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

Chapter 458 The royal army pacified Yizhou in an instant; even without borrowing the east wind, it could be achieved.
Meanwhile, the new market economy policies spearheaded by Li Yi injected new vitality into the massive war machine of the Han Dynasty.

Not only did domestic industry and commerce flourish, but foreign trade also prospered like never before.

Ports along the southeastern coast, such as Jiaozhi and Panyu.

Every day, thousands of sails compete for passage, and merchants gather in droves.

Rare and exotic treasures from Southeast Asia, India, and even more distant countries.

Silk, porcelain, and tea from the Central Plains converged here.

It is composing a symphony of wealth and exchange.

this day,
The official in charge of the allocation and trade management of materials in the Jiangnan region received a rather unusual report.

A merchant claiming to be from the far west, "Da Qin," arrived carrying a large quantity of rare goods, intending to purchase high-quality silk.

This merchant, whose Chinese name was "Qin Lun," could speak quite fluent Mandarin.

Moreover, his demeanor was extraordinary, unlike that of an ordinary merchant.

The Equalization Commissioner was well aware of the court, especially Prime Minister Li, who had retired but still wielded considerable influence.

It has always been committed to expanding external connections and increasing the scale of trade along the Silk Road.

They longed to export Chinese products overseas.

These merchants from distant Rome were precisely the kind of people the court was eager to contact.

He dared not delay and immediately sent the news to the imperial court in Luoyang via express courier.

Inside Weiyang Palace in Luoyang.

After reading the report, Emperor Liu Shan was indeed greatly pleased.

He was well aware of his father, Li Yi's, obsession with opening up trade routes to the West.

If direct trade with the Roman Empire could be facilitated, the Prime Minister would surely be pleased.

He immediately issued an edict saying:
"Immediately summon this great Qin merchant, Qin Lun, to the capital for an audience. The counties and prefectures along the way must provide him with proper hospitality, and there must be no mishaps!"

The imperial edict was issued, and the post horses galloped away.

After several days of travel, Qin Lun and his entourage were exhausted.

Finally, they arrived at the heart of the empire—Luoyang.

On the morning of that day, civil and military officials lined up on both sides, solemn and dignified.

Under the watchful eyes of countless curious and scrutinizing gazes.

Qin Lun slowly walked into the main hall and paid homage to the emperor according to Han rites.

"Qin Lun, a commoner of the Great Qin, pays his respects to His Majesty the Emperor of the Great Han."

"Long live His Majesty! Long live the Emperor!"

Qin Lun's voice was loud and clear, and although his Mandarin had a slightly foreign accent, it was still clearly audible.

All the officials stared intently at him, and they saw that this man was indeed very different from the people of the Central Plains.

Although he also had black hair and black eyes, his hair was curly.

He has a high, straight nose like an eagle's hook, deep-set eyes, and a fairer complexion than most people.

They wore intricately patterned brocade robes, each with a distinct style.

Liu Shan sat high on the dragon throne, scrutinizing him with great interest, and asked:
"Qin Lun, I have heard that the people of Qin are mostly blond-haired and blue-eyed, and look like aliens."

"Why is it that your appearance is only slightly different from your slightly high nose bridge?"

"They are quite similar to us people from the Central Plains, with black hair and black eyes?"

Qin Lun remained calm and composed, bowing again as he answered:
"...report back to Your Majesty."

"In our country, black hair is a symbol of orthodoxy and power, tracing back to Romulus and Remus, the founders of the city."

"Even the most distinguished members of the Senate and consuls mostly have black hair."

"As for the blonds,"

He paused, his tone carrying a subtle hint of disdain.

"Most of them are of the bloodline of northern Germanic barbarians or freed slaves."

"According to the laws of our country, it is even stipulated that prostitutes must dye their hair blonde."

"To make their lowly status clear and easy to identify."

Upon hearing this, all the officials in the hall looked surprised and whispered among themselves.

Such a custom of distinguishing social status by hair color is truly unheard of.

Liu Shan also found it novel and asked again:

"……I see."

"The name Qin Lun used is quite elegant; I wonder who came up with it?"

"Did you know all along that China also had a 'Qin'?"

Qin Lun smiled slightly and replied:

"Your Majesty, this name was chosen by me on my own."

“The original name of Xiaoren in Daqin is quite similar to the transliteration of the two characters ‘Qin Lun’.”

"Moreover, I have always admired Eastern civilization and know that China once had the powerful Qin dynasty."

