The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 404 Establishes Seven Military Regions, Bringing All Military Forces Under Control
In Luoyang, the spring chill lingered.

Inside the West Warm Pavilion of Weiyang Palace, the air was thick with heat, as the important military and political officials of the Han Dynasty gathered there.

On either side of the long rosewood table, civil and military officials stood in separate ranks:
On the left, Prime Minister Chen Deng led the civil officials, while on the right, General Guan Yu was the head of the military officers.

The hall was filled with noblemen and dignitaries, and officials of high rank and rank gathered in great numbers.

Among them, Grand Marshal and General Li Yi, dressed in a black python robe, stood in front of a huge map of mountains and rivers.

This meeting was initiated by Li Yi.

The fact that he could gather all the important officials in the court at once demonstrates his powerful influence after many years in power.

Of course, what makes an authority so authoritative is its prestige.

Gathering everyone together over trivial matters will definitely damage your prestige.

Li Yi gathered so many people together, naturally for the military reforms he had been working on.

Snapped!
Li Yi threw the files of the Liaodong case onto the table, the sound echoing throughout the city.

"Gentlemen, are you aware that the Xianbei people's military capabilities have been increasing recently?"

"And of them, a staggering 30% came from the Xuzhou Armory!"

"Many of the border troops' armor pieces can be pierced with a single puncture, all because someone has been exchanging wrought iron for fine steel!"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Fei's bushy beard bristled, and he smashed the table with a single punch.
"Damn it! I'm going to chop down those parasites right now!"

Guan Yu comforted his third brother, his phoenix eyes slightly narrowed, and asked Li Yi:
"What are your intentions, Lord Yi?"

Li Yi said solemnly:
"Therefore, I believe that military reform must be implemented to change the old atmosphere in the military."

Upon hearing this, everyone understood.

Li Yi merely wanted to use the Liaodong smuggling case as a pretext to fully reclaim local military power.

This is to strengthen the central government's control over local areas.

"My intention is to divide the country into seven military regions."

"Then, seven Grand Commanders were appointed to control the military power of each military region."

What are your thoughts, gentlemen?

The crowd looked at each other, but no one spoke.

I just don't want to stand out at this time and rashly cause trouble.

Seeing that everyone remained silent, Li Yi picked up a brush and drew seven red lines on the map:
"From this day forward, abolish the old system and establish seven military regions!"

With a stroke of the brush, the landscape changes color.

"The Governor-General of Hebei was stationed in Ye City and governed the three prefectures of You, Ji, and Bing."

"To defend against the Wuhuan and Xianbei in the north, and to protect the North China Plain in the south."

"The Governor-General of Henan was stationed in Xu County, and his jurisdiction covered the provinces of Yan and Yu."

"To defend the capital region and stabilize the heart of the nation."

"The Governor-General of Qing and Xu was stationed in Xiapi and governed the two prefectures of Qing and Xu."

"Control the East China Sea waterway and guard against the remnants of the Wu and Yue tribes."

"The Governor-General of Jiangnan was stationed in Jianye, and governed the three prefectures of Jing, Yang and Jiao."

"To comfort the Yue people, develop the southern frontier, and guard the natural barrier of the Yangtze River."

"The Governor-General of Liangzhou was stationed in Chang'an and governed the two prefectures of Yong and Liang."

"To suppress the Qiang and Hu tribes, protect the ancient Silk Road, and safeguard the gateway to Guanzhong."

"The Governor-General of Liaodong was stationed in Xiangping and governed the four prefectures of Liaodong."

"To subdue Goguryeo and Buyeo, and to manage the Northeast."

"The Governor-General of Jingzhao was stationed at the old palace in Chang'an and governed the Three Auxiliary Regions."

"To protect the ancestral temples of the Western Capital and safeguard the peace of the imperial family."

The seven military regions established by Li Yi were still based on the Han Dynasty's system of governorships.

Among them was the Hebei Governor-General, who was in charge of the Hebei Army.

Its main jurisdiction covered important northern regions such as Youzhou and Jizhou.

Its function was to defend against the Wuhuan and Xianbei.

To ensure the safety of the North China Plain.

