Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

Chen Biqian did not dare to make a decision on his own. He knew that this matter was of great importance, so he called together his subordinates from the Ministry of Industry to discuss it together in the hall. The light in the hall was dim, with only a few oil lamps lit. Everyone sat in a circle, lowered their heads and talked in low voices. The atmosphere was tense and solemn. Jiao Xu and Tang Ruowang, because of their expertise in the field of technology, naturally became the focus of everyone's attention. Each of their suggestions was like a spring breeze and rain, quickly resolving everyone's doubts and making the originally helpless situation gradually clear.

"Your Majesty, with the current manufacturing capacity of the Ministry of Industry, we can produce at most one thousand Rumi guns per month!" An official in charge of manufacturing reported, with a hint of helplessness in his voice.

"Send people to make it immediately! Tell Guo Tianyang directly about the required expenses, and I will transfer the money from the inner treasury. At the same time, send craftsmen to the Armory Bureau to teach the eunuchs in the inner court the manufacturing details." Lin Xiaofeng ordered, his voice firm and powerful, revealing unquestionable majesty.

"Remember, quality and quantity, neither can be neglected!" he emphasized, his eyes scanning everyone present.

"We will obey your Majesty's orders." Everyone answered in unison, with determination in their voices.

After Lin Xiaofeng finished dealing with the affairs of the Ministry of Industry, he suddenly remembered an important matter concerning the development of science and technology. He stood up, walked to the window, looked at the bright moon outside the window, and had a lot of thoughts in his mind. The science and technology of the Ming Dynasty was unparalleled at that time. However, after the Qing Dynasty entered the pass, it first slaughtered talented people, and then started a literary inquisition. As a result, science and technology declined, and the Qing Dynasty fell behind the world. He traveled here, and he must not sit idly by and watch all this happen again.

He turned around and said to Chen Biqian, the left vice minister of the Ministry of Works, "Minister Chen, I have a solution to the problems of shoddy work and inefficiency in the Ministry of Works." There was a gleam of wisdom in his eyes, as if he had seen hope for the future.

Without waiting for Chen Biqian to ask, Lin Xiaofeng continued: "I plan to set up two new institutions, one called the Manufacturing Bureau and the other called the Research Institute, both of which will be affiliated to the Ministry of Industry. The general bureau and the general institute will be set up in the capital, and branches and institutes will be set up in various places." His voice was clear and powerful, and every word seemed to speak louder than words.

"These two institutions will recruit skilled craftsmen and talents from all walks of life, including mining, iron smelting, casting, manufacturing, mathematics, medicine, farming, astronomy, and geography." His words were full of vision and expectation for the future.

"Ordinary craftsmen enter the manufacturing bureau and are specifically responsible for making things needed by the court. The salary is divided into basic salary and bonus salary. There is no upper limit on the reward for those with excellent quality and large quantity!" His words surprised everyone. Could the court's errands be arranged like this?
Chen Biqian's head was buzzing. He shook his head, trying to calm himself down and continue listening.

"Craftsmen and scholars with creative ideas will enter the research institute to research new technologies and create new items based on their old techniques. They will teach apprentices and write books so that knowledge can be passed on and benefit future generations." Lin Xiaofeng's words are full of expectations for the future.

"With their guidance, the talents of our Ming Dynasty will be as bright and dazzling as the stars in the sky." His voice was high and passionate, as if he had already seen the future with prosperous science and technology and abundant talents.

Everyone in the Ministry of Industry looked at each other. They were shocked by Lin Xiaofeng's grand blueprint, but they also felt the heavy responsibility on their shoulders.

Chen Biqian frowned and said after a moment's silence: "Your Majesty, our dynasty has a system that craftsmen cannot leave the bureau and their service as craftsmen is permanent. Once they are included in the craftsman register, they cannot be removed from the register for generations. I'm afraid that Your Majesty's move may be inconvenient." There was some worry in his voice.

What Chen Biqian said was true. Not only in the Ming Dynasty, but also in all previous dynasties, most craftsmen were hereditary. Although they were exempted from corvée labor, they lost all their dignity. They were either rewarded by princes or nobles, and their marriages and funerals were restricted by the government. They had no power and were of low status.

Lin Xiaofeng thought for a moment, his eyes deep and firm: "The craftsman registration system cannot be abolished to prevent the outflow of technology. However, the treatment of craftsmen can be improved, their corvée labor can be exempted, and the expenses of weddings and funerals will be borne by the court." His voice revealed an unquestionable determination.

Chen Biqian had no objection. He asked again: "Your Majesty, craftsmen make a living by their skills. There is a saying that goes 'Teach your apprentice and starve the master.' Even if there are craftsmen willing to enter the institute, they may not be willing to write down what they have learned and teach it to others." There was some worry in his voice.

