Section 2

Gao Zunhui responded with a sound of acknowledgment: "Zhang Zihou is merely engaging in pretentiousness, taking advantage of a scholar like Fan Chuncui. The rebel soldiers, in their hasty uprising, lack leadership and are nothing more than a rabble; they are too preoccupied with their own demise to dare march westward to Chang'an. He appears to be taking a solitary risk in Lingkou Town, yet in reality, he is as secure as a rock. Should the chaotic soldiers attempt to flee, they would find themselves lacking boats and oars if they crossed the Weishui River to the north, and would be obstructed by the Luoshui River if they headed south to Shangzhou. All that is needed is to seize Tongguan, and at most, they would scatter into Huashan as bandits. Zhang Zihou is not a foolish person; this act is merely a means to highlight his own achievements. He must have other plans with Tang Kangshi."

"You can rest assured, Master Fan." Zhang Zhun pointed at the stone bridge with the whip in his hand and said with a smile, "The ferry at the crossings of Ling Shui and Wei Shui, as well as the boats, are all under my control. All the wooden and stone bridges along Ling Shui are also piled high with firewood and explosives; the traitorous soldiers will never be able to escape to the west."

Where has Tang Kang gone? After a while, Gao Zunhui suddenly said, "You once mentioned that you saw the record of Tang Kang's stay at the post station in Lingkou Town—on the sixth day of the sixth month—where has he gone?"

The rain in June comes suddenly and stops just as abruptly. Tang Kang, accompanied by several family members, braved the torrential downpour and traveled through the darkness for an entire night. Although they were all drenched like drowned rats, they could only hope for the rain to fall even harder and last longer, in order to delay the troops transporting firearms to the capital and to block the rebel soldiers at Weinan. However, as is often the case in life, things rarely go as one wishes. The next day, as soon as dawn broke, the heavy rain that had poured down like a bucket suddenly ceased, and by noon, it was a bright sunny afternoon. Lingkou Town is less than a hundred miles from Lantian, but there is only a rudimentary official road connecting the two. After the torrential rain, the road became extremely muddy, and the journey of about eighty to ninety miles took Tang Kang and his companions over ten hours to complete. Unexpectedly, upon arriving in Lantian County, there was no sign of Tian Liewu's troops. After inquiring, they learned that a contingent of Song soldiers was stationed twenty miles south of the county at Yaoshan. Tang Kang dared not linger, hastily ate some dry rations on horseback, and set off southward towards Yaoshan.

Zhang Zhun gazed at the two for a moment, then suddenly smiled and said: "Mr. Fan, Mr. Gao, there is no need to take offense; the court will handle the matter. This military coup is not a premeditated rebellion, and it is a great fortune amidst misfortune. We only need to do our utmost to prevent the rebel soldiers from scattering and becoming a band of marauders—that would be fulfilling our duty. If these chaotic soldiers were to spread into Shaanxi, it would not only be more difficult to pursue and suppress them, but even if we were to eliminate them, Shaanxi would..."

Two days later, Lingkou Town

Tian Liewu's camp was not far away; in less than the time it takes to burn a stick of incense, Tang Kang and the others arrived at the camp

Despite Zhang Zhun's attempts to suppress the news, rumors of a rebellion in Weinan had already spread throughout this prosperous town. The residents, disturbed by the rumors, were in a state of panic, hastily packing their belongings and fleeing to Lintong City or even to Jingzhao Prefecture, while merchants had completely vanished. Apart from a few scattered refugees from Weinan, the once bustling Lingkou Town was now left with only a group of wary troops on high alert.

Let him come and find out. Gao Zunhui smiled faintly and said, "Disaster cannot be avoided. Even if he finds a scapegoat, his fate will not be any better—just watch, it might very well be that Shi Yue is making a comeback."

Indeed. Zhang Yan once again paid his respects to Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui, saying: "I report to you, Lord Fan and Lord Gao, that I am the deputy commander of the second squadron of the Third Battalion of the Xiongwu Army. Our Xiongwu Army arrived in Weinan on the second day of the sixth month. When we were transferred from Hebei, the orders received by the army were to proceed to Yizhou Road under the command of Taishi Zong, to assist the court in eliminating the southwestern barbarians. Before arriving in Weinan, the camp was already somewhat unstable, and upon reaching Weinan..."

