C96. Zhang Liangdong Arrived.

C96. Zhang Liangdong Arrives.

The next day, He Lang watched as the team escorting rewards returned to Luoyang.

Meanwhile, Liu Ji Xin and Guo Mao also set off for Mang Mountain to visit Cui Xuan.

They not only brought generous gifts but also brought Cui Yan, who had been confined to the Department of Artifacts and rarely ventured outside, hoping that Cui Yan could help persuade Cui Xuan.

After learning about their intentions, Cui Yan had a feeling that their plan might not succeed. He knew his father, Cui Xuan, too well.

Cui Xuan, due to his past exile experience, had a strong aversion to the court and was already pushing his limits by aiding Yuan Li in officiated his capping ceremony. However, Cui Yan had not seen his father or his wife and children in a long time, so he willingly accompanied Liu Ji Xin and Guo Mao to Mang Mountain.

Yuan Li also suspected that Cui Xuan would not agree to their request. After Liu Ji Xin and Guo Mao left, he began making secondary preparations - sending people to seek other famous scholars in Youzhou. He also started spreading rumors about Li Li killing the Prince of Chu's couple and intending to frame a eunuch, as well as trying to bribe Chu Hechao and the Governor of Youzhou.

This matter deeply concerned Youzhou itself. Not only were the Prince and Princess of Chu murdered, but all the officials in Youzhou's counties must stand united with Yuan Li, united against a common enemy.

At the same time, Yuan Li, alongside Chu Hechao, began preparing for the upcoming winter.

Chu Hechao took his words seriously and had already started cutting wood, collecting firewood and coal, and building shelters on the mountain early in the morning.

Yuan Li advised him, "Don't strip the mountain bare. Plant saplings as you cut so that the green mountains remain, and you won't run out of firewood."

Chu Hechao raised an eyebrow, "Your older brother understands this better."

With that, he flicked Yuan Li's forehead playfully, then swiftly disappeared.

The orders from Ji County also reached officials in various counties, instructing them to stockpile food, build shelters, and strengthen homes, encouraging the people to do the same.

Yuan Li ordered the Bai Mi prisoners to construct more granaries and sent his personal guards with gold to nearby states to purchase food after the autumn harvest.

This significant action caused confusion among those who knew what they were up to. How could they be stockpiling food when there was already a surplus in the granaries in Youzhou?

Buying more food seemed like a waste of resources and money in their eyes.

While having an abundance of food was beneficial, overstocking could lead to waste and issues such as pests and deterioration. Yuan Li knew this, but why was he still proceeding this way?

Zheng Rong, Jian Shaoning, and Yang Zhong came to advise Yuan Li, urging him not to be impulsive and not to waste their resources on excessive food stocks.

They already had enough grains, with new harvests each year replacing the old. Purchasing additional food would only waste resources.

Yuan Li had always been open to his subordinates' advice, but this time, he adamantly rejected their counsel and insisted on his actions, regardless of who tried to persuade him.

His authority was already deeply ingrained, and his subordinates dare not press further, allowing him to proceed as he wished.

After returning from Mang Mountain, Liu Jixin and Guo Mao heard about this matter. They knew how resolute Yuan Li was, so they wisely chose not to advise further.

After reporting that Cui Xuan was unwilling to assist them in writing articles, they discreetly inquired about Yuan Li's reasons and if they could be of any help.

If Yuan Li had a clear answer about the possibility of a snow disaster this year, he would have shared it confidently. Unfortunately, even he was unsure whether the disaster would occur this year or not.

Under these circumstances, while Chu Hechao was willing to believe and act on his words, telling others would only cause unnecessary panic.

"You don't need to concern yourselves with this matter," Yuan Li stated firmly. "Buying this food serves my purpose."

Liu Jixin and Guo Mao exchanged a glance, bowed, and replied, "Understood."

As for Cui Xuan's reluctance to help, Yuan Li had anticipated it. He sighed, rubbed his temples, and murmured, "It looks like I'll have to ask other scholars for help..."

