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

"Is it white iron?" Jiao Xu pondered for a moment, his slightly weathered face full of traces of thought. He tried to say, "Maybe there is a flaw in the iron?" There was a hint of doubt in his eyes, as if he was both confused and a little unwilling about this question.

The burly man stood like a mountain, his muscles bulging under his clothes. Before he could respond, a man suddenly walked out from behind Jiao Xu and shouted, "What do you mean? How could there be any problem with the iron we smelted!" The man had a look of indignation on his face, and his voice was like thunder, causing the hall to echo.

"Even if there is a problem, it's the fault of the iron mine!" The other person was not to be outdone, his voice was sharp, as sharp as a knife.

"Hmph! All iron ores in the world are the same. You can't make good iron, but instead you blame us miners? How shameless!" This sentence was like a hammer, hitting everyone's heart heavily. The craftsmen were all rough people, accustomed to swearing. When they heard this, there was an uproar and the atmosphere in the hall instantly became tense.

Cheng Qinghua, the Minister of Works, was dressed in luxurious official uniform and had a stern face. He was shocked to see his subordinates being so rude in front of the emperor. He hurried forward and whispered, "Quiet! This is the Huangji Hall, not the Ministry of Works. Shut up!" Although his voice was soft, it carried unquestionable majesty. The craftsmen suddenly realized what was going on and shrank their bodies, not daring to speak again. The hall instantly returned to silence, with only the sound of flickering candlelight.

Lin Xiaofeng, the young emperor, sat on the high dragon throne, his eyes were like torches, scanning everything below. Seeing this scene, he was not angry, but happy in his heart. He thought this was the normal state of human nature, and the reaction of these people just proved that they did not go along with the crowd and retained the simplicity and straightforwardness of craftsmen.

Lin Xiaofeng coughed lightly, his voice was not loud, but it was clearly heard by everyone. He said: "I know you are not trying to shirk responsibility, but using iron to make the mold is a good idea." His tone was calm, but with an indescribable charm that made people want to listen involuntarily.

Everyone looked confused, especially Jiao Xu and the burly man, whose eyes were full of puzzlement, as if they were facing a difficult puzzle.

Lin Xiaofeng thought about it and made up a metaphor to explain: "I have two pots here, one is an iron pot and the other is a clay pot. If the fire in the iron pot goes out, the water will stop boiling quickly; but if it is a clay pot, the water will continue to boil for a while even if the firewood is taken away. I think the principles of boiling water and casting cannons are the same!" His words were simple and clear, but contained profound truths that made everyone fall into deep thought.

Jiao Xu and the burly man were both good at casting. After thinking about it for a while, they suddenly understood, as if the clouds had cleared away to see the blue sky, and excitement appeared on their faces.

"Your Majesty's words have awakened me from a dream! I roughly understand the reason!" Jiao Xu said excitedly, with wisdom flashing in his eyes.

The burly man couldn't help but say, "I understand! The iron mold cools down too quickly. If we pour molten iron into it and then place it in a charcoal fire, maybe this problem can be solved!" His voice was full of excitement, as if he had seen the dawn of success.

"Your Majesty, please allow me to try!" The big man knelt on the ground, pleading in his voice, his heart filled with love for casting and desire for success.

Lin Xiaofeng was moved by their professionalism and asked, "What's your name?" His voice was gentle and caring, as if he was a kind elder.

"I'm Li Dalun, and I'm from Runcheng Town, Zezhou Prefecture." The big man answered respectfully, with a hint of pride in his voice, as if he was showing his hometown to the emperor.

Lin Xiaofeng nodded and ordered the eunuch to take him to the Armory Bureau for a try. His eyes were full of anticipation, as if he had already seen the future victory.

It was impossible to cast a cannon on site, but if it was not white cast iron, it would be feasible to use an iron mold to cast an iron object. This idea was like a seed, taking root and sprouting in everyone's hearts, making them full of expectations and excitement.

Everyone looked at Lin Xiaofeng in astonishment, as if they were looking at a god. Cheng Qinghua in particular was almost crazy about him. His eyes were full of respect and awe, as if he was looking up at a great leader.

Before the bandits besieged the city, the emperor punished corruption, recruited common people, and won the hearts of the people. The prince moved south, made plans and won a thousand-mile victory. After the bandits besieged the city, he came up with a variety of strategies, even using the lives of half of the Yongwei Battalion to create fear in the enemy. His wisdom was like a bright star, illuminating the way forward.

Previously, he ordered Jiao Xu to improve the fire gun, and now he is also involved in the artillery. How can this be a human being? How can his knowledge be so extensive? Everyone's hearts were filled with doubts and amazement, as if they were facing an unsolvable mystery.

Lin Xiaofeng was not idle, he was still planning the future of the institute. His eyes were full of foresight and insight, as if he had already seen the glory of the future.

"How many people are there in the institute?" he asked Cheng Qinghua in a gentle and caring voice.