The Governor-General of Henan, who was in charge of the Henan army.

Its jurisdiction covered key areas in the Central Plains, including Sili, Yanzhou, and Yuzhou.

These areas are important buffer zones, and are extremely crucial in terms of both strategic location and political status.

Therefore, its function was to guard Luoyang and the surrounding areas of Xu County.

Stabilize the heartland of the capital region.

And the Qingxu Governor-General who was in charge of the Qingxu Army.

Its jurisdiction, as the name suggests, naturally includes Qingzhou, Xuzhou, and the coastal areas.

Another important reason why Qing and Xu are grouped together is because this area is located by the sea.

Therefore, its function was not only to guard against the remnants of Wu and Yue forces, but also to control the East China Sea coast and manage the local canal transport.

Therefore, the Governor of Qingxu actually assumed a significant economic role.

After all, the Qingxu region was a major salt-producing area of ​​the Han Dynasty, and the salt tax collected each year accounted for about 8% of the national treasury.

This clearly demonstrates the importance of this place.

As for the newly established Jiangnan, the Jiangnan Military Governor is in charge of the Jiangnan Army.

Its jurisdiction includes southern Jingzhou, Yangzhou, Jiaozhou, and other areas south of the Yangtze River.

Li Yi's reason for combining the troops of Jing and Yang provinces was to strengthen his control over the area.

Use Jingzhou to control Yangzhou, and use Yangzhou to counter-control Jingzhou.

Its main functions were to pacify the Yue people in the mountains and develop the south.

Guarding the Yangtze River waterway.

Li Yi's emphasis on developing the south proves that his military role was not actually very important.

This is why Li Yi dared to designate the entire Jiangnan region as a military region.

On the one hand, the two prefectures of Jing and Yang already had convenient communication due to the Yangtze River.

On the other hand, Li Yi clearly intended to drastically reduce the military power in Jiangnan.

They do not intend to leave a large number of troops in Jiangnan.

This clearly undermines Liu Bei's strategic concept of maintaining a balance between the north and south.

Therefore, when Li Yi proposed arrangements for Jiangnan, those with a keen political sense could all perceive it.

Old Li still wants to take care of the people from Hebei.

It was clear that it had handed over the nation's main military force to the northerners.

In ancient times, the emperor was chosen by the one with the strongest army and the most powerful horses.

Whoever controls the military controls the narrative.

Therefore, when northerners held significant military power, their status throughout the country was naturally very high.

Of course, Old Li also had his reasons for saying that.

Should I leave my troops in the north to guard against nomads?
With such a large Xianbei force located in the north of the map, I have no choice but to leave a large force to guard it.
The area surrounding Liaodong is home to a host of fierce northeastern people, including the Goguryeo, Buyeo, and Okjeo. Should I leave a large force there?
Hebei is a strategic buffer zone for Jingzhao (Beijing), holding a strategic position of protecting the capital.

Should I leave a large number of troops here?
Of course, from a practical point of view...

For a long period in ancient times, the north was far more developed than the south.

Otherwise, Li Yi wouldn't have given the Jiangnan Governor the instruction to focus on developing the south.

Li Yi only intended to leave some land in Jiangnan for them to develop and to fight against the Yue tribes.

The main force remains in the north.

Otherwise, if the two provinces of Jing and Yang were merged, relying on the natural barrier of the Yangtze River, the military power would be slightly stronger.

This could easily lead to the formation of separatist regimes in the south.

In particular, two vassal kings were also enfeoffed in Jiangnan.

Li Yi's decision not to leave a large number of troops in Jiangnan also stemmed from this consideration.

This way, they both took care of their old brothers in the north and suppressed the restless forces in the south.

It can be described as killing two birds with one stone, achieving two goals at once.

As for the Governor of Liangzhou, or rather the Governor of Yongliang.

He mainly controlled the Liangzhou Army and the Guanzhong Army.

Its jurisdiction covered Liangzhou, Guanzhong area, and western Yongzhou.

In terms of function, its main purpose was, of course, to defend against invasions from Shu and Wei.

But another instruction given by Li Yi was to pacify the Qiang and Hu tribes.

