In Hongwu, we started as rebels

Chapter 846 When in doubt, follow your heart. (Qi Wang Mansion)

The atmosphere inside the yamen was extremely heavy, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Zhang Bin and Gao Haoxuan sat on either side of the yamen.

The bandages on Gao Haoxuan's hands have been removed.

It revealed a bloody wound underneath, and fingers missing several nails.

His expression was extremely uneasy, lacking any of the composure he displayed when in office.
Instead, he resembled a frightened child, sweating profusely and trembling.

Seeing this, Zhang Bin felt a sense of disappointment and frustration. He took a deep breath and asked in a low voice:
"How did this happen?"

He tried his best to calm his voice in order to mask his anger.

There was a hint of hesitation in Gao Haoxuan's expression.
He remained silent for a long time, then slowly lowered his head.

His behavior thoroughly enraged Zhang Bin.

Zhang Binteng stood up abruptly, strode over to him, and slapped him across the face.

With a soft snap,
Gao Haoxuan's head felt as if it had been struck by a tremendous force, and he was violently thrown to the side.

"It's come to this point, what's the point of you still hiding it? Speak!"

Zhang Bin's voice, strained to suppress his anger, echoed in the yamen.
He glanced at the door every now and then to keep an eye on anyone eavesdropping.

At this point, Gao Haoxuan knew that the truth could no longer be hidden, and his psychological defenses collapsed.

He knelt down with a thud, tears streaming down his face:

"Cousin, they tortured me severely."

Zhang Bin seemed to have been stabbed hard by a spear, and remained silent for a long time.

After a while, he sat down in the chair, trying to calm his voice, and asked:
"Speak, tell me everything you know."

Gao Haoxuan trembled.
He recounted how he received his dividends, how he was arrested, and how he was released.

When his voice stopped, Zhang Bin let out a mocking laugh:
"You mean, you still don't know who they are?"

Gao Haoxuan nodded repeatedly:
"They acted very cautiously, even when traveling by carriage."

They flipped me over several times, making it impossible for me to tell which way was which.

However, sir, I have already sent people to investigate, and I believe... I believe there will be results soon.

"Investigate? What else is there to investigate?"
Use your brain and figure out who it is! Do we even need to investigate?!

Zhang Bin felt a surge of anger upon hearing his words.

It is certain that this group belongs to Lu Yunyi.
Otherwise, things wouldn't have progressed in such a bizarre way today.

A faint sense of regret welled up in Zhang Bin's heart.

He was so close, just a tiny bit more, to become the Vice Commander of the Northern Pacification Command, a high-ranking official of the third rank.

Now, everything has been in vain.
Once Lu Yunyi learned of these matters, there was absolutely no possibility of promotion.
Even their own careers were at risk.

"Why, why did something happen at such a crucial time!"

Zhang Bin gritted his teeth, furious at the timing of Lu Yunyi's return and the unbridled behavior of these merchants and powerful figures.

If things had happened six months later, he might have already been promoted.
Instead of giving up halfway, as is the case now.

At this moment, Gao Haoxuan noticed that his expression was becoming increasingly grim.
Knowing that if he didn't speak up now he might not have another chance, he quickly said:
"Cousin, I was wrong, I was really wrong, please give me another chance."

Zhang Bin whirled around, his gaze piercingly fixed on him.

He gave a somewhat helpless smile, a stiff one, tinged with resignation.

Why are there so many idiots around me?
Now that things have come to this, can we still kill him?
It would be foolish to waste one's own strength like this.

Zhang Bin looked at Gao Haoxuan, pointed to the chair next to him, and gestured for him to get up.

Gao Haoxuan felt greatly relieved, his eyes gleaming with a bright light. He scrambled to his feet and stood respectfully to the side.

Zhang Bin said in a deep voice:
"Now that things have come to this, even if you or I wanted to settle this peacefully, it's no longer possible."
Go and tell Hu Chongyi and the others the contents of today's military meeting.

Let them contact more people to prepare in advance.

in addition"

Zhang Bin's face was somewhat gloomy, and his eyes flashed with a fierce light:

"Use all the covert networks I've had you develop over the years, and equip them with weapons and armor."

After hearing Zhang Bin's words, Gao Haoxuan stood there stunned, and then his body began to tremble slightly.

"My lord, are you determined to fight to the death?"

"No, that won't do. The city is full of spies now, and the people's hearts are with us... we..."

"Alright!" Zhang Bin interrupted his rambling, speaking sternly.

