In Hongwu, we started as rebels

Chapter 877 Good Money Drives Out Bad Money: Exile to Shaanxi
The capital of the Ming Dynasty! Yingtian Prefecture!

As the Lunar New Year approaches, Beijing is also immersed in a strong festive atmosphere.
The four city gates were wide open, and pedestrians came and went in an endless stream.

Yingtian Trading Company was located on Fudong Street, the most bustling street in the city, and it was bustling with activity at this time.

The shop's doors were wide open.

At the entrance, the crowd surged like a tide, shoulder to shoulder, so crowded that even turning around was difficult.

The officials and staff of the capital city were using megaphones to shout incessantly to maintain order.

The various sounds mixed together didn't seem noisy; on the contrary, they were quite lively.

Inside the shop, the first floor was bustling with activity, and everything in sight was bright red.

A dazzling array of New Year's goods were on display, making it difficult to choose.

The bright silk shimmered with a captivating luster, and the exquisite ornaments were arranged neatly.

There were also pastries that emitted a wonderful aroma.
Sesame balls, mille-feuille, osmanthus cake, layer upon layer.

Li Wu, the manager of Li's Brokerage Firm, was strolling around inside with his family and several nephews.
The cart he was pulling was already overflowing with all sorts of New Year's goods.
"Honey, this beef is excellent, let's buy some."

Li Wu looked up and saw that it was twenty-five coins a pound. He asked the shop assistant in surprise:
"Why is it cheaper during the New Year? Wasn't it thirty coins a few days ago? Could it be some bad cow from the grasslands?"

Seeing that he was dressed sloppily but had an extraordinary air about him, the waiter smiled and explained:

"Have you seen the notice, sir?"
A lot of corruption was uncovered at the horse ranch outside the city. Those managers there raised cattle and sheep; that's where the money came from.

"From Chunhua Horse Ranch?"

Li Wu looked at the bright red beef on the table with some surprise.

The waiter nodded repeatedly, "Yes, sir, you know your stuff."

Li Wu smiled:
"Give me five catties of beef shank, and five catties of beef brisket, and can you throw in some offal?"

"Send gifts! Of course we'll send them. It's the New Year, and the shopkeeper specifically instructed us to send gifts whenever possible to bring good luck."

The waiter answered while smiling as he cut the meat.

Seeing his delighted expression, Li Wu smiled as well.

At that moment, an elderly man in his fifties squeezed past him.
He also rummaged through the table, saying as he searched:

"Little Wang, how much bonus did you get this year? You're usually not this easy to talk to."

The man replied with a smile:

"Uncle, is it that your hearing is failing you? You never respond when I try to talk to you."

"Let's not get off topic, how much reward should we give?"
My grandson works on the second floor. Tell me what's going on; I'm afraid he'll lie to this old man.

"Haha, not much, just three months' wages. You'll have to ask your grandson for the exact amount."

The waiter handed over the meat:

"Please take this, sir: five catties of beef shank, five catties of beef brisket, and one catty of offal."

"Three months' wages is not a small amount, so work hard!"

Li Wu accepted it with a smile, offered some words of encouragement, and then said to the woman beside him:
"We'll have to start paying out bonuses next year, or the guys will go crazy."

"Why?"

"Yingtian Trading Company is paying out more and more money every year. If other trading companies don't pay out some money soon, all their employees will leave."

"That makes sense."

Li Wu smiled and pointed ahead:
"Let's go buy some fruit."

"Oh, oh. Eat fruit, eat fruit!"

Upon hearing this, the two children became excited and clapped their hands incessantly.

Imperial City of the Emperor!

Just like in the city, it was decorated with couplets and auspicious characters, and hung with large red lanterns.
All the palace maids and eunuchs walked around the palace with joyful expressions on their faces.

The Fengtian Hall is resplendent in gold and green, with lifelike dragon patterns carved on its massive dragon pillars.

As always, the imperial court held a banquet in the Fengtian Hall to entertain the assembled nobles and ministers!
The tables and chairs in the hall were arranged neatly and were filled with delicacies from land and sea.

Roast duck, steamed fish, Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, and seafood from the Southeast.

The aromas of various ingredients blend together, making it incredibly appetizing.

Zhu Yuanzhang, dressed in a bright red dragon robe and wearing a crown, slowly walked into the Fengtian Hall.