"Unifying the six kingdoms and dominating all directions, it has something in common with our Rome."

"Therefore, I chose this name, as it suits my pronunciation."

"It also expresses admiration and a hope to narrow the distance with the Celestial Empire."

Upon hearing this, Liu Shan nodded, feeling a greater sense of goodwill towards the foreign merchant's shrewdness and erudition.

He then asked with concern:

"You have traveled thousands of miles by boat, which is truly commendable."

"I wonder what the state of the Qin Dynasty is like now? Are the people safe and sound?"

A shadow crossed Qin Lun's face when his homeland was mentioned.

He sighed softly, his tone becoming heavy:

"...I dare not conceal this from Your Majesty."

"Our country is currently in a very bad situation."

"Within the empire, warlords held sway, and the Senate and the emperor were locked in a power struggle."

"Frequent internal strife has led to widespread poverty and hardship."

“What is even more worrying is the emergence of a powerful new empire in the East, called Sassanid Persia.”

"Their momentum was fierce, and they continued to invade westward."

"In order to protect our territory, our Great Qin has no choice but to mobilize the entire nation's strength."

"After years of fighting against them, our national strength has been greatly depleted."

He raised his head, his eyes showing a hint of weariness and helplessness.

"My purpose in embarking on this voyage is, of course, to trade and make a profit."

"On the other hand, it was also to avoid the calamities of war in the country and to find a peaceful and prosperous place."

Upon hearing this, Liu Shan felt deeply moved and exclaimed:
“When I heard your words, I felt a deep resonance in my heart.”

"Our great Han Dynasty also suffered decades of war, with warlords ruling in their own territories and the people living in misery."

"Fortunately, the late emperor and all his ministers worked together with one heart and one mind, which enabled us to sweep away the chaos and restore unity to the world."

"The hardships involved are beyond what outsiders can understand."

"I am deeply saddened to hear that your country is also in turmoil."

"If your country has any need for assistance from the Great Han, please speak freely, and I will certainly consider it."

After speaking, he gently gestured, "Please take a seat."

The eunuch quickly brought over a brocade stool, and Qin Lun thanked the emperor and sat down sideways.

His gaze swept across the hall for a moment, then he suddenly rose, respectfully bowed to Liu Shan, and asked:
"Your Majesty, I dare to ask a question."

"Is your Prime Minister Li Yi, who championed reform and ushered in a golden age, in this hall today?"

Li Yi, who had been sitting at the head of the civil official's line and had been observing the situation quietly, slowly stood up upon hearing this.

He walked steadily to the steps before the imperial staircase and proclaimed in a clear voice:
"...I am Li Yi."

"You have come from afar, how do you know this old man?"

Upon seeing Li Yi, Qin Lun's eyes immediately lit up with intense light.

He straightened his clothes and bowed deeply with the utmost solemn Roman etiquette, placing his hand on his chest.

He bowed deeply to Li Yi, his tone filled with heartfelt admiration:

"So you are Prime Minister Li! You certainly have an extraordinary presence!"

"The Prime Minister's name is renowned far and wide, even in the Qin Dynasty, thousands of miles away!"

How could a petty person not recognize this?

He straightened up and continued excitedly:

"Your Excellency may not know that you strongly advocate for opening up trade with foreign countries and encouraging commerce and industry."

"It not only benefits the Han Dynasty, but also has an impact that spreads overseas through trade and travel!"

"The influx of large quantities of silk and porcelain changed the lifestyle of the nobles of our Great Qin."

"Your economic strategies of unifying the currency system and establishing a system of equal distribution and price stabilization have also been adopted as a reference by some insightful people in our country!"

"You are a legend of the East, a giant who created a golden age."

"I have long admired you!"

Li Yi stroked his beard and nodded, a hint of relief flashing in his eyes.

Qin Lun was a real historical figure.

Historical records state, "In the fifth year of Huangwu, a merchant from the Qin state named Qin Lun came to Jiaozhi. The governor of Jiaozhi, Wu Miao, sent him to Quan. Quan asked about the local customs and folklore, and Qin Lun answered him in detail."

Furthermore, Qin Lun was the Westerner who spent the longest time in China before Marco Polo.

Historically, Qin Lun lived in the capital of Wu for many years and was often by Sun Quan's side.

Some scholars speculate that he may not have been an ordinary businessman, but rather a figure similar to a chamber of commerce leader.