"It's just about preparing in advance. Whether you choose to settle things peacefully or fight back with all your might, you have to be prepared!!"
"Go and take advantage of the current chaotic situation, where powerful figures from all sides are eager to get involved, and contact them."

Gao Haoxuan's mind was completely blank.
Let alone understand, I didn't even hear it clearly.

All he knows is leading armor and troops; that's treason!

Gao Haoxuan trembled like a leaf; he was a timid person by nature.

He was afraid to do such a thing.

Zhang Bin said coldly:

"I'll give you two choices: either work hard or go back to your hometown right now."

You carelessly gave someone leverage over your actions, leading to our current predicament. I'll settle the score with you later.

Gao Haoxuan shuddered, feeling a chill run through his body. He quickly shook his head.
"My lord, I... I'll go make the arrangements right now!"

Zhang Bin's strong facial features softened slightly, and he nodded almost imperceptibly.
"Be careful, we might be being watched."

"Yes!" Gao Haoxuan nodded and took his leave.

Once the door was closed, the office was eerily quiet.

Zhang Bin stood before the long table, looking at the documents on it, his expression extremely complicated.
After this incident, I don't know if I'll be able to work here anymore.

He slowly walked to the doorway.
Looking through the window, one could see the private quarters of the deputy commander not far away.

He had even prepared all the necessary items, and the layout of the yamen (government office) was already planned.

Now, it has been abruptly interrupted.

Zhang Bin sighed softly, his fists slowly clenching.

He harbored no resentment towards the officials of the Commandery, especially that Lord Lu.

The principle that "to forge iron, one must be strong oneself" is understood by everyone in the military.

He harbored some resentment towards his past self.

Why be greedy for a few dozen taels of silver and associate yourself with some merchants?

He's in such a sorry state now; if he hadn't helped Hu Chongyi clear his name years ago...
Perhaps I would be more at ease now if I hadn't done things for some powerful and influential people.

In fact, his promotion was a sure thing.

But there are no "what ifs." Zhang Bin suppressed his thoughts, his gaze hardening little by little.

Since we've already embarked on this path, let's continue without hesitation.

Hesitation will only lead to faster defeat.

He picked up the long sword that was placed aside, put on his helmet, and left the yamen with his personal guards.

Zhang Bin did not ride a warhorse when he went out.

Instead, they boarded a carriage that hadn't been used in a long time and slowly drove away.

The carriage moved slowly and swayed along the wide streets of Daning City, surrounded by a cacophony of voices.

Even though many workshops closed down,
But life had to go on, and the people had some spare money, so it didn't cause too much chaos.

Zhang Bin sat upright in the car and headed south of the city.

Upon arriving at the south side of the city, it was much quieter compared to the central and northern parts.
Laughter could be heard from the taverns and teahouses from time to time, unlike the chaotic atmosphere in the north of the city.

The carriage turned into a quiet, peaceful street paved with bluestone slabs.

Here, mansions stand tall.

Every now and then you can see green branches and willow leaves peeking out from behind the outer wall.

Wanliu Street was a gathering place for the powerful and wealthy in Daning City.

Whether they were Ming officials or surrendered generals from the Northern Yuan, most of them gathered here!

These people possessed profound knowledge and experience, and they had already shown their talent when the city of Daning was first established, helping to build it.
They had names in various government departments of the Ming Dynasty.

The carriage swayed and rocked, and soon arrived at the "Li Mansion".
Zhang Bin stepped down from the carriage and stood at the door, looking at the huge plaque. He was filled with mixed emotions.

Although it's called the Li residence, it's actually the residence of the Prince of Qi!
The owner of this place is Hongjila Dorjiban.

He was a descendant of Teshechan, the father-in-law of Genghis Khan, the founder of the Yuan Dynasty. His surname was Bosihuer and his clan name was Hongjila.

This man surrendered to the Ming Dynasty in the third year of the Hongwu reign (1384) along with the King of Gaochang and a monk, but his attitude remained inconsistent.
He was defeated by Fu Youde at Yongchang in the fifth year of the Hongwu reign.
He surrendered to the Ming Dynasty again and was granted the title of Qining Guard, but then defected again.

Despite several setbacks, many members of the Hongjila tribe have already defected to the Ming Dynasty.

Duoerzhiban's son, Choulu, the Minister of Works of the Northern Yuan Dynasty, changed his name to Li Xian and lived here.

He was a descendant of the Prince of Qi, and several of his cousins ​​were now officials in the Northwest, controlling the military and political affairs of their respective regions and wielding great influence in the entire Ming Dynasty's border defense system.