Song Xiangxian glanced at Gao Zunhui and continued to analyze: "Currently, the military forces of the state are divided, with one stationed in Shaanxi and the other in Yizhou. Although there are no military conflicts in Shaanxi, after pacifying the Western Xia, there are over 30,000 garrison troops and auxiliary troops stationed in Xingling, over 20,000 garrison troops stationed in Lanhui, and more than 10,000 garrison troops and over 40,000 auxiliary troops in Pingxia. The total number of garrison troops alone exceeds 60,000, with the overall military strength exceeding 130,000. If we only consider the stationed troops, the situation is not much better than before the restoration of Lingxia. This 130,000-strong army, despite having farmland, and the court both establishing military farms and recruiting civilians for border defense, will take at least one or two years to see any real effect. The supply of food and forage still relies heavily on domestic transportation. Moreover, the court also needs to manage the Hetao region, where Zhang Zhifu has built three cities to negotiate with the Liao people, costing the state treasury billions! To be fair, the people of Shaanxi have indeed gained some relief compared to before the war, but the suffering from transportation has not ceased. If it were only Shaanxi, it would be manageable, but managing Lingxia will take several more years, and the state will benefit in ways that cannot be measured by mere wealth. However, beyond the Shaanxi route, there is still the Yizhou route..." At this point, Song Xiangxian could not help but sigh repeatedly, "Now, this Yizhou route, as Shi Yue predicted back in the day, is indeed no less than a great quagmire. The Great Song has already stepped one foot in, and with its feet deeply stuck in the mud, it cannot pull itself out even if it wants to!

Zhao Long was taken aback by Tang Kang's arrogance. He came from the Western Army, having followed Wang Shao, Yao Lin, and Li Xian, enduring hardships and engaging in battles, accumulating merits and rising through the ranks. Most of his life had been spent in the Western Army, and apart from a trip to the bustling world of Bianjing during his training at the Zhuxian Town Military Academy, the Jingzhao Prefecture was a completely unfamiliar world to him. Therefore, he was unaware of Tang Kang's status beyond being the governor of Rongzhou, and he had never even heard of such a person before. No matter how one looked at it, he was still a Yihui Captain and Deputy Commander of the Camp, a military official of the seventh rank. Although Tang Kang held a high official position, he was merely an appointed governor, and his affairs had nothing to do with Zhao Long, a current military official of the Imperial Guard. Zhao Long had hurried out to greet him; although it was by order, it was also for the sake of his superior's face. How could Tang Kang dare to act so high and mighty, not only refusing to dismount but also not even casting a glance in his direction?

Gao Zunhui listened to him elaborate on the current state of affairs in the world and couldn't help but let out a low sigh, saying: "Although Lu Jifu's 'Xining Naturalization' has been quite successful in the northern and southern regions of Jinghu, it has thrown the entire Yizhou region into chaos. Yet, he is likely in a difficult position, unable to dismount from the tiger..."

Gao Zunhui, with a stern expression, said: "Rumors are not allowed in the military; those who violate this order will be executed. How are these officers leading their troops?"

"Master Fan, the state has its own laws and regulations." Gao Zunhui also frowned and said, "The death penalty must go through the Ministry of Justice and the Supreme Court. If every matter is resolved by execution, what is the purpose of having the Ministry of Justice? When the Imperial Guards commit offenses, it is the responsibility of the Guard Command to manage them. On what grounds can Zhou Bi execute the Imperial Guards and provoke a major upheaval?"

Gao Zunhui glanced at his most trusted aide, Song Xiangxian, but said nothing, merely urging his horse to move slowly. Song Xiangxian, well aware of his temperament, followed behind at a leisurely pace, waiting for Gao Zunhui to speak.

Absurd! Fan Chuncui could not help but exclaim, "How could such matters be decided by a few officers of the Imperial Guard!"

Moreover, according to the observations of the students, it seems that the national treasury is likely already empty—students elsewhere may be unaware, but in Shaanxi, the rampant issuance of banknotes and rising prices are evident. The students have no way of knowing how many banknotes the court has printed in recent years, but judging by the situation in Shaanxi, it is certainly not optimistic. Additionally, there are rumors that the Emperor's health has been unstable in the past two years... Many matters are ones that the students truly do not wish to think about, nor dare to think about!

