Memoirs of the Heavenly Khan

Chapter 355 Who's the Boss?
Yecheng.

Inside the governor's mansion, Gao Huan stood with his hands behind his back. The generals of Huai Shuo stood to his left and right.

Hebei is in chaos!

If possible, Gao Huan would not want Hebei to be in chaos.

However, once you're in the world, you're not in control of your own destiny.

If Gao Huan were merely the governor of Xiangzhou, with only a small force of soldiers from the Six Garrisons under his command, he could have chosen not to clash with Yuwen Tai.

But Gao Huan is not just the governor of Xiangzhou now; in a sense, he is the leader of all the forces in the south and north of Hebei.

The powerful clans of Hebei joined him, providing him with money and supplies. Naturally, when trouble arose, they expected him, as the leader, to resolve the issues.

If the boss can't resolve the situation, then the underlings will have to find a new boss.

For the aristocratic families of Hebei, Gao Huan and his Huai Shuo people were always outsiders. The reason they were willing to support Gao Huan was because the Huai Shuo people displayed military strength comparable to that of the Erzhu clan and their special relationship with Jinyang could provide them with shelter and protection.

But if this umbrella breaks, or if it refuses to fulfill its mission as an umbrella, the consequences will naturally be severe.

Gao Huan understood this, so he immediately expressed his opinion.

We must resolutely safeguard the interests of the Hebei aristocratic families, led by the Cui family of Qinghe, the Gao family of Bohai, and the Li family of Zhaojun, as well as the harmonious order of the Ji, Xiang, Cang, and Ying prefectures.

However, despite saying that, Gao Huan did not immediately understand what had happened.

Until Lou Zhao, who had gone out to gather information, returned.

Lou Zhao is Gao Huan's brother-in-law. The Lou family has a strong presence in the north and extensive connections.

"We've found out the truth. The incident started when Yuwen Tai obtained two thousand warhorses from the Rouran and gave half to the Lu family of Fanyang and the Cui family of Boling. The people of the Cui family of Boling were raising these warhorses in the suburbs of Yi County when they were stolen."

Lou Zhao slowly relayed the information he had received to everyone present.

Hearing this, the crowd was puzzled, and some, more anxious, asked:
"What does this have to do with us?"

Lou Zhao replied:

"They suspect it was us, and they even found marked warhorses in our military market."

After Erzhu Yu's death, the Erzhu clan's power in Hebei continued to shrink. Of the three prefectures of Yinzhou, Dingzhou, and Yingzhou that they originally controlled, they now only retain Dingzhou.

Li Shuang appointed Li Yuanzhong as the governor of Yinzhou. His branch of the Zhao County Li clan was considered an outlier among the Hebei aristocratic families, having been the first to establish connections with Jinyang. However, Li Yuanzhong's large army in Yinzhou alone was insufficient to completely defeat the Erzhu clan's forces.

The Erzhu clan's territory was reduced to Dingzhou, while Yingzhou was gradually encroached upon by two forces: the Southern Hebei faction represented by Gao Huan and the Northern Hebei faction represented by Yuwen Tai.

The two armies clashed at Yingzhou, resulting in numerous conflicts.

Gao Huan's expression turned solemn upon hearing this.

Where did those warhorses come from?

"I asked, and it came from Dingzhou. It was sold cheaply, and the merchants in the military market, greedy for profit, bought it."

Gao Huan frowned upon hearing this.

That means all the clues have been lost!

Dingzhou was in the hands of Chilie Yanqing, and the Erzhu clan was the common enemy of all of Hebei. Although Gao Huan and Chilie Yanqing had some relationship, even if they could get something out of him, it would not be enough to quell their anger.

There must be some reason behind this!

Gao Huan felt more and more that this matter was not simple, but at this moment, a report came from outside.

Gao Qian has arrived!

Gao Huan, whose expression had been solemn, immediately changed to a smile and prepared to go out to greet them personally.

Gao Qian was not only a member of a prominent family in Hebei, but also a member of the Bohai Gao clan. Because of this relationship, Gao Huan showed him exceptional respect and enthusiasm.

But Gao Qian's expression was not good at this moment, and he was even filled with anger.

"He Liuhun, what's the situation with the robbery of that caravan?"

Upon hearing this, Gao Huan waved his hand, signaling his brothers to leave first.

"Qian Yong, there's something suspicious about this!"

"You mean it has nothing to do with those Wuchuan people?"

"That's not true, it's just..."

Gao Qian waved his hand, looked at Gao Huan, and his expression darkened.

“He Liuhun, your ancestors went to Huai Shuo to garrison, and now they have returned. There are some things you don’t understand.”

Gao Huan smiled wryly, feeling somewhat embarrassed.

Gao Qian explained:
"Whether someone orchestrated this or not is not important, nor is whether the goods can be recovered. What is important is that our people got into trouble on the territory of the Cui family in Boling, and the other party has not given us an explanation."