"These are not difficult problems to solve! My research institute needs talents like Jiao Xu and Johann Adam Schall Johann Adam Schall Johann Adam Schall 3. Not mediocre people can get in." Lin Xiaofeng's words were full of confidence.

"However, in order to prevent people in the institute from working without putting in effort, you need to formulate an assessment system. The specific details should be discussed in detail by the Ministry of Industry and the Cabinet and then reported to me. I will personally approve it." Lin Xiaofeng instructed, his voice revealing his expectations for the future and his trust in his subordinates.

After hearing this, Chen Biqian and the people in the Ministry of Industry were moved and admired the emperor's wisdom even more. Although his strategy was wild and unrealistic, after careful consideration, it did solve many problems, especially the problems of shoddy workmanship and low efficiency of craftsmen. The research institute aims at the inheritance and development of technology, which is really a perfect strategy!

Chen Biqian led the crowd in bowing and expressing gratitude: "We obey your order." Their voices were full of firmness and determination.

After Lin Xiaofeng finished dealing with the affairs of the Ministry of Industry, he suddenly remembered something and hurried to the Imperial City. The sky had gradually darkened, and the outline of the Imperial City looked particularly solemn and mysterious in the night. The third issue of the 17th year of "Lin Xiaofeng Newspaper" will be printed and issued tomorrow, and it must be reviewed today. He knew the importance of this newspaper. It was not only a tool for transmitting information, but also a carrier of his reform ideas.

After entering the imperial city, he got off the carriage and was still some distance away from the Qianqing Palace. He looked up and saw Queen Zhou holding a few pieces of paper, waiting outside the Qianqing Palace. She was dressed in white as snow, as pure as a lotus, with a graceful figure, standing upright in the wind. From a distance, it looked like a moving painting.

Lin Xiaofeng felt pity and stepped forward, wanting to get closer to this beauty. When the queen saw the emperor coming, she bowed slowly and said, "Your Majesty, I pay my respects to you." Her voice was gentle and respectful.

Lin Xiaofeng held her slender waist, smelling her body fragrance, and was refreshed. He gently pulled her collar with his right hand, and said in a joking tone: "Come, let me see the Queen's newspaper." His words made the Queen's cheeks blush, and she quickly handed the newspaper to Lin Xiaofeng, then turned around to calm her breath.

Lin Xiaofeng laughed, and the tense atmosphere in the palace dissipated immediately. This action also relieved the pressure on the queen. She was under a lot of pressure recently. First, she was ready to commit suicide when the city was broken, and then she planned the newspaper. As the queen of the Ming Dynasty, if this continued, something unexpected might happen. The Ming Dynasty already had many troubles, and Lin Xiaofeng did not want the harem to have another wave of waves.

After the two entered the Qianqing Palace, the door closed, isolating the outside noise. Lin Xiaofeng carefully reviewed the newspaper. This issue of the newspaper was much thicker than previous issues, and it was densely packed with the names of soldiers and civilians who died in the defense of the capital. Each name represented the disappearance of a life and a heavy sacrifice.

"This list was submitted by the Ministry of War, and I have verified it." The Queen stroked her hot cheek and said, her voice filled with fatigue and worry.

"I am very confident that the Queen is doing the job!" Lin Xiaofeng nodded in approval, his eyes revealing his trust and reliance on the Queen. After reviewing it, he pointed to the blank space and said, "Add two things here. First, list the names of officials who have been dismissed recently, their crimes, and their punishments in detail to show the court's attitude." His voice revealed unquestionable majesty.

"Second, the Ministry of Industry will recruit skilled craftsmen at Qianmen Street Square in two days. Anyone with special skills and tools can come!" His words were full of expectations and visions for the future. This newspaper is not only a document that records history, but also a carrier for conveying reform ideas.

"I've written it down." After Lin Xiaofeng finished speaking, the queen immediately wrote it down. Her brushstrokes were light and powerful, as if she was writing a chapter for the future. When the draft was finalized, it was already late. Lin Xiaofeng did not avoid suspicion and let the queen stay overnight in the Qianqing Palace. That night, the candlelight flickered red, and the atmosphere was warm and beautiful. They snuggled up to each other and looked forward to the arrival of the future together.

The next morning, when the first ray of sunlight penetrated the clouds and fell on the glazed tiles of the Qianqing Palace, Lin Xiaofeng had not yet gotten up. He was immersed in his dreams, as if he was talking to his future self. Suddenly, he heard Guo Tianyang calling softly outside the palace: "Is the emperor awake? Emperor! Emperor! Something big has happened!" There was a bit of anxiety and tension in his voice.

