Chapter 133: The Short-Lived Commandant

After traveling for a day and covering over twenty li, everyone was panting. At this moment, Tukesiluo bowed to Jiang Mingyu with a smile and said, “My lord, I’ll go ahead to scout the road and see what lies ahead.”

Jiang Mingyu’s heart stirred, but before he could reply, Tukesiluo spurred his horse, kicking up a cloud of dust, and vanished from sight.

Jiang Mingyu understood Tukesiluo’s intent and said nothing. He could only silently pray that all would go smoothly.

At this moment, Yang Hui clearly saw through Tukesiluo’s scheme and shouted loudly, “Look at him—he’s racing ahead to claim glory! Men, cavalry, follow me! Infantry, obey Jiang’s orders and follow later!”

With that, he snatched his whip and galloped off, dust swirling in his wake.

Jiang Mingyu’s heart tightened; he had no time to think further and immediately urged his mount to follow.

This chase covered another ten li, leaving men and horses exhausted, dust choking the air. They finally caught up with Tukesiluo, who was crouched on the ground examining something.

Yang Hui barked, “What’s going on? Why did you rush ahead alone?”

Tukesiluo grinned and pointed to the ground. “Commandant, look at these hoofprints—they’re unmistakably from Xixia horses. The prints are fresh; they haven’t gone far. Let’s chase them now!”

Yang Hui’s eyes lit up. He laughed heartily, “Ha! Heaven itself aids me! Men, pursue them at once! Capture these damned Xixia spies, and I’ll show them how I treat traitors!”

With a sharp command, his hundred cavalrymen rallied and galloped off.

Though Jiang Mingyu felt uneasy, he had to let the plan proceed. He held his infantry in place and let Yang Hui lead the pursuit.

The group reached the depths of Baishou Mountain, but the trail of hoofprints vanished. Everyone exchanged uneasy glances.

Yang Hui signaled for no one to move, then rode forward alone, carefully scanning the surroundings.

Could these Xixia spies have flown away? Yang Hui muttered to himself. Impossible—they must be hiding somewhere. I’ll capture them myself and show Qi Wang what I’m capable of!

Just as Yang Hui gloated, Tukesiluo suddenly screamed from afar, “Commandant, beware!”

Yang Hui reined in his horse and turned—just as dozens of massive boulders tumbled down from above!

“Boom!” A cascade of rocks rained from the sky. Yang Hui tried to dodge—

Terrified, Yang Hui spun to flee—but it was too late.

He let out a shrill scream before being buried under the falling stones.

This newly appointed Commandant met his gruesome end right before his own glory.

When Jiang Mingyu arrived with the infantry, the men were already digging Yang Hui’s corpse from the rubble.

He stared at the scene, his face wearing an expression of “shock,” while his mind remained utterly blank.

He hurriedly asked Tukesiluo, “What happened?”

Under the watchful eyes of the hundred cavalrymen, Tukesiluo recounted the full story to Jiang Mingyu.

This was Zhuge Yu’s plan.

Last night, Zhuge Yu revealed his plan to Jiang Mingyu, who then had Tukesiluo select a few utterly loyal men.

These men, under Tukesiluo’s orders, set up an unknown trap here.

This morning, Jiang Mingyu learned the trap was ready and immediately headed for the city defense camp.

As for the so-called Xixia spies, they were entirely fictitious.

Yang Hui, greedy for glory, ignored warnings and walked straight into death.

After delivering the corpse to the county yamen, Tukesiluo asked, “My lord, what do we do next?”

Jiang Mingyu smiled. “To the state capital. I shall deliver the news of Yang Hui’s death to Tang Cheng’an myself.”

“I will let him know that anyone who dares oppose me has only one path: death.”

Tukesiluo chuckled. “That’s amusing.”

Jiang Mingyu then ordered, “Post notices to the people: the Xixia have retreated. They may celebrate the New Year in peace.”

With that, Jiang Mingyu and Tukesiluo swiftly mounted their horses and departed from Shangmu, heading straight for the state capital.

One day later, on the noon of the day before New Year’s Eve, Jiang Mingyu and Tukesiluo reentered the Inspector’s mansion. The main hall felt solemn and oppressive, as if heavy air hung thick within.