Gao Qian showed no respect for Gao Huan whatsoever. Of course, Gao Huan was merely a nominal leader, without even a formal title, so Gao Qian's actions were understandable.

Gao Qian, with a touch of superiority, advised Gao Huan:
“Losing substance is no small matter, but losing face is an even bigger deal. Hebei and even the whole country are in turmoil right now, so it’s time for the surnames of the first-class families to change. You and I are both from the Bohai Gao clan, we share the same fate, we share the same fate!”

Upon hearing this, Gao Huan's handsome face took on a sinister look, but he ultimately replied:
"Qian Yong, I understand!"

……

Pingcheng.

Standing before Yuwen Tai was a Confucian scholar, Cui Xian, from the Cui clan of Boling.

Gao Huan of Yecheng and Yuwen Tai of Pingcheng, along with the aristocratic families of Hebei, all had to choose between these two men.

Cui Xian ultimately chose Yuwen Tai and went to Pingcheng to pay his respects, where Yuwen Tai appointed him as a military advisor.

Yuwentai admired Cui Xian, but he was ultimately a Han Chinese, and his perspective was different from that of Yuwentai and other people from Wuchuan.

"Jilun, what exactly do you want to tell me?"

"Hebei is going to be in chaos!"

Even the usually cold-faced Yuwen Tai couldn't stand Cui Xian's words and asked:

"You've been following me all day just to say this?"

Cui Xian nodded, but his next words silenced Yuwen Tai.

"What does the Grand Commander want?"

Yuwen Tai cooperated with the Lu clan of Fanyang and the Cui clan of Boling, but most of his military forces were still stationed around Pingcheng.

He knew the situation in Hebei, but like Gao Huan, Yuwen Tai initially did not want to escalate the situation.

However, the development of the situation was somewhat beyond his control.

"What do I want?"

Yuwentai harbored some resentment towards the aristocratic families of Hebei.

Cui Xian noticed the subtle change in Yuwen Tai's tone, but he did not back down because of it. He cupped his hands and said:
"The Erzhu clan is tyrannical and cannot last long. The situation of the world will change. Do you not have the heart to bring peace to the world?"

Upon hearing this, Yuwen Tai's expression changed drastically. His first instinct was to look around to make sure no one was there.
Cui Xian remained calm and waited until Yuwen Tai had confirmed the information before speaking:

"There is no doubt about it!"

A hint of expression finally appeared on Yuwentai's cold, dark face, and he looked at Cui Xian with a scrutinizing gaze.

"If you wish to become a commander under the King of Qin, you can remain in Pingcheng. If you wish to advance further..."

"how?"

Cui Xian cupped his hands and said:
“I can lend you a hand! The Cui family of Boling is also a good match!” Yuwen Tai looked at the scholar before him, finally grasped his hand, and smiled.

"I, Black Otter, appreciate your kindness, sir!"
-
Dunqiu!

After Hebasheng led his army across the Yellow River and reached the territory of Hebei, they were quickly intercepted by a large number of troops.

The Hebei aristocratic families showed the most vehement attitude towards this large army belonging to the Erzhu clan—they did not welcome it.

However, it was of no use!

Hebasheng is just too fierce!
After entering Hebei, they captured several counties in succession, and no one could stop them!
Hebasheng was one of the most valiant generals in the north, and his fighting prowess was unmatched. When Erzhu Rong was in power, he used him as a sharp weapon to attack fortified positions.

However, perhaps Hebasheng's tactical talent was too high, which made him overlook some strategic matters.

Looking at Hebasheng returning from the front lines, Nianxian asked, puzzled:
"The Hu have been defeated, and the offensive is going well. Why turn back?"

Hebasheng dismounted but did not answer immediately. Instead, he returned to his tent, removed his armor, and then answered Nianxian's question.

"If we continue our advance, we will encounter the main forces of He Liuhun, Gao Qian, and Feng Longzhi. He Liuhun's army is now strong and well-equipped. If our 10,000 men are lost, how will we survive?"

"Kerjudullu wants us to open up the passage to Dingzhou. If we don't move forward, Luoyang will also blame us!"

Hebasheng sneered and said:
"Take it or leave it!"

Upon hearing this, Nianxian glanced around and waited until Hebasheng's entourage had all left before speaking softly:

"Does Po Hu's statement mean he intends to defect to Jinyang?"

Hebasheng shook his head and said:
"Whether Da Yeshuang can defeat the Erzhu clan is still uncertain. Even if he joins us now, he may not be given an important position. Moreover, our supplies all come from Henan. If the Erzhu clan cuts off our aid, can Da Yeshuang make up for it?"

Nianxian listened with some doubt.

"What are Po Hu's plans?"

"We have conquered several counties and have already occupied a corner of Hebei. Let's wait and see how things develop before making any further plans."

Upon hearing this, Nianxian understood that Hebasheng intended to do nothing.

