The Azure Dragon Soars Again

[vyshan]

Chapter 3 - The Tiger of Handan

Jiyu and his family had gathered around the family dining table for dinner. Jiyu sat at the head of the table, his wife to the left of him and his daughter to the right. Each of them had a small bowl of rice and another bowl of noodles. Jiyu’s home in the city, provided for due to his work in the government was by no means lavish and yet it was also not squalor, it was enough for a minister and his family.

“So how are your lessons going, Xiulan” Jiyu asked his daughter.

“I am doing really great. I am the best writer in the class. Even the boys are jealous of me.” She said in an excited tone before slurping some noodles.

“That is great.” Jiyu said, smiling towards his daughter.

“And how is the school going, darling” Jiyu asked his wife before eating some of the rice.

“Better than I thought they would. Most people can not afford to go to school, but even still there is a demand for it.” his wife Wu Xin said.

“Why can people not afford go to school?” their daughter asked not understanding that people had to pay to go to school.

“School costs money and not everyone has money to spare for it.” Xin said softly trying to explain to Xiulan.

“Well everyone should. School is fun. Lots of friends are there.” She said.

“Perhaps in the future, education will be free for all child...” Jiyu said before he was interrupted by Xiulan.

“Then I would have more friends to share books with?” She asked

“Indeed” he said with a smile towards his daughter.

The family then continued to make small talk as they ate their dinner. Later in the evening after putting their daughter to bed, Jiyu would approach his wife.

“I despise the fact that we have to pay for ‘protection’ from the very people I work for” Jiyu said to his wife, with their daughter no longer in the room, his anguish and anger flowed a bit more freely.

“I understand, but if we don’t then everything will be for naught.” Xin replied.

“I am supposed to be a virtuous but how can I be virtuous when I have to support the corruption of this city.” he said, his voice tense before he sighed.

“We will make this work. It's not like any other city would be any different. We had to pay protection in Beijing as well.” she said.

“I remember. I thought Handan would be better, but alas it is not.” he replied.

“Even the Great Sage had to deal with bandits and warlords in his day, if he could prevail so can you my love.” she said.

“I Know. I know. We just have to pray that things do not get any worse.” he said before embracing his wife in a hug before they headed to bed.

The Honorable General
It was his past experiences with Zhili thugs which convinced Jiyu to seek out protection for himself and his family. Ancestors save him but he would not let anything happen to his wife or little girl. Yet the question was whom to trust in this city. He knew of a few officers but most were on Shigong’s payroll and could not be trusted. He wrote to his brother if he knew anyone in the army that could be trusted that was stationed in this part of china. Thankfully for him, his brother delivered and informed him of a man by the name of Zhang Jin.

It took him a few days to find Jin but he invited him over to the Jasmine Dragon Teahouse for tea and to play a game of Go. They were in a secluded room to avoid being overheard. Their some silver needle tea in the center that they were enjoying.

“So you wish to actually do something about the corruption in the city.” Jin questioned watching him rather carefully as he slowly sipped his tea.

“Yes.” Jiyu stated.

“Good.” Jin said as he moved pieces on the board.

“Surprised that you are so keen on riding the city of corruption.” Jiyu said and then took a sip of his tea.

“I could ask the same of you. Though I think we both are well aware that the whole government runs on corruption not merit.” Jin said.

“Sadly that is true.” Jiyu said and then moved his go pieces.

“Meanwhile in the North there is the Japanese puppet. Sooner or later there will be a conflict with the Japanese again. Those devils are not going to be satisfied until all of China is under their boot.” Jin said and moved his pieces on the board.

“Consequently we are in a position of weakness unless we can better leadership” Jiyu said and took another sip of his tea.

“That is putting in lightly. Most generals officers buy their positions and do not know how to lead men in battle. The men are loyal to them not out of loyal to the country but to the fact that they are bribed.” Jin stated with anger in his tone.

“Thus how do we deal with this problem.” Jiyu stated.

“Large reforms are difficult. However, if you were in charge of the city and I was in charge of the Military of this region. Then it would go along way in at least removing the rot here.” Jin explained.

“Without Shigong, things would be better.”

“Indeed. It would take time, but we can work to change things here. From the smallest beginnings are great things born.” Jin said.

“To the great things to come.” Jiyu said cracking a smile before adding. “And I believe that is game.”

“I do believe that it is. We should meet up here sometime again for another game.” Jin said.