To safeguard the Silk Road and protect the Guanzhong Plain.

The implication was that he didn't take Wei Guotai seriously.

They also did not intend to allocate more troops to Guanzhong.

The reason is simple: Guanzhong is barren and ethnic conflicts are acute.

To save costs as much as possible, Li Yi will reduce military spending in Guanzhong.

At this point, Zhuge Liang, far away in Chang'an, might have something to say: "Reduce military spending in Guanzhong."

How can I defend against the invasion of Shu and Wei?

Li Yi's solution was also very clear, which was—

"To safeguard the Silk Road and protect Guanzhong."

Kongming, you are skilled in land reclamation and also understand economics.

If we can develop a place like Jiaozhou, which is plagued by miasma, then we can certainly develop the Silk Road well.

You must work hard to achieve self-sufficiency.

Don't complain that the country doesn't take care of you; the country's money is used for other important purposes.

You need to consider the bigger picture and work harder.

That's the gist of it.

As for the Liaodong Commander-in-Chief who was in charge of the Liaodong Army
Its jurisdiction mainly covers the northeastern border regions such as Liaodong and Lelang.

The functions are much simpler.

Its purpose was to deter Goguryeo and Buyeo, and to manage the Northeast.

And the Governor of Jingzhao

The capital army under his command mainly consisted of Chang'an and the Sanfu region.

Its function was to protect the western capital, Chang'an, and safeguard the imperial ancestral temples.

The charcoal fire in the West Warm Pavilion of Weiyang Palace burned ever brighter, yet it could not extinguish the fine sweat on the foreheads of the assembled officials.

The seven military regions system proposed by Li Yi just now caused a stir among those present.

Guan Yu's phoenix eyes snapped open, and he reached out to stroke his long beard:

"...While Yi Gong's suggestion may solve the immediate problem, it may also lead to a future threat!"

"The rebellions of the governors of the Later Han Dynasty were all due to the excessive power of local military forces."

"If the governor-general holds absolute power, and the court changes one day, wouldn't it be a repeat of the Warring States period's fragmentation?"

Zhang Fei's bushy beard trembled, and he said in a deep voice:

"...Second Brother is absolutely right!"

"Though I am rough and crude, I know the harm of border generals holding onto their troops!"

“With military regions divided in this way, our capital city, being so powerful, can still be checked and balanced.”

"If the court and the public are thrown into turmoil, what will we do?"

Upon hearing this, Li Yi remained calm and began to sketch on the map with a brush.

Then, with a sharp turn of the brush, it was divided into two sections:

"...Yun Chang's concerns are absolutely correct."

"Therefore, the system of the military governor should be like that of flying a kite—"

"Let it soar, the thread holds the central point."

He then ordered his attendants to unfold the seven volumes of regulations.

"He was appointed as the supervising censor and reported directly to the central government."

The next scroll reads, “Each army shall have a supervising officer who carries a bronze fish tally.”

"Military pay and provisions must be matched by both sides."

“The military supervisor’s secret report goes directly to the emperor’s ears, and the governor is not allowed to hear it beforehand.”

Surprisingly, Li Yi implemented a system of military supervision to check and balance the military governors.

Instead of adopting a rotation system.

He served as the Governor of Hebei for several years, and then went to serve as the Governor of Jiangnan.

Li Yi opposed this approach.

He believed that doing it this way would easily lead to a situation where soldiers don't know their generals, and generals don't know their soldiers.

This would greatly weaken the army's combat effectiveness.

Human relationships naturally require a gradual process of building and accumulating.

If the goal is to prevent local generals from becoming too powerful and to prevent them from accumulating personal connections through frequent rotations of their troops, then this is a viable strategy.

This would certainly greatly limit separatism, but it would undoubtedly weaken the army's combat effectiveness.

Therefore, Li Yi's choice was to establish a military supervisor to oversee the troops.

Chen Deng suddenly interjected:

"What if the military supervisor colluded with the commander-in-chief?"

Li Yi's Laughing Instructions, Volume 3:
"The Tiger Tally is used to mobilize troops; if the number exceeds a thousand, the Golden Tally from Luoyang is required."

"The story of Zhou Yafu's camp at Xiliu should be known to all of you."