Hebasheng is a typical person who takes things one step at a time, but due to his strong execution ability, he can always turn the tide.

"But I'm worried that Dingzhou won't be able to hold out!"

Hebasheng didn't care at all and sneered:
"They've already offended the powerful clans of Hebei. Who else can they turn to now? Is Da Ye Shuang satisfied?"

……

"Hou Jing, why won't the king order us to surrender?"

Chi Lieyanqing looked at Hou Jing with a face full of anxiety.

"Do you know that while Gao Huan and Yuwen Tai are having some minor skirmishes in Yingzhou, they're really going all out here in Dingzhou?"

Hou Jing was dressed in all black, completely concealing his face.

Hearing this, suppressing his voice, he said:
"What are you yelling about? Do you want everyone to know I came here?"

Chi Lieyanqing did want everyone to know that Hou Jing had come to his place, but while he had the desire, he didn't have the guts.

Chilie Yanqing knew who was behind Hou Jing.

"What is Your Majesty really thinking?"

Hou Jing cupped his hands and said:
"How can we, as his subjects, possibly fathom what His Majesty is thinking?"

"..."

Seeing that Chilie Yanqing looked like he wanted to die, Hou Jing quickly tried to appease him:
"With the troops under your command, are you sure you can't handle He Liuhun and Yuwen Heita? Dingzhou won't be lost anytime soon."

Upon hearing this, Chi Lie Yanqing spat.

"You make it sound so easy. Do you think Gao Huan and Yuwen Tai are so easy to deal with? If we lose Dingzhou and our troops, how can I stand on the King's side?"

Hou Jing laughed, a laugh that puzzled Chilie Yanqing, who asked:
"why are you laughing?"

"Old Chilie, you're wrong!"

Looking at Chilie Yanqing, Hou Jing, speaking from experience, offered his advice:
"Did you only gain a foothold on the King's side because of Dingzhou and his troops?"

Chi Lieyanqing was puzzled and said:

"what is that?"

"What a loyal heart!"

Hou Jing's words silenced Chilie Yanqing. Hou Jing, pleased with Chilie Yanqing's reaction, continued:

"Without troops and without Dingzhou, your loyalty is enough to keep you standing with the King. Without this loyalty, no matter how many troops or how much land you have, it will be useless."

Looking at Hou Jing, who was speaking eloquently, with his sycophantic stench already emanating from him, Chi Lie Yanqing still couldn't help but ask:
"Then what use does Your Majesty have for my loyalty?"

Hou Jing smiled and said:
"Isn't Hebei chaotic enough already!"

……

Jinyang.

"Your Majesty, she is the Rouran princess!"

Liu Lingzhu stood respectfully beside Li Shuang.

Along with them came a young girl!
The Rouran princess!
This Rouran princess, who had fallen into Liu Lingzhu's hands due to the war, did not have the rough skin and unruly personality of Rouran women under Liu Lingzhu's tutelage. Dressed in Xianbei court lady's skirt, she stood outside the pavilion, like a beauty in a painting.

Li Shuang glanced at it, waved his hand, and said:

"Let her go!"

Liu Lingzhu was puzzled but dared not disobey. Immediately, Liu Lingzhu waved his hand, and the Rouran princess withdrew, her face still showing some resentment.

Unlike the Rouran princess, Liu Lingzhu remained cautious and informed Li Shuang of the latest intelligence.

"Your Majesty, Hebei is in chaos. Not only the Cui clan of Boling and the Gao clan of Bohai, but also the Cui clan of Qinghe and the Lu clan of Fanyang have become involved."

Li Shuang looked at Liu Lingzhu and said:

"Hebei is in chaos, you must be having a hard time in Yanzhou too, right?"

"Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I am holding on in Yanzhou. However, Your Majesty must be careful with Yuwen Tai."

"How to say it?"

Liu Lingzhu cupped his hands and said:

"At first, Yuwentai did not want to make things difficult for Gao Huan, but later the situation changed and Yuwentai became really angry. He has already sent an elite force to Fanyang! Gao Huan is not to be outdone. It is said that Dou Tai also led a force of six garrisons northward."

Li Shuang put his hands behind his back, looked up at the sky at a 45-degree angle, and sighed:
"The Erzhu clan is tyrannical, the country is in such a state, and Gao Huan and Yuwen Tai are still fighting each other. Doesn't this make the people of the world uneasy?"

"..."

Liu Lingzhu stared at Li Shuang's retreating figure, his mouth agape, unsure of what to say.
After a while, Liu Lingzhu recovered and asked:
"Then what does Your Majesty wish to do?"

"I hereby issue the King of Qin's decree: from Youyan in the north to Xiangji in the south, the people of Hebei must not recklessly wage war! Now that the nation is in dire straits, we should join hands to eliminate the Erzhu clan!"

Li Shuang turned around and looked at Liu Lingzhu, a smile on his face that startled him.

"Anyone who disobeys will be executed!"

……

(End of this chapter)