German Merchants
A meeting had been called involving the ministry members and Jiyu was required to be there. Everyone knew what was going to be on the docket, the German mining companies that had moved into the region. What know one knew was how the Tiger of Handan would handle matters. That is what concerned everyone and made many nervous. As he entered the meeting room, Jiyu noticed that even Shao Bing was nervous about this meeting. He stood next to his seat and waited for Jiang Shigong to arrive.

He did not have to wait long for the man to arrive. The tiger was a tall and slightly large man, but the thing that was his expression. While he had a polite and respectful expression upon his face and even spoke in that tone, one had to look at his eyes to see that it was an act and that he looked at everyone with a cruel sardonic look in his eyes. Still no matter how he looked, Shigong was his superior and they all waited for him to sit down before they in turn sat in their chairs.

“You all know all why we are here. How to handle the german companies that have muscled their way into Shanxi.” A man next to Shigong said, reading from some notes.

“They have been here for sometime though, have they not?” Another minister asked.

“They have, but they are expanding operations. Expanding at the cost of Chinese companies and moving into Shanxi which complicates things.” The spokesman said.

Jiyu thought that Shigong was concerned about losing access to bribes since it was rather likely that the Chinese companies were far more willing to pay bribes to him than the Germans. He knew better than to voice these thoughts though.

“How will the peasantry and local businesses handle this” Jiyu asked which got a snicker from a few of the ministers which was silenced by a look from Shigong.

“Bah. They are peasants. They will not be an issue, unless you think otherwise” Shigong asked looking directly at Jiyu, his eyes having the expression of a cat that just caught a mouse. Which in turn did nothing to help with Jiyu’s nerves.

“N.. Not yet. However, reports are coming in from the south about unrest and violence peasant anger that is. .” Jiyu said and glanced down towards his notes that he had brought with him.

“Then what threat do the peasants have. They have power and it is power that brings victory. Peasants are no threat to us.” The tiger said as he eyed Jiyu carefully.

“True they are weak and can do but a slight wound at best. However, if we ignore such minor wounds they can fester all the same.” Jiyu replied in a polite tone.

“Hmm, very well. Keep them in line, then.” Shigong said to Jiyu but it was addressed to everyone. Then he spoke again. “Still the peasants are not our concern in the slightest. It is Yan Xishan is a far greater threat. While we are not in Shanxi, we do border the province and I want to avoid conflict with the man.” He paused for a moment and then pointed to Jiyu“send a missive to the central government, urging caution with the German Mining companies. Yan is a rather territorial man and I am sure that Beijing wants him to remain on their side.”

Jiyu nodded and he knew that Shigong was doing this so that if anything negative befell it would land more on Jiyu’s shoulders then on Shigong’s. The man was concerned with his own power and did not want to lose it. He also realized that he was concerned that Yan had a far larger army under his control than the one under Shigong’s control.

It was not long later that the meeting was adjourned. As Jiyu left the room he was glad that he was left with his head still intact for speaking up earlier. The man was as arrogant as he was cruel. Shigong had others who spoke out against him executed before. It also might be because he had wanted to use him as a pawn with the anger of the people. Hopefully though this would be the end of his troubles or so Jiyu thought.

 

[stnylan]

One feels like getting a reputation for trying to clean up the city might be a good way to unite all opposing factions against one.

 

[Specialist290]

The road of virtue is a long and difficult path, and one which can trip up even the most seemingly sure-footed of men. I have a sneaking suspicion that Jiyu might find himself soon in over his head, stuck in the middle of a power struggle that may ruin him utterly if he isn't careful.

 

[vyshan]

@stnylan In the warlord era, certainly so. Of course he will find that to make things better he might have to compromise.

@Specialist290 Indeed. and don't forget that the League of Eight Provinces is about to go boom which is not going to help matters in the slightest.

 

[vyshan]

The Railroad Sale

Cao Fei sat within the parlor of her home in Beijing sipping tea with Hao Lei. The two were lounging around as they read from the papers. Zhang Yi was still at the National Assembly, likely debating the very matter that she was reading in the papers. It didn’t matter which paper she read they all said the same thing. The Zhegan railroad was bought by the German AOG company.

“So Lei what do you make of the news” Fei asked her friend as she slid one of the papers over towards the younger woman who read it quickly.

“So typical of the Germans. They think that can just push us around.” Lei said with a hmph and then sipped her tea.