Song Xiangxian also smiled and said: "Whether Shi Yue can make a comeback is not a matter for Lord Gao. The principle remains the same: Lord Gao is an external relative and should not concern himself with who rises to power or who falls from grace. In short, it is best to avoid drawing attention and creating enemies, to conceal one's abilities, and to diligently perform one's own duties, as this is the way to ensure one's own safety. Let Shi Yue, Tang Kang, Zhang Jun, and the others deal with this boiling water themselves."

"Zihou, rest assured," Fan Chuncui said in a hushed voice, "I will do my utmost. I will set off for Huazhou at once, while Ziyu will head to Shangzhou to arrange the defense." Gao Zunhui glanced at Fan Chuncui, then at Zhang Zhen. As he saw Fan Chuncui board the carriage, he suddenly said, "Fan Gong, it is sufficient to hold the Weishui River in the north; the key is to prevent the chaotic troops from rushing east into Huashan."

Zhang Zhun finished speaking and fixed his gaze on Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui. Both of them naturally understood what Zhang Zhun meant. Fan Chuncui did not dare to meet Zhang Zhun's eyes and only said in a low voice: "Zihou, we do not speak in riddles in front of wise men. I am merely the Transport Commissioner of Shaanxi, neither a military governor nor a pacification commissioner. The court's system is known to you, Zihou; I have no authority to mobilize the Shaanxi garrison." Gao Zunhui, however, met Zhang Zhun's gaze calmly and said: "I have the authority to mobilize the Shaanxi regional army. However, although the rebel forces are useless, they are still a restructured garrison, well-equipped and well-trained. Moreover, the Xiongwu Second Army has a reputation for bravery; when cornered, they are not something the regional army can handle..."

Zhang Zhun cleared his throat and said: "In the past two days, I have inquired about some details from Zhang Ying, Zhang Yi, Li Banzai, as well as refugees from Weinan, and several soldiers from the Xiongwu Second Army who escaped unwillingly from the rebellion. All the testimonies I have gathered are attached to the memorial and have been submitted to the capital. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to inform the two officials."

Zhang Yan glanced at Gao Zunhui, then at Zhang Jun, and timidly said: "There are rumors in the army that over 100,000 people have died in Yizhou, and the places where the southwestern barbarians live are filled with miasma. Northern people who come into contact with it either die or are left disabled. Furthermore, some say that the imperial treasury is empty and that the army is undergoing a second reorganization. Not only will the disbanded auxiliary troops be sent to the western border of Xixia, but the imperial guards, which have been reduced to training auxiliary troops, will also be dispatched to Xixia for military garrison. The brothers in the army are afraid of going to Yizhou to die, and they are also afraid of fighting, only to be forced to leave their homes for Xixia, where they would die without even being able to return to their ancestral graves. There are also those who say that our Xiongnu Second Army has always been disobedient, and the officials want to go west..."

Zhang Zhun further stated: "The mutiny in Weinan has been confirmed to have originated from a soldier of the Xiongwu Second Army who forcefully entered a woman's home in Weinan and was killed on the street by the county magistrate Zhou Bi with a staff, which led to the uprising"

However, the two men quickly dismounted, and the knight who had asked the question earlier bowed to Tang Kang, saying: "I am Zhao Long, the Deputy Commander of the Fifth Battalion of the Dragon Guard, under the command of Lord Tian Daguo. I have come to convey the orders of Lord Daguo and to respectfully welcome you, Lord Tang."

Tang Kang cast a sidelong glance at the person and said: "I am indeed that person. May I ask who you are?"

The esteemed official is indeed perceptive. Song Xiangxian nodded and said, "However, as an external relative, the path of wisdom is encapsulated in a single phrase: 'Do not seek merit, but rather avoid faults.' The esteemed official is truly a cautionary tale from the past. Although the court has entrusted the esteemed official with significant responsibilities, he must not only repay the emperor's grace but also understand the virtue of humility and retreat. In both the court and the public sphere, one should strive to minimize the creation of enemies. I observe that the current situation in the realm resembles a pot of boiling water, on the verge of overflowing, yet there are still those who continuously add fuel to the fire... In my view, the Weinan mutiny is likely a spark that ignites this situation. This boiling pot of water is inevitably going to spill over. At this moment, even the wisest and bravest can only strive to protect themselves from being harmed by this boiling water.