Lin Xiaofeng's originally irritable look instantly became solemn. He pushed Queen Zhou away and asked hurriedly, "What's the matter?" His voice revealed unquestionable majesty and eagerness.

"Pingxi Bo Wu Sangui has been ordered to come to the king's defense! He has led 10,000 Guanning troops and has already reached the city!" Guo Tianyang replied hastily, his voice trembling and uneasy. This news exploded in the air of the Qianqing Palace like a bolt from the blue, making everyone feel unprecedented shock and tension.

Wu Sangui, is he finally here? Lin Xiaofeng sneered in his heart, his thoughts surging like the tide. He imagined Wu Sangui's weather-beaten face, his deep and complex eyes, as if he could see through all the secrets of people's hearts. He thought to himself: "Wu Sangui, Wu Sangui, you are here after all! What a pity, the meal was not even hot before you were intercepted by Ji Zisheng! Now that the bandits have retreated to Xuanfu, you have nowhere to grab the credit! Humph, what on earth are you up to?"

Outside the window, the spring breeze blew across the glazed tiles of the Forbidden City, making a crisp sound, which formed a sharp contrast with the waves in Lin Xiaofeng's heart. He looked at the sky dyed red by the setting sun outside the window, and his heart was full of mixed feelings. He knew that Wu Sangui's arrival was by no means accidental, and there must be an unfathomable plot behind it.

"Your Majesty, is Wu Sangui going to rebel?" Queen Zhou turned around and sat on the couch, her eyes flashing with anger and anxiety. Although she was in the harem, she knew a thing or two about the changing situation in the court. Millions of gold were spent every year to support the Guanning Army. It would have been fine if Wu Sangui did not come to the rescue in time, but now that the enemy was at the gates, what exactly did he want to do?
Lin Xiaofeng smiled faintly, and that smile contained endless deep meaning. He gently patted Queen Zhou's shoulder and comforted her: "Don't worry, Zitong, there are some things I can't say, but Li Zicheng's siege of the city will not happen again in the short term. Since Wu Sangui is here, I have something to tell you."

Queen Zhou was stunned for a moment, then responded, "Your Majesty, please speak."

"Prepare some treasures from the palace and give them as rewards to Wu Sangui's wives and concubines." There was a barely perceptible sneer in Lin Xiaofeng's words, as if he was laying out a silent chess game.

Queen Zhou thought for a moment and asked tentatively: "I am ignorant and do not know the name of the reward or the amount of the reward."

"On March 5, I conferred the title of Pingxi Earl on Wu Sangui. According to the ancestral system, he should be rewarded. You should follow the rules of the inner court." Lin Xiaofeng's words revealed unquestionable majesty.

"I obey your order." Queen Zhou did not dare to ask any more questions, and changed her clothes with the help of the maid. Her heart was full of doubts and uneasiness, but she knew that at this time, she could not cause trouble for Lin Xiaofeng.

As soon as Empress Zhou walked out of the side door, Lin Xiaofeng asked, "Where is Wu Sangui now?"

Guo Tianyang replied in a low voice outside the palace: "Your Majesty, 10,000 Guanning cavalrymen are stationed ten miles east of the city. Wu Sangui has brought more than a hundred personal soldiers to the city and sent messengers to convey that according to the rules of the court, no one dares to enter the city without permission."

"Is this what you call an enemy at the gates?" Lin Xiaofeng said angrily, with a hint of sarcasm in his voice, "Did he ask the army to enter the city to rest?"

Guo Tianyang knew he had spoken out of turn, and his voice became even more humble: "No, Wu Sangui only requested the Ministry of War and the Ministry of Revenue to grant food and grass to meet the urgent need."

Lin Xiaofeng narrowed his eyes and began to really look at Wu Sangui. Although there are records about Wu Sangui in history books, they are only history books after all. After being polished by civil officials, it is inevitable that they are distorted. Moreover, the history books do not record his personality and character. Now it seems that although Wu Sangui is a military general, his wisdom is no less than that of civil officials. His current behavior can be summarized by the word "cautious". In order to avoid being impeached, he did everything according to the rules of the court. As long as there is no flaw, there is no crime to be added.

After a moment's silence, Lin Xiaofeng ordered Guo Tianyang: "Send a messenger in half an hour to tell him to go into the city and wait at the Huangji Palace. At the same time, notify the cabinet, the Censorate, the Ministry of War, the Ministry of Personnel, the Military Affairs Department, and the Five Military Commanders' Office to come together to discuss the matter."