“They are an arrogant people indeed” Fei responded and sipped her own tea.

“And the Zhili in the south allow it to happen, the question is how much do their associates in the Harmony association know?” Cao Fei asked.

“Are not the Zhili in the League rivals to the Harmony Association?” Lei asked.

“They feign friendship with each other but they are not friends.” Fei replied.

“The question then is how can we use it to our advantage.” Lei asked after finishing her tea.

“Well we can use the anger of the people against the Zhili. Tell people to support Chinese companies and boycott German companies. You can print out some posters that will sway people against the germans?” Fei asked looking to Lei as she finished her own cup of tea.

“Yes. I can put my drawing skills to the task for this job.” Lei said, in an enthusiastic tone.

“That you can.” Fei said before adding, “We are going to want pamphlets and posters spread throughout the city.”

“Will that not anger the Zhili?” Lei asked.

“That is a possibility but we will focus on the German lap dogs in the Prosperity League.” Fei responded.

“Okay. The Pamphlets are to support Native Chinese Businesses then, yes?” Lei asked.

“Indeed. Add your creative touch to them but get them out. I made some contacts with a printing company that would be happy to help out here.” Fei said.

“That I can do, I shall get to work right away.” Lei said.

Cao Fei knew this could be a risky play. Encouraging a boycott and native chinese industries but on the other hand if this helped to force the Zhili to make a mistake then so much better. She hoped that such movements would encourage similar movements throughout Beijing and the rest of China.

Rising Tension
“Buy Chinese! Boycott Foreign Goods! The emperor supports native Chinese goods! Support the emperor and buy Chinese goods!” A child on the street corner shouted as he handed out pamphlets to people passing by on the street. As she turned another corner she saw a shop that had posted on its window a poster that read that their goods were one hundred percent made in China and that they were not using any foreign parts. The plan to use the people’s anger was working.

As she was walking down the street, a well dressed businessman was walking down the street. The man stood out among the crowd because he was a foreigner. Cao Fei thought he was a German. He likely was as the German were prevalent in Beijing, especially businessmen. Though she had encountered Americans, Canadians, and people of numerous different ethnicities. She though found it difficult to tell them apart. Europeans looked all the same to her.

Though the man walked with bodyguards, that did little to not attract attention from those passing by. It was clear by their tones that they were not in the mood to be polite to the businessman.

“Go back to Germany!” someone shouted.

“Foreign Devil! We do not need your business and blood money!” another shouted.

“You do not belong here!” Another shouted and spit at his feet.

The anger seemed to be growing till one of the guards aimed his gun at the crowd. It was clear that they were not in a mood to get shot but they were still angry. Cao Fei then continued her trip back to her home to meet with her husband.

Not long after Cao Fei arrived home she began to prepare some Jasmine tea for her husband. As she arrived, he looked to her and asked. “So how are the people handling the message”

“Good, though there was a brief encounter with a German businessman that nearly had a fight broke out.” She said.

“Not surprising, There is talk that things are far worse in the south. Things are rapidly escalating out of control down there. Bandits and other brigands have begun to bomb railroads.” He said.

“Bomb railroads who would do that? The governors wouldn’t since they use them.” Cao Fei asked as she waited for the tea to boil.

“The most likely culprit currently is the rebels of the White Star.” He said.

“The Kuomintang? I thought that they were defeated following the uprising in Shanghai four years ago” She said and then after the tea was ready she began to pour it for her husband and for herself in the tea ceremony method.

“One would think that would be the case but no, they still exist.” her husband said, and smiling briefly as she took his tea.

“Let us hope that this is the end of things though I fear it is not. Anyways enough of politics, lets enjoy our Tea.” She said returning the smile as they sat down to enjoy the tea. However they did not have long to enjoy the tea as both Guo Da and Hao Lei came running up to their house and knocked on the door.

“In both of you.” Cao Fei said and ushered them into her house.

“What is the matter.” She said as they closed the door.

“Germans have slaughtered countless people in the Wuhu. I do not know how many, sir.” Guo said towards Zhang Yi.

“Why? They have the money and influence, they don’t need to slaughter people. ” Zhang Yi asked.

“Something about the Kuomintang Rebels but I also heard that they were just that psychopathic. Reports are conflicted.” Guo replied.

“This is not going to end well. And Lei do you have news?” Cao Fei asked.

