“Did Liang Zixi really withdraw half of his troops?” Wang Yan sat upright behind the desk and calmly inquired.
The Huangmen Attendant, who had gone to deliver the imperial decree to Yiyan, answered cautiously, “Indeed, that’s the case! When General Yi displayed such a stance, I initially thought he would refuse to comply with the decree. Unexpectedly, the situation changed immediately due to some move from the side of Bing County, causing him to reconsider.”
Assistant Liu was also quite frightened. When he arrived at Yiyan’s camp in Ye City, right after reading the imperial decree, he was immediately confined by those fierce-looking Jie warriors. He thought they had seen through the intentions of the court and intended to kill him as if the decree had never arrived! However, after days of anxious waiting without eating or sleeping, the situation took an unexpected turn. It seemed like there was a fallout between the two sides, as most of the cavalry was recalled by Bing County, taking away a considerable amount of resources, and leaving General Yi with an empty shell.
General Yi took the decree without saying a word. Although his expression was extremely unpleasant, he refrained from harming anyone and relatively politely escorted the messenger back. It was evident that the Minister of Works’ scheme of sowing discord had taken effect!
Seated, Wang Yan also smiled, stroking his beard, “Assistant Liu, you’ve worked hard on this trip, truly helping the court out of a predicament.”
At this point, the situation had become very clear. Liang Zixi probably didn’t want to abandon this trusted Jie general, intending to make him refuse the decree and return to Bing County. However, influenced by power, Yiyan chose to stay, retaining only his trusted aides. The other soldiers were all taken back by Bing County, leaving him in a vulnerable position. Now, lacking both funds and manpower, he had become a lone army. Such a lone army needed proper enticement to be used for one’s own ends.
First, allocate funds to Ye City; we must win over those Jie warriors. In recent years, Liang Zixi has achieved numerous victories, gaining fame and recognition. In many battles, Yiyan’s name was also prominent. Such a valiant general could be comparable to Gou Xi, the trusted general of Prince Donghai. If a general of this caliber received his orders, how would he respond?
With this in mind, a reliable person needed to be selected as the Prefect of Wei County. After a brief contemplation, Wang Yan made up his mind, sending Assistant Liu away with a smile. Then, he picked up his brush and wrote a letter to Jing County.
※
Recovering a city that has been looted and plundered would undoubtedly take a considerable amount of time. Moreover, this was the second time Ye City had been plundered within three years. The citizens within the city were naturally uneasy. However, during this period, the residents who still lingered in the city noticed a stark difference compared to the past.
Despite the appearance of these fierce-looking cavalry, who seemed like wolves and tigers, they did not create trouble as expected. On the contrary, women who had been taken away were returned intact. Those houses that were destroyed were also arranged with alternative accommodations. Some officials, who appeared from unknown places, systematically opened granaries, distributed food, relieved famine, buried the dead, and provided medicine for epidemic prevention. With unimaginable speed, they stabilized the hearts of the people in the city.
Ye City was the former residence of Prince Chengdu, Sima Ying, and the people had received much grace from him. They already held little fondness for the stingy and cowardly former Prince Dongyin, Sima Teng. Now, with a new group of people governing, it felt as if they had returned to the past. After the chaos, what was needed was this silent care. Thus, even the frightened citizens, who had their courage shattered by bandits, gradually accepted the stationed troops in the city. After all, these people hardly resembled the usual ruffian soldiers.
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This continued for more than half a month, nearing the beginning of the new year when the new Prefect of Wei County finally took office.
“I didn’t expect General Yi to have the talent for pacifying the people.” Originally, Wang Ping thought that the city would be in complete chaos, with the people suffering. Unexpectedly, what he saw was such a scene, and Wang Ping was somewhat surprised. It’s worth noting that he was well-prepared mentally before taking up the position. If it weren’t for the sake of his uncle, he wouldn’t have been willing to take on such a mess.
Wang Ping also comes from the Wang family of Langya, but his reputation is far less than that of Wang Yan’s beloved younger brother, Wang Cheng, or his cousin, Wang Dun. However, he is self-aware and highly flattering towards Wang Yan, having thoroughly understood his preferences. It is precisely because of this that he received Wang Yan’s recommendation and was dispatched to govern a region ahead of the other two. However, being the Prefect of Wei County might not be an easy task.
