Chapter 110: The Two Faces of Regional Military Commissioner Tang

Wang Zhe, interrupted, frowned: “Why is he here? What does he want?” Every time he mentioned Tang Cheng, the man who had nauseated him for years, his expression turned as if he’d swallowed a fly.

Wang Zhe’s face darkened, his brows knotted in revulsion, his lips involuntarily curling downward.

The yamen runner bowed: “The Regional Military Commissioner didn’t say.” He replied respectfully, his expression calm, unaware of Wang Zhe’s displeasure.

Jiang Mingyu smiled faintly: “A visitor with ill intent—be cautious, Inspector.”

He teased, a glint of cunning flashing in his eyes, a sly curve lifting his lips.

Wang Zhe sneered: “A mere Regional Military Commissioner? Do you think I’m afraid of him? Let him in.”

He snorted, waving a dismissive, almost brutal hand, his tone thick with contempt.

Since that day Wang Zhe had warned him, Tang Cheng had been relatively well-behaved.

He knew Wang Zhe was watching him, so he’d temporarily restrained himself—though inwardly he seethed with resentment, constantly speculating about Jiang Mingyu’s movements.

But yesterday, desperate and at a loss, he suddenly received a letter from Prince Qi ordering him to kill Jiang Mingyu.

This sent Tang Cheng, who had long hated Jiang Mingyu to the core, into ecstatic delight—his moment of revenge had finally come. When he read the letter, his eyes gleamed, and his crimson lips twisted into a vicious grin.

Even better: Jiang Mingyu had come to the Yasi Mo Regional Military Commissioner’s office today—on his own.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Tang Cheng would not miss. After a quick preparation, he arrived at the Inspector’s mansion, his heart pounding with excitement, his steps light, his eyes alight with triumph.

Looking at Tang Cheng before him, Wang Zhe’s face was cold: “Regional Military Commissioner, what do you want?” His brows furrowed, his tone hostile, brimming with suspicion and loathing. His chiseled face held no smile; his gaze was icy.

Tang Cheng forced a thin smile, speaking stiffly: “I’ve come specifically to pay my respects to the Inspector.” His smile was rigid, more like a sneer. His thin lips barely lifted; his eyes held no warmth.

Wang Zhe didn’t believe a single punctuation mark he uttered: “Regional Military Commissioner, how thoughtful—truly, I’m honored.” He arched a brow in mockery, utterly unimpressed. His tone dripped with sarcasm, seeing through Tang Cheng’s hypocrisy.

Tang Cheng acted as if he hadn’t heard, turning with feigned surprise: “Jiang Da-ren is also here?” He put on an expression of shock, though a flicker of cunning passed through his eyes. He raised his brows, pretending astonishment.

Jiang Mingyu didn’t call him out: “I merely crushed a few bandits—yet it’s drawn your attention, Your Excellency. I’m ashamed.” He replied humbly, secretly gauging Tang Cheng’s intent. He nodded slightly, his face courteous, his mind on guard.

Yet the Tang Cheng who had been so cordial just moments before suddenly changed expression without warning: “Jiang Mingyu, do you know your crime?” His face darkened, his voice chilling, his gaze like blades. The pretense vanished instantly, replaced by an aggressive, intimidating aura.

Jiang Mingyu was stunned: “Regional Military Commissioner, what do you mean?” He widened his eyes in shock, thrown off by Tang Cheng’s sudden shift. He was clearly unprepared, his face now only confusion.

Tang Cheng sneered: “You mobilized troops without authorization—how dare you ask me what I mean?” He pressed forward, accusing Jiang Mingyu. His cold eyes locked onto Jiang Mingyu, radiating danger.

“You dared to mobilize troops without a Ministry of War order—do you know this is a capital offense?” Tang Cheng pressed, his tone arrogant and unyielding. He lifted his chin, radiating haughtiness.