His main activity was not doing business himself, but using his influence to help Qin merchants expand their markets.

Historical records show that trade between Daqin (the Roman Empire) and China became increasingly frequent after the Wei and Jin dynasties.

The Qin Dynasty purchased silk from China, and its exports mainly consisted of jewelry such as coral, amber, pearls, and jewels, as well as glass crafts and various spices.

This owes much to business leaders like Qin Lun.

For Li Yi, who was eager to expand trade and strengthen foreign ties.

Qin Lun's arrival was naturally met with great welcome.

Li Yi said in a deep voice:
"...You flatter me."

"What I have done is nothing more than to strengthen the country and enrich the people, and to fulfill my duty as a subject."

"However, we should strengthen exchanges between the two great civilizations of the East and the West, and share what we have and need."

"It is certainly beneficial and harmless to the prosperity of both countries."

"Judging from your appearance, you are no ordinary merchant. If you are interested in expanding the scale of trade between our two countries and deepening our exchanges..."

"I am willing to mediate and provide my full assistance."

Qin Lun was overjoyed upon hearing this and quickly said:

"Your Excellency is wise! I am indeed not merely a merchant."

"In my humble country, I am also the leader of the Roman Chamber of Commerce, and I have ventured eastward this time."

"It is precisely to act as a bridge between the two great empires and establish stable trade ties!"

"If Your Excellency and His Majesty do not despise me, I am willing to stay in China for a long time."

"By leveraging its influence in the West, it organized a fleet of ships."

“The treasures, glass, spices and even ingenious crafts of the Qin Dynasty were continuously transported to the Central Plains.”

"At the same time, we also exported the Celestial Empire's silk, porcelain, tea and other goods to Western countries!"

"Good! Great good!"

Li Yi smiled with satisfaction. "I am looking for an opportunity to export more of our country's tea, porcelain, silk and other goods overseas."

"If you can help me sell these goods and expand into the Western market..."

"This is truly a win-win situation, something I couldn't be happier than this!"

Immediately, Li Yi turned to Liu Shan and solemnly reported:

"Your Majesty, this old minister has read Qin's discourse and found it to be eloquent and insightful."

"Moreover, he holds a high position in his country, his words are credible, and his aspirations are commendable."

"If he were entrusted with the duties of receiving foreign guests and assisting in trade."

"It will surely help our great Han Dynasty further expand its trade routes in the Western Regions and overseas, and spread our national prestige far and wide."

Liu Shan saw that his father, the chancellor, was so determined to protect the matter, and that the matter itself was in line with the court's expansionist policies.

The request was immediately granted, and the imperial decree was announced aloud:
"Qin Lun, listen to my decree! I appreciate your sincerity in coming from afar, your fluency in various languages, and your familiarity with foreign affairs."

"You are hereby appointed as 'Envoy of Guest Affairs,' with a rank equivalent to 600 shi (a unit of grain), and placed under the jurisdiction of the Grand Herald."

"Specializing in receiving envoys from all directions and assisting in foreign trade matters."

"I hope you will be loyal to your duties and not disappoint me!"

Qin Lun was so excited that he prostrated himself and kowtowed.

"Your subject Qin Lun thanks Your Majesty for your great favor!"

"I will certainly do my utmost to serve the Celestial Empire!"

Liu Shan was in a good mood and said affectionately:
"Since you, Qin Aiqing, are now my subject, I hereby bestow upon you a title."

“‘Great Qin is good at business’, to show closeness.”

"Your Majesty, I thank you again for bestowing upon me this title!"

Qin Lun bowed in gratitude once more.

After the court meeting, Liu Shan, in high spirits, personally led Qin Lun on a tour of the royal gardens.

He displayed the demeanor of a master of the Celestial Empire.

But what one sees are pavilions and towers, with carved beams and painted rafters.

Rare flowers and exotic plants, precious birds and auspicious animals.

Qin Lun was overwhelmed with admiration.

"Qin Qing, what are your impressions since arriving in China?"

Liu Shan asked with no small amount of pride.

Qin Lun sincerely praised:

"Your Majesty, our Celestial Empire is vast and rich in resources, and its civilization is flourishing."

"The abundance of produce, the perfection of etiquette, and the magnificence of the palaces are truly the most magnificent sights I have ever seen in my life!"

"Truly worthy of being called a great nation in the East, a model of civilization!"

As they were walking, they suddenly saw a group of laborers building a new waterside pavilion in the garden.

