Returning from Taihang Pass to Lu City, even with the newly repaired official road and changing from ox carts to horse-drawn carriages, still took two days. Upon their arrival at the county seat, Duan Qin led his officials out to welcome them.
“Congratulations to Lord for being promoted to the position of Inspector!” Duan Qin’s face showed excitement as he spoke loudly.
In terms of salary, an Inspector was actually the same as a Prefect, both having a rank of two thousand stone, but their roles were quite different. An Inspector was appointed by the imperial court and served as the highest local official responsible for supervising the region. An Inspector had the authority to report directly to the court without needing to go through the three ministries or their appointed subordinates for verification. Furthermore, many of them had military authority, which made them effectively the lords of their territories.
For instance, previously, when Liang Feng served as the Prefect of Shangdang, it was quite inappropriate for him to order the occupation of counties within Taiyuan and Leping prefectures. However, if he were an Inspector, such an arrangement would not be challenged, as any action taken would be considered legitimate with the appointment from the imperial court. This title offered a sense of legitimacy and diminished concerns about their actions.
Liang Feng stepped out of the carriage and responded, “It’s just the same as a Prefect’s position. There’s still a long way to go.”
Inspectors could be divided into military Inspectors with the titles of Commander-in-Chief or Commanding General, who could command military forces in one or even several provinces. But there were also civilian Inspectors, who were responsible for managing administrative matters without military authority. If the imperial court granted too much power to an Inspector, it could have a significant impact on his influence, particularly if they held a title like “Peacekeeping General.”
However, Duan Qin showed no concern, saying, “As long as we have control over the cultivated land, there’s nothing to fear, even without the title of ‘Commander-in-Chief.'”
This was Liang Feng’s greatest asset. With control over the cultivated land, he had control over the garrison. The soldiers under his command were much more powerful than those under the jurisdiction of the imperial court. A single county was capable of withstanding external threats; if he had the authority over an entire province, it would be even more significant.
Hearing this, Liang Feng smiled slightly and walked toward the county government office. Following behind, Duan Qin’s attention shifted to Yiyan. He couldn’t help but wonder why Yiyan, who had been in Qixian, was now at Taihang Pass to welcome them without saying a word. However, he chose not to ask and entered the county office with several core members of the county government.
Seated in the primary position, Liang Feng looked at the people before him. In addition to the original members, Duan Qin and Cui Ji, there were Xu Xian, who had been promoted to handle matters related to bandits, Fan Long, who served as the director of the county school, Wu Ling stationed at Hu Pass, and Yiyan, who had been with him all along.
Adding to that, Ge Hong stationed at Yangyi and Laoyang, and Wen Qiao, this council’s lineup, though not extensive, no longer felt as constrained as it once had.
Liang Feng looked around at the people present and said, “I have been appointed as the provincial governor by the emperor, and I will be leaving for my new post immediately. We need to ensure that everything in Shangdang is well organized.”
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As a provincial governor, he would need to go to the provincial capital of Jinyang. This appointment made the positions of his subordinates all the more crucial. The officials listened with heightened enthusiasm.
“When Prince Dongyin marched his troops, he took away many officials from the provincial capitals. But there must still be local officials left in Jinyang. Chief Clerk Duan and Assistant Xu will accompany me northward to go to Jinyang.”
Duan Qin and Xu Xian both saluted and accepted the orders. They were the key officials in the new governor’s administration, and they were understandably delighted with their positions.
“As for Chief Scribe Cui, you will stay in Shangdang and take up the role of acting Magistrate of Shangdang. You will be stationed there with General Wu. Shangdang is our foundation, and we cannot afford any mishaps there.”
Cui Ji didn’t expect to be the first to be promoted, and his breathing immediately quickened. Such an appointment had its benefits and challenges. Although he would be away from the political center, being entrusted with Shangdang, the place that mattered most to Liang Feng, was a sign of trust and importance. It was also a new challenge for him.
Bowing deeply, he pledged, “I will guard Shangdang for you, Inspector.”
This was the first time he referred to Liang Feng as “Inspector”. His trip to the capital had not only brought about defeat but also clarified what he truly desired. To work tirelessly and wholeheartedly for such a person was what he had longed for. After all, Shangdang Cui was not the same as Qinghe Cui. Considering his family background, how many people his age had achieved the position of Magistrate in a provincial capital?
On the other hand, Wu Ling swallowed hard. He was more skilled in defending a city and had learned a lot from following the generals of the Liang family. However, if the Xiongnu attacked, could he withstand it alone?