His steps were steady and powerful, and his eyes revealed his authority!
Upon his arrival, the ministers all rose and shouted in unison:
"Long live my emperor! Long live!"

Zhu Yuanzhang glanced around, then smiled and looked up:

"Rise, everyone. Today is the New Year, so please don't be shy and enjoy yourselves."

After everyone was seated, the banquet officially began.

The musicians played music, and the dancers, dressed in light and graceful skirts, danced in the hall.

Zhu Yuanzhang looked at the ministers in the hall and a slight smile appeared on his face.

But soon, after scanning the crowd, his smile faded and he looked on with a sigh.

He noticed that there were far fewer people in the Fengtian Hall compared to last year.

Those old ministers who fought alongside him to conquer the world,

Some have passed away, while others have retired to their hometowns due to old age and poor health.
Some were executed after their homes were searched because of several major cases.

Looking around, the seat where the Crown Prince was sitting was empty, and he was not beside him.

A sense of desolation welled up in Zhu Yuanzhang's heart, and he let out a barely perceptible sigh.
Beside him, Consort Guo Ning noticed His Majesty's loneliness, gently took his hand, and said softly:

"Your Majesty, look at Jiujiang, it's become much more generous."

Zhu Yuanzhang looked down.
Li Jinglong was seen moving about the hall, exchanging pleasantries with the various ministers.

He would frequently offer food and drinks, and often drink with others.

"Yes, a couple of years ago he looked like he'd been wronged, but now he's more spirited and composed."

Then, Zhu Yuanzhang thought of Li Wenzhong, who had died long ago, and sighed softly:
"If Bao'er were still alive, he would be fifty years old this year, and quite old."
But all I can picture is Bao'er wielding a double-edged hook-and-sickle spear, riding a white horse and charging heroically into the enemy ranks.

I can't imagine what he'll be like at fifty. Will he be like me, with bad legs?

Upon hearing this, Consort Guo Ning laughed:
"Your Majesty, I recently read a book called 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms'."
It was written by Luo Guanzhong, Zhang Shicheng's advisor at the time.
He was standing beside Zhang Dingbian that year and witnessed Cao Guogong charging into the enemy lines, wielding a double-edged hook-and-sickle spear and dragging Zhang Dingbian into the river.

The man remembered Cao Guogong's bravery and later wrote it down in his book as the character Zhao Zilong of Changshan.
Zhao Zilong also charged in and out of the enemy ranks seven times, displaying unparalleled bravery.

A faint smile appeared on Zhu Yuanzhang's withered face, and he gave a soft hum:
“Bao’er is much braver than Zhao Zilong. I hope Jiujiang will be as valiant as his father.”

"Your Majesty, Jiujiang recently led a group of people..."

But he managed to fool all the powerful and influential people in the capital.
It was more like the Duke of Cao maneuvering skillfully in Yingchang, decisively defeating the enemy army.

Consort Guo Ning's eyes sparkled, and with a gentle smile, she looked at Li Jinglong in the arena, her gaze becoming increasingly tender.

"Hahaha." Zhu Yuanzhang finally laughed.

"That kid, he can't get anything done by himself."
If someone tells him how to do it, he does it quite well.

He's really made me proud these days, squeezing out so much silver.

"These old bastards, when it comes to paying, they're all dirt poor, but once they empty their pockets, they're richer than I am."

Guo Ningfei blinked, picked up a small glass of wine from the table, and handed it over:

"Your Majesty, was the incident a while ago orchestrated by someone?"

Zhu Yuanzhang scoffed.
"Jiujiang is a good kid. He wouldn't dare do it himself; someone gave him the idea."

He felt increasingly reckless because he had someone protecting him.

"Is it Lu Yunyi?" Consort Guo asked.

"It should be. Just look at those people who are making money."

Consort Guo Ning looked enlightened and somewhat surprised.

"This Lu Yunyi is really incredibly audacious."

"He's bold and decisive, a real talent. I wouldn't be surprised if he caused some huge mess one day."

Consort Guo tilted her head to look, and saw that His Majesty's eyes held no blame, only admiration.

He understood immediately and said with a smile:

"Lu Yunyi is a master of military campaigns, and he is equally adept at governing local areas."

"I heard from Guo Zhen that the Beiping Regional Military Commission has submitted a memorial requesting the establishment of a province?"

"The women of the inner palace must not interfere in politics," Zhu Yuanzhang said with a smile.