These laborers had dark skin, were generally short in stature, and had messy hair.

They were all dressed in coarse linen shorts and worked diligently under the supervision of the foreman.

Qin Lun stopped, looked on curiously, and asked:
"Your Majesty, these laborers have unusual appearances. May I ask where they are from?"

Liu Shan glanced at it casually and explained:
"...These are the people of the mountains and rivers."

"In previous years, the imperial court quelled the rebellion of the Yue people in the mountains of Jiangnan and captured many people."

“These people do not submit to the king’s rule, have lived in the mountains for a long time, and are quite unruly.”

Therefore, he was punished by being made a government slave and forced to perform hard labor.

"Shan Yue..."

Qin Lun examined it carefully, his eyes filled with curiosity.

"Such a appearance is something I have never seen in Qin or any of the countries along the way. It is truly a rare sight."

Liu Shan laughed heartily when he saw that Liu Shan was interested in these servants.

To demonstrate the generosity of the Celestial Empire, he immediately instructed the accompanying eunuchs:

"By imperial decree, select ten male and ten female servants from the Yue tribes here."

"I bestow upon Qin Qing the position of servant to assist him in managing his daily life in China."

Qin Lun was flattered and immediately bowed:
"Your Majesty's generous gift has deeply moved me!"

Liu Shan waved his hand and asked again:
"Why did you choose the perilous sea route instead of the traditional land-based Silk Road when you came to China, Qin Qing?"

Qin Lun's smile faded, his face showing difficulty, and he explained:
"Your Majesty, it is not that I am unwilling to travel by land."

"In reality, the land routes are fraught with obstacles, and the emerging Sassanid Persian Empire in the East is our Great Qin's sworn enemy."

"With continuous warfare and heavily fortified checkpoints, caravans found it difficult to pass through."

"Even if we manage to cross Persia, there is still the Kushan Empire, which dominates the eastern region."

"The country is also quite powerful, with numerous tax checkpoints and heavy exploitation."

"In comparison, although the sea route is fraught with danger, if we can succeed..."

"It is more convenient and safer than taking the land route."

"Therefore, I have taken a risk and sailed eastward across the sea."

Upon hearing this, Liu Shan subconsciously revealed the confidence of a superior empire and said:

"……I see."

"If these two countries obstruct trade routes, I may send envoys to instruct them to clear the way and facilitate travel..."

Upon hearing this, Qin Lun was first taken aback, then shook his head with a wry smile and said tactfully:
"Your Majesty's divine might is boundless, and your heart encompasses the four seas. Your subject is filled with boundless admiration."

"However... neither the Sassanid nor the Kushan were small, sparsely populated states, and their rulers were not mediocre men."

"Although the Celestial Empire is powerful, it is still thousands of miles away."

"It would be no easy task to change their course with a single word and interfere in their domestic and foreign affairs."

"Moreover, the Kushan Empire is not weak, with hundreds of thousands of archers, and they may not be willing to submit easily."

Liu Shan's words were originally just a casual remark, but after Qin Lun pointed it out, he realized that his thinking was too simplistic.

Involving the sovereignty of other countries is certainly no easy matter.

He gave an awkward smile, dropped the matter, and instead said gently:

"Qin Qing is right; I have not thought this through."

"Alright, now that you've come to my great Han, please settle down here."

"Luoyang is far more prosperous than other places; you can experience it for yourself."

"If you have any needs, please feel free to raise them with the Grand Herald."

"Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty! I will certainly appreciate the beauty and culture of the Celestial Empire and live up to Your Majesty's grace!"

Qin Lun bowed again, but in his heart he had gained a more direct understanding of the young emperor's temperament and the way this vast empire operated.

He knew that his life in this ancient Eastern country had only just begun.

His arrival opened a new chapter in the exchange between the two great civilizations of East and West.

……

Yizhou was shrouded in miasma and riddled with towering mountains.

More than a decade has passed in the blink of an eye. Sun Quan, the King of Wu, who once dominated Jiangdong and stood on equal footing with Liu Bei and Cao Cao, has changed his fate.

Now he has become a "barbarian king" who lives in a remote corner overseas.

The years and his life in exile have etched deep lines on his face.

His long-term cohabitation and intermarriage with the local indigenous people has gradually influenced his clothing, diet, and even some of his customs with "foreign influences".

However, deep within those once domineering eyes, a fleeting glint occasionally flashed.

It still reflects the king's resentment and desolation.