“It’s laughable—in front of me, you show no remorse, even take pride in it. Your crime is unforgivable.” Tang Cheng advanced, his voice haughty. He tilted his head, looking down at Jiang Mingyu, his eyes brimming with disdain.

“If you’re wise, explain yourself now—otherwise, I’ll have you arrested and subjected to severe punishment.” He cut off any reply, pressing hard. He thrust out his chest, standing in a posture of merciless intent.

Jiang Mingyu no longer gave him any courtesy: “Explain what?” He retorted, his tone sharp, his gaze piercing. His fists clenched, he stood his ground.

Tang Cheng rolled his eyes: “Of course, the troop mobilization—do you think I’m talking about something else?” He snapped impatiently, sneering. His white eyes rolled openly, dripping with contempt.

Jiang Mingyu sneered: “I mobilized troops to crush bandits—I see no wrongdoing.” He stood firm, unyielding. His words were sharp, his counterattack forceful.

“Regional Military Commissioner, you attack without hearing either side—isn’t that unjust?” He countered, his tone mocking. He challenged Tang Cheng with a defiant stare.

Beside them, Wang Zhe let out a loud, displeased grunt, his disgust plain on his face.

He glared at Tang Cheng as if wanting to carve him into a thousand pieces.

Wang Zhe crossed his arms, radiating anger.

But Tang Cheng acted as if he saw nothing: “Jiang Mingyu, don’t try to talk your way out of this.” He remained unmoved, pressing on, determined to find Jiang Mingyu’s fault.

“I don’t care why you mobilized troops—I only ask: did you mobilize troops without the Ministry of War’s approval?” His tone was rigid, brooking no defense, his stance dominant, unyielding.

Jiang Mingyu showed no sign of evasion: “Correct—I did mobilize troops. So what?” He replied solemnly, his gaze steady, his spine straight, not flinching.

Tang Cheng’s expression turned sinister: “So what? What do you mean, ‘so what’?” He asked sarcastically, his eyes brimming with malice, a cold smile curling his lips, his entire being radiating danger.

“As a high-ranking official of the court, you defy the law so brazenly—why aren’t you kneeling to confess?” Tang Cheng pressed, his eyes sharp as blades.

Jiang Mingyu laughed bitterly: “Crushing bandits is now a crime? How amusing. Fine—I’ll confess today.” He retorted sharply, refusing to yield.

“What do you want? Imprisonment? Or sending me to the Ministry of War for judgment?” He challenged Tang Cheng, his voice cold, his gaze piercing.

“You’d better send me straight to the capital—I’ll ask His Majesty face-to-face: is crushing bandits a crime or not?” Jiang Mingyu struck back, reversing the situation.

Tang Cheng’s face twitched: “Jiang Mingyu, you’re a slick-tongued liar. I ask you: how many troops did you mobilize?” He tried to shift the topic.

Jiang Mingyu didn’t evade: “Two thousand. What of it?” He replied solemnly, unyielding.

Tang Cheng frowned: “How many bandits did you kill?” He pressed further.

Jiang Mingyu calculated: “About seven or eight hundred, roughly.” He paused, then gave the honest answer.

Tang Cheng flew into a rage: “Seven or eight hundred bandits—and you mobilized two thousand troops? I suspect you have ulterior motives.” He deliberately twisted the facts to slander Jiang Mingyu.

Jiang Mingyu took a deep breath, forcing calm. Tang Cheng’s intent was clear—he must respond carefully, or he’d fall into a trap.

And Tuxikelo, who had remained silent until now, his face soft and androgynous, suddenly flushed with rage. Jiang Mingyu quickly gave him a warning glance; Tuxikelo barely restrained himself from speaking.

Tang Cheng sneered: “I’m not you—I don’t harbor your vile intentions.” His tone was haughty, condescending.

“Jiang Mingyu, stop dodging. Tell me: why mobilize two thousand troops for seven or eight hundred bandits?” He pressed, relentless.

