saw that everyone in the room had left. Then he looked at the person who came in, and he suddenly felt insecure.

Seeing that General Su was so polite, Fei Bao calmed himself down and bowed, "General Su, please take a seat."

A seat had already been prepared, and Su Wu didn't worry about its height. He just sat down there. Wu Yong stood beside him, Yan Qing stood on the other side, and Lu Da and Wu Song stood behind him.

Su Wu spoke first: "You four already knew about the matter yesterday. I am a military general. I killed Zhu Jie for no other reason than that he has brought disaster to the south of the Yangtze River and destroyed countless families. Even if we come to suppress the bandits, it would be unjust if Zhu Jie is not killed. Even if Zhu Jie is dead, the suppression of the bandits may be more effective. The people can vent their anger and the number of people who want to follow the bandits will be reduced. This will be of great benefit to the suppression of the bandits. No matter how you think about it, Zhu Jie should be killed! But Zhu Jie cannot die at the hands of Fang La, so as not to boost Fang La's power. That's why I entrust him to you four heroes!"

Su Wu's words were extremely sincere. He directly stated all his considerations, and his words were sonorous and clear.

Fei Bao was still frowning and thinking. Even though Su Wu's words were particularly convincing, he still dared not be careless about matters concerning his life and property.

It was the third brother, Bu Qing, who suddenly bowed and saluted: "General Su, you came here like this, you are a gentleman with an open mind and a sense of justice, you are a real hero!"

Su Wu simply returned the greeting and sighed, "It is also due to my status, I am helpless!"

Fei Bao went to see the second brother Ni Yun, and then to see the fourth brother Di Cheng.

After watching it for a few times, Fei Bao finally spoke: "General, you must have a plan for coming here. Please tell us in detail so that we can think about it."

"No problem!" Su Wu sat upright, but raised his hand and waved. Wu Yong came forward and told him everything, this and that, and how it ended...

It was the strategy discussed with Su Wu on the boat earlier, with many more details.

When the four heard this, the third oldest, Bu Qing, was extremely excited: "Okay, okay, okay, then, as long as Zhu Zhen really shows up at the waterside pier outside the city, I will risk my life to kill him on the spot!"

But the eldest brother Fei Bao frowned and said: "The general's plan is very good and complete. Even if it fails, there are ways to remedy it, but..."

"You, after the task is accomplished, just go to sea! Don't come back within ten years! By then, I will allocate another 200,000 strings of money to you! The money of my Great Song Dynasty can be used anywhere." Su Wu knew what Fei Bao was worried about, so he just said this first.

Fei Bao was shocked when he heard this, and had a strange feeling. How did General Su know that he and his companions had already planned to go far away to the sea?
Or is it just a coincidence?
But it was Bu Qing who spoke very quickly: "Yes, yes, let's go to the sea immediately, haven't we already..."

Fei Bao raised his hand to stop the third brother and said, "Why did General Su come here so confidently and speak so confidently?"

Su Wu stood up and bowed, "I have heard that there are four heroes in Jiangnan and Taihu Lake. They are very righteous and hate evil. My brothers are also from the underworld. Most of the righteous ones are butchers, and the most unfaithful ones are scholars. This is true. I trust you, just like I trust my brothers. You will never refuse to do anything for the country and the people. I came here because I know what kind of people you four are!"

As soon as these words were spoken, the four people's expressions straightened up, and it was obvious that they were very pleased to hear it.

Nabu Qing even spoke up again: "The general is also a good man! If he were to travel the world, he would definitely be a big shot. I am so sorry for my disrespect!"

Su Wu immediately said: "If this matter is not necessary, you want to go far away to the sea. Even if I bow down to you and share life and death, wealth and honor, what does it matter?"

Su Wu knew best how to deal with such true heroes of the world.

Hearing this, Fei Bao suddenly said, "Even if we have to go far away to the sea, it doesn't matter if we go to heaven and earth this time. As long as we share this life and death, it doesn't matter!"

Su Wu was not surprised at all, he just raised his hand and said: "Please!"

Fei Bao had already walked down, and the three people behind him hurriedly followed.

There was no need for an incense table. The five of them bowed their heads. There was no need to explain in detail. Su Wu was very serious and just said, "You can go to the south by sea. Maybe you can accomplish something. Even if you can't, I will come to find you someday!"

Su Wu was not talking nonsense, he was serious. If Su Wu could really accomplish things in the future one day, there would definitely be a day when he would go south to the sea.

After the greetings, Bu Qing was the most excited and said, "If this is successful, it doesn't matter if we don't leave. We can follow Brother Su... and build a career!"

Fei Bao scolded him: "Don't talk nonsense, once the mission is accomplished, we will go to sea, and we must not change it! We must be loyal to the people who entrusted us with the mission!"

Bu Qing lowered his head immediately.

Fei Bao added: "You don't use your brain much. This matter is of great importance. I will explain it to you in detail later!"

Bu Qing nodded...

Su Wu was also moved when he heard this, and bowed: "Then I'll leave it to you four brothers."

Fei Bao bowed and said, "Brother, just send the help quickly to join us, so as to prevent the news from leaking out. After the mission is accomplished, I will also take care of their return to the north, so as to avoid you having to come here to take care of it, as there will be too many people and eyes, which will arouse suspicion."

At this point, the matter had been settled. Fei Bao was indeed a man of wisdom and strategy. Su Wu trusted him even more and just said, "Okay! I'll leave it to you, brother!"

Fei Bao didn't say much, just said: "Brother, come back soon. If you come back late, people might get suspicious!"

Su Wu nodded, his face serious, bowed to both sides, said nothing more, and turned away.

Fei Baoxiang escorted Su Wu out of the stronghold and watched him get on the boat. Then the four of them returned to the Juyi Hall and had another detailed conversation.