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Seemingly perceiving Wu Ling’s concerns, Liang Feng continued, “The garrison troops and the county soldiers in Shangdang will be led by Zhang He. I hope General Wu can assist him in getting familiar with the county affairs.”
Now, the garrison was expanding rapidly, and talent couldn’t be confined to just one place. Zhang He’s performance in the previous defense of Liang Manor was quite remarkable. He was cautious and adept at defending the city. Promoting him to captain was a reasonable choice. As for the newly trained company commanders and platoon leaders of the Liang Manor, they would also step onto the front line and become the main force of the Liang family and the garrison.
Once military and political affairs were settled, Liang Feng turned to Fan Long, who was sitting beside him. “Master of Ceremonies Fan, with the current instability in Jinyang, it seems that the county school will have to remain in Shangdang.”
Jinyang is the provincial capital and one of the main directions that the Xiongnu focus on. If there’s another siege, it wouldn’t be good for the academy. Shangdang has been managed for a long time. It has depth, and it connects with Si County and Yi County. As the county school or even the provincial school’s location, it’s much safer.
Fan Long, however, said, “It’s only right for the county school to remain in Shangdang. However, the appointment evaluations should still be under the jurisdiction of the provincial capital.”
This was a wise remark. Students studying in Shangdang were fine, but when it came to promotions and appointments, they should be monitored by the governor. It wasn’t just about hosting games and banquets, but about making evaluations and appointments a regular practice. Liang Feng hadn’t even dared to mention imperial examinations, and they were already thinking about this, showing that they understood his intentions.
With a slight smile, Liang Feng nodded and said, “Master of Ceremonies, your considerations are well-rounded, and you can establish the regulations.”
Being a governor and managing these scattered counties required a tremendous amount of talent. The imperial examination system was no longer suitable, but a flexible alternative could work. After all, these appointments were for low-level officials, and the previous Zhongzheng1 officials in Bing County had all dispersed. There were always ways to be flexible.
This statement, more than the previous ones, excited those present. This was another significant change that Liang Feng approved of, following the establishment of garrison farming and the county school. Selecting officials, stabilizing the people, and using the military are the foundations of grasping political power. If they manage things like this for a few years, wouldn’t Bing County become as solid as an iron barrel?
After handling these critical personnel appointments, Liang Feng quickly made some other arrangements. For example, Wen Qiao, stationed in Laoyang, could easily take on the duties of the Inner Historian in Leping. Ge Hong, known for both his literary and military talents, could be put to great use. With the framework in place, the rest fell into place naturally. Liang Feng’s various arrangements put his subordinates’ minds at ease. Ultimately, the authority over personnel was in his hands, and knowing how to employ them effectively was the foundation for everyone to assist and support.
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However, there was no mention of Yiyan’s appointment, but most people didn’t pay much attention to it. Yiyan had returned with the governor, so it was only natural that he would have a role to play. Moreover, the Peacekeeper General hadn’t taken office yet, and it wouldn’t be appropriate to openly assign this key military figure.
While others didn’t mind, Duan Qin looked at the two of them thoughtfully. Once the general arrangements were in place, the civil and military officials took their leave, and Duan Qin requested to stay behind.
After all, they had been on the road for some time, and there was an impromptu meeting, so Liang Feng showed a bit of fatigue. He didn’t need to be too formal with Duan Qin and just leaned on the desk, asking, “Do you have something on your mind, Lord Duan?”
Duan Qin hesitated for a moment before saying, “During these days, Inspector, have you had any issues with General Yi?”
Liang Feng’s demeanor immediately tensed up. “Where did you hear such a thing?”
Duan Qin carefully observed Liang Feng’s expression and then said seriously, “If there are no conflicts, that would be best, of course. General Yiyan is not only your confidant but also the commander of the entire Liang household’s military forces. If any issues arise, the potential dangers could be significant.”
Liang Feng’s brows furrowed. The implications of Duan Qin’s words were more profound than they appeared on the surface. He was clearly suggesting that Yiyan held too much power. If he were to lose control, Liang Feng might find it challenging to manage the military, and even more severe problems could arise.
Will Yiyan betray him? Liang Feng didn’t think so. Yiyan was personally chosen by him and nurtured as a disciple through three years of close association. He understood Yiyan’s nature better than anyone else and was aware of the intense emotions that burned within that young man.
So, for the sake of political balance, should he curb Yiyan’s control over the military?