"As you wish." Guo Tianyang bowed and retreated, muttering to himself: What on earth is Wu Sangui up to?

……

Outside the Huangji Palace, Wu Sangui was in a state of anxiety. He was wearing a scarlet robe with a lion with bared fangs and claws embroidered on his chest, which made him look particularly ferocious. He had a dark face, thick beard, regular features, and a strong body, giving people a simple and honest feeling that made people feel comfortable. However, his heart was like a surging river and sea, with turbulent waves.

He really didn't want to go to Beijing to see the emperor! Everyone saw this time he went to the capital to serve the emperor, and everyone knew it. However, there was a screen between his heart and his eyes, and it could be broken if he wanted to. If he didn't go to Beijing, then the charge of treason would be confirmed. What would happen to the Guanning Army at that time? Surrender to the Jiannu? Would the soldiers in Liaodong be willing? Their families, relatives and friends died at the hands of the Jiannu, and the court did not let them down. If they surrendered at this time, it would be difficult to justify themselves. Moreover, his whole family was in the capital. Once he surrendered, he would surely die.

After weighing the pros and cons, he finally decided to go to Beijing. However, he was also prepared. Of his 50,000 troops, he left 15,000 cavalry and 20,000 infantry in Shanhaiguan. The commanders were all from the Wu and Zu families. If Lin Xiaofeng harmed him, they would immediately surrender! Let the Eight Banners soldiers avenge them!
"Is Pingxi Bo ready?" Guo Tianyang looked at this familiar yet unfamiliar general with a calm tone. The last time he saw him was on May 15th, the 15th year of Lin Xiaofeng. The emperor hosted a banquet for Wu Sangui and the generals who came to support the emperor in Wuying Hall and gave him the imperial sword. In less than two years, Wu Sangui's behavior has become much more sophisticated, which shows how fast he has grown!
"Eunuch Wang, when His Majesty heard that I entered the city, was he happy or angry?" Wu Sangui did not answer. Instead, he took out a gold ingot from his sleeve, covered it with his sleeve and stuffed it into Guo Tianyang's hand.

"What does this mean, Lord Dingxi?" Guo Tianyang declined subconsciously.

"The prices in the capital are high, and the number of eunuchs has been reduced. This is my small token of appreciation." Wu Sangui's words carried a subtle bitterness. He knew that this ingot of gold might bring him temporary peace, but it would not solve the fundamental problem.

Guo Tianyang didn't want to take it, but when he remembered Lin Xiaofeng's words, he quickly put it away and stuffed it into his sleeve. He looked around and confirmed that no one was paying attention. He whispered, "Replying to Lord Dingxi, I reported to you through the door outside the palace, but your Majesty didn't let me in, so I didn't see your Majesty's expression..."

Wu Sangui's mouth twitched, and an indescribable sense of shame surged in his heart. After half a lifetime of military service, he was actually plotted against by a eunuch today! This was undoubtedly a great irony and humiliation for him. However, he knew that he could not get angry at this moment, so he could only smile awkwardly: "It's okay, I was afraid that His Majesty would be unhappy, so I wanted to know first."

"Lord Dingxibo, are you ready? If you are, I will call for help!" There was a barely perceptible hint of sarcasm in Guo Tianyang's voice.

"I'm ready, please help me, Eunuch Wang!" Wu Sangui responded in a low voice, suppressing his anger. He knew that at this moment, he had no way out.

Guo Tianyang nodded, then shouted loudly: "Dingxi Bo Wu Sangui is asking for an audience outside the palace!"

"Announce!" A young eunuch shouted loudly after receiving a signal from Lin Xiaofeng. The voice echoed in the empty hall, sounding particularly loud.

Wu Sangui swallowed and sorted out his thoughts. He lowered his head, walked into the hall cautiously, and fell to his knees with a plop. In front of many ministers, he touched his head to the ground and shouted: "Long live the emperor! Your Majesty, I am late in serving the king. Please punish me." There was a hint of trembling and uneasiness in his voice, as if he was a sinner who was about to be judged. The hall was silent, and under the watchful eyes of the crowd, the expressions of the ministers were different. Some were gnashing their teeth in hatred, some were relieved, and some were as calm as water. They all knew that at this moment, Wu Sangui was no longer the brave and fearless general on the battlefield, but a minister who was about to be judged by the emperor.

"No need to bow, stand up!" Lin Xiaofeng's voice broke the silence of the hall. His voice was filled with a hint of majesty and unquestionable power.

"I am afraid, I dare not!" Wu Sangui's voice was trembling and humble. He knew that at this moment, he no longer had the dignity and arrogance of the past.