Tang Cheng’an entered the hall and immediately spotted Jiang Mingyu. His face was grim and gloomy, head bowed nearly to his chest. Wang Zhe stood beside him, expression twisted as if he’d found a half-dead fly in his meal. Tang Cheng’an’s instinct screamed something was amiss: “Inspector, Jiang, what’s happened?”

Wang Zhe sighed deeply, his eyes hollow, as if all vitality had been drained. He managed to say, “Jiang, you tell him.”

Jiang Mingyu frowned, his gaze heavy. He spoke thoughtfully, “Inspector, something major has occurred in Shangmu.”

Tang Cheng’an’s heart clenched. “Jiang, what exactly happened? Tell me at once!”

Jiang Mingyu let out a long sigh, his voice thick with sorrow. “Yesterday… everything happened too suddenly.”

“This morning, villagers near Shangmu discovered Xixia spies lurking thirty li outside the city, at Baishou Mountain.”

As soon as Jiang Mingyu spoke, Tang Cheng’an grasped the gravity. He asked, “You reported this immediately, didn’t you?”

Jiang Mingyu nodded. “Of course. I informed the newly appointed Commandant Yang at once.”

Tang Cheng’an’s expression softened with admiration. “Commandant Yang was an outstanding official. I’ve always held him in high regard.”

But Tang Cheng’an soon noticed Jiang Mingyu’s shifting expression. He stopped listening to the story and pressed urgently, “Cut the fluff. Tell me the truth now.”

Jiang Mingyu realized he’d been too verbose. He cut straight to the point: “Upon hearing the news, Commandant Yang flew into a rage. He insisted on leading a thousand men to exterminate those Xixia barbarians. I warned him repeatedly—he refused to listen.”

He continued: “Then Commandant Yang fell into the Xixia’s trap. He was crushed beneath boulders—his body left unrecognizable.”

Tang Cheng’an understood the severity. He sighed, “Alas, Shangmu finally got a Commandant—and in an instant, he’s gone. I feel deep guilt.”

At this, Jiang Mingyu’s eyes reddened slightly, and a few tears—unreal—fell.

Yang Hui’s death—killed by a Xixia trap—made Tang Cheng’an sense grave danger. He demanded urgently, “Are you certain this was a Xixia conspiracy?”

Jiang Mingyu replied firmly, “My lord, if you doubt me, bring the villagers who saw the Xixia. Question them—you’ll learn the truth.”

Tang Cheng’an sneered. “Those villagers are your subordinates, aren’t they? They’ll answer only as you direct.”

Jiang Mingyu paused, then said, “I believe someone unwilling to surrender military power used this method to kill Commandant Yang.”

Tang Cheng’an growled, “Jiang, you know who did this, don’t you?”

Jiang Mingyu wiped away the two false tears, feigning innocence. “Inspector, are you accusing me?”

His voice trembled with wounded indignation.

Tang Cheng’an snorted, saying nothing. He lifted his chin, looking down his nose at Jiang Mingyu.

After a long silence, he spoke slowly, “This matter will wait. I will go to Shangmu myself to uncover the truth.” His tone carried hidden malice, like a venomous snake coiling to strike.

Jiang Mingyu drew a breath, pursed his lips in thought, then nodded as if struck by revelation. “So the Inspector suspects I killed Commandant Yang?”

Jiang Mingyu nodded repeatedly and replied with utmost reverence: “Captain Yang was a trusted confidant promoted by my lord; now that he has suddenly died, it is only natural for you to be displeased. If you harbor doubts about this matter, feel free to investigate fully in Shangmu—I await your arrival with humility.” His voice was earnest and fearful, thick with flattery.

Tang Cheng’an glared at him. “At least you have some self-awareness.” His tone dripped with contempt.

Jiang Mingyu nodded repeatedly, bowing respectfully. “Commandant Yang was your trusted appointee. His sudden death naturally pains you. If you suspect me, investigate Shangmu thoroughly—I await your arrival.”

Tang Cheng’s face flushed crimson, his fists clenched tight, tendons bulging. He spat out bitterly: “Rest assured, Shangmu will have a new Commandant soon enough!” His tone brimmed with rage. With that, he flung his sleeve and strode away in swift, furious steps—his departure like a flight, utterly devoid of the dignity he had carried upon arrival.