After a long pause, Liang Feng shook his head and said, “It’s easy to find generals, but it’s hard to find true military talent. Boyuan is a genuine military genius, and having him lead troops is only beneficial.”
This was not only Han Xin’s self-evaluation in the past but also the beginning of Emperor Gaozu Liu Bang’s doubts about this great general. However, Liang Feng did not have such an attitude. He believed in trusting those he employed and didn’t want to sow distrust. During the initial stages of building his rule, if he was overly suspicious and guarded, how could he expect people to serve him with confidence?
Hearing the way Lord spoke, Duan Qin breathed a sigh of relief. He had witnessed Lord’s illness and sensed the undercurrents between them after his recovery. Now, with the Lord’s reassurance, he could conclude that these matters would not affect the main tasks. This genuine appreciation and trust, along with the new appointments, were part of the Lord’s unique charisma. Just like Emperor Zhaolie Liu Xuande, changing it might not be appropriate.
However, checks and balances were always a method that civil officials wholeheartedly endorsed. After hesitating for a moment, Duan Qin said, “Once we’re in Jinyang, my lord should gather the people of Jinyang, so they don’t turn to the future Peacekeeping General.”
Walking with only one leg could be somewhat unsteady. Just like winning over Wu Ling and persuading Linghu Kuang, the higher one’s position, the more forces one must contend with. How to make them willingly cooperate and perform their respective duties was the key.
Liang Feng nodded after receiving the assurance, “I understand, and I’m not worried.”
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With those words said, Duan Qin took his leave. Sitting in the hall, Liang Feng didn’t move for a long while. When Yiyan had unexpectedly arrived at Taihang Pass that day, it had caught him off guard. And his unconscious reactions made the situation even more troubling.
Liang Feng didn’t dare to count how many times he had experienced these dreams, and he was truly less disciplined than Yiyan, who adhered strictly to the rules. The awkward interactions between them had indeed revealed something. However, no matter how uncomfortable it was, he couldn’t reveal this to the public, making it common knowledge. Yiyan was fundamentally different from others. Was he supposed to bear a stigma just because of an immature infatuation?
On this point, Liang Feng couldn’t tolerate it at all.
He rubbed his temples and sighed once more. It seemed he would need to find the right time to have a serious talk with Yiyan.
Returning from Taihang Pass to Lu City, even with the newly repaired official road and changing from ox carts to horse-drawn carriages, still took two days. Upon their arrival at the county seat, Duan Qin led his officials out to welcome them.
“Congratulations to Lord for being promoted to the position of Inspector!” Duan Qin’s face showed excitement as he spoke loudly.
In terms of salary, an Inspector was actually the same as a Prefect, both having a rank of two thousand stone, but their roles were quite different. An Inspector was appointed by the imperial court and served as the highest local official responsible for supervising the region. An Inspector had the authority to report directly to the court without needing to go through the three ministries or their appointed subordinates for verification. Furthermore, many of them had military authority, which made them effectively the lords of their territories.
For instance, previously, when Liang Feng served as the Prefect of Shangdang, it was quite inappropriate for him to order the occupation of counties within Taiyuan and Leping prefectures. However, if he were an Inspector, such an arrangement would not be challenged, as any action taken would be considered legitimate with the appointment from the imperial court. This title offered a sense of legitimacy and diminished concerns about their actions.
Liang Feng stepped out of the carriage and responded, “It’s just the same as a Prefect’s position. There’s still a long way to go.”
Inspectors could be divided into military Inspectors with the titles of Commander-in-Chief or Commanding General, who could command military forces in one or even several provinces. But there were also civilian Inspectors, who were responsible for managing administrative matters without military authority. If the imperial court granted too much power to an Inspector, it could have a significant impact on his influence, particularly if they held a title like “Peacekeeping General.”
However, Duan Qin showed no concern, saying, “As long as we have control over the cultivated land, there’s nothing to fear, even without the title of ‘Commander-in-Chief.'”
This was Liang Feng’s greatest asset. With control over the cultivated land, he had control over the garrison. The soldiers under his command were much more powerful than those under the jurisdiction of the imperial court. A single county was capable of withstanding external threats; if he had the authority over an entire province, it would be even more significant.
Hearing this, Liang Feng smiled slightly and walked toward the county government office. Following behind, Duan Qin’s attention shifted to Yiyan. He couldn’t help but wonder why Yiyan, who had been in Qixian, was now at Taihang Pass to welcome them without saying a word. However, he chose not to ask and entered the county office with several core members of the county government.