"My words are orders, stand up!" Lin Xiaofeng said with a hint of impatience. He knew that Wu Sangui must have his own purpose and plan for coming here. And he must also gain the upper hand in this silent contest.

Wu Sangui slowly stood up after hearing this and stood respectfully in the center of the hall. He looked at Lin Xiaofeng blankly, his heart full of doubts and uneasiness. He didn't know how Lin Xiaofeng would deal with him, nor did he know what his future would be like.

Lin Xiaofeng narrowed his eyes and examined Wu Sangui. He was filled with emotion. It turned out that one cannot trust appearance. If one could tell loyalty from treachery from appearance, the emperor would not need so many court officials. He only needed to set up a position of physiognomist and sorcerer in the Imperial Observatory to select talents to govern the country. He knew that Wu Sangui must have his purpose and plan for coming. And he must have the upper hand in this silent contest.

The newly appointed Left Censor-in-Chief Shi Bangyao stepped out of the room and bowed, saying, "Your Majesty, I want to impeach Wu Sangui, the Earl of Pingxi!" There was a hint of firmness and determination in his voice, as if he was a detective who was about to uncover the truth.

"Ningyuan is less than a thousand miles away from the capital. Wu Sangui set out from Ningyuan on March 6 and arrived at the capital on the 29th. If he really wanted to serve the king, ten days would have been enough." Shi Bangyao's words were full of sarcasm and dissatisfaction. He knew that Wu Sangui's behavior had caused dissatisfaction and suspicion among the ministers.

"It took him 23 days to travel a 10-day journey! It shows that he is not really loyal to the king, but is a person who wants to preserve his strength, sit back and watch success or failure, and wait for opportunities to profit in troubled times! People who ignore the king should be punished with serious crimes." Shi Bangyao's voice was filled with anger and determination. He knew that at this moment, he had to fight for the dignity and justice of the court.

"I second the motion!" Several military secretaries came out at the same time and echoed. There was a hint of firmness and determination in their voices, as if they were a group of warriors about to charge into battle. They knew that at this moment, they had to fight for the dignity and justice of the court and could not let
On the battlefield, soldiers are sharp blades, and every blow is aimed at the enemy's vital points; in the court, eloquence is an invisible blade, and every word and sentence hits the heart. Wu Sangui, a battle-hardened general, anticipated that someone would impeach him, so he prepared for a verbal battle in advance. He knew that the struggle in the court was often more cruel than on the battlefield, because the weapon here is words, and the target is the heart.

However, surprisingly, only a few people impeached him. Others stood or stood, watching quietly, without showing any emotion, as if they were just spectators of this drama, not participants. Even the emperor, who was high above, seemed indifferent, as if he didn't care about it. His eyes were deep, like the endless night sky, making it impossible to peek into his true thoughts.

Wu Sangui was full of doubts. From the moment he entered the Huangji Palace, his eyes wandered around, trying to catch the subtle changes in the court. The spies in the capital had already reported the situation in the court to him, so he was not surprised by the faces of these court officials, but their silence made him feel uneasy. He knew that these court officials were old foxes, and every action and every word they said might have a deep meaning.

Li Banghua, Shao Shihan, Cheng Qinghua and other cabinet ministers were all present. They were dressed in gorgeous court robes, with serious faces and eyes that revealed an unquestionable majesty. The rest were officials from the Censorate, the Ministry of War, the Ministry of Personnel, the Military Affairs Department, and the Five Military Commandery. They gathered together, obviously to find Wu Sangui's flaws. Who was behind all this? Who else could it be except the emperor sitting on the dragon throne? However, since they came to find fault, why did the others remain silent and did not move?
Wu Sangui's eyes swept through the court, trying to find the answer from everyone's face, but everyone seemed to be wearing a mask, making it impossible for him to see through. His heart was full of doubts, but he still responded according to the strategy of his adviser Fang Guangchen. He knew that at this time, any panic could become a breakthrough for the opponent to attack.

"Your Majesty, I am guilty and I am willing to plead guilty!" Wu Sangui's words shocked everyone. They thought Wu Sangui would surrender, or at least make a fierce defense. Just as they were about to start arguing about the crime, Wu Sangui continued, "However, my crime is different from what Lord Shi said. I beg Your Majesty to listen to me."

Emperor Lin Xiaofeng nodded and said calmly: "I would like to hear the details." His voice was not loud, but it had an irresistible majesty that plunged the entire court into silence.

Wu Sangui was secretly delighted, knowing that he had successfully attracted the emperor's attention. He knelt on the ground and began to explain his situation: "Since I received the imperial edict, I wanted to lead the troops to the king immediately. However, the Jiannu were watching from the side. If I led the elite troops into the pass, the isolated army of Ningyuan would be unable to resist their attack, and the people would be in danger! Therefore, I decided to relocate the people of Ningyuan to prevent them from suffering. I beg Your Majesty to understand."