“If you tell the truth today, it’ll be forgiven. If you can’t explain yourself clearly, not even His Majesty will spare you.” Tang Cheng threatened, his eyes fierce.

Jiang Mingyu didn’t care: he chuckled: “According to you, Regional Military Commissioner, how many troops should I have brought? Three? Five?” He countered, dripping with sarcasm.

“Forgive me for saying so, but I went to crush bandits—not to commit suicide.” Jiang Mingyu pressed on, unafraid to defy Tang Cheng.

Tang Cheng’s face darkened further: “Jiang Mingyu, mobilizing troops without authorization is already an unforgivable crime—and now you dare speak disrespectfully to me? Your crime grows worse.” He was furious, teeth clenched.

Jiang Mingyu, however, adopted the posture of one awaiting execution: “Very well, Regional Military Commissioner—let’s go.” He spoke calmly, utterly indifferent to Tang Cheng’s pressure.

He turned to Wang Zhe, whose face was black: “By the way, Inspector, once I’m gone, the affairs of Shangmu will be left unattended.”

“This vacancy may take time to fill. Regional Military Commissioner is upright and exceptionally capable—let him temporarily assume this post.” Jiang Mingyu smiled faintly, stoking the conflict between Tang Cheng and Wang Zhe.

Wang Zhe immediately understood: “Good. Jiang Da-ren speaks wisely.” He nodded firmly, his tone decisive.

“Regional Military Commissioner, from now on, you’ll handle all matters of Shangmu.” Wang Zhe declared immediately, handing Tang Cheng full authority over Shangmu. He announced it as if it were only natural.

“Judging by the timeline, the Xixia will arrive in no more than a few days. We’ll rely heavily on you then.” He smiled warmly—but it was a trap. Wang Zhe narrowed his eyes, his smile brimming with cunning.

Jiang Mingyu didn’t care how dark Tang Cheng’s face had become: “Regional Military Commissioner, I have a word of advice for you.” He feigned concern, though his tone held no care.

“To avoid ending up like me, when the Xixia come, don’t move a single soldier without authorization.” He warned Tang Cheng about the Ministry of War’s orders. Jiang Mingyu blinked, giving the advice with solemn sincerity.

“Mobilizing troops without a Ministry of War order is a capital offense.” Jiang Mingyu mimicked Tang Cheng’s tone perfectly, inwardly delighted. His imitation was flawless—like a mirror image.

Tang Cheng’s face darkened: “If I don’t mobilize troops, how am I supposed to face the enemy?” He was furious, helpless. His expression shifted between fury and humiliation.

Jiang Mingyu smiled coolly: “Why not negotiate with the Xixia? Ask them to wait until you get your Ministry of War order before attacking. Problem solved.” He mocked, his eyes full of scorn, taking in Tang Cheng’s humiliation.

“Enough, Regional Military Commissioner. Time’s late—take me to the Three Judicial Offices. I’m already eager.” Jiang Mingyu urged, knowing Tang Cheng was trapped, while he himself held the upper hand. He clapped his hands, as if awaiting imprisonment.

Tang Cheng’s face shifted again and again, yet he couldn’t utter a word. Jiang Mingyu and Wang Zhe’s relentless assault had cornered him. He was flustered, his face twisted with fury and disgrace.

Wang Zhe suppressed his laughter: “Yes, Regional Military Commissioner—let’s go.” He urged, his eyes brimming with mockery.

“Hurry back—Shangmu has many matters awaiting your attention.” Wang Zhe deliberately reminded Tang Cheng of Shangmu’s peril, as if masking his amusement.

Tang Cheng’s lips twitched violently. Thinking of Shangmu’s danger, his face grew even darker, his lips trembling uncontrollably.

Facing Jiang Mingyu and Wang Zhe’s mocking gazes, he spoke stiffly: “Inspector, please calm down.” His voice trembled, his expression awkward.