Not to mention the bandits, the precarious situations in Bing County and You County are also looming. If not careful, he might get entangled in the battlefield. Wang Ping truly wished to stay away from political affairs for the rest of his life, but how could he refuse the position of a county magistrate? Fortunately, Wang Yan made it clear that his primary task was to win over this Jie general, and he could then secure the defense of Ye City.
This statement does make sense!
Yiyan looked at the newly appointed Prefect, and his gaze became somewhat colder. “Prefect Wang speaks generously; these are all actions of the military officers. If the Prefect can overlook them, they can be employed.”
Is this a humble gesture or a request for rewards for his subordinates? Wang Ping furrowed his brows but soon smiled, saying, “Of course. As the new official in Ye City, I still need to work together with General to maintain the situation in Ji County.”
They are all small officials, just use them. After all, Ye City was previously slaughtered, and the Prefect’s Mansion couldn’t be filled with experienced staff. He brought some confidants who excelled in strategy and discussion, but there might not be many who were good at governance. Since this person is eager to expand his influence, reward him a bit.
General Yi nodded, “Previously, more than half of the defending soldiers in the city died. We need to recruit more troops and request the Prefect’s help with provisions, military funds, and supplies.”
Hearing him change “Prefect” to “Mansion Lord,” Wang Ping’s eyes and brows relaxed even more. This is an eagerness to expand influence. It makes sense; how many soldiers and horses did General Yi lead in Bing County before? When he arrived in Ye City, there were only two thousand riders left, how could he endure that? Moreover, the defense of Hebei is crucial, and he might have to dispatch troops to various counties to suppress bandits and pacify the chaos. The more troops and horses, the better.
“General Yi can rest assured; I will speak to the court about these matters. As long as we can stabilize a province, money and provisions are just minor matters.” Taking on a major role, Wang Ping readily agreed.
“Thank you, Prefect,” Yiyan expressed his gratitude.
Wang Ping smiled faintly, “The New Year is approaching. I will soon host a banquet to reward those who have contributed. I hope General Yi can attend.”
This is the first step in building relationships. Yiyan’s expression remained unchanged, just nodding in agreement. Wang Ping coldly snorted in his heart. No wonder Liang Zixi was so angry that he severed ties with this person. This Hu person has an unpleasant and cold demeanor, making him not easy to befriend. However, everyone has some weaknesses. As long as you are willing to invest, you can always gain the loyalty of the other party.
The two of them exchanged a few pleasantries, and Wang Ping had someone escort Yiyan out. As he looked at the desolate and empty Ye City Palace that had been looted, he sighed softly. It would take who knows how long to clean up this mess. It might be better to deal with it slowly after the New Year.
“General, the officials have entered the Prefect’s Mansion and taken over various administrative affairs,” the soldier reported in a low voice.
Yiyan nodded. The officials sent from Bing County had all been incorporated into the military. Taking advantage of the Prefect’s arrival being delayed, they had already taken control of the political affairs in Ye City. Once things were organized, it would be challenging for others to replace them, requiring a considerable amount of effort. Those literati who were accustomed to discussions and neglecting their duties wouldn’t have the energy for such matters. Most likely, they regarded it as a favor and willingly gave up their positions.
These seemingly insignificant minor officials were essential, as without them, government orders might not be effectively communicated. The official sent by the court this time seemed to be a mediocre person who wanted to win over and use him. In this way, both military and civilian administration would be in his grasp, and Ye City would ultimately remain under the control of his lord.
“Immediately enlist soldiers. Ye City is not suitable for farming at the moment, so we need to find a solution for provisions. In the spring of next year, I will personally lead the troops to suppress the bandits!” Yiyan said coldly.
The territory of one city is still too small. Yiyan is not at ease relying solely on the court’s forces; he naturally needs to recruit new soldiers and train them thoroughly. There are many places in Hebei affected by warfare, and Wang Jun has already swallowed several cities in Ji County. He can’t afford to lag behind. Before the two provinces go to war, he needs to carve out a buffer zone.
Jiang Ying nodded quickly, “I understand. I heard that the Prefect is planning to host a banquet on New Year’s Day. General, you need to be on guard to prevent any fluctuations in the military’s morale.”
Who can guarantee that these soldiers won’t be swayed by wine, women, gold, and silver? If the morale of the Tiger and Wolf Camp changes, things will be troublesome.