*

Meanwhile, outside Ji County, Zhang Liangdong and his family finally arrived at their destination after fleeing Luoyang.

Inside the carriage, Zhang Liangdong and Xiang Hongyun lifted the window, gazing around in admiration at the surrounding scenery.

They had experienced many dangers along the way and had anticipated turmoil in Youzhou as in the outside world. However, as soon as they entered Youzhou's territory, the chaos seemed to dissipate, as if it was completely segregated from the internal affairs of Youzhou.

Looking out, the low houses emitted wisps of cooking smoke, and the peasants were diligently working in the fields. A vast expanse of golden rice paddies resembled waves, swaying gently in the breeze.

The scenery was truly beautiful.

The dimming sun cast its glow over the rice fields, and as Zhang Liangdong watched children peacefully carrying bamboo baskets to collect horse dung along the roadside, he felt as if he had glimpsed a peaceful and prosperous era, becoming completely entranced by the sight.

The family members in the rear of the convoy also gazed at the scenery outside the carriage. Witnessing the scene, the women's expressions softened, and their previously anxious hearts settled a bit.

Despite the belief that Youzhou was remote and desolate, it seemed serene and content.

Compared to Zhang Liangdong, Xiang Hongyun observed with even more realism and attention to detail.

As they approached Ji County, the roads became smoother, and no dirt or foul odor could be seen or smelled as the carriage passed through the countryside, arousing Xiang Hongyun's astonishment.

Upon reaching the gate of Ji County, Xiang Hongyun watched with interest as the people queued outside the city gate underwent inspection by the guards.

Since their entry into Youzhou, they had encountered such inspections at each city they passed through. They not only checked the number of people in the group, their origins, and purposes in Youzhou, but also verified the safety of their belongings.

The thoroughness of these inspections was the most Xiang Hongyun had ever seen in his life, effectively preventing individuals with ulterior motives from entering Youzhou. Just from this perspective, Xiang Hongyun could discern how safe and secure Youzhou had become.

When it was Zhang Liangdong's turn, a soldier approached and inquired, "Where are you from? What brings you to Ji County?"

Rubbing his chin, Zhang Liangdong replied with a smile, "We come from Luoyang, and we are here in Ji County to seek refuge with your esteemed governor. Just go tell your governor that it's Zhang Liangdong coming to visit."

The soldier, somewhat skeptical, stepped back, and another rider approached to oversee Zhang Liangdong's group before riding into Ji County.

Slightly surprised, Xiang Hongyun turned to Zhang Liangdong and remarked, "Even a simple gate guard can ride a horse."

Zhang Liangdong, equally amazed, exclaimed, "Yuan Lejun has done a great job of governing Youzhou. In just a year and a half, Youzhou has undergone significant changes."

Squinting as the horses disappeared from view, Zhang Liangdong took a closer look, "Huh, what's on those horses?"

Squinting as well, Xiang Hongyun couldn't make anything out, "Teacher, is there something on the horses?"

Knowing that this disciple had strained his eyes due to excessive studying in the past, Zhang Liangdong responded, "Yes, it seems to be something made of iron."

Xiang Hongyun nodded thoughtfully.

Shortly thereafter, the chaotic sound of hooves rapidly approached the gate.

Raising their heads, the people outside the gate saw a handsome young man riding a spirited horse, his robes fluttering, displaying a heroic and elegant demeanor as he leaped past.

Hearing the horse's approaching hooves, Zhang Liangdong turned to the window, initially in a daze, but soon his face lit up with joy. He chuckled and stood up, stepping out of the carriage, "This boy, Yuan Lejun, has actually come personally to greet me. As a prestigious governor, he certainly doesn't need to do this!"

Has Governor Yuan Lejun personally come to greet them?

Xiang Hongyun also stepped out of the carriage and followed Zhang Liangdong. A group of soldiers in sturdy attire approached swiftly, halting their horses and dismounting.

The leader, a handsome young man, exuded grace and confidence as he strode forward and exclaimed, "Sir, you have come to Youzhou? Why didn't you send word to me in advance?"