He then added a sly smile, clasping his hands. “By the way, there’s another matter. Since you say I’m reluctant to surrender military power, please send me another Commandant. I’ll hand over the seal—this will ease your suspicions. Isn’t that a win-win?”

Tang Cheng’s figure paused slightly, then vanished swiftly down the long corridor, footsteps fading into silence. Jiang Mingyu smiled in satisfaction, walking slowly toward Wang Zhe. The two exchanged a glance, each knowing full well: this round was a complete victory for Jiang Mingyu.

Wang Zhe, seated above, barely stifled a laugh. His shoulders trembled, his lips twitched as he forced a face of grim suffering. No one wanted the poisoned post of Commandant in Shangmu—Yang Hui had just died. Who would dare take it now? Jiang Mingyu’s move was brilliant—he had cornered Tang Cheng’an.

Tang Cheng’an’s face flushed crimson, fists clenched, veins bulging. He hissed, “Rest assured, Shangmu will have a new Commandant soon!” His voice brimmed with fury. He whirled, flinging his sleeve, and stormed out—hurrying away as if fleeing, utterly stripped of his former dignity.

Watching Tang Cheng’an’s retreating back, Jiang Mingyu feigned regret and sighed loudly. “Inspector, take care! When you come to Shangmu, notify me in advance—I’ll welcome you warmly!” His tone dripped with mockery.

Tang Cheng’an’s figure paused for a heartbeat, then vanished down the long corridor. Footsteps faded. Jiang Mingyu smiled, walked slowly to Wang Zhe, and met his gaze. Both knew: Jiang Mingyu had won this round.

Wang Zhe could no longer hold back. He burst into laughter, clapping Jiang Mingyu’s shoulder. “Excellent! Jiang, you’re brilliant! One move, and you trapped Tang Cheng’an completely. This was masterful!”

Jiang Mingyu smiled proudly, waving his hand. “Hardly. Just luck. Tang Cheng’an wanted to interfere in Shangmu—I couldn’t let him.”

Wang Zhe nodded, impressed. “Modesty doesn’t suit you, Jiang. With your wit and strategy, Tang Cheng’an is no match. Clearly, you now hold Shangmu firmly in your grasp.”

Seeing Wang Zhe’s nod, Jiang Mingyu asked, “Inspector, how is the Huang family’s business proceeding?”

His tone was humble, hands clasped before him, eyes respectfully fixed on Wang Zhe.

Wang Zhe smiled, shaking his head. “Jiang, you’ve forgotten already. Last time you sent someone, I told you—the Huang family’s business is under my control.”

He puffed his chest with pride. “Now the timing is right. When will you begin firing the porcelain you promised? Three days until New Year—I’m counting on this to make a fortune.”

He squinted, rubbing his fingers greedily, eyes gleaming with the glint of silver.

Jiang Mingyu smiled quickly. “My lord, rest assured—I’ll return to Shangmu at once. By the fifteenth of the first lunar month, the first batch of new porcelain will arrive. When I return to the capital, you’ll be richly rewarded.”

His tone was confident, accompanied by a grand, ceremonial laugh that pleased Wang Zhe immensely.

Jiang Mingyu already planned: he would locate the porcelain kilns in Shangmu. Though distant from the capital, he could employ local villagers to produce them, earning them income. When the people prospered, Shangmu would truly grow strong. To hide wealth among the people—that was the way of a wise ruler.

Wang Zhe sipped his tea, smiling contentedly. “Excellent. I’ll petition His Majesty to grant you credit.”

His tone was self-satisfied, as if Jiang Mingyu had already accomplished a great feat for him.

Jiang Mingyu bowed solemnly. “Thank you, my lord. I shall not fail your trust. I take my leave.”

With a smile, he exited the Inspector’s mansion and turned toward Shangmu.

He returned to Shangmu with only one and a half days left before New Year. Without delay, he ordered Tukesiluo: “Build a large kiln complex in Xicheng. Recruit the finest kiln workers. Enlist five hundred laborers with pay. Prepare them—production begins on New Year’s Day!”

Jiang Mingyu stood with hands behind his back, eager. Tukesiluo, baffled, asked, “My lord, what work are we starting?”