Guan Yu nodded and asked again:
"But what if there's an emergency at the border? Wouldn't that cause problems?"

"Therefore, an emergency clause is provided."

Li Yi pointed to the small note on the silk scroll: "In case of an emergency such as the Xianbei breaking through the pass, troops can be mobilized first."

"But the talisman must be requested within three days via an urgent courier service covering 800 li."

Zhao Yun seemed to understand something, and asked again:

"If the governor rebels, won't his family in the capital suffer?"

Li Yi's expression turned stern:

"That's exactly what we're going to do! The Governor's family all reside in Yongning Lane in Luoyang, and are 'protected' by the Imperial Guards."

"Otherwise..."

He pulled out an account book.

"This is the three-year budget for the army's food and supplies, and every penny will be directly allocated by the Grand Minister of Agriculture."

Zhao Yun frowned:

What if the war is prolonged?

"Therefore, military farms were established for supplies."

Li Yi unfolded the final scroll, stating, "Each army is permitted to cultivate a thousand acres of wasteland, the produce of which will only supplement daily expenses."

"The military supplies for the major battle still rely on the central government for delivery."

In the silence that filled the room, Chen Deng suddenly stroked his beard and burst into laughter, as if he had finally understood the brilliance of Li Yi's arrangement.

"Excellent! In this way, even if the governor has rebellious intentions..."

"Without a military tally, troops cannot be mobilized; without provisions and pay, soldiers cannot be supported."

"Without a strong foundation, one cannot unite the people, and one's family members are even more at the mercy of the imperial court!"

Then, changing the subject, he said seriously:
However, these three factors still need to be balanced—

"The governor is in charge of the people, the prefect manages the administration, and the commander-in-chief governs the army."

"The three parties are not subordinate to each other, but they need to discuss important matters together."

Li Yi clapped his hands and patted the table, nodding repeatedly:
"That's exactly right, Yuanlong Cave is as clear as fire."

“I propose to establish a council hall: military matters should be discussed with the governor-general, civil matters with the prefect, and political matters with the governor.”

"Discuss matters together, and submit joint petitions!"

Li Yi's idea was roughly to establish a system of military supervision.

Imperial censors or lieutenant generals were dispatched to supervise military affairs and report directly to the central government.

Then, a military tally was established to mobilize troops, and no army of more than a thousand men could be mobilized without the central tiger tally.

Of course, troops can be temporarily deployed in case of emergency.

But it was also necessary to report to the central government via express courier.

In addition, the governor-general must leave his family in the capital.

The governor's family members were required to reside in the capital, Luoyang, or Chang'an, which was essentially a form of hostage arrangement.

Of course, none of the above are the key points for restricting the governor.

The real issue is fiscal dependence.

Military pay and provisions were centrally allocated, with local authorities retaining only a small amount for supplying farmland.

This is actually the most important point.

Why did the governorship system lead to the fragmentation of the country by warlords at the end of the Han Dynasty?

The root cause is that the governor controls local finances.

Only by controlling local finances could he personally distribute food and pay to the army.

So, when it comes to local armies, will they be grateful to the local officials or to the central government?

Of course, it's whoever feeds him and for whom he works.

Therefore, as long as financial power and military power are strictly separated.

It is actually very difficult for a local governor to form a separatist force.

There is absolutely no need for a term-based system that requires changing terms every few years.

In fact, Li Yi has always maintained a strong grip on power.

Regarding control of the national army, he believed that the following three points were sufficient.

Then controlling the army would not be difficult.

One,

Control the army's logistics.

Controlling the army's logistics is tantamount to controlling the army's lifeline.

Secondly, it is crucial to control the personnel appointment power within the military.

In short, you must be the commander-in-chief of the army.

But the army's deputy commander and chief of staff,

And important positions such as the commanders of various levels of the army must be appointed by the central government. The commander-in-chief does not have the power to appoint, and this power can be passed down indefinitely.

They kept getting stuck up to the rank of brigade commander, regimental commander, battalion commander, and so on.

Third,

That is, like Li Yi is now, dividing the army into several military regions.

With this division, even if one gets out of control, there's nothing to be afraid of.