"Your Majesty, there are a total of 116 people coming to see you today, including 37 from the Research Institute and 79 from the Manufacturing Bureau." Cheng Qinghua answered respectfully, with a hint of pride and awe in his voice.

Lin Xiaofeng nodded, his eyes sparkling with wisdom: "The war is urgent, I pay special attention to the craftsmen who cast cannons. Others should not be discouraged, after the war is over, there will naturally be a place for you to use your skills." His voice was full of encouragement and expectation, as if he was painting a beautiful picture of the future for everyone.

“Those who are good at farming can guide the provincial government and widely teach farming techniques; those who are good at water conservancy can work with the Ministry of Works to control floods; those who are proficient in medicine can spread medical knowledge and solve the difficulties faced by people in seeking medical treatment.” His words were like a spring breeze, filling everyone’s hearts with warmth and hope.

"But, Your Majesty," Cheng Qinghua said doubtfully, "According to Your Majesty's strategy, within three to five years, the number of craftsmen will increase greatly. If there are too many things, their value will depreciate, and the craftsmen may not be able to be self-sufficient." There was a hint of worry and concern in his voice.

The craftsmen were also worried, their eyes were full of confusion and uneasiness, as if they were facing an unpredictable future.

Lin Xiaofeng smiled and said, "Don't worry, I have my own plan in mind." His smile was as warm as the sunshine, instantly dispelling the haze in everyone's hearts.

He looked up at the roof of the Huangji Palace, the towering eaves seemed to touch the sky, and his heart was filled with lofty ambitions. His ambition was like a soaring eagle, flying over thousands of mountains and rivers and reaching the top of the sky.

After traveling to the Ming Dynasty, he had three major tasks to do: expel the Jiannu, pacify the bandits, and start the Age of Exploration. His heart was filled with longing and expectation for the future, as if he had already seen the glorious future of the Ming Dynasty.

In the second year of Yongle, Zheng He sailed to the West for the first time; in the eighth year of Xuande, he sailed to the West for the seventh time and returned. Although there were successors later, none of them could be compared with Zheng He. Those great maritime feats were like bright stars, illuminating his soul.

The Age of Exploration was a period of great geographical discovery. Between the 15th and 17th centuries, Europe's transoceanic activities were frequent and geography achieved major breakthroughs. His heart was filled with yearning and admiration for that era, as if he had already been in that era full of adventures and explorations.

He and the Ming Dynasty must catch the last train of the Age of Discovery! His heart was filled with determination and faith, as if he had already seen the scene of the Ming Dynasty's fleet setting sail.

Unlike the European colonial method, he took the economic path. In the feudal era, there was no industrialization, and only the prosperity of handicrafts could support ocean trade. His craftsmen were the solid shield of ocean trade! Their wisdom and hard work will lay a solid foundation for the prosperity and strength of the Ming Dynasty.

"Success!" While Lin Xiaofeng was daydreaming, Li Dalun ran in with a piece of iron and held it up for everyone to see. The damaged part of the iron block was gray instead of white! This discovery was like a flash of lightning that broke through the sky, filling everyone's hearts with excitement and surprise.

Seeing Li Dalun's ecstatic look, Lin Xiaofeng secretly clenched his fists! His heart was filled with excitement and pride, as if he had seen the scene where the Ming Dynasty's cannon casting technology led the world.

The iron mold casting cannon not only saves time and money, but also opens the precedent of standardization. The outer diameter and inner diameter of the shells cast with the same mold are consistent, and the projectiles can also be unified. This was a shocking thing at the time! Its appearance will completely change the pattern of war and the fate of the Ming Dynasty.

"Your Majesty, casting cannons with iron molds is theoretically feasible. However, special materials need to be placed between the iron mold and the molten iron. I have tried it before, but I don't know if it is applicable for casting cannons." There was a hint of hesitation and uneasiness in Li Dalun's voice, as if he was facing an unknown challenge.

"If it is feasible, I will tell Minister Fan." There was a hint of firmness and determination in his voice, as if he was ready to face all difficulties.

Lin Xiaofeng nodded: "Don't worry, take your time. I am patient. If you don't have enough funds, you can ask Minister Fan for it. Otherwise, you can come to me." His voice was full of encouragement and trust, as if he was injecting infinite power into Li Dalun.

After Li Dalun knelt down to express his gratitude, he looked at Cheng Qinghua and said nothing. His eyes were full of gratitude and respect, as if he was expressing his loyalty and determination with his eyes.

Cheng Qinghua sighed and said, "Don't worry, I'll give you funds if you need them, and I'll give you manpower if you need it!" There was a hint of heroism and generosity in his voice, as if he was donating generously to the prosperity and strength of the Ming Dynasty.

Li Dalun was overjoyed and returned to the team dancing with joy. His heart was filled with excitement and joy, as if he had seen the cannon he had forged being invincible on the battlefield.

Others were envious of this, and some even knelt down to express their ambitions. Their hearts were filled with longing and expectation for the future, as if they had seen themselves playing an important role in the glorious future of the Ming Dynasty.