Seated in the primary position, Liang Feng looked at the people before him. In addition to the original members, Duan Qin and Cui Ji, there were Xu Xian, who had been promoted to handle matters related to bandits, Fan Long, who served as the director of the county school, Wu Ling stationed at Hu Pass, and Yiyan, who had been with him all along.
Adding to that, Ge Hong stationed at Yangyi and Laoyang, and Wen Qiao, this council’s lineup, though not extensive, no longer felt as constrained as it once had.
Liang Feng looked around at the people present and said, “I have been appointed as the provincial governor by the emperor, and I will be leaving for my new post immediately. We need to ensure that everything in Shangdang is well organized.”
Advertisement
As a provincial governor, he would need to go to the provincial capital of Jinyang. This appointment made the positions of his subordinates all the more crucial. The officials listened with heightened enthusiasm.
“When Prince Dongyin marched his troops, he took away many officials from the provincial capitals. But there must still be local officials left in Jinyang. Chief Clerk Duan and Assistant Xu will accompany me northward to go to Jinyang.”
Duan Qin and Xu Xian both saluted and accepted the orders. They were the key officials in the new governor’s administration, and they were understandably delighted with their positions.
“As for Chief Scribe Cui, you will stay in Shangdang and take up the role of acting Magistrate of Shangdang. You will be stationed there with General Wu. Shangdang is our foundation, and we cannot afford any mishaps there.”
Cui Ji didn’t expect to be the first to be promoted, and his breathing immediately quickened. Such an appointment had its benefits and challenges. Although he would be away from the political center, being entrusted with Shangdang, the place that mattered most to Liang Feng, was a sign of trust and importance. It was also a new challenge for him.
Bowing deeply, he pledged, “I will guard Shangdang for you, Inspector.”
This was the first time he referred to Liang Feng as “Inspector”. His trip to the capital had not only brought about defeat but also clarified what he truly desired. To work tirelessly and wholeheartedly for such a person was what he had longed for. After all, Shangdang Cui was not the same as Qinghe Cui. Considering his family background, how many people his age had achieved the position of Magistrate in a provincial capital?
On the other hand, Wu Ling swallowed hard. He was more skilled in defending a city and had learned a lot from following the generals of the Liang family. However, if the Xiongnu attacked, could he withstand it alone?
Advertisement
Seemingly perceiving Wu Ling’s concerns, Liang Feng continued, “The garrison troops and the county soldiers in Shangdang will be led by Zhang He. I hope General Wu can assist him in getting familiar with the county affairs.”
Now, the garrison was expanding rapidly, and talent couldn’t be confined to just one place. Zhang He’s performance in the previous defense of Liang Manor was quite remarkable. He was cautious and adept at defending the city. Promoting him to captain was a reasonable choice. As for the newly trained company commanders and platoon leaders of the Liang Manor, they would also step onto the front line and become the main force of the Liang family and the garrison.
Once military and political affairs were settled, Liang Feng turned to Fan Long, who was sitting beside him. “Master of Ceremonies Fan, with the current instability in Jinyang, it seems that the county school will have to remain in Shangdang.”
Jinyang is the provincial capital and one of the main directions that the Xiongnu focus on. If there’s another siege, it wouldn’t be good for the academy. Shangdang has been managed for a long time. It has depth, and it connects with Si County and Yi County. As the county school or even the provincial school’s location, it’s much safer.
Fan Long, however, said, “It’s only right for the county school to remain in Shangdang. However, the appointment evaluations should still be under the jurisdiction of the provincial capital.”
This was a wise remark. Students studying in Shangdang were fine, but when it came to promotions and appointments, they should be monitored by the governor. It wasn’t just about hosting games and banquets, but about making evaluations and appointments a regular practice. Liang Feng hadn’t even dared to mention imperial examinations, and they were already thinking about this, showing that they understood his intentions.
With a slight smile, Liang Feng nodded and said, “Master of Ceremonies, your considerations are well-rounded, and you can establish the regulations.”
Being a governor and managing these scattered counties required a tremendous amount of talent. The imperial examination system was no longer suitable, but a flexible alternative could work. After all, these appointments were for low-level officials, and the previous Zhongzheng1 officials in Bing County had all dispersed. There were always ways to be flexible.
This statement, more than the previous ones, excited those present. This was another significant change that Liang Feng approved of, following the establishment of garrison farming and the county school. Selecting officials, stabilizing the people, and using the military are the foundations of grasping political power. If they manage things like this for a few years, wouldn’t Bing County become as solid as an iron barrel?