However, Yiyan paid no attention, “No problem. Wang Ping is not my lord.”
Perhaps in this world, no one can treat them, the lowly people, as his lord does. Even if well-concealed, when facing Yiyan, Wang Ping still revealed a kind of condescending arrogance and disdain. All the people in the Tiger and Wolf Camp come from humble backgrounds, either town servants or refugees turned soldiers. These people may never have received respect from others in their lives. Without status, without position, and even the basic necessities of life are precarious.
And his lord has given them everything. Who doesn’t have a few medals in their pockets? Who doesn’t own a few acres of military land? Money, women, all these are ultimately external to them. If they lose their dignity, what’s the difference between them and begging wild dogs? Once a person stands up, it’s difficult to kneel down again.
Moreover, there are quite a few Jie people in the Tiger and Wolf Camp. Would Wang Ping, as a governor, truly bow down and buy their loyalty? Perhaps he is just putting on a show, giving some rewards.
Unfortunately, they are not the weak and humble soldiers.
Upon hearing Yiyan’s words, Jiang Ying also breathed a sigh of relief. After explaining a few more things in detail, he withdrew.
Yiyan did not immediately rest. Instead, he lit a candle, arranged his writing materials, and recorded the events of the day. Originally, during military campaigns, he would summarize the gains and losses. This was something his lord taught him. Although Jiang Ying was present now, he still needed to be involved in civilian matters. A good memory is no match for a bad pen, and he needed to record these details one by one.
After completing this task, he put down the pen and hesitated for a moment before reaching for a wooden box placed in the corner. Inside the box lay a jade Buddha. The Buddha sat on a lotus throne, in a meditation posture, with narrow eyes slightly closed, and hands forming a gesture. The jade pendant was not very large, but the carving was incredibly detailed, even the silk-like folds of the Buddha’s robe were delicate and clearly visible. Not to mention, the distinctive beauty of the Buddha’s features, different from the conventional Buddhist statues of that time.
New Year’s Day is just around the corner. He used to give gifts to celebrate the New Year, staying by that person’s side. But this year, can he still present the meticulously crafted gift that took a year to make?
Sitting at the table, Yiyan sat motionless for a long time, finally gently closing the lid of the box.
“Did Liang Zixi really withdraw half of his troops?” Wang Yan sat upright behind the desk and calmly inquired.
The Huangmen Attendant, who had gone to deliver the imperial decree to Yiyan, answered cautiously, “Indeed, that’s the case! When General Yi displayed such a stance, I initially thought he would refuse to comply with the decree. Unexpectedly, the situation changed immediately due to some move from the side of Bing County, causing him to reconsider.”
Assistant Liu was also quite frightened. When he arrived at Yiyan’s camp in Ye City, right after reading the imperial decree, he was immediately confined by those fierce-looking Jie warriors. He thought they had seen through the intentions of the court and intended to kill him as if the decree had never arrived! However, after days of anxious waiting without eating or sleeping, the situation took an unexpected turn. It seemed like there was a fallout between the two sides, as most of the cavalry was recalled by Bing County, taking away a considerable amount of resources, and leaving General Yi with an empty shell.
General Yi took the decree without saying a word. Although his expression was extremely unpleasant, he refrained from harming anyone and relatively politely escorted the messenger back. It was evident that the Minister of Works’ scheme of sowing discord had taken effect!
Seated, Wang Yan also smiled, stroking his beard, “Assistant Liu, you’ve worked hard on this trip, truly helping the court out of a predicament.”
At this point, the situation had become very clear. Liang Zixi probably didn’t want to abandon this trusted Jie general, intending to make him refuse the decree and return to Bing County. However, influenced by power, Yiyan chose to stay, retaining only his trusted aides. The other soldiers were all taken back by Bing County, leaving him in a vulnerable position. Now, lacking both funds and manpower, he had become a lone army. Such a lone army needed proper enticement to be used for one’s own ends.
First, allocate funds to Ye City; we must win over those Jie warriors. In recent years, Liang Zixi has achieved numerous victories, gaining fame and recognition. In many battles, Yiyan’s name was also prominent. Such a valiant general could be comparable to Gou Xi, the trusted general of Prince Donghai. If a general of this caliber received his orders, how would he respond?
With this in mind, a reliable person needed to be selected as the Prefect of Wei County. After a brief contemplation, Wang Yan made up his mind, sending Assistant Liu away with a smile. Then, he picked up his brush and wrote a letter to Jing County.