It was not until the evening that everyone reluctantly left the Huangji Hall. Their hearts were filled with admiration for the emperor and expectations for the future, as if they had already seen the prosperity and strength of the Ming Dynasty.

Lin Xiaofeng was pleased and calculated that he had spent more than 100,000 taels of research and development funds in the afternoon, but he did not feel sorry because these funds would lay a solid foundation for the prosperity and strength of the Ming Dynasty.

If the ambitions of these people can be realized, he would not feel sorry even if he spent millions. His heart was filled with lofty ambitions for the future and the pride of donating generously. Because he knew that these craftsmen were the future of the Ming Dynasty.

Late at night, the moonlight was hazy, like a veil covering the Baoanzhou City, adding a bit of mystery and tranquility to this ancient city. On both sides of the street, the ancient mansions stood silently, as if they were also listening to the whispers of the night. In this silence, a middle-aged man, Zhang Feng, a centurion of the Jinyiwei, was wearing a tight brocade suit, with a sword on his waist, kneeling on one knee, with a solemn expression, like a sculpture, saluting the commander in front of him, Zhu Fenghui. His voice was steady and firm, as unshakable as a mountain: "Zhang Feng, a centurion of the Jinyiwei, greets the commander!"

Zhu Fenghui, tall, with a resolute face and eyes as sharp as an eagle, reached out to help Zhang Feng up, his eyes revealing a hint of urgency and expectation. "Tell me quickly, what is the current situation in Xuanfu Town?" His tone was filled with unquestionable majesty, but also concealed a hint of anxiety about the unknown situation.

Since Yanqing was recovered, Zhu Fenghui has been like a master weaving a network, and has established close ties with the local Jinyiwei. These Jinyiwei, like ghosts in the dark night, lurk in every corner of the city, waiting for the best opportunity to come. Once the court sent troops to recover the lost land, they were like awakened beasts, resolutely surrendered to the court, and became an important force in recovering the lost land. With the help of the Jinyiwei, Zhu Fenghui was like a master on the chessboard, step by step, and successfully recovered Huailaiwei and Baoanzhou.

Zhang Feng stood up, his face solemn, as if the complicated situation in Xuanfu Town had turned into a heavy stone, pressing down on his heart. "Sir Yan, the situation in Xuanfu Town is so complicated that I can't explain it all at once." There was a bit of helplessness and worry in his words.

Zhu Fenghui pondered for a moment, his brows slightly furrowed, like a volcano about to erupt, he asked: "What is the current situation in the city? Is there enough food and grass? How many defenders are there?" Each of his questions was like a sharp arrow, pointing directly to the core of the problem.

Zhang Feng did not hesitate and reported one by one: "Although Li Zicheng looted Xuanfu Town before withdrawing his troops, he only looted a few places because there were many soldiers and dependents. Therefore, the food and grass in the city are still sufficient." There was a hint of relief in his words, as if this was the only bright spot in Xuanfu Town in the midst of the storm.

He paused and continued, "The general of Xuanfu surrendered, the governor committed suicide, and the governor of Xuanda was also killed in battle. Now the affairs of Xuanfu Town fall on the shoulders of Wu Zhiyuan, the commander-in-chief of Wanquandusi." There was a heavy tone in his voice, as if the fate of Xuanfu Town depended on this unknown Wu Zhiyuan.

"There are more than 3,000 defenders in Xuanfu Town now, 70% of whom are garrison soldiers from Wanquandusi. When they saw the bandits retreating, they took over the defense." There was a hint of helplessness in Zhang Feng's words, as if he had no control over the behavior of these garrison soldiers.

Hearing the words "Wanquan Dusi", Zhu Fenghui frowned, as if he had encountered an insurmountable obstacle. Wanquan Dusi, who was in charge of Xuanfu Weisuo, was extremely powerful, like a local emperor, and was the biggest obstacle for him to recapture Xuanfu Town.

Looking back at Lin Xiaofeng's time, the garrisons were almost non-existent because of the desertion of military households. The defense of various places was mostly undertaken by recruited soldiers, and the elite field army had nothing to do with the garrisons. However, there were two exceptions, namely Datong and Xuanfu. The garrison soldiers in these two places were still numerous because they could maintain their lives due to trade with Mongolia.

Zhang Feng continued, "In addition to the more than 2,000 garrison soldiers, there are nearly 1,000 battalion soldiers in Xuanfu Town, led by Guerrilla General Ding Yi. The two of them were not on good terms and almost had a conflict during the day today." There was a hint of worry in his tone, as if this conflict was an unpredictable variable he could not have predicted.

Zhu Fenghui felt that it was very difficult to deal with the situation. The commander of Wanquan Dusi was already giving him a headache, and now there was another guerrilla general, Ding Yi. The guerrilla generals in the Ming Dynasty's border garrisons had no rank or quota, and were ranked below the lieutenant general. They commanded a battalion of more than 3,000 border troops and were mainly responsible for field battles. They were equivalent to the fifth rank of military officers, and under them were the positions of Qianzong, Bazong, Baizong, etc. Ding Yi and his subordinates were actually veritable border troops, and they were an important force for them to recapture Xuanfu Town, but they were also a potential threat.