After handling these critical personnel appointments, Liang Feng quickly made some other arrangements. For example, Wen Qiao, stationed in Laoyang, could easily take on the duties of the Inner Historian in Leping. Ge Hong, known for both his literary and military talents, could be put to great use. With the framework in place, the rest fell into place naturally. Liang Feng’s various arrangements put his subordinates’ minds at ease. Ultimately, the authority over personnel was in his hands, and knowing how to employ them effectively was the foundation for everyone to assist and support.
Advertisement
However, there was no mention of Yiyan’s appointment, but most people didn’t pay much attention to it. Yiyan had returned with the governor, so it was only natural that he would have a role to play. Moreover, the Peacekeeper General hadn’t taken office yet, and it wouldn’t be appropriate to openly assign this key military figure.
While others didn’t mind, Duan Qin looked at the two of them thoughtfully. Once the general arrangements were in place, the civil and military officials took their leave, and Duan Qin requested to stay behind.
After all, they had been on the road for some time, and there was an impromptu meeting, so Liang Feng showed a bit of fatigue. He didn’t need to be too formal with Duan Qin and just leaned on the desk, asking, “Do you have something on your mind, Lord Duan?”
Duan Qin hesitated for a moment before saying, “During these days, Inspector, have you had any issues with General Yi?”
Liang Feng’s demeanor immediately tensed up. “Where did you hear such a thing?”
Duan Qin carefully observed Liang Feng’s expression and then said seriously, “If there are no conflicts, that would be best, of course. General Yiyan is not only your confidant but also the commander of the entire Liang household’s military forces. If any issues arise, the potential dangers could be significant.”
Liang Feng’s brows furrowed. The implications of Duan Qin’s words were more profound than they appeared on the surface. He was clearly suggesting that Yiyan held too much power. If he were to lose control, Liang Feng might find it challenging to manage the military, and even more severe problems could arise.
Will Yiyan betray him? Liang Feng didn’t think so. Yiyan was personally chosen by him and nurtured as a disciple through three years of close association. He understood Yiyan’s nature better than anyone else and was aware of the intense emotions that burned within that young man.
So, for the sake of political balance, should he curb Yiyan’s control over the military?
After a long pause, Liang Feng shook his head and said, “It’s easy to find generals, but it’s hard to find true military talent. Boyuan is a genuine military genius, and having him lead troops is only beneficial.”
This was not only Han Xin’s self-evaluation in the past but also the beginning of Emperor Gaozu Liu Bang’s doubts about this great general. However, Liang Feng did not have such an attitude. He believed in trusting those he employed and didn’t want to sow distrust. During the initial stages of building his rule, if he was overly suspicious and guarded, how could he expect people to serve him with confidence?
Hearing the way Lord spoke, Duan Qin breathed a sigh of relief. He had witnessed Lord’s illness and sensed the undercurrents between them after his recovery. Now, with the Lord’s reassurance, he could conclude that these matters would not affect the main tasks. This genuine appreciation and trust, along with the new appointments, were part of the Lord’s unique charisma. Just like Emperor Zhaolie Liu Xuande, changing it might not be appropriate.
However, checks and balances were always a method that civil officials wholeheartedly endorsed. After hesitating for a moment, Duan Qin said, “Once we’re in Jinyang, my lord should gather the people of Jinyang, so they don’t turn to the future Peacekeeping General.”
Walking with only one leg could be somewhat unsteady. Just like winning over Wu Ling and persuading Linghu Kuang, the higher one’s position, the more forces one must contend with. How to make them willingly cooperate and perform their respective duties was the key.
Liang Feng nodded after receiving the assurance, “I understand, and I’m not worried.”
Advertisement
With those words said, Duan Qin took his leave. Sitting in the hall, Liang Feng didn’t move for a long while. When Yiyan had unexpectedly arrived at Taihang Pass that day, it had caught him off guard. And his unconscious reactions made the situation even more troubling.
Liang Feng didn’t dare to count how many times he had experienced these dreams, and he was truly less disciplined than Yiyan, who adhered strictly to the rules. The awkward interactions between them had indeed revealed something. However, no matter how uncomfortable it was, he couldn’t reveal this to the public, making it common knowledge. Yiyan was fundamentally different from others. Was he supposed to bear a stigma just because of an immature infatuation?
On this point, Liang Feng couldn’t tolerate it at all.
He rubbed his temples and sighed once more. It seemed he would need to find the right time to have a serious talk with Yiyan.