His voice was earnest and firm, and every word seemed to come from the bottom of his heart. After he finished speaking, he looked around. The old ministers in the cabinet had cold faces, and their eyes revealed a kind of distrust and doubt, while the five military commanders seemed to agree with his statement, and their eyes showed a kind of understanding and sympathy. Wu Sangui didn't care about the attitudes of others. He only cared about the emperor. He knew that the world of the Ming Dynasty was decided by the emperor, and others were just making suggestions. If the emperor said he was not guilty, then he was not guilty.

However, the dragon throne was high, Wu Sangui was crawling on the ground, and it was difficult to see the emperor's face. He was extremely anxious. He tried to find a clue from the emperor's eyes, but the emperor's face was as cold as an iceberg, and he could not see through it.

Emperor Lin Xiaofeng was sitting firmly on the throne, but he was thinking: Wu Sangui deserved to die, but killing him at this time would probably bring endless troubles. Although he was in the capital, his main force was still in Shanhaiguan. Yuan Chonghuan had killed Mao Wenlong without authorization, which led to Kong Youde and others defecting to Jiannu. Lin Xiaofeng himself arrested Yuan Chonghuan two years ago, but Zu Dashou defected to Liaodong and refused to accept orders. Shanhaiguan was the barrier to the east of the capital. Once it was lost, the north would be in danger.

Zuodu Yushi Shi Bangyao retorted: "Pingxi Bo, you arrived at Shanhaiguan on March 16th. Why didn't you send infantry to guard the pass, but sent cavalry to defend the king? Moreover, why did you delay your arrival until the 13th, when the cavalry could only travel six days?" His voice was sharp and harsh, like a sharp knife, piercing Wu Sangui's heart.

Wu Sangui cried, "It's not that I delayed on purpose, but because we ran out of food and grass!" His voice was filled with helplessness and indignation, as if he was a wronged child, telling his grievances. He pointed to the generals of the Five Military Commandery and said, "They all know that cavalry without logistical support will run out of food and grass in six days. I have already abandoned most of the food and grass in order to transport firearms. We ran out of food on the way and had to raise more. The court has owed us wages for a long time, so it is very difficult to buy food. Moreover, the government troops cannot burn, kill and plunder like the bandits, so raising food and grass takes time and effort."

There was a pleading and helpless tone in his voice, as if he was telling everyone about his difficulties. Then, he discussed with the Governor General Ji Zisheng and decided to provide food and grass support first, and let him lead 6,000 cavalry to enter the capital first. When the food and grass were sufficient, he would lead the rest of the troops to follow. Although they hurried and hurried, they finally arrived this morning. However, he was late after all, so he asked the emperor to punish him.

After Wu Sangui finished his defense, the court fell silent again. The civil officials and military officers looked at each other, helpless. They all knew that although Wu Sangui's defense was a bit far-fetched, it was not completely unreasonable. Shanhaiguan is less than 700 miles away from the capital, and the cavalry can travel more than 100 miles a day, which is already the maximum speed. If the food and grass are not enough, they really need to raise food and grass to move forward! There are only two ways to raise food and grass: buying or robbing! But the court has owed wages for a long time and cannot buy; and as an official army, they cannot rob the people! These two reasons are very reasonable and tenable!
Lin Xiaofeng smiled slightly, his smile was deep and mysterious, as if he had seen through everyone's mind. He said slowly: "Since Pingxi Bo has confessed his guilt, he should be dealt with according to the law." His voice was not loud, but it had an irresistible majesty, which made the whole court fall into silence. Everyone knew that the emperor's words were the golden rule, and no one could disobey.

Wu Sangui's body trembled violently, his eyes full of astonishment, looking at Lin Xiaofeng. In his eyes, there was both panic of being exposed and cunning trying to cover up. His words were just a pretense, not a true confession. Every word was like a carefully calculated chess piece, trying to find a ray of hope in this complicated chess game.

"Your Majesty, I ..." Wu Sangui hesitated, his lips trembling slightly, as if he had a thousand words to say but didn't dare to say them easily. However, Lin Xiaofeng did not give him more time to hesitate, his words were as sharp as a knife, cutting off all his retreat routes.

"Pingxi Earl Wu Sangui, you came late to serve the king and should be severely punished. But considering that you have traveled thousands of miles and it is really hard for you, I decided to fine you one year's salary as a punishment. What do you think?" Lin Xiaofeng's words were filled with unquestionable majesty, as if even the air was frozen.