Zhu Fenghui looked at the Five Army Camp and sighed. In terms of strength, the five thousand soldiers under his command might not be able to defeat Ding Yi in the field. This operation was either to recapture Xuanfu or to die. He was like standing on the edge of a cliff, and he had to be cautious with every step.

As the night deepened, the moonlight sprinkled on Zhu Fenghui's resolute face. He thought for a long time and finally made a plan: "Tomorrow you will lead all the Jinyiwei of Baoan Prefecture to sneak into Xuanfu Town, contact the Jinyiwei there, and make preparations for both situations..." His voice was low and powerful, like the brightest star in the night sky, guiding the direction forward.

……

At noon the next day, the sun was blazing, like a burning flame, shrouding everything outside Xuanfu Town in a solemn atmosphere. The ancient city walls looked even more vicissitudes under the scorching sun, as if telling the vicissitudes and changes of the years.

Hearing that the government troops wanted to recapture Xuanfu, Wu Zhiyuan and Ding Yi had already led their troops to wait outside the city. Their figures looked particularly resolute under the scorching sun, like two unshakable mountains. After confirming that the procedures were correct, the two of them personally walked in front of Zhu Fenghui, knelt on one knee, and moved in unison, like warriors who had been tempered a thousand times.

"Wu Zhiyuan, the commander-in-chief of Wanquandusi, has led 2,114 men under his command to surrender to the court again. Lord Yan, please fulfill the court's promise and forgive us!" Wu Zhiyuan's voice was firm and sincere, like a loyal minister expressing his loyalty to the king.

"I am Ding Yi, the guerrilla general of Xuanfu Town. I have led 800 of my men to surrender to the court again! Please forgive me, Lord Yan!" Ding Yi also clasped his hands together and bowed, his voice loud and clear, like a brave general declaring war on the enemy.

Zhu Fenghui stared at Ding Yi, secretly amazed. This was the first time he witnessed the style of the Northwest Border Army of the Ming Dynasty. Ding Yi and his soldiers, both in physique and spirit, were not inferior to the Guanning Army, which was known as the elite of the Ming Dynasty. The only difference between them was their equipment. The Guanning Army had bright armor, sophisticated weapons, and strong war horses. But the people in front of him had rust on their helmets, dirty and old cotton armor, and even more dilapidated weapons. Judging from their equipment alone, it was difficult to associate them with the elite division. But their eyes revealed an indomitable spirit, as if they could persevere to the end no matter what difficulties they faced.

Zhu Fenghui turned to examine Wu Zhiyuan and his guards. The overall condition of these soldiers was slightly better than that of the three major camps in the capital, but it was limited. Their equipment was as bad as that of Ding Yi's camp soldiers, but their eyes revealed a desire for survival and expectations for the future.

"Do you have a military roster?" Zhu Fenghui asked. His voice was steady and powerful, like a judge interrogating a prisoner.

"Please check it out, Lord Yan!" Wu Zhiyuan and Ding Yi raised their hands at the same time and handed two yellowed military books to Zhu Fenghui. Their movements were in unison, as if they were soldiers who had been tempered for thousands of years and were presenting battle reports to the general.

Zhu Fenghui took out the military register copied by the Ministry of War from behind him, found the corresponding number, and compared it with the military register handed over by the two. His eyes were as sharp as an eagle, not missing any details. After confirming that it was correct, he nodded to show his satisfaction.

"According to the records of the Ministry of War, there are 33,946 garrison soldiers under the command of Wanquan Dusi. Where are the rest?" Zhu Fenghui asked, his voice carrying a bit of majesty and unquestionableness.

Wu Zhiyuan was well prepared. He replied respectfully: "My Lord Yan, these more than 30,000 people are stationed in eleven garrisons around Xuanfu Town. After the bandits retreated, I only gathered more than 2,000 people from Xuanfu Town. The situation of the rest is still unclear." There was a bit of helplessness and anxiety in his tone, as if the fate of Xuanfu Town depended on his answer.

Zhu Fenghui did not ask any more questions, because he knew that asking any more questions would not yield any results. So he turned to Ding Yi and asked, "According to the records of the Ministry of War, you have 2,920 men under your command. Where are the rest?" His eyes were filled with expectation and doubt, as if Ding Yi's answer would determine his next move. Ding Yi clasped his hands and said in a low and powerful voice, "Some died on the battlefield, some escaped, and some followed Li Zicheng... Li Zicheng besieged the capital, and their whereabouts are unknown." His tone was filled with grief and helplessness, as if those soldiers who died in battle and those who escaped were his relatives.

