Chapter 580: The Three Kingdoms’ Little Cannon Fodder (22)

The young lady from Ji Province has proclaimed herself emperor!

After successively sweeping away numerous forces throughout the entire north, forcing even the Cao clan to cede Xudu and move the capital south with the emperor, she ascended to power with an absolute, domineering posture. She even established the dynastic name "Jing."

Previously, there wasn't the slightest hint or omen.

Unsurprisingly, this became one of the biggest recent talking points.

However, after the initial shock, many people didn't find it all that surprising.

Unlike other separatist warlords whose leaders had previously served the Han court to varying degrees—making their secession somewhat justifiable in terms of legitimacy—the newly established Jing Dynasty was fundamentally different. From the very beginning, it was a local power. From its leader down to its officials, it was essentially a ragtag band.

If not for having a formidable disciple of a reclusive master, its organizational composition would be nearly indistinguishable from local peasant uprisings.

This was also one of the reasons it was despised by many esteemed scholars and looked down upon by numerous people early on.

However, despite these various reasons causing difficulties in its initial development phase, it has now ironically become the faction with the simplest path to ascension, facing almost no obstacles whatsoever.

For them, their Young Master, who rescued them from the terrifying epidemic, ensured they had food, clothing, warmth, and the chance to study and practice martial arts, is the one they feel bound by both sentiment and interest to follow unto death.

The imperial court? The same court that nearly drove them to extinction earlier?

As for the others who pledged allegiance later, those willing to join this cause despite its questionable legitimacy, one can easily guess how many among them were truly loyal to the Han court.

Haven't you noticed? Those major aristocratic clans who earlier voiced opposition have already quietly vanished from sight.

Regarding popular and military support, one can only say that whether it's grand principles or other justifications, no amount of flowery rhetoric matters to the common people. Having enough to eat and wear is everything.

Just look at how many people within the opposing camps eagerly await the arrival of the northern army every day to understand this point.

Considering all the above factors—favorable timing, geographical advantages, and popular support—An Ning's ascension this time, at least from her own side's perspective, can be aptly described as meeting the expectations of the masses.

To some extent, this move also thoroughly reassured the hearts of her generals and officials, especially after generously bestowing rewards upon a group of meritorious subjects.

Of course, for An Ning, proclaiming herself emperor at this time had no other purpose than convenience. Especially regarding the series of official titles and noble ranks conferred upon her subordinates, it, to some degree, better established the authority of her, the leader.

In short, once the news spread, for a time, the major teahouses and alleys across the northern lands were filled with sounds of bustling joy.

After all, in this world, everyone is just ordinary folk. Who would complain about life getting better?

However, for others, even if they had anticipated it, this was truly not good news!

For a full half-month afterward, the major military camps in the south were almost constantly lit day and night.

Especially several days later, when Chancellor Cao, acting on behalf of the Son of Heaven, issued orders to the various feudal lords to suppress the rebellion. As expected, the number of respondents remained pitifully few.

To be honest, this wasn't surprising either.

What a joke! Unless you had a death wish, who would want to clash with that one?

Could you compare whose blades were sharper, or whose horses ran faster? Didn't you see? When she didn't act, it was one thing, but when she truly moved, conquering You Prefecture and even the subsequent several provinces of the Yuan clan didn't take much time at all.

Now, one can only say, given her temperament and past conduct, many people merely hope she will conserve her strength, recuperate, or focus on internal governance for a longer period.

At least give them some breathing room, even a chance to enjoy themselves.

Of course, there are also those secretly building up their own strength, such as the several figures in Jiangdong.

In autumn, facing the continuous river breeze brushing past his ears, a scholarly, slightly thin man in a white fox-fur cloak couldn't help but cough lightly. He spoke gently to the black-robed man beside him:

"Elder Brother, don't be anxious. Based on my observation of that Jing Emperor's conduct over these years, I must say she truly lives up to being a disciple of a reclusive master. In my private opinion, for her, saving the world and pacifying the people likely outweigh her desire for power."

This wasn't to say her political skill and methods were lacking. On the contrary, to have reached this point, almost bloodlessly eroding and dismantling most of the scholar-official clan forces in the north while maintaining current stability...

The abilities inherited from the reclusive masters' domain were one factor, but her own political maneuvering and strategic planning should not be underestimated either.

However, for their Jiangdong, this might not be without opportunity.

As human beings, even knowing the opponent's strength, who can lightly declare victory or defeat before the final moment arrives!

The setting sun sank westward, and the vast expanse of fiery red on the river grew more scorching, reflecting on the visibly pale face of the man before him, inexplicably revealing a touch of heroic, stirring grandeur!

Upon closer inspection, there was also an indescribable, magnificent beauty.

His white robes flapped loudly in the autumn wind and fading sunlight, evoking the grand, heroic sentiment of the great river flowing east, washing away all the heroes under heaven.