Zhang Bin looked at the two guards in front of the gate and said in a deep voice:

"Zhang Bin, the city garrison commander, has come to visit. Please inform him."

"My lord, please wait."

One man cupped his hands in a respectful greeting, then turned and entered the mansion. A short while later, he hurried out again, opened the gate, and gestured for the others to enter.
"Please come in, sir. Your master is waiting for you at his residence."

"Thank you."

Zhang Bin nodded, took a deep breath, and stepped into the mansion.

The mansion occupies an extremely large area, far exceeding the size of a few courtyards.

It contains pavilions, terraces, and towers, as well as a huge lotus pond.

Walking along the upper corridor, Zhang Bin felt that...
This lotus pond alone is larger than his own mansion.

However, Zhang Bin knew in his heart that...
Living in such a house was still too much of a waste for that Minister of Works of the Northern Yuan Dynasty.

After all, they came from a distinguished family and held a vast territory in the Northern Yuan Dynasty.

Now that we've come to the Ming Dynasty, we can only make do in this small house.

After going around in circles, Zhang Bin followed the waiter to the back hall, where he met Li Xian, who was sitting quietly in the courtyard.

He appeared to be middle-aged, in his forties, with a mature look and a long, neatly groomed beard that reached his chest.

He was wearing a white training uniform at the moment.

They are practicing Tai Chi in the courtyard.

The bluestone pavement reflected the sunlight, making Li Xian glow with golden light.

Upon seeing him, Zhang Bin pursed his lips.

The person in front of him looked even more like a Ming Dynasty person than he, so much so that they were indistinguishable on the street.

Zhang Bin stood silently to one side of the courtyard, waiting quietly.

In less than a quarter of an hour, Li Xian's movements suddenly became agitated.
He raised his arms high like a roc spreading its wings, then slowly lowered them to his waist, letting out a long sigh.

His entire figure is upright like a pine tree, and his temperament is calm and reserved.

He picked up a towel from the side and gently wiped the sweat from his forehead.

With a faint smile on his lips, he looked at Zhang Bin, his voice gentle yet carrying a hint of authority:

"Lord Zhang, it's been a long time. What brings you here?"

Zhang Bin bowed slightly, forcing a smile, but his eyes were full of urgency:

“Master Li, to be honest, I have come here today to ask you for a favor.”

Li Xian raised an eyebrow slightly and handed the handkerchief to the maid.

He walked over to a stone bench, sat down, picked up the teacup on the table, and took a small sip.
"Lord Zhang, please speak freely. If it is within my ability, I will certainly help you."

Zhang Bin was overjoyed and quickly stepped forward:

“Sir, the situation in Daning City is complicated right now, and there are undercurrents surging within the Military Command’s office as well.”

The newly arrived Lord Lu is ruthless and decisive in dealing with matters concerning merchants.

They even promoted Asu to participate in city defense affairs, which put me in a very difficult position.

"Oh?"

Li Xian put down his teacup, looked calmly at Zhang Bin, and said in a low voice:
"Lord Zhang, have we been caught red-handed?"

Zhang Bin nodded somewhat helplessly and recounted Gao Haoxuan's affair.
Li Xian smiled with some surprise:
"That's quite a coincidence, everything seems to have happened at the same time."

Zhang Bin shook his head with a wry smile, a hint of helplessness on his face:
"Asu and I have a history of conflict."

Now he is involved in city defense affairs.
If they take this opportunity to attack me, I'm afraid I won't be able to defend myself.

Moreover, I was already involved with some powerful and influential people in this matter concerning merchants.

Now Lu Yunyi wants to acquire those trading companies.

Those powerful and influential people will surely cause me trouble; I'm truly desperate.

Li Xian remained silent for a moment, tapping his fingers lightly on the stone table, as if he were thinking about something.

After a while, he slowly spoke:

"Lord Zhang, how would you like me to help you?"

Zhang Bin was overjoyed and quickly said:

“Sir, I would like to ask you to step in and calm Asu down.”

You are highly respected in Daning City, and Asu also holds you in high esteem.

If you can persuade him not to make things difficult for me regarding city defense, I can then focus on other matters.

Furthermore, I would like to request that you instruct some powerful figures in the north of the city to lend me a hand and alleviate the current situation.

After hearing this, Li Xian shook his head slightly, his eyes revealing a hint of determination:
"Lord Zhang, I cannot grant your second request."

Although I have some connections with some people in the north of the city

But I don't want to interfere too much in their affairs.

Moreover, Lu Yunyi is a high-ranking officer, and his actions are based on reason.