Zhu Fenghui nodded, staring at the towering walls of Xuanfu Town, lost in thought. The emperor had told him that in more than a month, the Jiannu would enter the pass to plunder, and Xuanfu would be the first to bear the brunt. The most urgent task in defending the city was to take control of the military power. The court stipulated that those who surrendered could be pardoned and reinstated. However, how to take back the military power in the shortest possible time? This was a problem that needed to be solved urgently. He was like a warrior standing on the edge of a cliff, and needed to find a way to victory.

It was late in the evening, and the dusk was heavy. Zhu Fenghui and Jiang Yingkui sat in a small building near the city. The building was simple but unique, surrounded by a low fence with wild vines all over it, which looked quite wild. They tasted porridge and pickles in the dim light, and the simple food seemed particularly delicious at this moment. There was a bonfire burning nearby, and the firelight illuminated the surroundings, making this cold night a little warmer. The iron pot was hanging over the fire, and the water inside was boiling, emitting bursts of heat, which formed a sharp contrast with the surrounding coldness.

Under the light of the fire, the soldiers gathered in a circle and ate the same food. Their faces were filled with satisfaction, as if this simple dinner was their greatest happiness. After eating and drinking, they would take some boiling water and put it on the open ground to wait for it to cool before drinking it. They looked very comfortable. In this turbulent era, it is rare to have such peace and satisfaction.

In this era of frequent wars, only elite troops can enjoy the treatment of refined rice and pickles. As for ordinary soldiers, it is very rare to have a handful of fried noodles to fill their stomachs. This kind of fried noodles is actually cooked flour, which is easy to carry and will not go bad even if stored for a long time. When you are hungry, just take a little and drink some water to fill your stomach. However, it doesn't taste very good, it is not resistant to hunger, and it consumes water. Despite this, the soldiers of the Ming army liked it very much, and even the Mongolian and Eight Banners soldiers would carry it as military rations, which shows how popular it is in the army.

Although Feng Hui's face was calm, he was anxious in his heart. He currently had two important tasks: one was to take back the military power, and the other was to win the hearts of the people, both for the purpose of defending the city. Military power is the key to stabilizing the morale of the army. Only by mastering the military power can the loyalty and combat effectiveness of the army be ensured. The hearts of the people are the foundation of defending the city. Only by winning the hearts of the people can the support and support of the people be obtained. Both tasks were extremely difficult, which made Feng Hui feel under great pressure. If the military power could be taken back smoothly, everything would go smoothly; otherwise, it might trigger a mutiny, with disastrous consequences. As for the hearts of the people, he had not yet come up with a good strategy to win them over, which made him even more anxious.

Suddenly, the soldier on duty came to report: "Master Yan, there is a merchant named Fan outside the door who wants to see you. His name is Cai Yuanxi." Feng Hui put down the porridge in his hand and squinted his eyes in thought. What is the intention of this Cai Yuanxi's sudden visit? Before leaving, the emperor secretly gave him a list of eight people who had betrayed their country and surrendered to the enemy. Their crimes were extremely serious. And Cai Yuanxi's name was listed at the top of the list. This made him alert.

At first, Feng Hui wanted to refuse to meet him, so as not to alert the enemy. But then he thought, this might be a good opportunity to kill three birds with one stone. He could use this opportunity to find out more about Cai Yuanxi, and maybe even find some useful clues from him. So he decided to meet Cai Yuanxi.

"Let him in!" he ordered.

"Yes." The soldier responded and turned and left.

After a while, a middle-aged man in a brocade robe came in. He was short and slightly fat, with a monkey-like face, round and cunning eyes, a pointed chin and a wide mouth, giving people a very mean feeling. His eyes revealed a kind of shrewdness and cunning, as if he was always calculating something.

Feng Hui held the bowl and pretended not to care. When Cai Yuanxi came in, he was surprised to see Feng Hui eating and sleeping with the soldiers. He thought that a second-rank official like Feng Hui should live alone in a courtyard and enjoy high-standard treatment. But everything in front of him surprised him. However, he was a man who had seen the world after all, so he quickly calmed down and knelt down and said: "I, Cai Yuanxi, pay my respects to Lord Yan, the governor of Xuanfu!"

Feng Hui said calmly: "Just say whatever you want to say. No need to be polite." His tone revealed an unquestionable majesty, which made Cai Yuanxi dare not act rashly.

Cai Yuanxi looked embarrassed, as if he wanted to discuss something with Feng Hui in private. But Feng Hui did not allow him to do so, and instead asked him the purpose of his visit in public, which made him feel embarrassed. However, he had already prepared, so he said: "I trade with the Mongols at the border, and I have cattle and sheep at home. I heard that the government troops have recaptured Xuanfu, and I am willing to offer these cattle and sheep to you as a reward for the three armies." He spoke passionately, as if he was really thinking about the government troops.

Feng Hui sneered in his heart. He had seen this trick many times. When businessmen bribed officials, they often did not state the monetary transaction directly. Only stupid people would do this. Smart people would definitely observe the words and expressions, cater to the officials' preferences, and gradually lead the officials into a trap. And more clever people would set traps and wait for officials to fall into them. Once the officials fell into it, it would be too late to regret it, and they would eventually be controlled by the businessmen. He knew this very well, so he would not be easily moved by Cai Yuanxi's words.

