The First Gongsheng of Ming Dynasty

Port, inside the hotel.

Zhang Zhou is holding a special military meeting. In addition to Zhu Feng and Sun Shangqi, there are also two brothers Zhang Heling and Zhang Yanling, and the eunuch Zhang Yong who has just been transferred from the capital, because Zhang Yong himself is from the Queen's faction. Yes, this time Zhang Yong was also ordered to help the Zhang brothers obtain military honors.

After everyone was seated, Zhang Yong asked: "My lord, what are your orders?"

Zhang Zhou took out an official letter from the capital and passed it to several people present for circulation. Only Zhang Yong would read it carefully. After reading it, he was shocked and said: "The British official..."

Zhang Zhou nodded: "Yes, there is something wrong with Huamachi in Ningxia. The British Duke was ordered to return to the court by His Majesty because of the incident. As for Anyuan Hou, he was convicted. Something happened in Ningxia this time. I'm afraid he won't be able to use it anymore. How long will it take for the officialdom in the northwest to change again? "

"That's really..." Zhang Yong looked at the two Zhang brothers, his eyes clearly saying, your brother's opportunity has come.

Zhang Heling asked: "If something happens to Mr. Zhang, what does it have to do with us?"

Zhang Yongdao: "Marquis Shouning, don't forget that the British prince has previously supervised the Beijing camp. If he makes a mistake, the next step... haha."

"Does that mean that from now on the Beijing Camp will be promoted by us?" Zhang Yanling was excited, and then glared at Zhang Zhou fiercely.

The general meaning is that with Zhang Zhou and Cai Guogong here, when will it be their turn?

Zhang Zhou said: "The war in Ningxia has nothing to do with this place, but the war in Liaodong is getting increasingly intense. Yang Yiqing and Tang Yin are leading troops in various places to deal with the Jurchens. Next, we will see the two uncles. Liaodong’s performance is outstanding.”

"Does that mean we are going to send troops now? Is it too early?" Zhang Yanling looked slightly dissatisfied.

Zhang Heling patted his younger brother on the shoulder and said: "Second brother, what are you afraid of? Are you still waiting for them to win and then we go to the battlefield to clean up the mess? Then the military glory does not belong to us! Didn't the Queen say it all, as long as we Go to Liaodong and guard the rear. If nothing happens, you will have achieved this military success. Is that so, Duke Cai?"

Zhang Zhou could tell that Zhang Heling was speaking to him.

It was also a deliberate reminder to him, telling him what the Queen meant now, and asking him to do it.

Zhang Zhou nodded slightly, agreeing with Zhang Heling's words.

He understood in his heart that this was the Queen's faction's attempt to consolidate its position by controlling military power.

"In that case, it's settled." Zhang Zhou said, "Eunuch Zhang, please write to the Empress and tell her that I have agreed with the two uncles to go to Liaodong to assist Yang Yiqing and Tang Yin in dealing with the Jurchens. "

After hearing this, Zhang Yong immediately replied respectfully: "Yes, sir."

……

……

As Zhang Yong left, the atmosphere in the conference room became solemn.

Zhang Zhou looked at the two brothers Zhang Heling and Zhang Yanling with a somewhat narrow look in his eyes.

"Two uncles, when you go to Liaodong this time, you need to closely cooperate with Yang Yiqing and Tang Yin and follow their orders." Zhang Zhou said seriously, "Remember, your task is to guard the rear and ensure the supply of grain and grass and military supplies. Security. Only by stabilizing the rear can we better deal with the Jurchens."

Zhang Yanling said: "As uncles of the state, why should we obey their orders?"

Zhang Heling tugged on his younger brother's clothes and said, "Have you been kicked in the head by a donkey? I am a civil servant, one is the governor of Liaodong, and the other is the general manager of Jiliao. Is it okay to be perfunctory?"

"Brother, you are very perfunctory. Can you talk about it later after you go back? Won't he hear it?"

Zhang Yanling also seemed unconvinced, and the two brothers almost quarreled.

Zhang Zhou said: "You two, I don't care how you deal with it. My mission is just to send you to Liaodong. I will equip you with soldiers, horses, food and grass. When there are fighters, I will let you make up for it. It will definitely be a God-given opportunity. You brothers have the opportunity to make great achievements, so don’t let your guard down when the time comes.”

Zhang Yanling said: "This is not my first time on the battlefield, why do I need you to remind me?"

Zhang Heling smiled and said, "Mr. Zhang, don't be offended. My brother is impulsive when he speaks and acts."

"Who are you talking about?" Zhang Yanling was dissatisfied and immediately retorted.

Before the brothers even left for the expedition, they began to quarrel among themselves.

This made Zhu Feng and Sun Shangqi on the side look at it and couldn't help but feel ashamed. What kind of living treasure brothers are these?
Just like this, the emperor actually planned to let their brothers go to the front line to lead troops in battle? This is clearly irresponsible to the soldiers and the military affairs of the Ming Dynasty.