Now that I live in someone else's city, I naturally have to consider the host's feelings.

Zhang Bin's heart sank, and a trace of anxiety appeared on his face:
“Sir, if I were to fall, it would be detrimental to the situation in Daning City.”

Li Xian stood up, paced back and forth in the courtyard with his hands behind his back, and after a moment of contemplation, said:

"Lord Zhang, don't panic."

Lord Lu's methods were tough, but they were also for the long-term stability of Da Ning.

If you can realize your mistakes and turn back to the right path, and dedicate yourself to public service, you might be able to retain your official position.

As for Asu's matter, I can speak with him personally. I'll tell him to prioritize the bigger picture.

"How about we don't cause you any trouble regarding city defense?"

Zhang Bin was somewhat disappointed.
But they also knew that this was the biggest concession Lee Hyun-seon could make.

He quickly bowed and said gratefully:
"Thank you, sir. As long as we can keep Asu calm, I will have a chance to catch my breath."

Li Xian stopped, turned around, looked at Zhang Bin, and said earnestly:

"Lord Zhang, I have deep feelings for Daning City."

Now that the Northern Yuan is in decline, and the Ming Dynasty is willing to take us in, we should unite as one.

As the city's defender, you bear a heavy responsibility; you must not allow your own selfish desires to jeopardize the great cause.

Zhang Bin nodded repeatedly, fine beads of sweat appearing on his forehead.

“Master Li’s teachings are wise, I will keep them in mind. I wonder when Master Li plans to speak with Asu?”

Li Xian thought for a moment and said:

"This matter should not be delayed. I will send someone to invite Asu to my residence today for a discussion."

You should go back now and wait patiently for news.

Zhang Bin felt reassured and bowed again:
"Thank you for your trouble, Master Li. I'll take my leave now."

After saying that, he slowly walked out of the courtyard, his steps becoming much lighter.

Watching Zhang Bin's departing figure, Li Xian sighed softly and said to the attendant beside him:
"Go, send someone to invite Lord Asu to the manor. Tell him I have something important to discuss with him."

The attendant obeyed and left, while Li Xian returned to the stone bench and sat down, his eyes revealing a hint of worry.

After receiving Li Xian's invitation, Asu had some doubts.

Although he respected Li Xian, he did not know why Li Xian had come to see him at this time.

However, he didn't dare to be negligent and tidied up quickly.
He then took a few personal guards and rode to the Li residence.

When Asu arrived at the Li residence, Li Xian was already waiting in the courtyard.

"This humble general, Asu, greets Your Excellency."

Li Xian smiled and nodded, gesturing for Asu to sit down:
"Lord Asu, there's no need for formalities. I've invited you here today because there are some things I'd like to discuss with you."

Asu sat on the stone bench, somewhat puzzled:
"Please speak freely, my lord. I am all ears."

Li Xian looked at Asu and said in a calm tone:
"Lord Asu, you have now been entrusted with an important task by Lord Lu to participate in city defense affairs. This is a heavy responsibility on your shoulders."

A hint of surprise flashed in Asu's eyes; he hadn't expected his information network to be so efficient.
"You flatter me, sir. I was quite surprised myself."

Li Xian waved his hand:
"Lord Asu, do not be modest."

I've come to see you today to talk about Zhang Bin.

Although Zhang Bin acted somewhat inappropriately.
However, as the city's garrison commander, he also made some contributions to the city of Daning.

Now that he is facing difficulties, I hope Lord Asu will prioritize the greater good and not hold grudges against him over past grievances.

After hearing this, Asu frowned slightly, feeling somewhat hesitant:
"My lord, what's wrong with Lord Zhang?"

Li Xian smiled slightly and said:

"As the city's garrison commander, Lord Zhang inevitably becomes acquainted with some merchants and powerful figures."
He feared that the current turmoil in the city would affect him.

Asu looked enlightened, somewhat surprised but also understanding.

If Zhang Bin hadn't been involved in the matter, he might not have had the opportunity for promotion today.

Li Xian said softly:
"Lord Asu, please forgive and forget some things from the past."

You can still get promoted and make money, without having to resort to violence.

Asu's pupils suddenly contracted, and he looked at him in shock. What did this mean?
Li Xian smiled gently:
"Zhang Bin has done something wrong; it's already a miracle he kept his official position."
With three vacancies for the position of Assistant Commander, Lord Asu should certainly have a place.
"If Lord Asu is willing to help with this, I can give you a push to make things more stable."

(End of this chapter)