※
Recovering a city that has been looted and plundered would undoubtedly take a considerable amount of time. Moreover, this was the second time Ye City had been plundered within three years. The citizens within the city were naturally uneasy. However, during this period, the residents who still lingered in the city noticed a stark difference compared to the past.
Despite the appearance of these fierce-looking cavalry, who seemed like wolves and tigers, they did not create trouble as expected. On the contrary, women who had been taken away were returned intact. Those houses that were destroyed were also arranged with alternative accommodations. Some officials, who appeared from unknown places, systematically opened granaries, distributed food, relieved famine, buried the dead, and provided medicine for epidemic prevention. With unimaginable speed, they stabilized the hearts of the people in the city.
Ye City was the former residence of Prince Chengdu, Sima Ying, and the people had received much grace from him. They already held little fondness for the stingy and cowardly former Prince Dongyin, Sima Teng. Now, with a new group of people governing, it felt as if they had returned to the past. After the chaos, what was needed was this silent care. Thus, even the frightened citizens, who had their courage shattered by bandits, gradually accepted the stationed troops in the city. After all, these people hardly resembled the usual ruffian soldiers.
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This continued for more than half a month, nearing the beginning of the new year when the new Prefect of Wei County finally took office.
“I didn’t expect General Yi to have the talent for pacifying the people.” Originally, Wang Ping thought that the city would be in complete chaos, with the people suffering. Unexpectedly, what he saw was such a scene, and Wang Ping was somewhat surprised. It’s worth noting that he was well-prepared mentally before taking up the position. If it weren’t for the sake of his uncle, he wouldn’t have been willing to take on such a mess.
Wang Ping also comes from the Wang family of Langya, but his reputation is far less than that of Wang Yan’s beloved younger brother, Wang Cheng, or his cousin, Wang Dun. However, he is self-aware and highly flattering towards Wang Yan, having thoroughly understood his preferences. It is precisely because of this that he received Wang Yan’s recommendation and was dispatched to govern a region ahead of the other two. However, being the Prefect of Wei County might not be an easy task.
Not to mention the bandits, the precarious situations in Bing County and You County are also looming. If not careful, he might get entangled in the battlefield. Wang Ping truly wished to stay away from political affairs for the rest of his life, but how could he refuse the position of a county magistrate? Fortunately, Wang Yan made it clear that his primary task was to win over this Jie general, and he could then secure the defense of Ye City.
This statement does make sense!
Yiyan looked at the newly appointed Prefect, and his gaze became somewhat colder. “Prefect Wang speaks generously; these are all actions of the military officers. If the Prefect can overlook them, they can be employed.”
Is this a humble gesture or a request for rewards for his subordinates? Wang Ping furrowed his brows but soon smiled, saying, “Of course. As the new official in Ye City, I still need to work together with General to maintain the situation in Ji County.”
They are all small officials, just use them. After all, Ye City was previously slaughtered, and the Prefect’s Mansion couldn’t be filled with experienced staff. He brought some confidants who excelled in strategy and discussion, but there might not be many who were good at governance. Since this person is eager to expand his influence, reward him a bit.
General Yi nodded, “Previously, more than half of the defending soldiers in the city died. We need to recruit more troops and request the Prefect’s help with provisions, military funds, and supplies.”
Hearing him change “Prefect” to “Mansion Lord,” Wang Ping’s eyes and brows relaxed even more. This is an eagerness to expand influence. It makes sense; how many soldiers and horses did General Yi lead in Bing County before? When he arrived in Ye City, there were only two thousand riders left, how could he endure that? Moreover, the defense of Hebei is crucial, and he might have to dispatch troops to various counties to suppress bandits and pacify the chaos. The more troops and horses, the better.
“General Yi can rest assured; I will speak to the court about these matters. As long as we can stabilize a province, money and provisions are just minor matters.” Taking on a major role, Wang Ping readily agreed.
“Thank you, Prefect,” Yiyan expressed his gratitude.
Wang Ping smiled faintly, “The New Year is approaching. I will soon host a banquet to reward those who have contributed. I hope General Yi can attend.”