“The men of the NCERA plan on making a scathing speech against the Zhili for allowing this to happen while Cao Kun is, again, in a drunken stupor. At least that is what I got from one of their wives.” She replied.

“Is that man ever not in a drunken stupor” Guo Da added.

“Shame our little evening to ourselves was cut short my dear.” Yi said pausing and gave a soft smile to his wife before adding “Well I best make myself to the National Assembly”.

“Of course, darling. We will have another night to ourselves later.” Cao Fei said to her husband and then turned to the others “We also better make plans in case the chaos in the south grows.”

 

[kol13]

So begins to fall into chaos

 

[stnylan]

Someone has just hit the flint against a steel, and the sparks are now flying towards the powder

 

[Specialist290]

Someone has just hit the flint against a steel, and the sparks are now flying towards the powder

Took the words right out of my mouth. There's no way this won't end up blowing up in everyone's faces.

 

[vyshan]

So begins to fall into chaos

Someone has just hit the flint against a steel, and the sparks are now flying towards the powder

Took the words right out of my mouth. There's no way this won't end up blowing up in everyone's faces.

Yea, the chaos is just about to begin and things are going to get worse for everyone.

 

[Nikolai]

Time to duck into the bunker and stay there until this is over.

 

[vyshan]

National State of Readiness

The event in Wuhu brought a cascade of reactions from the Zhili leadership throughout China. Then came the news from Anqing. Muten had read the pamphlet that Chen Tiaoyuan had distributed even in the north, the pamphlets were commonplace. They had a number of things but most notable was the line: ‘These events show that Sun cannot manage this crisis, and essentially abrogates him from any responsibility in Anqing.’. The Sun in question was Sun Chuanfang, the leader of the southern Zhili Clique.

Muten walked into the room where he was summoned. His superior officer, Chen Xiaolu was there, as were several officers that were of equal rank to himself. As Muten saluted Xiaolu he could feel the disdain from his commander. His superior officer hated him and he knew that yet despite the animosity between them, Muten still saluted him as he arrived into the room.

“Ah the Manchu dog has finally arrived. Took you long enough.” Xiaolu said in a condescending tone even though several other officers were arriving after Muten.

“Now then I have been briefed as to the state of things in the South.”

“Does not Sun Chuanfang or Chen Tiaoyuan have the south in control? Surely between the two of them these terrorists will be dealt with” Another officer said.

“Yes they do. However we could be attacked by the Fengtian in the North.” Xiaolu said. The general reaction was a bit of confusion and agreement from the other officers. “These orders come from the Jade Marshal himself.” He added which in turn got everyone to go quiet.

“China is to be in a National State of Readiness and that we are to be prepared for any possible armed conflict. Each of you have your own units that you command. You are to get them ready for conflict and prepare for future orders. Train them as you have but no actions are to be taken without orders from me or above. Dismissed” Xiaolu stated looking squarely at muten as he said the last comment.

“Yes Sir.” Muten and the rest of the officer said and then saluted Xiaolu before they departed the room.

It was not much later when Muten arrived at the barracks where his own officers and soldiers were stationed for the day. They had done the drills earlier but they were clearly tense and anxious as to what would be done. None seemed more so than Ji Qilin, his second in command. He was a tall man and towered over most men, yet muten felt that he could trust Ji. As he entered the barracks, the men stood up and saluted Muten.

“We have orders from the Jade Marshall, himself.” Muten stated to his men before adding, “We are entering a national state of readiness and are to prepare for any armed conflict.”

“Yet we are not to march south and join with Chen and Anqing?” Qilin asked.

“No. Apparently he and Sun are able to handle matters down there.” Muten added.

“Unlikely. If they were, the Marshal would not be calling for this state.” Qilin said.

“I agree. But orders are orders.” Muten said.

“I do not like this. Chen Tiaoyuan has been outspoken against the Germans. If we are not helping him, then we are just German lap dogs.” Ji said with a sigh.

“Orders are Orders. It is possible that the Japanese lapdogs in the north would try to strike during this time. So must be prepared and train again. If orders change then be ready for that as well. ” Muten said.

“As you command, sir.” Ji replied and saluted him return to which Muten saluted back.

Foreign Affairs
Sometime later Muten headed to the Jianghu to meet with other members of the Zongshe party. He wanted to discuss the matters of Shandong and rumors trickling in from the rest of China. Things were moving faster and faster and the Zhili and their cronies did little. However, while his superior in the army might be high on opium or worse he was going to figure out what to do.