Jiang Mingyu handed him the design sketches. “These new porcelain designs. Produce them quickly, ship them to the capital, and we’ll make a fortune. Starting now, in the coldest weather, is a rare opportunity.”

Tukesiluo stared at the designs, puzzled. “My lord, these porcelain pieces look no different from ordinary ones. Why would people in the capital buy them from an outsider like us?”

Jiang Mingyu said nothing, only patted Tukesiluo’s shoulder. “Go. You’ll understand later.”

Tukesiluo opened his mouth to speak, but Jiang Mingyu had already turned away. He shook his head and went to work. Soon, notices appeared across Shangmu’s streets.

“Hiring again. What’s the lord planning now?”

“It says they need skilled kiln workers. Probably making porcelain?”

“Nonsense. Why so many for kilns?”

“Who cares? We get paid. What are you waiting for? Let’s go!”

Toksolo, on his way to the City Defense Camp, frowned in confusion: “My lord, what’s the point of all this sand?”

As the people murmured, kiln workers and laborers flooded toward the county yamen.

Once Jiang Mingyu had gathered the required number, the soldiers he’d dispatched days earlier returned, dusty and weary.

[101] Jiang Mingyu hurriedly asked, “How did it go?”

[102] The returning soldiers, exhausted, replied, “My lord, we scoured all four districts and eight towns of Shangmu.”

[103] “We’ve brought back the ten thousand shi of sand you requested.”

[104] Tukesiluo, on his way to the city defense camp, frowned. “My lord, why did you need all that sand?”

[105] Jiang Mingyu smiled. “For the kiln complex I ordered you to prepare.”

[106] Jiang Mingyu added, “Come. Let’s go to Nancheng.”

"Now that Yang Hui is dead, the city defense camp still needs that she-tiger."

"It’s almost the New Year, so I ought to pay a visit to Liu Ximen and Yifei."

As long as he could please this future father-in-law, everything else would follow naturally, Jiang Mingyu thought.

Of course, Tuxeslu was more than willing—once Zhang Jiani returned to the city defense camp, he’d have his chance.

Thus, the two men, each harboring secret motives, set off for Nancheng.

At the Liu family in Nancheng, Liu Ximen greeted Jiang Mingyu as always with a benevolent smile. Liu Yifei was somewhat surprised by their arrival.

After exchanging a few pleasantries with Liu Ximen, Jiang Mingyu inquired about Zhang Jiani’s whereabouts. It turned out that since Liu Ximen’s return, Zhang Jiani—who had always been by his side—had gone back to the Zhang household. According to Liu Yifei, since returning from the city defense camp, Zhang Jiani had been in a foul temper, cursing and grumbling. Jiang Mingyu couldn’t help but smile bitterly; clearly, his secrecy had been too effective—Zhang Jiani still didn’t know Yang Hui was dead.

Just as Liu Ximen sent someone to fetch Zhang Jiani, one of Jiang Mingyu’s soldiers sent to transport sand suddenly ran over, looking troubled: “My lord, there’s too much sand—it’s all in chaos now, everyone’s flustered. What should we do?” Two hundred laborers moving ten thousand dan of sand meant each man had to carry five hundred dan—far too heavy. Jiang Mingyu had no spare hands; even Tuxeslu would soon be heading to the city defense camp.

Just as Jiang Mingyu was at a loss, Liu Yifei, who had been silent until now, spoke up: “Lord Jiang, if you need help, I can lend a hand.” Seeing his surprise, she glanced at Liu Ximen and added: “You may not know, but I’ve always managed our family’s business alongside Father. I know how to organize people—this is nothing.”

Liu Ximen nodded: “My daughter speaks truly. If Lord Jiang needs her assistance, let Yifei help. It’ll give her something to do—and put her management skills to good use.” As a merchant, he understood the importance of maintaining a good relationship with Jiang Mingyu.

Jiang Mingyu readily agreed, thinking that getting close to Liu Yifei was a perfect opportunity to win her heart. He smiled warmly and bowed: “Then I’m in your debt, Master Liu.”

Liu Yifei frowned: “I’m going to help—why are you thanking my father?” Jiang Mingyu chuckled awkwardly; this gentle, poised young lady had a mischievous streak after all.

At that moment, Zhang Jiani stepped in through the snow: “Corrupt official, what are you doing here again?”