It is possible to mobilize troops from other military regions to suppress the rebellion.

With the seven military regions now established, everyone's attention is focused on Li Yi.

He will reveal the candidate for governor, which is of most concern to everyone.

Prime Minister Chen Deng gently stroked his teacup and asked the first question:
"The selection of the seven governors is a matter of national security. I wonder if Ziyu has a plan in mind?"

Li Yi calmly unrolled the scroll:

"The position of Governor of Yongliang was originally held by Zhuge Liang, who was stationed in this area to govern the region."

"Given the previous merit in resisting the Wei army, I believe it is not advisable to make major changes in the short term, so as to maintain the stability of the situation in Guanzhong."

"Therefore, Zhuge Kongming will remain in office. Does anyone have any objections?"

The initial plan of the court was to have Zhuge Liang continue to serve as the governor of Yong and Liang.

This was also within everyone's expectations.

Upon hearing this, everyone in the room praised it.

Everyone agreed.

The interests involved here are not very significant.

The truly powerful force was the Hebei Army, which ultimately held military power.

Guan Yu narrowed his phoenix eyes slightly and said in a deep voice:

"The Governor of Hebei is the head of the seven governors, responsible for defending against the Xianbei in the north and protecting the capital region in the south."

"Only those with exceptional talent can be competent for this task."

Before he finished speaking, all the generals in Hebei held their breath.

Zhang He, Xu Huang, Zhang Liao, Wang Jing, Sun Li, and other generals from the Hebei faction were all eagerly awaiting the outcome.

Everyone hoped that Li Yi would once again take care of his old comrades and select a general from the Hebei faction to take up the post.

Under everyone's watchful eyes, Li Yi spoke slowly:

“I recommend one person—Xu Gongming is suitable for this position.”

Upon hearing this, everyone present was stunned.

As expected, Li Yi chose a general from the Hebei faction.

Surprisingly, he did not choose Zhang Liao, who had a distinguished military record.

They did not choose Zhang He, who was senior and had high prestige.

Instead, they chose Xu Huang, who was relatively weaker.

Of course, Xu Huang's weakness is only compared to other Hebei generals.

Within the entire military meritocracy of the Han Dynasty, he was still a very bright star.

Of course, Li Yi had his reasons for making this arrangement.

The capital still needs veterans to hold the fort.

Li Yi said solemnly:
Since no one objected, Xu Huang was temporarily appointed as the Governor of Hebei.

"I will inform His Majesty, and if His Majesty agrees, I can take up my post tomorrow."

Upon hearing this, Xu Huang quickly bowed to express his gratitude.

"As for the selection of the Governor-General of Liaodong..."

Li Yi quickly moved on from the Hebei issue and brought up the Liaodong problem.

"Please take a look at this memorial first."

As Li Yi spoke, he ordered someone to bring out a memorial.

This memorial was submitted to Liu Bei by Lü Bu, the governor of Pingzhou and general who guards the north.

The date on the document indicates that it was shortly after the Liaodong smuggling case occurred.

The book, as seen by all, briefly states:

Your Majesty, I, your humble servant Bu, bow twice and respectfully report this:

"I was originally a soldier from the borderlands, but I have been fortunate to receive Your Majesty's special favor and Prime Minister Li has not abandoned me."

"He was entrusted with the important post of Governor of Pingzhou and was tasked with guarding Liaodong."

Twenty years have passed in the blink of an eye.

“The strong man who used to hunt in Bingzhou is now gray-haired and over sixty years old.”

“Every time I look in the mirror, I see that my eyes are blurry, my teeth are loose, and my arms are gradually weakening.”

"I am frequently suffering from chills and numbness at night, and I am truly afraid that I will fail Your Majesty's trust."

"Liaodong is bordered by the Hu and Qiang tribes to the north and the sea to the south."

"When I first arrived, the snow was so deep that it buried the horses, and the beacon fires were still burning."

"He once led his iron cavalry out of Xuantu and chased the Xianbei to Bailang Mountain."

"He also once sailed across the sea to the east and raised the Han flag in Daifang County."

"Thanks to Your Majesty's virtue and power, the borders are peaceful and the cities are secure."