Wu Sangui was stunned at first, with some reluctance and calculation hidden in his stunned state. Then he knelt down as required and said respectfully: "Your Majesty, I, Wu Sangui, thank you for your grace!" Although his voice was full of gratitude, a hint of imperceptible coldness flashed in his eyes. Although the annual salary was meager, it could be easily compensated by falsely reporting some soldiers for the abundance of the Guanning Army. Therefore, Wu Sangui thanked him without hesitation, but he was already thinking about the next step in the game.

The ministers looked at each other in confusion, unable to guess the true intention of Emperor Lin Xiaofeng. The atmosphere in the court was solemn, as if even breathing had become cautious.

"Pingxi Bo, if you have nothing else to do, go back to visit your family, and then lead the army back to Shanhaiguan. Ningyuan has been lost, and Shanhaiguan must not have any more mistakes!" Lin Xiaofeng said solemnly, his eyes revealing deep worry about the safety of the border.

Wu Sangui stood still, his heart in turmoil. After hesitating for a long time, he knelt down again and pleaded, "Your Majesty, the court has been in arrears of wages for the Guanning Army for nearly a year. A few days ago, an official document from the Ministry of War stated that the wages have been prepared and ordered me to go to the capital to collect it myself. I want to take the wages back to Shanhaiguan, and at the same time save the court the shipping cost..." His words were sincere, but they could not hide his urgency and calculation.

Li Banghua stamped his feet in anger and rebuked loudly: "Wu Sangui, you are so bold that you actually ask for military pay in front of the emperor!" His voice echoed in the court like thunder, shaking people's hearts.

The Minister of Revenue Cheng Qinghua also said, "Sir Wu, the issue of military pay is not something we should discuss at this time. The Ministry of Revenue and the Ministry of War will naturally pay it on time, and it will not be too late to discuss it after the court is adjourned. You are asking for military pay in front of the emperor now, which is suspected of forcing pay, and it is really disrespectful!" There was a bit of helplessness and blame in his tone, and it was obvious that he was extremely dissatisfied with Wu Sangui's behavior.

In the court, voices of condemnation rose and fell, like a violent storm, chilling people's hearts. However, in the center of the storm, Lin Xiaofeng still maintained his calmness and composure, as if everything was under his control.

The situation was about to get out of control. After receiving Lin Xiaofeng's eye signal, Guo Tianyang shouted loudly: "Silence!" His voice was like a loud bell, instantly suppressing the noise in the court.

Everyone's eyes were focused on Lin Xiaofeng, waiting for his decision. Lin Xiaofeng smiled and said, "You all have misunderstood Pingxibo! He asked for military pay in order to stabilize the army. Moreover, before the bandits besieged the city, I had ordered Li Gelao to issue an official document promising that the military pay had been prepared and that Pingxibo could collect it himself."

"Since he is here, I will naturally fulfill my promise! Lord Li, you should quickly prepare the military pay and let Pingxi Bo take it back." Lin Xiaofeng's words carried a certain unquestionable majesty, and also revealed a certain understanding and tolerance towards Wu Sangui.

Li Banghua's face turned pale, and he reluctantly accepted the order. Although he was unwilling, he also understood that Lin Xiaofeng's decision could not be changed.

"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Wu Sangui was no longer as cautious as before, but accepted the order with a smile on his face. His heart was filled with pride and joy, as if he had seen the dawn of victory.

After the issue of military pay was resolved, Li Banghua informed Wu Sangui of the adjustment strategy of the garrisons in various places. Wu Sangui was only concerned about the whereabouts of Ji Zisheng and Guan Ning's 6,000 cavalry, which were his direct troops!
"Nearly a thousand of the six thousand Guanning troops were killed in this battle. Li Xingzhong led seven hundred cavalrymen and eight thousand surrendered soldiers to guard Liangxiang. The remaining four thousand five hundred cavalrymen and Ji Zishen will guard Jizhou together." Li Banghua's words were filled with helplessness and heaviness, and he was obviously not satisfied with such an arrangement.

Wu Sangui was very dissatisfied when he heard about this arrangement. The Guanning Cavalry was an elite force that he had spent a lot of money to build. This arrangement by the court was clearly weakening his power. He could not sit idly by and had to find a way to recover this loss.

"Your Majesty, although Shanhaiguan is easy to defend but difficult to attack, in order to deter the Jiannu and prevent them from invading our borders again, I plan to wait for an opportunity to go out of the pass and engage in a field battle with the Jiannu. Therefore, I want to add more cavalry at Shanhaiguan to prepare for emergencies." Wu Sangui's words were filled with urgency and determination, as if he had already seen the future victory.