What worries him even more is that, despite possessing the island, he has failed to properly reconcile relations with the powerful indigenous tribes on the island.

In addition, with internal unrest, the area he could effectively control was limited to a few coastal strongholds and a small surrounding area.

It is like an island within an island.

On this day, inside the dilapidated "palace"—which was actually a large house built of bamboo and wood and covered with thatch.

The elderly minister Zhang Zhao, with his white hair and beard and unsteady gait, was reporting to Sun Quan with a solemn expression.

“Your Majesty,” Zhang Zhao’s voice was aged and hoarse.

"It is reported that the fleet originally ordered to set sail for trade with Southeast Asian countries consisted of five large ships."

"They did not head south, but instead..."

"Instead, it turned northwest, seemingly heading towards the Central Plains!"

"what?!"

Upon hearing this, Sun Quan abruptly stood up, his face instantly turning ashen.

What exiled regimes fear most is internal centrifugal forces and external threats, such as the defection of their fleets and the possibility of inviting trouble.

This undoubtedly touched a raw nerve.

"Do you know who is in command? What is on board?"

Zhang Zhao answered heavily:
"Your Majesty, the one in charge of the fleet seems to be... Zhu Ying, the official in charge of Xuanhua."

"What is on the ship is what we have accumulated over many years to exchange for grain from Southeast Asia."

"There are also weapons, jewelry, spices, rhinoceros horns, ivory and other items."

"Zhu Ying?!"

Sun Quan's pupils contracted sharply, and his heart sank even further.

Zhu Ying was no ordinary sailor or commander; he was a rare talent among the old officials of Jiangdong who was proficient in navigation.

He was sent on several missions to countries in the South China Sea, such as Lin-yi and Funan.

He was skilled in chart drawing and familiar with sea routes, and enjoyed high prestige among seafarers.

His defection is not just a loss of a talented person!
"How dare this scoundrel!"

Sun Quan was both shocked and furious, pacing rapidly inside the palace.

"Zhu Ying is well aware of the strengths and weaknesses of my Yizhou, its troop deployments, and the secrets of its waterways!"

"If they surrender to the Han court and bring the Han navy to attack, we will be in grave danger!"

He stopped abruptly, a cold glint flashing in his eyes.

"We must not allow it to reach the Central Plains! Lord Zhang, summon Zhou Yin immediately!"

Before long, a tall, strong-looking young general strode in.

It was Zhou Yin, one of Sun Quan's more capable naval commanders.

"Zhou Yin, obey my command!"

Sun Quan's gaze was sharp as a knife: "Zhu Ying has defected and led his fleet westward to the Central Plains."

"You shall immediately muster thirty fast ships and skilled sailors, and give chase at full speed!"

"We must intercept him before he reaches Han territory and capture him, bringing him back to Yizhou!"

Zhou Yin clasped his hands in acceptance of the order:

"I will obey your orders!"

Sun Quan walked up to him, lowered his voice, and spoke in a chilling tone.

"If Zhu Ying... insists on refusing to turn back..."

He made a chopping gesture and then carried out the second order:
"Intercept and kill them on the spot! We must not let them fall into the hands of the Han army!"

"The fleet and the cargo can all be abandoned."

"We must bring back Zhu Ying's head!"

Zhou Yin's heart skipped a beat, sensing the undeniable killing intent in Sun Quan's words, and he solemnly replied:

"Yes, sir! I understand! I will not fail in my mission!"

Zhou Yin accepted the order and quickly assembled the fleet.

More than 30 fast boats that have been modified for near-shore navigation.

Like an arrow released from a bow, it sailed away from the simple port of Yizhou, cutting through the waves.

They sped off in the direction that Zhu Ying's fleet might be heading in the west.

Tracking at sea is no easy task, but fortunately Zhou Yin is also familiar with this area of ​​water.

After several days of relentless pursuit, they finally spotted the sails of Zhu Ying's fleet on the sea, several days' voyage northwest of Yizhou.

"Beat the drums! Raise the flag!"

"Order all ships to surround them!"

Zhou Yin stood at the bow of the ship and gave a stern order.

The war drums beat loudly, and the flags flutter in the wind.

Zhou Yin's fast boat fleet quickly deployed in a crescent shape, encircling Zhu Ying's fleet.

The two fleets gradually approached each other.

Zhou Yin stood at the bow of the ship, gathered his strength, and shouted to the opposite side:
"Constable Zhu! How have you been?"