"The granaries are full of grain enough to last three years, and the armor and weapons have all been repaired."

“Buyu, Goguryeo and other countries sent their sons to serve as envoys, and merchants and travelers flocked to Liaoxi Road.”

"This is a peace and prosperity that has not been seen in a century."

"However, in recent years, every autumn flood season, my old wounds flare up, and my left arm trembles uncontrollably."

"Last year, while patrolling the border, I fell off my saddle onto the icy river and could not get up without the help of my left and right hands."

"The physician said that my muscles and bones are too worn out and I should rest and not overexert myself."

"I humbly acknowledge Your Majesty's restoration of the Han dynasty and the initial stabilization of the empire."

"Although Liaodong is a strategically important region, it is not lacking in capable and valiant generals."

“Protective Xianbei Colonel Tian Yu, Protective Wuhuan Colonel Qian Zhao, and General Who Guards the East Gongsun Xu are all tigers and valiant ministers of our time.”

"If you were to take over this post, you would surely be able to display the nation's prestige beyond the Great Wall."

"I have heard that peonies in Luoyang are flourishing again, and new willows are providing shade along the Tongtuo Road."

“Every time I dream of my hometown, Wuyuan County, I wake up with my pillow and mat soaked with sweat.”

"My request to retire is not because I dare to forget my ambition to serve, but because I fear that my body, like that of a dog or horse, will decay and cause trouble for the country."

"If I could return to the mausoleum of the Han emperor and witness the morning court ceremony of the officials, my wish would be fulfilled."

"Tears stream down my face as I write this, humbly beseeching Your Majesty for Your Majesty's decision."

"If Your Majesty still remembers my humble service, I beg you to grant me a sinecure."

"If I could hear the sound of bells and drums beforehand, then even if I am old and gray, I would be grateful."

"He can still wield his spear and lead the way, guarding the palace for Your Majesty."

This is Lü Bu's own account of applying for retirement.

This memorial also reveals Lü Bu's state of mind in his later years.

He recounted his achievements without taking credit, repeatedly mentioning the kindness and support he received from Liu Bei and Li Yi.

By using phrases like "left arm trembling" and "falling off the saddle into an icy river" to demonstrate his old age, he indicated that he was indeed no longer able to work.

He also used phrases like "longing for home in Wuyuan" and "peony in Luoyang" to express his feelings, playing the emotional card that Liu Bei was most susceptible to.

Finally, the phrases "wielding a spear to lead the way" and "viewing the mausoleum of the Han emperor" were used to express loyalty.

This memorial to the throne is quite skillful.

This shows that time really can change a person.

Even someone with low emotional intelligence like Lü Bu, after more than ten years of managing affairs in Liaodong...

They also know how to get along with His Majesty and the court.

Of course, the most important point is,

Lü Bu's memorial requesting retirement was written precisely at the time when the Liaodong smuggling case occurred.

He didn't know what impact this case would have.

But at least it's clear that the situation in North Korea is about to change, and many people will certainly be implicated in this case.

I might as well take this opportunity to retire.

That's exactly what happened; he really couldn't do it anymore.

Because he married too many wives in Liaodong, and they engaged in sexual activity every day.

When he woke up in the morning, he could clearly feel that his legs were weak and he couldn't muster any strength.

Let's cancel the order.

"His Majesty has granted Lü Bu's request."

Li Yi said slowly:

"As a result, the positions of Governor of Pingzhou and Governor of Liaodong will be vacant."

Before anyone could react, Li Yi immediately continued:

"At present, His Majesty has already decided on the candidates for the Governor of Pingzhou and the Commander-in-Chief of Liaodong."

“The governor of Pingzhou was appointed by Tian Yu, and the governor of Liaodong was appointed by Qian Zhao.”

"Therefore, you need not worry about the placement of the Northeast Army."

Next, it was time to select the crucial candidate for the Governor of Jiangnan.

Outside the window, spring snow weighed down the branches, falling like jade, but the atmosphere inside the pavilion was even colder than on a snowy day.