Zhang Zhou said: "The opportunity is in front of us. It is an opportunity that has never been seen before. After returning to the capital after making a meritorious service, you can expect what will happen, right?"

Zhang Heling said with a smile: "It means that the Beijing Camp belongs to us."

Zhang Yanling said: "You are so stupid. Even if the admiral's seat in the capital is vacant, he will give it to us? Isn't there... this?"

When Zhu Feng noticed that the two brothers were looking at him at the same time, he realized that he might have been targeted.

"Two uncles, I have no intention of competing. I hope you two...don't misunderstand me." Zhu Feng quickly made his intentions clear. I just want to wait for death, but you actually regard me as a competitor?

Zhang Zhoudao: "Let's put it this way, I don't want to compete for the right to promote the Beijing camp, and I can't compete. According to the rules of the Ming Dynasty Governor's Office, those who have the responsibility of running the army in the northwest cannot concurrently serve as Beijing envoys, not to mention that I am the Minister of the Ministry of War. , and should set an example.”

"That's true." Zhang Heling replied with a smile.

It seemed like he had already figured this out.

Zhang Zhou continued: "Both uncles and uncles are close relatives of the Queen. Naturally, there will be many conveniences for this trip to Liaodong. But on the battlefield, swords have no eyes, so we need to be cautious. Yang Yiqing, Tang Yin and I We have a long history of friendship, and they will try their best to help you. Remember, our purpose is for the country and the country of Ming Dynasty, for the people to live and work in peace and contentment, not for personal grudges. "

After hearing this, the two brothers Zhang Heling and Zhang Yanling showed solemn expressions. They knew that Zhang Zhou was hitting them and reminding them not to forget the purpose of their trip.

Zhang Heling said: "Don't worry, sir, we understand the priorities. This time we go to Liaodong, we will go all out to live up to the expectations of the empress and the prince."

Zhang Yanling also restrained his previous frivolity and nodded seriously.

Zhang Zhou felt a little relieved when he saw this. He knew that although the two brothers sometimes acted impulsively and were not good people, at least they could understand human speech. As long as they can keep the purpose of this expedition in mind and not act impulsively for personal gain, then the Ming Dynasty will have more protection.

Zhang Zhou continued: "So, as long as you brothers can achieve military exploits in Liaodong, after returning to the court, one of you two will definitely be able to take charge of the capital camp and become the new admiral."

Zhang Yanling chuckled and said, "In that case, we have to put on a good show."

Zhang Heling glared at his younger brother and signaled him to stop talking nonsense.

Zhang Zhou was too lazy to say anything more to the two brothers. He just said calmly: "Remember, when you go to Liaodong, you represent the Queen and the Ming Dynasty. I hope you two can work together and fulfill your mission. "

Zhang Heling and Zhang Yanling responded in unison: "Yes."

……

...The two brothers left. Zhu Feng looked at their backs and came over and said: "Brother Zhang, do we really have to rely on these two to fight the war? Although the war in Liaodong is not very urgent, but...well, somehow, I always feel uneasy.”

Sun Shangqi heard Zhu Feng's words clearly and seemed to feel the same in his heart.

There are obviously better choices, but he insists on choosing two crappy things, just like Zhu Youtang has a feud with Ming Frontier Peace.

Zhang Zhou smiled and said, "It's appropriate for you to go, will you go?"

"I..." Zhu Feng became silent for a moment.

Zhang Zhou said: "It's rare that the Zhang family still has the desire to serve the imperial court. Moreover, they are the current uncles of the country and the prince's biological uncles. Your Majesty has high expectations for them. It seems that there is nothing wrong with me helping them."

Sun Shangqi nodded and said: "What you said is absolutely true. In the next few decades, the court may need Shouning Hou and Jianchang Bo to serve the court. If they remain the same as before, I'm afraid it won't work. Someone is needed. Guide well.”

Zhu Feng suddenly said: "No wonder. No matter how low their abilities are, in His Majesty's eyes, they are still close relatives."

Zhang Zhou smiled.

Can you, Zhu Feng, tell the difference between far and near?

Do you think that today's sage emperor really took a fancy to the Zhang brothers' ability to do mischief? But he couldn't stand it. No matter how stupid the emperor was, he knew that the Zhang brothers could not threaten the rule of the Ming Dynasty. Not only did they need the Zhang brothers this dynasty, they would also need the Zhang brothers after the prince ascended the throne in the future.

This is the foundation of Ming Dynasty's stability. Even Zhang Zhou had to make way for the Zhang brothers many times.

It is certainly wrong to use nepotism, but when people's hearts are at odds, it is the safest way to appoint relatives. Ability comes second, and loyalty is the most important thing.

"Zhijie, I need you to take care of military affairs recently. After returning to Beijing, His Majesty will definitely entrust you with important tasks." Zhang Zhou said with a smile.

Zhu Feng said: "You mean, do I have any other errands to do after I return to Beijing?"