"His Majesty has decreed that you shall immediately return to Yizhou, and all past transgressions shall be forgiven!"

"Don't make a mistake!!"

Zhu Ying's ship slowly adjusted its course, confronting Zhou Yin's fleet.

Zhu Ying appeared at the bow of the ship. He was about forty years old and had a thin face.

His gaze was unusually firm, though the sea breeze ruffled the loose hair on his forehead.

He looked at Zhou Yin and replied loudly:
"General Zhou, thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty."

"However, Zhu Ying's mind is made up, and I regret that I cannot comply!"

Zhou Yin frowned:

"Zhu Ying! The King has treated you well, why do you betray your lord for personal gain and serve the Han Dynasty?"

A bitter and resolute look appeared on Zhu Ying's face:

"General Zhou, it is not that Zhu Ying betrayed his lord for personal gain!"

“The land of Yizhou is uncivilized and undeveloped, and plagued by miasma.”

“We, the brothers from the Central Plains, have been stranded here for more than ten years.”

"By associating with savages, civilization gradually fades, and we become almost like barbarians!"

"I, Zhu Ying, am from Wu County, Wu Prefecture. My roots are in Jiangnan, and my soul is tied to my homeland!"

"If we remain trapped in this barren land for too long, wouldn't we be forgetting our ancestors and disgracing our forefathers?"

"Today, we are leading our people westward, not for glory and wealth, but to return to our roots!"

"We beg the general's understanding and spare our lives!"

Seeing Zhu Ying's resolute words, Zhou Yin knew he would not turn back. His face darkened, and he said sternly:
"Zhu Ying! Since you are so stubborn, don't blame me for being ruthless!"

"His Majesty has decreed that anyone who disobeys will be killed without mercy!"

"All soldiers, listen to my command! Attack!"

At Zhou Yin's command, the archers on the thirty-odd fast ships drew their bows and nocked their arrows.

Some soldiers even prepared grappling hooks and poles, intending to board the ship for close-quarters combat.

However, to Zhou Yin's surprise, Zhu Ying's fleet faced an attack.

Instead of panicking, he quickly changed formation.

The ship's hold, which appeared to be full of cargo, suddenly burst forth with a large number of soldiers in full armor, armed with sharp blades and crossbows!

They moved swiftly and deployed their defenses in an orderly manner, clearly having been prepared in advance!

Zhou Yin was greatly alarmed upon seeing this:

"Zhu Ying! You...how come you have so many armored soldiers on your ship?!"

Zhu Ying stood at the bow of the ship, the sea breeze ruffling his robes, and he said with a sigh:

"General Zhou! These are all my old troops from Jiangdong, veterans who followed the King here!"

"They, like me, yearn for their homeland every single day and long to return to China and North Korea!"

"It is because the king strictly controls ships and blocks the sea routes."

"We are trapped on this isolated island and cannot escape!"

"Today, under the guise of trade, we gather like-minded brothers."

"Bringing their families along, they fought tooth and nail, all for the sake of returning home!"

"How can we return to that barbaric land and be condemned to eternal damnation?"

"If the general cherishes our past friendship, please make way for him."

"If they insist on stopping us, then we must fight to the death!"

Upon hearing this, Zhou Yin was enraged.

They were both disgusted by Zhu Ying's defection and astonished by the thoroughness of his preparations.

He gritted his teeth and shouted:
"Traitorous wretch, stop your sophistry! Soldiers, kill!"

in an instant,
Arrows rained down like locusts, weaving back and forth, their whistling sounds echoing through the air.

The two fleets engaged in fierce boarding maneuvers and gunfire exchanges on the vast sea.

The hook rope is thrown, and the bat is swung.

The sounds of clashing weapons, shouts of battle, and screams of drowning mingled together, shattering the tranquility of the sea and sky.

Blood stained the ship's hull and dripped into the sea, attracting sharks.

Although Zhu Ying's side was a converted merchant ship, most of the soldiers were experienced veterans who were eager to return home.

Their morale was high, and their resistance was extremely tenacious.

Although Zhou Yin's fast boats were agile, his forces did not have an absolute advantage, and he was unable to take them down for the time being.

Just as the two sides were locked in fierce combat, locked in a stalemate, it was clear that neither side could gain the upper hand.

The once clear sky suddenly changed color!
Dark clouds gathered rapidly from all directions like ink, and a gale arose without warning.