This is the first step in building relationships. Yiyan’s expression remained unchanged, just nodding in agreement. Wang Ping coldly snorted in his heart. No wonder Liang Zixi was so angry that he severed ties with this person. This Hu person has an unpleasant and cold demeanor, making him not easy to befriend. However, everyone has some weaknesses. As long as you are willing to invest, you can always gain the loyalty of the other party.
The two of them exchanged a few pleasantries, and Wang Ping had someone escort Yiyan out. As he looked at the desolate and empty Ye City Palace that had been looted, he sighed softly. It would take who knows how long to clean up this mess. It might be better to deal with it slowly after the New Year.
“General, the officials have entered the Prefect’s Mansion and taken over various administrative affairs,” the soldier reported in a low voice.
Yiyan nodded. The officials sent from Bing County had all been incorporated into the military. Taking advantage of the Prefect’s arrival being delayed, they had already taken control of the political affairs in Ye City. Once things were organized, it would be challenging for others to replace them, requiring a considerable amount of effort. Those literati who were accustomed to discussions and neglecting their duties wouldn’t have the energy for such matters. Most likely, they regarded it as a favor and willingly gave up their positions.
These seemingly insignificant minor officials were essential, as without them, government orders might not be effectively communicated. The official sent by the court this time seemed to be a mediocre person who wanted to win over and use him. In this way, both military and civilian administration would be in his grasp, and Ye City would ultimately remain under the control of his lord.
“Immediately enlist soldiers. Ye City is not suitable for farming at the moment, so we need to find a solution for provisions. In the spring of next year, I will personally lead the troops to suppress the bandits!” Yiyan said coldly.
The territory of one city is still too small. Yiyan is not at ease relying solely on the court’s forces; he naturally needs to recruit new soldiers and train them thoroughly. There are many places in Hebei affected by warfare, and Wang Jun has already swallowed several cities in Ji County. He can’t afford to lag behind. Before the two provinces go to war, he needs to carve out a buffer zone.
Jiang Ying nodded quickly, “I understand. I heard that the Prefect is planning to host a banquet on New Year’s Day. General, you need to be on guard to prevent any fluctuations in the military’s morale.”
Who can guarantee that these soldiers won’t be swayed by wine, women, gold, and silver? If the morale of the Tiger and Wolf Camp changes, things will be troublesome.
However, Yiyan paid no attention, “No problem. Wang Ping is not my lord.”
Perhaps in this world, no one can treat them, the lowly people, as his lord does. Even if well-concealed, when facing Yiyan, Wang Ping still revealed a kind of condescending arrogance and disdain. All the people in the Tiger and Wolf Camp come from humble backgrounds, either town servants or refugees turned soldiers. These people may never have received respect from others in their lives. Without status, without position, and even the basic necessities of life are precarious.
And his lord has given them everything. Who doesn’t have a few medals in their pockets? Who doesn’t own a few acres of military land? Money, women, all these are ultimately external to them. If they lose their dignity, what’s the difference between them and begging wild dogs? Once a person stands up, it’s difficult to kneel down again.
Moreover, there are quite a few Jie people in the Tiger and Wolf Camp. Would Wang Ping, as a governor, truly bow down and buy their loyalty? Perhaps he is just putting on a show, giving some rewards.
Unfortunately, they are not the weak and humble soldiers.
Upon hearing Yiyan’s words, Jiang Ying also breathed a sigh of relief. After explaining a few more things in detail, he withdrew.
Yiyan did not immediately rest. Instead, he lit a candle, arranged his writing materials, and recorded the events of the day. Originally, during military campaigns, he would summarize the gains and losses. This was something his lord taught him. Although Jiang Ying was present now, he still needed to be involved in civilian matters. A good memory is no match for a bad pen, and he needed to record these details one by one.
After completing this task, he put down the pen and hesitated for a moment before reaching for a wooden box placed in the corner. Inside the box lay a jade Buddha. The Buddha sat on a lotus throne, in a meditation posture, with narrow eyes slightly closed, and hands forming a gesture. The jade pendant was not very large, but the carving was incredibly detailed, even the silk-like folds of the Buddha’s robe were delicate and clearly visible. Not to mention, the distinctive beauty of the Buddha’s features, different from the conventional Buddhist statues of that time.
New Year’s Day is just around the corner. He used to give gifts to celebrate the New Year, staying by that person’s side. But this year, can he still present the meticulously crafted gift that took a year to make?
Sitting at the table, Yiyan sat motionless for a long time, finally gently closing the lid of the box.