Sun Shangqi smiled and said: "Marquis Anbian, you don't really think that the post of admiral of the Beijing camp will remain vacant, do you? I guess you will be in charge of the military affairs of the Beijing camp after you return."

Zhu Feng took a breath and said, "That's not right. There are still those days of freedom waiting for me in this capital."

Zhang Zhou also smiled and said: "I'm afraid you will have no choice then. You don't want to accept a job that even your father envies? You are really... haha."

Zhu Feng thought of her old father, Cheng Guogong Zhu Fu, and instantly felt wilted.

The old father had high expectations for him. If he promoted the Beijing camp and the old father promoted Nanjing...then the Duke of Chengguo would replace the British Gongfu and become the most distinguished family of ministers in the Ming Dynasty.

It seems like something that is very beneficial to the family, but for Zhu Feng, it is a heavy burden.

……

……

In the days that followed, Zhang Zhou began to make intensive preparations for the expedition.

A large number of soldiers, horses, and grain were mobilized at the port. Zhang Zhou also went to the port several times to supervise the operations in person to ensure that everything was fully prepared. Zhu Feng and Sun Shangqi also participated in the preparations before the expedition. They knew the importance of this expedition. So they are all very attentive.

In particular, Sun Shangqi also has to arrange the intelligence system of Liaodong. He will set foot in Liaodong with the Zhang brothers, so Sun Shangqi is also paying extra attention this time. After all, this is the first time he has a real opportunity to make contributions after being promoted to the commander of Jinyiwei. .

The two brothers, Zhang Heling and Zhang Yanling, began to gear up and prepare to flex their muscles in Liaodong and make great military exploits.

But just two days after the fight, they went out to drink and cause trouble again. Fortunately, Zhang Zhou sent people to keep an eye on them and prevented them from causing more trouble. However, they would record it every time, and even Zhang Yong would tell the truth. Report the situation here.

Zhu Youtang and his wife knew what the brothers had done without Zhang Zhou having to say anything himself.

At this time, the carriage sent by Yang Peng to see Ning Tong and his servant arrived at the port and settled in the carriage house specially prepared by Dongchang.

After Zhang Zhou heard the news, he rushed there in person, but before he could enter the carriage house, Xiao Qi, a guard in uniform, came over, knelt down and kowtowed to Zhang Zhou: "I see you, Master Zhang."

The Jin Yiwei in front of him looked strange, and Zhang Zhouyi knew immediately that he was Yang Peng's newly promoted confidant.

There was once an emperor and a courtier, but now Yang Peng is in charge of the East Factory, and the port is the top priority of Yang Peng's errands, so it is absolutely impossible for Yang Peng to use "outsiders" here.

"What's going on?" Zhang Zhou asked.

While he was talking, Zhu Feng also heard the news and rushed over. He ran all the way and asked breathlessly: "Is the person here? What's going on?"

Xiaoqi handed an official letter to Zhang Zhou and said respectfully: "This is the incriminating document issued by the emperor. It is a case that the Queen is responsible for. All matters are handled by Lu Qianhu. Lu Qianhu has just arrived from the capital and will be here later." I’ll explain it to you personally.”

Zhang Zhou opened the official letter and read it.

really……

It was clear that Ning Tong had been questioned and was not sentenced innocently. Obviously, Yang Peng did not dare to neglect Ning Tong's issue.

"How is it?" Zhu Feng looked concerned.

Zhang Zhou casually handed the official letter to Zhu Feng. After reading it, Zhu Feng was confused and hurriedly begged: "Brother Zhang, please find a way quickly."

Zhang Zhou asked: "Is anyone inside?"

"Yes." Xiao Qi said, "But before Lu Qianhu comes back, you... I'm afraid you can't go up to see the person. This is what Eunuch Yang has ordered. If you want to pick up someone, you must let Lu Qianhu personally let him go. Not The villain deliberately blocked it."

"Okay, I know it's not easy for you. You have come from afar. I will ask someone to greet you well." Zhang Zhou said.

The little flag officer turned pale with fright.

At this time, Sun Shangqi, who was following behind, said, "My father-in-law really wants to treat you well. What do you think?"

"Yes Yes."

Xiao Qi didn't dare to breathe in front of Zhang Zhou, and didn't even dare to wipe his nose when it came out.

After Zhu Feng saw the little flag official walking away, he asked: "Brother Zhang, what's going on? Since Tong'er has been sent here, why...can't he be exempted? Eunuch Yang wants to help Tong'er after all. Or... to harm her?"

Zhang Zhou said: "Isn't this obvious? Since it is a case that the Queen personally intervenes in, does Yang Peng dare to assign it casually?"

"Then he still dares to send people here?" Zhu Feng didn't understand either.

Zhang Zhou sighed: "It's clear that he also wants to leave a way out for himself. If Yang Peng is asked by the queen, he can also say that people are sent away because of their sins. If Yang Peng dares to pardon Ning Tong's sin, that's I can’t get past the head on his neck.” (End of Chapter)