As he entered Jianghu to meet with the other Zongshe members, the main room had a number of members that he did not know. Aside from Ji Xuan, the other man that he recognized was Song Jian, a lanky fellow who served as a clerk. Still he kept his politeness and calm. As one of the officers in the party, he knew many looked to him to know what was going on in the army.

“Now we have convened, let us address the matters that everyone is here to discuss. In Anhui, Chen has made his first move by leaving the League of Eight Provinces.” Ji Xuan stated.

“What reason did he give for doing that?” Another member said.

“He is blaming the Kuomintang rebels. However, we all know that is just an excuse to expand his territory and gain his power.” Xuan replied.

“Typical Warlord.” Someone else stated.

“Agreed. Cao Kun as always is in a drunken stupor and the rest of the Zhili do not want to lose their precious German support” Xuan said.

“So they are going to support the German lapdogs in Nanjing” Someone said.

“No. The zhili are divided. Some want to intervene for Anqing and others want to side with Nanjing. Wu is going to do nothing.” Muten said.

“He is going to do nothing? What about this National State of readiness that he declared.” Someone asked and everyone’s eyes turned towards the manchu officer.

“We are not marching south. I suspect that this is a ploy to keep the troops in line and go join Chen in the south.” Muten stated.

“Would other officers and generals abandon their duty to fight for Anqing?” Xuan asked

“ Tiaoyuan has taken up the mantle of fighting against the German concessions. I am sure you all have seen his pamphlet.” Muten asked the others which many nodded then Muten continued. “Hence the need for this state of Readiness.”

“It seems like Wu is losing control of the Army” Xuan said.

“He has full control over the army for now. However, the issue is that he has filled the high command with loyalist to the Zhili. Many of whom are old men who are dying or are high on opium. Such as Wang Chengbin.” Muten said.

“And no one with merit such as yourself will rise through the ranks as things stand.” Someone said.

“Correct.” Muten stated.

“We must prepare for the worse. Muten, you should prepare for the southern chaos to spread north. If the Zhili won’t defend the empire then we will.” Xuan said before adding. “However, it is not just the events in Anhui that are of a concern.”

“And what is the other matters that are of a concern?” Song Jian asked.

“Well there is the matter of Shandong. It seems that the dogmeat general is dead and Zhang Tianran has taken over the province.” Xuan replied.

“So a fanatic has control of the region?” Muten asked.

“Yes, though the key thing is that Zongchang is dead. He had ties to the Fengtian bastards and now the region is less of a threat.” Xuan said.

“Any other regions that we are getting information about?” Jian asked.

“Just rumors from Tibet.” Xuan stated.

“Tibet? Really and what is going on with those separatists.” Muten said.

“Hard to say. Information is conflicted but what is clear is that the KMT is there.” Xuan said.

“Hardly surprising that separatists would align with terrorists. ” Muten said.

“Not surprising in the least.” Another commented.

The gathering of members then turned to watch a small performance on stage as some musicians and actors appeared. Muten meanwhile thought on the words of Xuan and what must be done. China will be defended and the Empire will survive. If the Zhili will do nothing then he must steel himself to remove them should the opportunity present itself.

 

[stnylan]

The Zhili have proved themselves incapable to the moment they find themselves in.

 

[Specialist290]

Wu Peifu's strategy does make some measure of sense -- the chaos in the south would almost certainly make for a great opportunity for the Fengtian government and their Japanese overlords to try for a play of their own -- but at the same time, inaction at the wrong time might be a signal of weakness in and of itself.

 

[vyshan]

The Zhili have proved themselves incapable to the moment they find themselves in.

yea, but who shall replace them?

Wu Peifu's strategy does make some measure of sense -- the chaos in the south would almost certainly make for a great opportunity for the Fengtian government and their Japanese overlords to try for a play of their own -- but at the same time, inaction at the wrong time might be a signal of weakness in and of itself.

It does make some sense though as things collapse in the south, it might not have been the best play.

 

[vyshan]

Training the Men

Chen Zhen had spent several weeks drilling the men in how to use the muskets that he had bought thanks to Shi Chunlai and his various connections. For most of the militia this was the first time using a rifle, even if most of these rifles were decades out of date. After several weeks of these drills, he had organized a patrol around the hills to see how they handle following orders and missions not at the village itself.