“What I said earlier was merely a joke—with Jiang Da-ren. Yes, a joke.” He forced a light tone, laughing weakly.

“Such a fine official as him—how could I possibly harm him? Inspector, you’re overthinking.” He turned to Wang Zhe, insisting he meant no harm.

Then he addressed Jiang Mingyu: “Jiang Da-ren, I was only joking—please don’t take it to heart.” Tang Cheng smiled nervously, his tone softened.

“We all serve the court. If this grows into a scandal, even Prince Qi won’t be pleased.” His tone carried a veiled threat, reminding Jiang Mingyu of Prince Qi’s power.

Jiang Mingyu gave a cold snort: “Regional Military Commissioner, you’re imagining things.” He didn’t buy a word, his voice icy.

Just as Tang Cheng thought he’d let the matter drop, Jiang Mingyu spoke again: “I know I committed a grave crime by mobilizing troops without authorization.” His tone showed no softening.

“If Prince Qi is displeased, that’s understandable. Either way, I’m doomed—adding one more charge won’t change a thing.” Jiang Mingyu remained calm, utterly indifferent.

“Just take me to the Three Judicial Offices. The Inspector said it himself—Shangmu has many matters awaiting you.” He urged, his gaze resolute.

Tang Cheng’s expression froze, his forced smile now grotesque. He swallowed hard, struggling to speak.

“Jiang Da-ren, I already said—it was just a joke.” He stammered, his voice dry.

“Look, how can you take it seriously? As a county magistrate, you’re being petty. That’s not good.” He pretended nonchalance, but his tone was painfully awkward.

Jiang Mingyu’s smile grew colder: “Regional Military Commissioner, you say that so lightly.”

“You’re the Regional Military Commissioner of Yasi Mo—a regional governor—joking about my life and death? How very funny.” Jiang Mingyu struck without mercy.

Tang Cheng’s face darkened, his mouth opening and closing, unable to respond. Jiang Mingyu’s counterattack was sharp and precise, driving him to the brink.

“But I’d like to ask: in the Inspector’s own mansion, speaking such nonsense—where does that leave the Inspector?” Jiang Mingyu pointed out Tang Cheng’s blunder.

“I warn you: if this happens again, I’ll have no choice but to submit a memorial to the capital and ask His Majesty to deliver justice.” His tone was serious, a veiled warning.

Tang Cheng turned pale, nodding frantically: “Jiang Da-ren is right—I’ll be more careful.” He looked as if he’d lost everything, his arrogance vanished.

But Wang Zhe wouldn’t let him off: “Regional Military Commissioner, do you think saying ‘I’ll be more careful’ will resolve today’s incident?” He sneered, pressing his advantage.

Tang Cheng nearly wept, bowing low with his hands clasped: “It was an unintentional remark—please, Inspector, forgive me.” He wept and pleaded, his eyes full of desperation.

Wang Zhe didn’t care whether it was intentional or not: “From today, go home and reflect in seclusion.” He commanded, his tone unchallengeable.

“If you still can’t understand, Yasi Mo will need a new Regional Military Commissioner.” Wang Zhe added, his tone heavy with threat.

Tang Cheng sank to his knees, his face ashen, utterly defeated. Wang Zhe’s words had cast him into permanent exile—his official career was over.

Tang Cheng had no courage to reply: “Yes, Your Excellency’s reprimand is just. I’ll return home to reflect. Goodbye.” He crawled on the ground like a stray dog, his voice abject.

Saying this, he fled as if escaping death, not looking back. He hunched his back, running off, terrified Wang Zhe might change his mind.

He seethed inwardly: “That damned Jiang Mingyu—when did he become His Majesty’s man?” Tang Cheng gritted his teeth, wanting to tear Jiang Mingyu into pieces.

“Killing Jiang Mingyu easily is impossible now.” He clenched his fists in frustration, unable to believe the turn of events.