I fear that the conflict among the officers and soldiers of the Xiongwu Second Army has reached an unbearable level..." Zhang Zhun said with a bitter smile, "The commander of the Xiongwu Second Army, Meng Shaoqin, hails from the Pingxi River under Wang Shao and is renowned for his strict military discipline. The Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of War initially considered selecting him for the Xiongwu Second Army precisely because of this quality, but unfortunately, it has backfired on him...

Zhang Zhun watched as Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui left one after another, lost in thought about Gao Zunhui's gaze before departing. Was the true reason behind the Weinan mutiny merely the long-standing conflict between the officers and soldiers of the Xiongwu Second Army? ... Tang Kang was so eager to quell the mutiny that he was willing to take great risks; Gao Zunhui's gaze as he left ... He gazed towards the east, as if sensing a storm was about to descend upon the distant Bianjing city ... Tang Kang was so eager to quell the mutiny that he was willing to take great risks; Gao Zunhui's gaze as he left ... He gazed towards the east, as if sensing a storm was about to descend upon the distant Bianjing city ...

The rebellion of the southwestern tribes has erupted repeatedly, affecting several prefectures. The court has repeatedly dispatched troops to suppress it, yet the local area is plagued by diseases, and the terrain is treacherous. The southern troops are unable to endure the battles, while the northern troops are unaccustomed to the climate. The royal army has suffered repeated defeats; in the battle of Luzhou, twenty thousand imperial troops were actually routed by five thousand barbarians, abandoning their armor and fleeing in panic. As a result, the court executed several high-ranking generals! I estimate that to date, the total number of imperial troops who have lost their lives in Yizhou has exceeded fifty thousand, with more than seventy percent dying from diseases—if it were not absolutely necessary, how could the court draw imperial troops from Hebei to Sichuan? The rumors within the two armies of Xiongwu are not entirely baseless! However, in my view, the mutiny within the two armies of Xiongwu is merely a minor issue; the most dangerous matter is that the common people in Sichuan are burdened by heavy taxes and forced labor to supply military needs. If there were to be a call to arms by figures like Chen Sheng and Wu Guang, the situation in Sichuan would likely become unmanageable!

"That's all." Zhang Zhun glanced at Fan and Gao, and said: "Zhang Yan, you should recount to Lord Fan and Lord Gao exactly what you reported to a certain place the day before yesterday."

After running for the duration of an incense stick, a sudden sound of hooves was heard ahead. Tang Kang felt a surge of joy in his heart and quickly urged his horse forward to meet them. He saw two knights in red military uniforms galloping side by side, and in no time, they had arrived before him. One of them, upon seeing Tang Kang, clasped his fists on horseback and asked, "May I inquire if you are the esteemed Governor Tang of Rongzhou?"

What is the military discipline of the Second Army of Xiongwu like?" Gao Zunhui couldn't help but frown and said, "Don't they have a military law officer? This Zhou Bi also..."

However, he was ordered to welcome the guests, and no matter how much displeasure he felt, he could only suppress it for the time being, saying: "Due to Lord Zhiguo's promotion and return to the capital, he may pass through Lantian in the coming days. Since Lord Zhiguo and I are old friends, it is possible that he will come to visit. I have already informed him about this. Therefore, as soon as the Lord entered the mountains, our scouts had already spotted him and took a shortcut to report back. Lord Zhiguo was very pleased and instructed the officials to come and welcome him..." Therefore, as soon as the Lord entered the mountains, our scouts had already spotted him and took a shortcut to report back. Lord Zhiguo was very pleased and instructed the officials to come and welcome him...

He followed behind Tian Liewu and Tang Kang into the large camp, and couldn't help but glance at Tang Kang's back once more. The young man's quick wit and adaptability made him, who had lived in the military for nearly twenty years, feel inferior. ... He couldn't help but feel worried for Tian Liewu, who still regarded Tang Kang as the same person he was seven or eight years ago, while Tang Kang was clearly no longer the boy he was seven or eight years ago ...