The gale whipped up towering waves several meters high, which pounded against the battle-fighting fleet!

"A hurricane! It's a hurricane!"

Experienced sailors shouted in terror.

Between the sea and the sky, a huge funnel-shaped cloud pillar appeared and disappeared, slowly moving with an aura of destruction.

The immense wind pressure caused the ship to rock violently, the masts groaned under the strain, and the sails were torn and rattled.

Zhou Yin and Zhu Ying were both seasoned sailors and knew the terror of such hurricanes, which were beyond human power to withstand.

If we continue this entanglement, the only outcome will be the destruction of the ship and the loss of life!
"Retreat! Retreat quickly! Find shelter!"

Zhou Yin made a decisive decision and gave the order in a hoarse voice.

"Turn around! Avoid the eye of the storm! Quickly!"

Zhu Ying also issued the order at almost the same time.

The two sides, who were originally locked in a fierce battle, no longer cared about each other and instead steered their boats, which were swaying like leaves in the wind and waves.

They desperately wanted to escape this deadly sea.

Zhou Yin's fleet headed southeast in an attempt to retreat back to Yizhou, while Zhu Ying's fleet was swept away by a fierce storm.

It drifted involuntarily towards the northwest...

After the hurricane, the sea was a mess.

Zhu Ying's fleet was nearly half lost in the storm.

The surviving ships were also battered and broken, drifting with the ocean currents.

After an unknown amount of time, the outline of land finally came into view.

Fishermen along the coast discovered this strangely shaped and severely damaged fleet.

The local government was immediately notified of the people on the ship, whose clothes were very different from those in the Central Plains and whose faces were haggard.

The local county magistrate dared not delay and quickly dispatched troops by boat.

Zhu Ying and his remaining troops, totaling over a hundred people, were apprehended, escorted ashore, and temporarily placed under guard.

Faced with questioning from the authorities, Zhu Ying showed no fear; instead, he took the initiative to request:
"My name is Zhu Ying. I have urgent military information and need to see Prefect Zhang Wen of Yangzhou!"

"This concerns the whereabouts of Sun Quan, the former rebel leader of Wu!"

"Sun Quan?!"

The official in charge of the interrogation was shocked to hear this.

Although Sun Quan's name has been forgotten for more than ten years, who doesn't know that he was a formidable enemy who fought against the late emperor for the throne?

His whereabouts have always been a key concern for the imperial court.

Such a major matter is far beyond the capabilities of a mere county magistrate.

The news was quickly reported to Jianye, the capital of Yangzhou.

Upon receiving the report, Governor Zhang Wen was also greatly shocked and immediately issued an order:

"Send this man to Jianye immediately; I wish to interrogate him personally!"

A few days later, Zhu Ying was escorted to the Jianye Prefectural Governor's Office.

Zhang Wen received him in a secret room in the second hall.

"Your humble servant Zhu Ying greets Prefect Zhang."

Although Zhu Ying was dressed in rags and looked tired, he did not lose his manners.

Zhang Wen sized him up and said in a deep voice:
"Zhu Ying, you claim to know Sun Quan's whereabouts. Tell me in detail."

"If there is any falsehood, I will be executed without mercy!"

Zhu Ying took a deep breath and laid out everything he knew:
"...Reporting to Your Excellency."

"In the tenth year of Zhangwu, the ruler of Wu... no."

"The rebel leader Sun Quan suffered a great defeat at the Battle of Moling, losing his entire navy."

"The land route was also cut off by Chen Yuanlong, who led several thousand of his remaining troops and fled eastward in haste by sea."

"After many twists and turns, we finally arrived at the overseas island of Yizhou..."

He detailed how Sun Quan initially attempted to establish himself in Yizhou, and how he first clashed with the local natives before engaging in limited cooperation.

However, due to factors such as acclimatization issues, internal conflicts, and indigenous resistance, the situation could deteriorate.

Their actual controlled area has been shrinking, and now they only occupy a few strongholds along the northern coast of Yizhou.

Their power is not what it used to be.

"...Although Sun Quan usurped the title of 'King of Yi,' many of his civil and military officials longed for their homeland, and the morale of his army was low."

"The land is barren and lacks resources."

"It is only sustained by plundering merchant ships and sporadic overseas trade, and it is already at its wit's end."

Zhu Ying concluded by stating his intentions.

“Ying was originally from Wu, but was forced to wander overseas for more than ten years, and he never stopped thinking about returning to Han.”