Indeed, someone who could get along with the Little Conqueror of Jiangdong in his youth and even early on perform the ceremony of ascending the hall to honor each other's mothers... No matter how gentle and scholarly his appearance, at his core, he was a thoroughbred, combat-oriented tough guy.

It's just a pity that as soon as his words fell, they were abruptly interrupted by the man beside him with an "Aiya!"

"Alright, alright, how could I, your elder brother, not understand these things? The physician already said, Brother Yu, you really shouldn't worry too much."

While speaking, he didn't forget to order someone to bring a warmer cashmere garment, meticulously wrapping it around the person at his side from head to toe. Seeing the wind growing stronger, he wordlessly and carefully helped the person back into the cabin.

Only when the visible chill on the other person dissipated did he heave a deep sigh of relief:

"Ah, really, you have to admit, whether it's medicine or other things from the northern lands, they are all first-rate treasures!"

Apart from being expensive, they have virtually no flaws!

"Right, it's getting cold soon. Brother Yu, remember to wear an extra woolen sweater when you go out in the future!"

Just a moment ago, Young Master Zhou, who had mustered considerable heroic ambition: "..."

Casually gathering the newly added, extra-thick cashmere sweater around himself and holding the health-preserving tea—also bought at great expense—handed to him by the other, Young Master Zhou, lacking his usual grace, rolled his eyes at him:

"Elder Brother, are you truly treating your little brother like a fragile porcelain doll to be coddled?"

He just had a recurrence of an old injury last time and unfortunately caught the epidemic, which damaged his foundation. It wasn't as if he was truly at death's door.

Thinking of the other's excessive caution lately, even suggesting he go pledge allegiance to that northern one to obtain medicine... Although he understood the reason, Young Master Zhou couldn't help but feel his temples throb.

"Hah, definitely not!"

As his words fell, a hearty, masculine laugh soon echoed within the cabin.

Opposite him, Sun Ce, dressed in a crimson brocade robe, with handsome features but an equally casual sitting posture, immediately let out a bright laugh and also raised his cup of clear tea:

"Brother Yu, what are you saying? In terms of strategy and quick-wittedness, who in all of Jiangdong can compare to you?"

Hearing these flattering words and stroking the hot tea in his hand, Zhou Yu was about to give a light humph when he heard the other turn serious, saying with earnest expression:

"But Brother Yu, I, as your elder brother, am naturally supposed to stand in front of you and Ah Quan. No matter what happens in the future, it boils down to this: fight when we must, and have no regrets even in defeat!

Gongjin, don't overthink things!"

"At worst, if we truly lose, our brothers might even live to a hundred. Brother Yu, your health won't be a worry anymore. We wouldn't be at a loss either, hahahaha!"

Zhou Yu: "..."

***

Of course, that last part was just a bit of joking.

Whether it was the Zhou Yu before him or Sun Bofu himself, neither would be the type to retreat easily before the final moment, when the situation offered no chance of reversal.

Furthermore, as fellow leaders, placing the hopes of one's entire family, young and old, in the hands of another is fundamentally foolish. Although that northern one acts with magnanimity, she is certainly no sucker.

Even if that day truly came, they would undoubtedly have to pay a significant price themselves.

Not to mention distant possibilities, just look at the trade exchanges over these years. Who has truly gained an advantage from dealing with her?

The various medicines that are exorbitantly expensive here are rumored to be available in the northern lands, with proper household registration and a confirmed diagnosis, for small purchases at prices likely less than one-tenth of what they cost here.

Whenever an epidemic strikes, medicines are even distributed free of charge in affected areas. Unlike here, where one must spend a fortune.

Yet even so, despite a powerful enemy at their side, countless people still clamor, waving gold, continuously sending money and goods to the other side.

Ban trade between the two sides?

Don't even mention the rulers themselves; the aristocratic clans and powerful families across various regions would probably be the first to jump up in opposition.

Of course, ahem... these past two years, the very Sun Bofu before him has also been madly showering the opposing side with gold coins for the sake of his brother.

Leaving aside other things, just the medicinal tea the person opposite is drinking right now, a mere palm-sized small jar, costs a full hundred gold pieces. The calming incense currently burning in the cabin is even more staggeringly expensive.

The legendary saying "one tael of incense, one hundred taels of gold" is no exaggeration.

But as the saying goes, although the little treasury is visibly depleting at a rapid pace, the effects are genuinely good.

During that serious illness two years ago, relying on good medicine to save a life at the brink of death was already an immense fortune. Even the best physician in Jiangdong once said his Brother Yu likely wouldn't survive more than a year thereafter.

To have recovered to the point of being able to run and jump about now is a heaven-sent, tremendous blessing.

What does spending a tiny bit of money matter?

It's just a pity...

Thinking of that medicine from back then, even someone as forthright and open-minded as Sun Bofu couldn't help but feel regret and remorse during sleepless nights.