Prime Minister Chen Deng lightly tapped the tea table, breaking the silence:
"The Jiangnan region is crisscrossed by waterways, and the mountains and rivers are not yet pacified, so we need generals who are knowledgeable in naval warfare."

“I recommend three people: Xu Sheng is calm and composed, Jiang Qin is quick-witted, and Zhou Tai is brave and fierce.”

"They are all strong swimmers, the best at riding the waves, and are capable of this task."

Since Li Yi was fighting for the interests of his old brothers in Hebei, Chen Deng naturally couldn't forget his old brothers in Jiangnan.

For the position of Governor of Jiangnan, Chen Deng decisively recommended one of his former subordinates.

Of course, he did not recommend Gan Ning.

Gan Ning's main problem was his poor character and excessively cruel nature.

They are not capable of shouldering such a heavy responsibility.

After he finished speaking, the pavilion fell silent.

Pang Tong and the others, seeing that Li Yi remained silent, already knew what he was thinking.

Then Pang Tong stepped forward, his goatee chuckling lightly:

"What you recommended is excellent."

"However, Xu Sheng lacks seniority, Jiang Qin's military achievements are still minor, while Zhou Taiyong is brave."

"It is unlikely that the gentry of Jiangnan, such as Lu and Gu, will be able to be subdued."

Liu Ye then replied:

“The scholars of Jiangnan are deeply entrenched and cannot be respected without high moral character and prestige.”

“When Sun Quan occupied Jiangdong, he still needed to form marriage alliances with four different families.”

"Sending only one general now may lead to unexpected trouble from within our own ranks."

Xu Shu went even further and pointed to the crux of the matter:
"Moreover, none of the three men have the talent to govern the country and stabilize the nation. The position of governor is not solely based on bravery, strategy and military tactics."

They were all Li Yi's cronies and knew that Li Yi did not want to appoint these former generals from Huainan to positions of power.

Then they all stood up to object.

Chen Deng's expression darkened, and ripples appeared on the teacup in his hand.

He glanced around the room and saw that Li Yi's supporters all had their eyes lowered, looking inward. His mind immediately cleared.

The seal of the Governor-General of Jiangnan would never fall into the hands of the Huainan faction.

"In that case,"

Chen Dengqiang forced a smile, "Ziyu must have a good choice?"

Chen Deng already knew that he could not win the position of Governor of Jiangnan.

It was clear that Li Yi had already discussed the matter with Liu Bei beforehand.

It is estimated that the emperor and his minister had already decided on the choice of the governor of Jiangnan.

He had no choice but to give up.

Li Yi calmly unrolled the scroll and pointed to a line of red annotations:
“I recommend one person: Huang Hansheng is suitable for this position.”

These words caused an uproar among the audience.

Isn't it said that the Governor-General of Jiangnan must be a man of talent who can bring peace and stability to the country?
Huang Zhong is indeed brave, but he doesn't seem like someone with the talent to govern and bring peace to the country.
Zhang Fei's eyes widened in surprise, and he asked:

"General Huang is over seventy years old!"

"It would be rather inappropriate to appoint him to this position."

Li Yi said calmly:
"In the past, Zhao Chongguo pacified the Western Qiang at the age of seventy-six, and Ma Fubo led a southern expedition to Jiaozhi at the age of sixty-two."

"Hansheng is seventy-three years old this year. Last year, he fought the battle against Wu..."

"He still had the ability to kill a valiant general of Eastern Wu."

"With his military achievements, he is qualified to serve as the Governor of Jiangnan."

The decision to assign Huang Zhong was based on several considerations.

The newly established Jiangnan region is now a place where powerful forces are deeply entrenched and intertwined.

No matter who is put in power, it is easy to cultivate a huge force.

Huang Zhong actually had no family influence or followers.

He had military merits in destroying Wu, which could win him the respect of the people.

Meanwhile, Huang Zhong was already in his seventies.

At this age, you never know when you might kick the bucket.

Therefore, neither the people of Jiangnan nor those who coveted the position of Governor of Jiangnan would have much dissatisfaction.

Because they knew Huang Zhong wouldn't last many years.

Even if he doesn't die of old age, at his age, will he still have the energy to continue working?

Therefore, assigning Huang Zhong was the decision that best balanced the various forces.