Tian Liewu was taken aback, reached out to touch his head, and chuckled, "Second Young Master, this is truly overwhelming for old Tian"

After leaving Ling Shui Town for more than 10 miles, Gao Zunhui slowed down and began to walk at a leisurely pace. His entourage, seeing his furrowed brows and distracted demeanor, did not dare to disturb him and merely followed at a distance, moving slowly behind his horse. After silently traveling for about 4 or 5 miles, Gao Zunhui seemed to suddenly regain his composure, reined in his horse, and called out: "Xiang Xian." A man in a black robe, in his thirties, upon hearing this, quickly urged his horse forward a few steps to catch up with Gao Zunhui's horse and bowed, saying: "What instructions do you have, Lord Gao?"

Tang Kang looked at Tian Liewu and said with a forced smile, "As a dignified officer of the court, what is there to be concerned about? As the saying goes, 'A scholar should be viewed with new eyes after three days apart'..."

Tian Liewu then "understood" that Tang Kang was joking with him, and he awkwardly laughed along with Tang Kang. Among the group, only Zhao Long slightly guessed the reason: Tang Kang's initial displeasure and later sarcasm were merely due to Tian Liewu's "rudeness"—since Tian Liewu was a "retainer" of Shi Yue, he held a master-servant relationship with Tang Kang. However, from the moment of greeting to the small talk, Tian Liewu treated him as an "old friend" rather than a "former master," which naturally caused Tang Kang to feel uncomfortable. Given Zhao Long's understanding of Tian Liewu, he knew that this was all unintentional. Perhaps in Tian Liewu's mind, the dual identities of "master and disciple" and "friends" were more significant than the master-servant relationship with Tang Kang.

Zhang Zhun knew that the two must be secretly resenting him for not informing them before reporting to the court, but he paid it no mind and sighed, "This recent military upheaval in Weinan appears to be coincidental, yet it is indeed the result of underlying causes." After saying this, he called out, "Bring Zhang Yan!" A nearby personal guard responded, and before long, a weary-looking man from Hebei was brought in by two guards. Upon seeing Zhang Zhun, the man quickly bowed and said, "I, the humble guard and valiant soldier Zhang Yan, pay my respects to Lord Zhang."

Tang Kang was already worried in his heart that Tian Liewu had broken camp and left. He had previously boasted in front of Zhang Zhun, and if he did not follow through, it would not only ruin the state affairs but also become a laughingstock for the world. At this moment, seeing no trace of Tian Liewu's troops, he could not help but feel a bit restless and anxious. He urged his horse to gallop, fiercely whipping the steed, venting all his frustration on that horse from the Hetao region, leaving deep and shallow whip marks all over its body.

Your Majesty has entrusted me with the heavy responsibility of governing the borders. Although I, Fan, am unworthy, I dare not love myself more than I love you, my sovereign. After all, I must see it with my own eyes before I can feel at ease, " Fan Chuncui said in a deep voice

Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui listened, their expressions changing dramatically, and the two were rendered speechless for a long while. Zhang Jun sighed softly: "Zhang Yi and Li Banzai took the risk to sneak into Weinan and gathered intelligence—Weinan County is truly in a state of unbearable misery! The rebellious soldiers, aware that their crimes are unforgivable, live in constant fear, unable to find peace. All day long, apart from internal strife and fighting, they only know how to harm the common people. The people of Weinan, at this moment, long for the arrival of the royal army, even more than a parched land longs for the sweet rain!" The rebellious soldiers, aware that their crimes are unforgivable, live in constant fear, unable to find peace. All day long, apart from internal strife and fighting, they only know how to harm the common people. The people of Weinan, at this moment, long for the arrival of the royal army, even more than a parched land longs for the sweet rain!

The official road from Lantian to Yaoshan is a vital thoroughfare, frequently maintained. Despite being washed by heavy rains, it is not particularly muddy; however, the further south one travels, the more treacherous the terrain becomes, not much easier than the previous path. After more than an hour's journey, they finally arrived at the foot of Yaoshan. Tang Kang looked up and saw the towering peaks like a screen, the rocky mountains reflecting each other, lush and green, with a clear river winding out from the secluded valley, revealing a picturesque location, devoid of any sounds of battle. Tang Kang rode along the riverbank for over a mile, yet not a single figure was in sight, nor any banners or sentries. With each step he took, his heart sank further. After walking about half a mile with a grim expression, his family behind him could no longer contain themselves. One family member tentatively asked, "Is General Tian already gone?" Tang Kang, as if stung by a mosquito, suddenly turned his head, his face darkened, glaring fiercely at him, and coldly replied, "If you do not wish to follow, you may return." After saying this, he shouted "Giddy up!" and forcefully struck his mount with a whip, driving the horse into the valley. The family members were taken aback and hurriedly urged their horses to gallop, closely following behind Tang Kang.