His earlier blunt suggestion that his Brother Yu simply pledge allegiance to the opposing side to preserve his life was no empty talk.

After all, with his Brother Yu's talent and ability, wouldn't that one treat him well?

Saving one's life isn't something to be ashamed of!

With one glance discerning what the person opposite was thinking, amidst the faint, lingering tea fragrance, that person raised a handsome eyebrow, immediately set down his teacup, and snorted coldly:

"What? Does Elder Brother think your little brother's expenses are too heavy, that you can't afford to keep me anymore?"

"Hahahaha, how could that be!" Blocking the oncoming river wind with his body, Sun Bofu immediately laughed heartily:

"Don't say one, even if it were ten times, a hundred times the expense, so what? Your elder brother can still support you, and afford to do so!"

Hmm, ten times, a hundred times...

Considering all his expenses over these past few years, even someone as wealthy and influential as Commander Zhou himself couldn't help but fall silent at this moment.

At this same moment, equally profoundly silent was Boss Cao, far away in Yu Province.

Raising prices at the drop of a hat, and specifically targeting merchants and travelers from their region... this maneuver is truly shameless!

Especially when looking at the nearly depleted calming incense by his hand and the few remaining jars of medicinal wine beside it.

Cao Aman couldn't help but wearily rub his throbbing head.

Yes, similar to Sun Bofu before, Comrade Cao, now nearly sixty and still suffering from occasional head wind episodes, is also one of the major clients who has been wildly showering gold coins, making significant contributions to the northern infrastructure development.

Especially since, besides himself, there's his beloved son Cao Chong, who nearly died of illness a few years ago, and several other young sons below.

Even Wenruo's health hasn't been particularly robust these past two years.

Now, with a powerful enemy at their side, even though ambition remains and has even been stirred by An Ning's imperial proclamation, someone as astute as Chancellor Cao naturally wouldn't rashly advance to the rank of duke, or even prince, risking internal instability.

It can be said that even though the destined year 212 has passed, Cao and Xun are still currently in their honeymoon phase.

As a top-tier capable minister and friend among his subordinates, Boss Cao is quite concerned about the other's physical condition. He frequently inquires after his health and has sent no shortage of good things to Wenruo's residence.

It's just that this expenditure...

Forget it, his head wind is probably acting up again.

"That previous piece of information was definitely deliberately leaked!"

Within the council hall, a man seated below declared decisively, his expression not lacking in anger.

The "information" here undoubtedly refers to the several secret letters issued earlier in the Son of Heaven's name to the various feudal lords, ordering the suppression of the rebellion.

Given their Young Master's caution, such a secret matter would undoubtedly be entrusted to the most trusted of confidants.

Yet even with such caution, it was still leaked. Moreover, that northern one even gave a response.

It's reasonable to suspect those feudal lords stabbed their Young Master in the back.

Although it was only a price increase on some medicines, spices, and even certain precious fabrics, the impact on them was by no means small.

Take medicine alone.

Nowadays, epidemics run rampant, with a major outbreak occurring every few years, each time affecting vast areas. Every household experiences the pain of losing loved ones, every home echoes with cries of mourning. In more severe cases, entire clans being wiped out is no exaggeration.

Earlier, regarding the Battle of Red Cliffs, aside from certain strategic mistakes, the large-scale epidemic within the army was undoubtedly one of the reasons.

This applies to commoners and the military, and even the upper-class aristocratic nobles cannot avoid living in constant fear.

Besides, as human beings, who isn't afraid of death?

Other matters can be discussed later, but one's own life is the only one they have. This is also why, even knowing this action "funds the enemy," everyone is still desperately scrambling to send money to the other side.

See, just a few days after the news was released, within their own ranks alone, dissenting voices from various gentry and powerful families have emerged endlessly.

"These people are truly foolish and short-sighted. At a time like this, not only do they fail to unite, they even attempt to stab us in the back. Do they think harming our Young Master will bring them benefits?"

In the assembly, another man dressed as a military officer said coldly.

In fact, without the Chancellor, that northern one's southward advance would only be faster.

However, the important point isn't this. Not far away, Xun Yu couldn't help but sigh lightly while fanning himself:

"I imagine after this incident, due to her strength, various forces dare not voice opposition openly—that's just one aspect. The key is the mutual suspicion behind the scenes, each fearing betrayal by allies, making them afraid to unite."

In short, everyone has their own calculations. Forget about now; even if that one truly attacks, hoping for a united resistance against the enemy is probably futile!

As his words fell, silence once again filled the council hall.

Only after the meeting concluded and everyone had left did Xun Wenruo speak solemnly:

"At present, Young Master, we can only follow the example of that northern one: focus our efforts on the people's livelihood and enhance the military's strength to prepare for unforeseen events in the future."

The most important is the latter, ensuring we don't end up like before, where the defending soldiers at the city gates couldn't wait to discard their armor and weapons as soon as the enemy reached the walls.

This is truly... a joke straight from hell!