It was also a good transition to help the Han Dynasty digest the influence of the Jiangnan region.

Guan Yu's phoenix eyes brightened slightly:
"Hansheng is indeed a veteran general. However, naval warfare is prevalent in Jiangnan, which may not be his forte?"

"Therefore, two deputy commanders were appointed."

Li Yi then pointed to two more people: "Ding Feng is in charge of the navy, and Xu Sheng is in charge of the infantry."

"Hansheng is stationed in Jianye, overseeing the overall situation."

Ding Feng was a surrendered general from the Wu Kingdom, while Xu Sheng was a veteran general from Huainan.

Everyone sighed inwardly, thinking that His Majesty's arrangement had truly mastered the art of checks and balances.

"The position of Military Governor of Henan is held by Gao Shun."

Li Yi's voice was like the clash of metal and stone, startling a flock of geese that swept across the sky in front of the hall.

"Zhang Liao will succeed as commander of the Qingxu Army."

The civil and military officials in the hall fell silent.

Chen Deng frowned and said in a deep voice:

"Please think it over!"

"Zang Xuangao was stationed in Qingxu for twenty years, and the people all called him 'Lord Taishan'."

“Last year, when there was a locust plague in Xuzhou, he still spent his own money to buy grain from Jingzhou and Yangzhou to relieve the famine.”

"This year, when Qingzhou was flooded, I personally led my soldiers to carry soil and build dikes."

"He has done nothing wrong. If his position is changed abruptly, it may discourage the soldiers."

Li Yi's move was clearly intended to strip the Taishan Gang of its military power.

Despite Zang Ba's successful management in Qingxu, he even personally distributed his wealth to relieve the people on several occasions.

But that's precisely why we need to reduce your military power.

Otherwise, the people of Qingxu will only remember you, Lord Taishan.

They have forgotten His Majesty's great kindness.

Li Yi said solemnly:
"Wen Yuan's might shook Xiaoyao Ford, and in the Battle of Hefei, he defeated 100,000 with only 800 men."

"Is he not qualified to take on the responsibility?"

"It is not that Wen Yuan was not virtuous."

Chen Deng's wide sleeves trembled slightly as the spring breeze from outside the eaves swept in, stirring the few strands of frost on his forehead.

“However, Zang Ba’s troops were all from Mount Tai, and the succession was from father to son, and from elder brother to younger brother.”

"His power in Qing and Xu provinces is immense, and now he has seized power without cause."

"For example, if you dig up the roots of an old banyan tree and force a new pine tree to grow, it may cause trouble."

"...That's precisely why military reform is necessary."

Li Yi suddenly stood up, his sword shattering the light and shadow on the ground.

"Do you know how many soldiers are in the Qingxu Army? They number 100,000 armored soldiers and have 1,000 warships!"

"Zang Ba reported at the end of the year that 30% of the warhorses had died and no new horses had been replaced, and 40% of the ships were still docked in port without being repaired due to decay."

"—Is this Taishan Army the official army of the Han Dynasty, or the private army of the Zang family?"

“If we don’t take action for a long time, even the imperial decrees won’t be able to mobilize him.”

"The military reform is not intended to make things difficult for veteran generals."

Li Yi's knuckles turned blue from gripping the glass, his gaze piercing through the carved window like an arrow.

"The governors and quartermasters of each prefecture will be directly appointed from the central government, and the families of generals will be relocated to Ye City—"

“These regulations were not previously included in Zang Ba’s selection.”

"Today, Wen Yuan is being dispatched to his post, carrying the imperial insignia and the title of Prime Minister!"

"No matter how many difficulties and obstacles there are, we must carry it out!"

Zhang Liao suddenly looked up: "What if General Zang refuses to hand over the seal?"

"That is treason!"

The tiger tally in Li Yi's sleeve clattered to the table, startling crows into flight and obscuring the sky.

"I will order Gao Shun to lead the Henan army and Xu Huang to lead the Hebei army out of Langya to assist you, Wen Yuan, in taking up your post."

"On the day you take up your post, you will be accompanied by Imperial Guardsmen wielding yellow axes."

……

(End of this chapter)