Chen Zhen crouched near some of the hills surrounding the village. The hills were rather muddy due to that had come. Next to him was Tian Yun and Zhang Tielin, the three men were watching the hills for the other militia members to come around the hill side. The militia had split into two smaller squads to learn how to work together. As the men came across the hillside, Yun shook his head in disdain.

“I can see them. I have them in my sights.” Yun said.

After a moment, Chen Zhen and the rest of the men came out from the hill top and looked to the men as they passed near the hill that they were watching from.

“Section one, over here.” Chen Zhen said and then looked to several men and addressed them, “Weijia, Jiayin, Xuwen, Xianxu, Feng, Liang, Xiang, Fengyi, Luyi, down. Why are they down?”

“Dead.” One of the other militamen said.

“Dead. That’s right.” Chen Zhen said with a touch of firmness in his voice.

“I would say that half this section just died.” Tian Yun replied afterwords.

“Everyone down. If we lose half of this section, then the village is lost. The bandits are merciless and if they see you they will kill you.” Chen Zhen said.

“Xiaoming. Did you see our position when you came over the crest of that hill? You did not. You were looking down at your shoes, trying to pick your way through the mud and keep your shoes clean. There'll be clean shoes on your corpse.” Chen Zhen said before speaking again, “You also, it's your responsibility, led your men into open ground. You didn't use the natural cover. It's on your shoulders and I don't want to see it again.”

Xiaoming looked down ashamed at the calling out and for failing Chen Zhen. Seeing this Tian Yun spoke up. “We are only saying this to keep you alive. We need you alive to keep the village alive”

An unexpected Arrival
Another day another set of drills went by. Chen Zhen hoped that the militia would be prepared for the bandits when they arrived but he was unsure. The bandits had better weapons and more men, not to mention as they were technically soldiers they even had better training. Then all of a sudden there was commotion throughout the village. A large group of people had been spotted approaching the village.

“What is all this commotion.” The land lord said and then turned to another man of the village “go and fetch the magistrate and tell me who these people”

Further away Tian Yun asked Chen Zhen,“What is going, are the bandits attacking?”

“I do not know but let us make sure that nothing is wrong here.” he replied as they went to grab their rifles and head to the village square.

“Are we under attack” Someone asked.

“Zunjià Yuhai” Chen Zhen said bowing slightly towards the Landlord, even with him wanting to court his daughter, Chen made sure to address him respect. He then added, “What is going on. Are the bandits here?”

“No. it is a group of refugees it seems” Magistrate Jiaocheng said.

“What do they want?” Yuhai asked, though it was more of a demand.

“I do not know but we should ask them.” Chen Zhen said.

“Fine bring them to the village square. I want to know why they are here. “ Yuhai said.

The Refugees made their way to the village. Most of them had ripped and torn clothing. Those that had shoes had them torn and dirted from walking miles upon miles. Most looked as if they had not eaten in several days. Chen Zhen noticed that Even Shi Chunlai felt pity for these men and women.

“Who is your leader.” Yuhai said addressing the crowd.

“I do.” said a man who approached Yuhai, who was a tall and large man though one who wore the garb of a daoist priest Chen Zhen thought.

“And you are?” Jiaocheng asked.

“Jiang Wu. I am a priest of the Constant Way” the man replied. Chen Zhen wasn’t familiar with that particular belief but he didn’t question it.

“And what brings you to our little village?” Jiaocheng asked

“We seek refuge the south is in utter chaos. Bandits, terrorists, warlord armies clashing. I sought to guide them north away from the conflict.” Wu said.

“You are aware that our village is beset by a number of Bandits.” Chen Zhen said speaking up.

“Not surprising, too many villages are beset bandits in these trying times.”

“Yet it becomes more difficult to defend the village already. The Bandits rob our food. I am sure you understand how difficult things are.” Yuhai added.

“I am. Yet we have little else to go to with the conflict in the south.” The priest added.

“Could keep moving to another village” Someone said to which a number of people nodded in agreement.

“Can any of your men fight or willing to fight?” Chen Zhen asked.

“Most can not but some can fight and I am sure a few more would be willing should we be able to seek refugee.” the priest replied.

“Allow us a moment to discuss this then.” The magistrate said and the leaders of the village, including Chen Zhen, Bei Yuhai, Wu Quanxu and Shi Chunlai headed to the Magistrate’s office near the center of town to discuss the matters.