"Now, risking our lives to lead our people back, we have two reasons: first, to return to our homeland; second..."

"I also fear that if Sun Quan finds out that I have defected, he will surely send men to hunt me down and kill me, which will bring disaster upon myself and my brothers who are with me."

"Therefore, we earnestly request Your Excellency to quickly dispatch troops and launch an eastern expedition across the sea."

"annihilate Sun Quan's remaining forces and eliminate any future troubles!"

"In this way, we can both demonstrate the imperial power and secure the southeastern coastal regions!"

After listening, Zhang Wen's expression turned solemn. He pondered for a long time before slowly shaking his head.

"I am aware of Zhu's intentions."

"However, waging war across the sea is no small matter."

"Without an imperial edict, I have no right to mobilize the troops in Yangzhou, let alone provoke border conflicts."

"Such important military and national affairs cannot be decided by local officials."

Zhu Yingtai said:

"My lord! This opportunity is not to be missed!"

"Sun Quan, in Yizhou, was already at his last gasp, and his forces were internally divided and disloyal."

"A single detachment of the imperial army is enough to wipe them out!"

"If we wait until they recover, they may become deeply involved with the natives on the island."

"It may become a disease like scabies, causing harm to future generations."

Zhang Wen raised his hand to stop him, saying:
"Your words are reasonable, but the procedure cannot be disregarded."

"I will immediately draft a memorial and send it to the court in detail via express courier."

"The decision shall be made jointly by His Majesty, the Chancellor, and the Grand Commandant's Office."

"During this period, you and your men should stay at the post station for now."

"They are not allowed to move around freely, and all their food and other necessities will be provided by the government."

Although Zhu Ying was unwilling, he knew that Zhang Wen's words were reasonable, so he could only bow and say:

"In that case... I'm grateful for your help, Your Excellency."

"I only hope that Your Excellency will report back, clearly explaining the advantages and disadvantages, and requesting the swift dispatch of heavenly troops!"

Zhang Wen nodded:

"I know what I'm doing."

After Zhu Ying was taken to the post station for accommodation, Zhang Wen's trusted aide quietly entered and whispered:
"My lord, should this matter... be reconsidered?"

"Whether what Zhu Ying said is true or false is still hard to determine."

"Even if it is true, Sun Quan had already fled to the wild and desolate lands overseas."

"Like a stray dog, what threat does it pose to our great Han?"

"If the imperial court really decides to launch a campaign against the barbarians across the sea, it will inevitably have to procure ships, provisions, and laborers from Yangzhou."

"At that time, it will be a huge undertaking, costing countless resources and money, and the burden will fall entirely on the people of Yangzhou..."

"In my humble opinion, it's better to avoid trouble than to do more... perhaps..."

“Make some minor revisions to this memorial, and mention that the journey to Yizhou is long and arduous.”

"Sun Quan's power is too weak to be a concern; perhaps we can let this matter drop?"

Zhang Wen glanced at the official, his gaze deep, and slowly said:

Your concerns are not without merit.

“Conquests are indeed prone to exhausting the people and wasting resources.”

"However, Sun Quan was the rebel leader personally appointed by the late emperor, and his whereabouts are a matter of national importance."

"To conceal or fail to report is disloyalty."

"To rashly suggest war is unwise."

Therefore, he reported the facts to the emperor and explained the advantages and disadvantages.

"It is the duty of a subject to make a decision by the imperial court."

"As for Zhu Ying..."

He paused, a subtle, enigmatic smile playing on his lips:

"Although he was suspected of betraying his master for personal gain, he was well aware of the situation in Yizhou and had become a mortal enemy of Sun Quan."

"From the perspective of the imperial court, the enemy of the enemy may not necessarily be a friend that can be utilized."

"Whether to kill or spare, whether to reward or employ, is entirely up to the imperial court."

"We local officials will simply perform our duties and await Your Majesty's orders."

Upon hearing this, the official seemed to ponder it and said no more.

Zhang Wen then spread out a silk cloth, picked up a brush, and dipped it in ink.

They began drafting the urgent memorial that could once again destabilize the situation in the southeast.

Outside the window, the mighty Yangtze River flows eastward.

It seems to foreshadow that a long-dormant feud is about to be reignited.

It is:

Calm the blue waves, and seek a title of nobility.

The royal army pacified Yizhou in an instant; even without the help of the east wind, it could be achieved.

……

(End of this chapter)