"I have long admired you, General Zhao, there is no need for excessive formalities." Tang Kang, sitting on his horse, merely cupped his hands in greeting and then looked up at the mountain path ahead, asking, "How did Master Tian know I was coming?"

The area of Jinghu South and North Road is the foundation accumulated by Su Zizhan, with military garrisons spread across various regions, familiar with the geography and local customs. Moreover, the various tribes are scattered, making them naturally easier to subdue. Lu Jifu attributed all the achievements in Jinghu South and North Road to himself, which led the Emperor to believe that the rebellion in Yizhou Road was merely due to the incompetence of local officials and the military, rather than any fault of Lu Jifu himself. Song Xiangxian sneered, saying, 'However, with the Weinan mutiny, it is likely that Lu Jifu's days in the Council of State are numbered. How can he cover up such a significant matter? After the event, there will surely be questions about why the Xiongwu Second Army mutinied. Can a mere statement about discord between officials and soldiers suffice to obscure the truth? However, Gao Gong must be cautious, as Lu Jifu will undoubtedly seek a scapegoat in Shaanxi.'

By the banks of the Zero Water River

Before he could finish speaking, Tang Kang stepped forward, took his hand, and laughed heartily, "Tian Jiaotou! What a fine Tian Jiaotou! After seven or eight years, you truly haven't changed at all... You have also been a successful martial scholar, commanding thousands of valiant soldiers, a renowned general of the Song Dynasty who struck fear into the hearts of the Xixia people before Lingzhou City. How can they still dare to call you 'Tian Jiaotou'? Are you truly intent on inviting the censors to come and investigate me?" As he spoke, he walked into the camp side by side with Tian Liewu.

What is this saying? This time, not only Fan Chuncui does not understand, but even Gao Zunhui does not understand.

Gao Zunhui, upon hearing these words, couldn't help but smile absentmindedly and blurted out: "I must have been mistaken; it is indeed as Xiang Xiansheng said. Regardless of what Tang Kang is up to, and regardless of the internal affairs following the Weinan mutiny, I should simply focus on my own duties." Gao Zunhui was quite cautious and meticulous while at the home of Empress Dowager Gao, and he was highly valued by her, having received numerous imperial edicts of commendation. In her words, she often hinted at entrusting family matters to him. Therefore, Gao Zunhui inevitably became even more prudent. At this moment, with such a significant event occurring under his jurisdiction, he had to consider everything thoroughly. It was during this conversation with Song Xiangxian that he realized the entire matter was actually "not closely related to him," and he felt a sense of relief. He then urged his horse onward, galloping swiftly towards Shangzhou.

In the view of the esteemed Gao, Zhou Bi is the magistrate of Weinan County; how could he possibly be unconcerned when a crime occurs in Weinan?

Fan Chuncui was taken aback for a moment, turned to glance at Gao Zunhui, and after a brief silence, clasped his fists and said, "Thank you!" Gao Zunhui watched as Fan Chuncui's carriage disappeared into the distance, then turned to gaze at Zhang Jun, his lips moving slightly. As he saw his attendant leading over the horse, he said nothing, merely clasped his fists, mounted the horse, and rode away, raising a cloud of dust.

After all, Zi Hou is meticulous in his considerations. Fan Chuncui praised. However, Gao Zunhui beside him looked at Zhang Zhun, his eyes filled with astonishment. He moved his lips but ultimately said nothing. After arriving at Lingkou Town, he inquired about Zhang Ying and some refugees, gaining a general understanding of the situation of the defected soldiers. Those defected soldiers are currently at a loss in Weinan City, living in constant fear. Even if they wanted to flee, how could they dare to head west towards Chang'an? At most, they would enter Huashan in the east and scatter into groups of bandits. Those defected soldiers are currently at a loss in Weinan City, living in constant fear. Even if they wanted to flee, how could they dare to head west towards Chang'an? At most, they would enter Huashan in the east and scatter into groups of bandits. However, whether Zhang Zhun is truly confused or deliberately exaggerating the threat of the mutiny to seek credit, there is no need for him to expose it face to face.