In the court, everyone's faces turned livid. Wu Sangui's move was not only to gain power, but also a blatant provocation to the court! How outrageous! It was really too outrageous!
However, Lin Xiaofeng nodded calmly and agreed, "Pingxi Bo is indeed ambitious! However, if the Guanning Army is allowed to garrison inside the pass for a long time, it would be tantamount to destroying its own military strength. In this case, I will transfer a thousand cavalry from Ji Zishen to accompany you back to Shanhaiguan for garrison." His voice was calm and firm, as if everything was under his control.

What? Li Banghua's eyes widened, wondering if Lin Xiaofeng was Zhu Qizhen's reincarnation. Ji Zisheng had just seized the command of 6,000 cavalry from Wu Sangui and was planning to use this opportunity to weaken the strength of the Guanning Army. His Majesty not only did not take advantage of the opportunity, but also gave Wu Sangui a thousand cavalry. What was the reason for this?
Li Banghua wanted to stop him but heard Wu Sangui had already accepted the order and expressed his gratitude: "I accept the order!" There was a hint of pride and joy in his voice, as if he had already seen the future victory.

Alas... Li Banghua shook his head and sighed. He knew that they had already lost this round. Wu Sangui's cunning and ambition had exceeded their expectations.

After discussing for a while, Wu Sangui bowed and left. Looking at his back, the officials were murderous and wanted to behead him immediately. Pretending to be loyal to the king, holding troops and commanding the court... Each of these crimes was enough to make him suffer the disaster of extermination of his entire clan!

However, Lin Xiaofeng's face was as calm as still water, and he sneered in his heart. Although Wu Sangui was a little clever, he was not smart enough to protect himself, otherwise how could he fall into the trap? This trick was actually very simple, so simple that Wu Sangui was not prepared at all! He just wanted to use Wu Sangui's ambition and greed to achieve his own goals.

"Everyone else, please leave. Cabinet members, please stay and discuss with me the policies of administration and governance!" Lin Xiaofeng ordered. His voice was full of majesty and unquestionable. He knew that the road ahead was still long, and he needed more wisdom and strategies to cope with future challenges.

……

On Qianmen Street in the capital, students from the Imperial College stood under the scorching sun, talking among themselves. Their faces were filled with anxiety and dissatisfaction, as if the whole world had lost its color.

"Don't even mention it! In the past, you could buy a piece of paper for two cents, but now we can't get the free newspapers because we go too late!" said a student indignantly.

"Eh? Brother Li, why do you say 'rob'?" another student asked curiously.

"It's more than just robbery, it's simply bandit-like behavior! Hearing that the newspapers are given away for free, people of all ages in the capital city get up early and gather in groups of three or five to surround the kids selling newspapers, and snatch the newspapers when they aren't paying attention." A student described the scene of snatching newspapers indignantly.

"Some people grab the newspapers and use them to paste on the walls or sell them at low prices to people who want to read them. This is totally unreasonable!" added another student.

Hearing this, the students of the Imperial Academy were furious. As scholars, they should be respected and admired, but now they were looked down upon because of a free newspaper. However, thinking of the swearing ability of the old and young people who snatched the newspaper, they calmed down. After all, they didn't want to cause unnecessary trouble because of a newspaper.

"Has anyone read the newspaper? Come out and tell us about it," suggested a student.

After a while, a middle-aged scholar stood up, holding a newspaper and began to read. His voice was loud and clear, and every word seemed to have magic, attracting everyone's attention.

After the reading, the scene fell into silence. A student asked in disbelief: "So... the salary at the Institute and the Manufacturing Bureau is better than being an official?" His voice was filled with shock and confusion.

The scholar looked at the newspaper carefully again, then nodded and replied: "If what the newspaper says is correct, then it is indeed true!" There was some affirmation and certainty in his voice.

As soon as this statement came out, it immediately caused heated discussions and dissatisfaction among the people. Why did these students of the Imperial College study so hard every day? Wasn't it just to stand out and enjoy privileges! Once they became officials, they could be exempted from corvée, have their land tax reduced, have unlimited housing, and ride horses and sedan chairs. These privileges were not available to ordinary people!
But what about now? Craftsmen can also take the imperial examinations, and can also work in research institutes and manufacturing bureaus. Their status has risen sharply, even surpassing that of farmers. This is simply a leap from the bottom of society to the top of society!
"On what basis do the craftsmen have? On what basis can they be exempted from corvée labor? Does Your Majesty know?" a student asked angrily.

"What do you think? This newspaper comes from the imperial palace!" another student replied helplessly. (End of this chapter)