Bu Qing finally understood some of the truths and sighed, "If it weren't for this, I would really like to go with him and make great achievements!"

Fei Bao continued, "For this operation, we can only choose those brothers who are willing to go to sea with us in the past, and we cannot tell anyone in advance..."

Three people answered: "I understand!"

The night was about to dawn and the horses were galloping. It was not until noon that Su Wu returned to the army.

After asking a few questions, Su Wu found out that there was nothing going on in the army and no one from Suzhou came to ask questions, so he was completely relieved.

But I heard another thing. Du Xing, who came to the city to do some shopping, said that he wanted to buy some cloth to make flags, but the Suzhou city defense would not allow these foreign soldiers to enter the city.

Su Wu was not angry, not angry at all, damn it...

Su Wu laughed and gave orders that even within Suzhou, no soldier would be allowed to enter the city unless someone came to ask for permission.

When the time comes, even if you come to ask for help, you should also set a price first. How rich is Suzhou? How can it be compared with Mizhou and Laizhou in Jingdong?
Only three days later, someone came to the army with an official document from the Yingfeng Bureau, wanting to hand over twenty large ships.

Su Wu simply ordered Tong Wei and Tong Meng to go and take over the meeting with the people from Yingfeng Bureau, and also sent Yan Qing to go and watch.

After the handover, the boatmen, soldiers and the like were replaced. In Suzhou City, large carts slowly drove out. The depth of the ruts and the weight of the carts were so deep that Yan Qing knew what was going on at a glance.

Yan Qing just watched the people from the Yingfeng Bureau carrying things. He didn't look at them much and just went to the tea stall beside the dock where the coolies were having tea.

There was a man sitting on the tea stand with his breasts exposed. Yan Qing went up to him and ordered a cup of tea. He only said, "I'm afraid it's coming. Listen for my signal."

The man nodded, paid for the tea and left.

Today, there are more people coming and going on the dock. On the other side of the river from the dock are fertile fields and many streams and waterways for irrigating the fields. At this time of year, the autumn harvest has already begun and the fields are gray and yellow with no crops.

However, the river banks and streams are overgrown with weeds, and a lot of them turn yellow in winter. The fish in the water are plump and there are many fishermen in the streams and rivers.

There are also some small boats going downstream or upstream, carrying passengers and small piles of cargo.

There are also many refugees fleeing from the south, who are looking for a place to hide away from bandits and wars. Today, there seem to be a lot more refugees, and I'm afraid the war in the south has intensified again...

Heavy carriages came out of the city one by one and were transported to the dock. The ships at the dock were loaded with goods one after another.

There were many people watching the excitement, and some people sighed, "Another tribute of flowers and stones is being sent to the capital..."

"It's a bit strange this time. There are no big items. They are all boxes..."

"Who knows, maybe the official in Tokyo has suddenly changed his taste and started liking small items?"

"There are so many that I don't know how many large ships have been filled. When will it end? Maybe the arrival of the Fang La bandit will be the end..."

"How dare you talk nonsense? If anyone hears it, Zhu Zhen will kill you!"

But the two stopped talking and suddenly started talking again: "Look, how many people have come from the city? What a grand ceremony, could it be that Zhu Zhen is going to escort them personally this time?"

Everyone's attention was drawn to the city gate. There were two to three hundred men on horseback, and there were countless more marching out in a line.

A luxurious carriage was heading towards the dock.

As soon as the carriage stopped at the dock, many men sat around it, blocking the dock so tightly that if one wanted to see clearly what was happening inside, one had to go up to a high place to look.

Then they saw a man coming down from the carriage. He was very powerful and bossed things around. He seemed to be very angry about something, and several people bowed their heads and were being scolded.

People outside who are far away cannot hear clearly.

The one being scolded was being scolded all over the place. It was Zhu Jie who was scolding him: "How could a few boxes fall into the water? What should I do? If I don't keep an eye on it, something bad will happen? What's the point of keeping you guys?"

The one who was scolded just explained: "There are too many goods, and my husband is in a hurry, so I am in a hurry too, so it is inevitable that I will make mistakes."

"Pay compensation, all four of you, pay together!" Zhu Jie was furious.

"We will compensate, we will definitely compensate. I have already pretended. I will go aboard to escort them. I will definitely compensate when I come back!"

Zhu Zhen's complexion improved a lot, and he said, "Send someone to fish it out, too."

"Excuse me, sir, should we wait to salvage the fish before leaving, or should the fleet leave first and then salvage it?"

Upon hearing this, Zhu Zhen seemed to be getting angry again.

But suddenly, there was a sound of firecrackers exploding somewhere, which frightened Zhu Zhen so much that he started to curse: "Who is the bastard who set off the firecrackers?"

Everyone turned around and followed the sound.

However, they didn't know that the ships that were originally traveling north and south on the river near the pier suddenly turned around and headed towards the pier.

In the stream on the opposite side, many boats appeared from nowhere, and countless boats also appeared from the withered yellow grass and reeds.

Even on the dock, more and more people gathered to watch the fun, whether they were porters, coolies, or even peddlers passing by, all gathered at the dock to watch the fun.

Zhu Zhen shouted angrily, "Catch the man who set off the cannon!"

A group of people went to the crowd of people who were watching the excitement. They didn't know who fired the cannon, but they just rushed into the crowd and asked, "Who fired the cannon?"

"Who fired the cannon? Anyone who reports it will be rewarded 100 strings of cash!"

"Who?"

But in the crowd, there was a sudden flash of cold light, and a long knife placed in the firewood was pulled out and stabbed forward.

A terrified cry: "Ah! There's a thief! Help, help!"

(Brothers, 10,000 words are back.)
(End of this chapter)