Feng Hui quickly finished the porridge, patted his stomach and said, "I'm not full yet! Mr. Fan can bring the cattle and sheep here so that I can fill my stomach." There was a hint of playfulness and ridicule in his tone, as if he was really looking forward to a sumptuous dinner.

Cai Yuanxi was overjoyed, thinking that he had a chance. He pointed outside the door and said, "The cattle and sheep are already outside. Please accept them." After saying this, he walked out first with a proud smile on his face.

Feng Hui followed behind him, and the soldiers followed closely behind, all drooling with greed. They had not tasted meat for a long time, and the sudden appearance of cattle and sheep made them very excited.

When he walked outside, he saw a few people standing on the street with cows and sheep. These cows and sheep were fat and strong, and looked very tempting. When the soldiers were about to scramble for them, Feng Hui stopped them: "Wait!" He turned around and asked Cai Yuanxi: "How much are these cows and sheep worth?" His tone was serious and earnest, as if he really cared about this issue.

Cai Yuanxi smiled and said, "Your Excellency, you are too polite. This is just a small gift from me, Fan, and I dare not tell you the price." He spoke very sincerely, as if he was really thinking about the government troops.

"No!" Feng Hui said firmly, "Your Majesty has ordered that you are not allowed to plunder the people's property or take advantage of others. If you don't tell me the price, I will not accept it." There was an unquestionable majesty in his tone, which made Cai Yuanxi dare not hide anything anymore.

Cai Yuanxi thought about it for a moment and understood what Feng Hui meant. He wanted to show his integrity in front of everyone and was unwilling to accept an unclear gift. So he estimated it and said, "It's worth about 200 taels of silver." He spoke very carefully, as if he was really estimating the price.

"Give the silver to Mr. Fan! Divide the sheep equally among the troops. You decide how to cook and eat them!" Feng Hui ordered. His tone was full of heroism and generosity, as if he really cared about the soldiers.

After the silver was paid to Cai Yuanxi, the soldiers pounced on the sheep like wolves. They shouted excitedly, as if they were really celebrating a grand festival. The cattle were kept because they were valuable and could be used to transport food and weapons, especially artillery guns, which were indispensable. These cattle would become an important asset of the army and provide strong support for the battle to defend the city.

While the soldiers were busy, Cai Yuanxi approached Feng Hui and whispered, "Lord Yan, can I talk to you for a moment?" There was a hint of mystery and caution in his tone, as if there was really something important to discuss.

Although Feng Hui was anxious, he still held back. He looked around and confirmed that no one was paying attention to them before he slowly said, "Mr. Fan, follow me." After that, he turned and walked to a side room, motioning Cai Yuanxi to follow.

The two walked into a side room, closed the door and began to talk. Cai Yuanxi bowed deeply and said, "I have long heard of Lord Yan's reputation. It is a great honor to meet you today." His tone was full of flattery and admiration, as if he really admired Feng Hui.

Feng Hui was not in the mood to entertain him, and asked directly: "What advice do you have, Mr. Fan? I have just taken charge of Xuanfu and am very busy with official duties." There was a hint of impatience and indifference in his tone, as if he was really in a hurry.

Cai Yuanxi put away his smile and asked seriously: "I would like to inquire about the latest situation in the capital, especially whether there are any changes in officials such as the ministers and vice ministers of the six ministries. We transport food and grass for the court. Although the bandits have retreated, the news from the capital is not smooth, and we don’t know what the latest situation is." He spoke very sincerely, as if he really cared about the safety of the court.

"Our livelihood depends on strength and relationships." He added, as if to emphasize the importance of relationships. This made Feng Hui more alert, because he knew that Cai Yuanxi must have a backer in the six ministries.

Feng Hui's mind was moved. He thought that there were many checkpoints from the capital to Xuanfu. It would be difficult to pass through without connections. However, Feng Hui did not want to ask more questions to avoid exposing his flaws. He walked to the door, opened it and said, "Tomorrow, firearms and gunpowder will be shipped from the capital. I will send someone to put them on the street market next to the west city gate during curfew." There was a bit of mystery and caution in his tone, as if he was really delivering some important news.

"The capital has already been affected, and this is all I can do!" He added, as if to emphasize his helplessness and efforts. This made Cai Yuanxi even more shocked and confused, and he didn't know what Feng Hui was hinting at.

Cai Yuanxi was shocked when he heard the news, and his mind was full of thoughts. He understood what Feng Hui meant. Something had happened in the capital, and this was all he could do. This meant that he had to act more cautiously to avoid being drawn into an unknown vortex. Finally, he asked cautiously, "Then Lord Yan, Xuanfu has just been taken over by the government army. How can these supplies leave the city?" His tone was a little
Wait, the mutton is not cooked yet! "In the courtyard, the mutton on the fire sizzled and the aroma filled the air. The golden fat flickered in the light of the fire like stars, causing the people around to swallow in waves, as if even the air was filled with this tempting aroma.