“No—I must report this to Prince Qi immediately. Only he can handle it properly.” Tang Cheng’s eyes flickered with hope; he quickened his pace, preparing to meet Prince Qi.

Wang Zhe sneered: “Arrogant at first, groveling later—what a piece of trash?” He spoke with contempt, his eyes full of disdain.

On Tuxikelo’s face, a look of deep satisfaction appeared. He sneered as he watched Tang Cheng leave, his heart filled with the joy of revenge.

Jiang Mingyu changed the subject: “Inspector, I have another request.” He spoke respectfully, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

Wang Zhe was in high spirits: “Jiang Da-ren, we’re allies—speak plainly, no need for formality.” He smiled warmly, his demeanor charming.

Jiang Mingyu didn’t bother with formalities: “I’d like to ask, my lord, do you have any outlets for iron ore?” He cut straight to the point, without any circumlocution.

Wang Zhe’s interest immediately sparked—here was a massive business opportunity. He immediately lied: “I don’t yet have a suitable channel, but don’t worry—I can inquire on your behalf.”

“There are plenty of iron traders in Asmodu Regional Military Commissioner’s City. You won’t have to wait long—news should come soon,” Wang Zhe assured, exuding confidence.

He rubbed his thumb vigorously against his index and middle fingers, like a fortune-teller conjuring omens. Jiang Mingyu understood perfectly and gave a slight nod to acknowledge.

“My lord, rest assured—once you facilitate this deal, I will surely offer you a generous token of gratitude,” Jiang Mingyu said readily, indicating he would reward Wang Zhe.

Wang Zhe’s appetite extended far beyond that: “Lord Jiang, this iron mine lies within Asmodu Regional Military Commissioner’s jurisdiction.” He adopted a serious tone.

“As Regional Military Commissioner of Asmodu, I am, in effect, the owner of this mine. Surely, this business must include a share for me?” His tone left no room for refusal.

Jiang Mingyu’s face betrayed nothing, but inwardly he cursed. Wang Zhe wanted a cut—he had to agree, or he’d lose Wang Zhe’s help.

“My lord, you’re absolutely right—how could this business exclude you?” Jiang Mingyu hurried to flatter, showing utmost deference.

“Since my lord says so, let’s split the profits fifty-fifty,” Jiang Mingyu said readily, agreeing to an equal division.

“I’ll handle mining and smelting; you’ll handle finding buyers. If you can open several shops within Asmodu Regional Military Commissioner’s City, all the better.” He outlined their respective responsibilities.

Wang Zhe had no reason to refuse: “Fine. Leave this to me to arrange.” He agreed wholeheartedly.

“Iron ore isn’t simple—it can forge weapons, and in daily life, everyone depends on it. We’re going to get rich,” Wang Zhe’s eyes gleamed, his face suffused with greed.

Seeing Wang Zhe’s swift agreement, Jiang Mingyu temporarily lowered his guard. After finalizing the arrangement, Jiang Mingyu took his leave.

Outside the Regional Military Commissioner’s mansion, Tu Kesiluo exhaled: “Good—Wang Zhe is now ours. We can finally breathe easy.” He spoke cheerfully.

But Jiang Mingyu saw it differently: “Don’t celebrate too soon.” His expression was grave, his voice low.

Tu Kesiluo frowned: “What do you mean?” He regarded Jiang Mingyu with suspicion.

Jiang Mingyu explained: “Why would the Regional Military Commissioner rush to take sides? Simply put—Prince Qi’s influence is far greater than what we’ve seen. Otherwise, how could a mere prince dare oppose His Majesty?”

“I fear that one day Prince Qi will rebel. Under a toppled nest, no egg remains whole—not even His Majesty will be safe, and neither will we.” Jiang Mingyu’s face was grim, his tone heavy.

Tu Kesiluo now grasped the gravity: “My lord, what should we do?” He furrowed his brow, filled with dread.