Even though Tian Liewu was rather rough around the edges, he could faintly sense the sarcasm in Tang Kang's words at that moment. He looked at Tang Kang in surprise, only to find him appearing amiable and warm, which made him momentarily doubt his own perception. However, being a straightforward person, he immediately said: "Second Young Master, do not say that he is merely a school lieutenant; even if he were to become a great general, I, Tian Liewu, am still the same Tian instructor from the Shi Scholar's residence back in the day! If you still remember the little bit of affection from those years, you can call me Old Tian or Instructor Tian..."

It is extremely difficult to say. Song Xiangxian pondered and said, However, based on Tang Kang's actions during that time, it is unlikely that he would flee in the face of danger. What he is planning is beyond the students' guess, but I am certain that Zhang Jun is definitely aware of this matter

Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui quickly replied: "We dare not."

What?

Zhang Zhun explained busily: "He did not express himself clearly. The soldiers of the Xiongwu Second Army were mostly from Weibo, known to be the most fierce among the Hebei garrison. In order to tame these proud soldiers, all military officers of the Xiongwu Second Army, from the commanding officer upwards, were transferred from the Western Army. Therefore, the soldiers were unwilling to go to the west and instead suspected that the officers wanted to return to their hometowns"

"Fan Gong, Gao Gong! Calm down, calm down..." Zhang Zhun had long heard that the two prominent officials from Shaanxi, Fan Chuncai and Gao Zunhui, were at odds with each other. When he traveled along the border to observe the situation, passing through Jingzhao Prefecture, he saw Fan and Gao in good spirits and thought it was merely a baseless rumor. It was only at this moment that he realized there was indeed a reason behind it. He quickly tried to mediate, saying: "Zhou Bi's handling of matters is indeed overly straightforward, and there are shortcomings. However, the mutiny of the two armies is a deep-seated issue, not something that can be attributed to Zhou Bi alone."

At this moment, Tian Liewu had already gathered the officers of the camp and was waiting at the entrance. Upon seeing Zhao Long bringing Tang Kang over, Tian Liewu smiled broadly from a distance and cupped his fists, saying: "Second Young Master, it is good to see you well." He had a threefold relationship with Tang Kang as master and servant, teacher and student, and friends. When he was teaching at the Shi residence, Tang Kang was merely a teenager. Tian Liewu had personally taught him various skills, including horseback riding, archery, swordsmanship, and martial arts. Now, after a separation of seven or eight years, the once young boy had grown into a capable adult, not only proficient in both literature and martial arts but also evidently a "capable minister of the state." Their reunion brought Tian Liewu immense joy that words could hardly express. He stepped forward a few paces, intending to take Tang Kang's hand and enter the camp, but before he could extend his hand, Tang Kang had already cupped his hands in salute and chuckled, saying: "Master Tian, it is good to see you well!"

On the west bank of the stone bridge at Ling Shui, Zhang Zhun was introducing the situation he understood to Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui, who had just arrived. After receiving the report, Fan and Gao immediately rushed to Lingkou Town, which surprised him. The four departments of transportation, criminal prosecution, supervision, and education in Shaanxi had their criminal prosecution department located in Hezhong Prefecture, making it impossible for them to arrive. The newly appointed education commissioner had not yet assumed office, and Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui were already the two highest-ranking officials in Shaanxi. They had ample reason to remain safely in Jingzhao Prefecture and did not need to personally risk danger in Lingkou Town. Nevertheless, Zhang Zhun still admired those with courage.

"Wait a moment. What do you mean by instability before reaching Weinan?" Gao Zunhui asked with a frown.

Zhou Bi was a tribute scholar of Baishuitan Academy and a successful candidate in the imperial examination of the twelfth year of the Xining era. He served as a county magistrate twice, achieving excellent performance in both terms, and was known for his integrity and capability as an official.

Oh? How do you explain this? Fan Chuncui and Gao Zunhui both turned their gaze towards Zhang Zun.

So it is. Tang Kang felt even more displeased in his heart, merely responding lightly and then falling silent. Zhao Long found it even more uninteresting, so he mounted his horse, took the lead, and headed towards the camp.