"Your Majesty, back when we were fighting, it was I who calculated the accounts for the grain and provisions in various places for you. Now you're turning your back on those accounts."

"Hahahaha." Zhu Yuanzhang laughed heartily:

Ah, we were all young back then.

I'm fighting on the front lines, and you're settling accounts behind the scenes—how delightful!
I remember when Zhili was being divided up, my sister gave me some advice, saying we couldn't divide it too large, otherwise we'd be neglecting the overall picture.

After saying this, Zhu Yuanzhang's expression turned solemn, and he said in a deep voice:

"The Northern Pacification Command wants to establish a province and set up three local offices. This has caught the court officials completely off guard."

"Why?"

“Ordinary local officials want to concentrate all the power in their own hands, so how can they voluntarily share power?”
Before the establishment of provinces, all military commanderies, large and small, were controlled by a single official, wielding immense power.

However, if provinces are established, with the presence of the Provincial Administration Commission and the Provincial Surveillance Commission, there will be some constraints on their work.

"Isn't this a good thing?" Consort Guo asked in surprise.

"This is a good thing. Such things are always promoted by the imperial court while local governments obstruct them in every way. It is quite unusual for local governments to take the initiative to speak up now."

"Then does Your Majesty think that the Northern Pacification Commandery should be established as a province?"

"The Ming Dynasty's territory spans thousands of miles, but only a few places are under the jurisdiction of military garrisons and regional command posts."
In most impoverished areas, people have neither money nor connections.

The land of Daning is now rich in talented people and resources; it should be established as a province.
However, since Daning is located outside the Great Wall and is a military town, it can still fool the common people.

If it truly becomes a province, and is located outside the Great Wall, then things really become unpredictable.

There's no reason for the Great Wall to keep its own people out; it will inevitably lead to widespread public resentment.

Consort Guo Ning was somewhat bewildered, but she quickly understood and nodded in realization:
"That seems to make sense. Your Majesty has considered things very thoroughly."

"This matter requires careful consideration and cannot be rushed."

At this moment, Duke Li Jinglong of Cao State held up a wine cup.

He walked up to Zhu Yuanzhang with a smile and said respectfully:
"Your Majesty, I offer you a toast, wishing you good health and longevity."

When Zhu Yuanzhang saw him arrive, he sat up straight and looked at Li Jinglong with a look of satisfaction.

This time, Li Jinglong's mindset was completely different from before; he appeared full of vigor and high spirits.

He stood tall and straight, his eyes radiating confidence, and his face beaming with a smile.

Zhu Yuanzhang raised his wine cup, clinked it against Li Jinglong's, and said:

"Jiujiang, you did a really good job in Beijing this time."

Zhu Yuanzhang took a sip of wine, his eyes full of approval.

"I have heard that you have repaired roads all over the city, making the originally bumpy and muddy streets smooth and wide. The people are full of praise for you."

Upon hearing this, Li Jinglong's previously confident smile turned somewhat awkward.

He scratched his head somewhat embarrassedly.

Her originally upright posture shrank slightly, and she said shyly:
"Your Majesty flatters me. I was just thinking that the capital is the face of the Ming Dynasty. If the roads are smooth, it will be convenient for the people to travel and for merchants to travel smoothly, which will also add to the grandeur of the Ming Dynasty."

Moreover, this is merely my duty, and I do not deserve such praise from Your Majesty.

Zhu Yuanzhang burst into laughter, his hearty laughter echoing throughout the Fengtian Hall:

"You little rascal, you're acting all innocent after getting the benefit."

As he spoke, Zhu Yuanzhang put down his wine cup, leaned forward slightly, and looked intently at Li Jinglong.

"Jiujiang, I have an important matter I would like to entrust to you."

Upon hearing this, Li Jinglong's expression immediately turned strange.
Will I have to pay more money again?
Thinking this to himself, he straightened his back and lowered his voice, saying:

"Your Majesty, whatever your command, I will obey even at the cost of my life!"

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded in satisfaction and slowly said:
"Yesudier of the Northern Yuan is seriously ill."

With his death, the Oirats and Tatars will once again be thrown into chaos.
It's inevitable that some ignorant tribes will come to raid and plunder the borders; the imperial court should make plans as soon as possible.

However, the military preparedness in Shaanxi is now lax, and the soldiers are not adequately trained.

If invaded by foreign enemies, it may be difficult to resist.