Xiang Hongyun realized that this young man, only nineteen years old, was none other than Yuan Li, the governor of Youzhou.

Zhang Liangdong chuckled heartily, and when Yuan Li approached him, he said, "I've come here to seek refuge with you. It's chaotic outside now, and you mentioned in your letter that Youzhou is flourishing but needs my help. I hope my timely arrival and skills can be of use."

Yuan Li's eyes brightened, his smile deepened, as he gestured for Zhang Liangdong to follow him, saying, "Your arrival couldn't be better timed. I happen to have a matter where I could use your assistance!"

Curiously, Zhang Liangdong inquired, "Oh? What is it?"

With a meaningful grin, Yuan Li replied, "No rush, no rush. Let me take you to your residence first, and then we can discuss this matter slowly."

*

At this moment, Zhang Liangdong's arrival was like a breath of fresh air for Yuan Li. He provided Zhang Liangdong with a manor and, after settling his family, discussed the situation about Li Li.

Upon learning that Li Li had murdered the Prince and Consort of Chu and falsely accused a eunuch, and had tried to bribe Chu Hechao and Yuan Li in Youzhou, Zhang Liangdong was furious. Slamming the table, he exclaimed, "This is outrageous!"

Zhang Liangdong was a man of loyalty and honor, having sacrificed three official positions to plead for Jian Qibo, proving his strong principles. Already displeased with Li Li and the eunuch for their escalating actions in Luoyang, hearing this news only further enraged him.

Tears of anger and frustration flowed uncontrollably as he expressed, "It's despicable, Li Li is truly despicable... The Emperor is already in such a difficult situation, and he dares to try to buy your loyalties. Is this world still under the surname of Qin, or should it change to Li!"

Yuan Li sighed, "The General and I always remember that we are loyal ministers of the Northern Zhou, solely devoted to the Emperor and never associating with traitors like Li Li. However, Li Li will not stop, and I fear he will accuse us of opposing the Emperor, branding us as rebels."

With a furrowed brow, Zhang Liangdong vowed, "This must not happen! Le Jun, whatever you ask of me, just say the word, and I will do everything in my power to help you. I will not allow Li Li to continue harming loyal subjects!"

"Thank you, sir," Yuan Li immediately expressed his gratitude, "I only request a simple task, you needn't strain yourself. Just write a few articles on my behalf, to clarify the truth and prove our innocence to the people."

Zhang Liangdong readily agreed.

Observing silently, Xiang Hongyun suddenly spoke up, "Governor, aren't you worried about Li Li's retaliation?"

Yuan Li recognized the man as Zhang Liangdong's disciple and disregarded his offense.

After glancing at Xiang Hongyun, he composed himself and spoke, "If we fear his retaliation, must we swallow our pride, ignore the death of the Prince and Consort of Chu, and disregard the Emperor's peril? Is that not akin to cowardice? A true gentleman knows when to act and when not to. Faced with such disloyal and unjust individuals, it is only right to stand up and fight for the people of this world. Otherwise, how can we protect the people of Youzhou and the entire realm from Li Li's disruptions?"

His words were resolute, moving Zhang Liangdong to tears of admiration. He held Yuan Li's hand and exclaimed three times, "Le Jun, I knew I did not misjudge you. If all of Northern Zhou had loyal ministers like you, Li Li wouldn't dare act so arrogantly!"

Observing Yuan Li's determination, Xiang Hongyun noticed a quality that his previous lord, Qin Pei, lacked. Indeed, Yuan Li, who managed a province so successfully at a young age, lived up to his reputation.

Xiang Hongyun politely remarked, "Governor, your words are absolutely correct."

He bowed in respect, concealing the gleam in his eyes.

The realm, the realm…

Yuan Li's repeated references to the realm begged the question: were these words merely spoken in passing, or did they hold a deeper meaning?

For someone who constantly spoke of the realm, what kind of world did he envision, and what were his true ambitions?