Seeing the aroma getting stronger, just as Zhu Fenghui was about to take the first bite, a soldier on duty ran in hurriedly, his footsteps making a rapid rhythm on the bluestone slab, breaking the tranquility. He reported nervously: "Master Yan, the guerrilla general Ding Yi of Xuanfu Town wants to see you."

"Ding Yi?" Zhu Fenghui frowned, a barely perceptible hint of deep thought flashed across his eyes, and then he ordered, "Let him in!" After that, he put the kebabs in his hand aside and looked towards the door, as if expecting something.

Ding Yi walked in quickly in a military uniform. His armor shone coldly in the afterglow of the setting sun, and every step he took seemed steady and powerful. He bowed and saluted: "Guerrilla General Ding Yi greets Lord Yan." Although he was not particularly tall, he showed strength in his armor, spear, and every move. This was not something that could be developed overnight, but required long-term training and baptism on the battlefield.

"General Ding, you've come at the right time. Try the lamb I just roasted." Zhu Fenghui said enthusiastically with a sincere smile on his face, as if he had anticipated the general's arrival.

Ding Yi was a rough man, and he didn't think much about it. He took the mutton and wanted to eat it. But when he looked up, he saw Jiang Yingkui and other soldiers staring at him with eyes like knives, and they were so fierce that he couldn't help but shiver. Ding Yi was stunned for a moment, and after thinking for a while, he realized it and quickly returned the mutton skewers in his hand to Zhu Fenghui: "Master Yan, please go first." After that, those knife-like eyes moved away from him. He secretly rejoiced in his heart, feeling like he had walked through the gates of hell. He was very curious, how could Zhu Fenghui have such a strong cohesion, which was really rare.

Zhu Fenghui tasted the mutton and found it delicious and tender. He nodded with satisfaction and picked up another skewer and handed it to Ding Yi: "General Ding, is there anything I can help you with?" His tone was calm, but with an unquestionable majesty.

Ding Yi looked around at the people in the yard, hesitant, as if there was something difficult to say. The afterglow of the setting sun shone on his face, reflecting his inner struggle.

"It's okay, they won't leak the news!" Zhu Fenghui comforted him, his eyes revealing trust and encouragement.

Ding Yi hesitated again and again, and finally made up his mind. He said in a low and firm voice: "Lord Yan, I want to impeach Wu Zhiyuan, the commander of Wanquandusi. He exploited the soldiers in the garrison, embezzled military pay, and colluded with merchants to sell banned items of the court. I know about firearms, gunpowder, ironware..." Ding Yi spoke for a long time before he expressed all his dissatisfaction, as if he was unloading a heavy stone.

Zhu Fenghui listened calmly, frowned slightly, and then relaxed his brows. He asked, "General Ding, do you have any evidence?" His voice was calm, but it carried a power that could not be ignored.

Ding Yi shook his head helplessly. In the Ming Dynasty, two types of evidence were theoretically needed to handle a case: witness testimony or physical evidence. But cautious people would not leave physical evidence, and witness testimony was often rejected because the presiding judge said "empty words are not enough". His eyes revealed a kind of helplessness and frustration.

Just when Ding Yi thought that Zhu Fenghui and Wu Zhiyuan were birds of a feather, Zhu Fenghui spoke up: "I believe what you said is true, so I decided to expose Wu Zhiyuan's crimes in front of all the soldiers. What do you think?" His voice was firm and powerful, as if injecting an invisible force into Ding Yi.

Ding Yi stood up excitedly, tears glistening in his eyes: "Thank you, Lord Yan, for handling this case impartially. I am very grateful!" His voice trembled a little, and he was obviously moved by Zhu Fenghui's justice.

"Wait..." Seeing Ding Yi was about to leave, Zhu Fenghui stopped him, "Since we want to investigate Wu Zhiyuan, we need your help, General Ding." There was an unquestionable majesty in his tone.

"What help?" Ding Yi asked, feeling a little nervous.

"General Ding has 800 elite border troops under his command. In order to prevent Wu Zhiyuan from rebelling and causing losses to both sides, I want to loan all of General Ding's men over for emergency use." Zhu Fenghui explained, with a deep light in his eyes, as if he was examining Ding Yi's heart.

Ding Yi's heart skipped a beat. In name, it was to borrow troops, but in reality, it was to deprive him of his military power. Could it be that he and Wu Zhiyuan were really in the same group? Ding Yi shook his head and denied this idea. Zhu Fenghui was very good at leading troops, but some things could not be faked. He was very good to his soldiers, and it was impossible for him to be in cahoots with Wu Zhiyuan.

Ding Yi quickly understood Zhu Fenghui's intention. The other party must be afraid of his strength, so he removed his military power in the name of borrowing troops so that he could deal with Wu Zhiyuan with peace of mind. Well, in ancient times, there was a cup of wine to release military power, and now Zhu Fenghui gave up his military power with a string of mutton, which can be regarded as a good story. Thinking of this, Ding Yi reached out and took out the military seal from the package he carried with him, and handed it to Zhu Fenghui: "Lord Yan, this is my military seal, you can use it to mobilize them." His voice was firm and powerful, as if he was making a major decision.