After much deliberation, I believe it is most suitable for you to go to Shaanxi to train troops. Are you willing?

Upon hearing this, Li Jinglong looked up in surprise, and then his heart skipped a beat.

Training troops in Shaanxi is a very important task!

That place was not only the front line for the Ming Dynasty to defend against the northern grasslands,

It was also an important passage connecting the Central Plains and the Western Regions.

This place has always been occupied by the imperial court's nobles!
Thinking of this, a hint of excitement and anticipation flashed in Li Jinglong's eyes.

Without hesitation, he knelt on one knee, clasped his hands in a fist and said:
"Your Majesty, I am willing to go!"

"Your subject will certainly live up to your mission, training a formidable army in Shaanxi to safeguard the northwestern gate of the Ming Dynasty!"

Zhu Yuanzhang was even more pleased to see him agree so readily.

He stepped down from the dragon throne, helped Li Jinglong up, patted him on the shoulder, and said:
"Good! I knew you wouldn't let me down."

The environment in Shaanxi is harsh, making military training even more difficult.

When you get there, take care of yourself.

At the same time, we should also pay more attention to the tea-horse trade with the Western Regions.
"Help me check if there's any corruption or bribery involved."

Li Jinglong listened, his face showing deep thought.

He suddenly realized that his real job was to oversee the tea-horse trade in the Western Regions.

"Your Majesty, rest assured, I will certainly keep Your Majesty's instructions in mind."

Upon arriving in Shaanxi, I will lead by example, fighting alongside the soldiers, and I will also diligently maintain the tea-horse trade.

Zhu Yuanzhang looked at Li Jinglong's resolute expression, smiled slightly, and turned to pick up his wine cup:
"Jiujiang, another cup!"
I wish you a swift and successful trip to Shaanxi!

Li Jinglong quickly picked up his wine cup, clinked it against Zhu Yuanzhang's, drank it all in one gulp, and said:
"Thank you, Your Majesty! I will certainly live up to Your Majesty's expectations on my journey to Shaanxi!"

At this moment, the musicians in the palace played rousing music, and the dancers' movements became even more graceful and elegant.

The nobles who were close to the head of the table all looked on with envy.

Although Shaanxi has cold winters and hot summers,
But the fact that she could go there meant that Jian was on the Emperor's side!
Feeling the enthusiastic atmosphere in the hall, Li Jinglong was filled with pride.

"Your Majesty, I will be departing for Shaanxi after the New Year. Please take care of your health."

Zhu Yuanzhang smiled and shook his head, saying:
"No rush, let's wait until after the Lantern Festival to leave."

"Yes, Your Majesty!"

Li Jinglong did not go to drink with the other officials, but returned to his seat.

As soon as he sat down, all his previous high spirits vanished, replaced by unease and a growing sense of retreat.

“It’s broken. It’s broken.”

"Why did I take on such a job? What should I do? How am I supposed to train when I get to Shaanxi?"

What clues are there about the tea-horse trade?

Li Jinglong felt his head was spinning, and he didn't know how to deal with it.
"Jiujiang, what is it?"

Duke Xu Huizu of Wei sat down and, seeing his anxious expression, asked with a smile.

Li Jinglong glanced at him, his expression immediately becoming listless:

"It's not enough that I spent money to repair the road; I have to be exiled to the frontier. It's such a humiliating way to earn money."

Xu Huizu looked enlightened:
"Oh, is that what it is? Don't worry."

Sending you to Shaanxi is His Majesty's way of protecting you.

I've heard that quite a few people are planning to impeach you after the New Year.

At this point, Xu Huizu lowered his voice:

"It's all because of those powerful and wealthy people. They even said they'd teach you a lesson."

Upon hearing this, Li Jinglong's eyes widened, and he slammed his hand on the table:
"Damn it, they've gone too far!"

"Calm down. A wise man doesn't fight a losing battle. They outnumber you and you should go out and hide."

"also."

Xu Huizu smiled and lowered his voice:
"A document arrived today from the Northern Pacification Command, stating that a province will be established and three offices will be set up."
This matter is of great importance, and the Commander-in-Chief is currently unsure of Lu Yunyi's intentions.
If it's convenient for you, could you ask him for me whether he's being sincere or just feigning concern?

A look of confusion flashed across Li Jinglong's eyes, but he nodded readily:

"Alright, I'll send the letter over tomorrow."

(End of this chapter)