"Okay! General Ding, take care. I won't see you off! By the way, pay will be distributed at the parade ground the day after tomorrow morning. General Ding must be there on time." Zhu Fenghui ordered, his eyes revealing an unquestionable majesty.

Ding Yi forced himself not to think too much, bowed and said goodbye, turned and left. His back seemed a little lonely in the afterglow of the setting sun, but more of it was a firmness and determination.

Not long after, the soldier on duty came to report: "Sir Yan, the commander of the Wanquan Division, Wu Zhiyuan, wants to see you." There was a hint of nervousness in his voice, as if foreshadowing the coming storm.

Zhu Fenghui sighed, thinking that what was supposed to come would come sooner or later. He waved his hand, signaling the soldiers to let Wu Zhiyuan in. There was a deep light in his eyes, as if he was expecting something.

Wu Zhiyuan walked in alone, and after some polite exchanges, he got down to business: "Sir Yan, I want to impeach guerrilla general Ding Yi." His voice was low and powerful, as if he was venting his inner anger and dissatisfaction.

"He embezzled military funds, killed innocent people to claim credit, and was also derelict in duty, overstepped his authority, was rebellious, and greedy. I have witnesses, and I ask Lord Yan to investigate thoroughly." Wu Zhiyuan said righteously, his eyes revealing a firm light, as if he was fighting for his own justice.

Zhu Fenghui pretended to be stunned, thought for a moment and said: "Commander Lang, do you really have evidence?" His voice was calm and powerful, as if he was testing Wu Zhiyuan's determination and strength.

"I guarantee on my life that every word I say is true!" Wu Zhiyuan said firmly, his eyes revealing an unquestionable firmness and determination.

Zhu Fenghui pretended to think for a while, then said: "I believe what you said is true, so I decided to expose Ding Yi's crimes in front of all the soldiers, what do you think?" His voice was majestic and powerful, as if he was announcing a major decision.

"Thank you, Lord Yan!" Wu Zhiyuan said gratefully, his eyes revealing a kind of joy and anticipation, as if he was looking forward to the upcoming victory.

"Since we want to investigate Ding Yi, we still need your help, Commander Lang." Zhu Fenghui changed the subject, his eyes revealing a deep light, as if he was examining Wu Zhiyuan's heart.

"What help?" Wu Zhiyuan asked, feeling a little nervous and uneasy.

"Ding Yi has 800 elite border troops. In order to prevent him from rebelling, I would like to borrow 1,000 garrison soldiers from Commander Lang for emergency use. What do you think?" Zhu Fenghui made his request. His voice was calm and powerful, as if he was waiting for an answer.

Wu Zhiyuan blinked and thought about countermeasures quickly. Borrowing troops was impossible, and it would never work in this life, unless the other party was the general of Xuanfu or the governor of Xuanda. Otherwise, it would not work no matter who came. These soldiers were his confidence, and without confidence, he could only be slaughtered. The court did not let him serve as the general or governor, and there must be considerations in this regard, so he could not borrow troops. His eyes revealed a kind of firmness and determination, as if he was sticking to his bottom line.

"Sir Yan, you are the governor of Xuanfu and the minister of the Ministry of War. In theory, you can mobilize me. But soldiers and generals are one. I can obey the command of Sir Yan, but soldiers cannot be loaned out. This is the rule of the court." Wu Zhiyuan said with embarrassment, with a hint of helplessness and persistence in his voice.

"Besides, Lord Yan, you still have many places to recover. After you leave, the defense of Xuanfu will return to my hands. Even if I want to borrow troops, I will not be able to do so." He added, his eyes revealing a deep light, as if he was looking for a reasonable explanation for his decision.

Zhu Fenghui pretended to be enlightened: "I used to be a ninth-rank clerk in the county government, and I didn't know much about the rules of the court. Fortunately, Commander Lang reminded me, otherwise the consequences would be disastrous." There was a hint of gratitude and relief in his voice, as if he was ashamed of his ignorance.

"Then I will distribute the salaries at the parade ground the day after tomorrow morning. At that time, please ask Lord Yan to have all the soldiers of the garrison put on their armor and bring their weapons to the parade ground to collect their salaries." He made a suggestion, and his eyes revealed a deep light, as if he was planning his own plan.

"If Ding Yi makes unreasonable arguments or even leads his troops to resist, Commander Lang will be requested to help!" Zhu Fenghui added, his voice carrying an unquestionable majesty and power, as if he was declaring an order that could not be disobeyed.

Wu Zhiyuan thought carefully and bowed to say goodbye. He had heard about the fate of Qi's army, so he was a little reluctant to receive salary in the military training ground. But... wearing armor and carrying weapons will dispel the problem. (End of this chapter)