“Quanxu what do you know of this priest?” the Landlord asked.

“They follow the teachings of Zhang Tianran and are rather unorthodox but not much beyond that.” the buddhist monk replied.

“Well, should we take in his refugees or not?” the landlord asked.

“I say we should. I do not like letting the bandits get them. Not to mention if we refuse some might join the bandits.” Chen Zhen.

“Yet could we afford the additional refugees? Food is not that plentiful currently and we don’t want the villagers to starve.” The magistrate said.

“No. but starving won’t matter if we all die.” Chen said.

“They could be spies for the bandits” Shi said.

“Then we will deal with them if they are caught.” Chen Zhen said.

“Letting them stay and letting them go both bring suffering, but the path of least suffering is to let them stay.” The Buddhist monk said.

After a moment. Yuhai took a breath and then spoke, “I will allow them to stay. Provided they help out in the village and support the local militia.”

This got everyone on the same page. Like it or not, it was yuhai’s village, he was the landlord and as such he got to dictate policy. Chen Zhen though knew that the others seemed supportive of this decision or at least didn’t voice any further complaints. Not long after that, the men left the magistrate’s office and returned to the village square.

“Before I state my decision, a final question, would you and your men be willing to help out with work and support the local militia if you were to stay here, or do you plan on moving on?” Yuhai asked.

“We will stay if we can and help out in every way we can.” Jiang Wu said.

“In that case, I welcome you to the village of Jianzhou.” Yuhai said.

 

[stnylan]

Extra manpower - presuming this is not a bandit ruse - will be most welcome, for when the bandits come there will be deaths, and they will need new folk then.

 

[Specialist290]

A hard choice, where both options are fraught with peril. The fact that the village is willing to take in these suffering strangers says volumes about their character, which gives me hope for their ability to weather the coming chaos -- assuming, of course, that the refugees aren't planning some vile treachery.

And the fact that there are refugees on the road must mean that chaos has come to the south in earnest. Better hope the militiamen learn their drills quickly...

 

[vyshan]

Extra manpower - presuming this is not a bandit ruse - will be most welcome, for when the bandits come there will be deaths, and they will need new folk then.

Indeed, not to mention that the Bandits are somewhat trained soldiers while the peasants are a village militia.

A hard choice, where both options are fraught with peril. The fact that the village is willing to take in these suffering strangers says volumes about their character, which gives me hope for their ability to weather the coming chaos -- assuming, of course, that the refugees aren't planning some vile treachery.

And the fact that there are refugees on the road must mean that chaos has come to the south in earnest. Better hope the militiamen learn their drills quickly...

Yea, the south is falling into chaos quickly which is the subject of the next chapter.

 

[vyshan]

Anqing and Japan

Cao Fei read the paper and furled her brows as she rode in her car. She and her husband were heading to the Jasmine Dragon, a tea house that was renovated itself into a jazz club. The Young China Party liked to spend time there and Zhang had planned to give a speech regarding the events in the south. While Fei read the paper he was reviewing his notes as to what to say. The whole city was growing more and more tense. Soldiers were patrolling the streets of the city more and more often. Cao Fei had taken to carrying a pistol in her purse just in case it was needed.

“You are a great public speaker, you got this.” Cao Fei said with a reassuring smile towards her husband as the car pulled into the Jasmine Dragon.

“I know.” He said taking a breath as a servant opened the door for them.

The Jasmine Dragon was a modern tea house that mixed old decor with modern art deco aesthetics. Like the decor, the music that was playing was a mix of the old and new and followed in the style of Shanghai Jazz that had proved popular in the big cities throughout China. Tea was poured for the guests to enjoy as they listened to the music. Eventually the music came to a stop and Zhang Yi took the stage to speak.

“And now a member of the Young China Party has some words to say about the events in the South.” a man said who announced Zhang Yi to the audience who clapped politely.

“Chen Tioyuan spoke that he was interested in standing against the imperialists. He denounced the western powers. We know now that it was all a ruse. Like Zhang Zhoulin in the North, Chen Tioyuan seeks to write another Treaty of Shimonoseki!” Zhang Yi said pausing for a moment at the end as it brought gasps, he then continued again. “He has shown that he cares little for China is willing to sign unequal treaties if it means that Japan will continue to pay their new lapdog. He must be dealt with.” Again a pause before he spoke again “However, Chen Tioyuan is not the only southern leader to reveal his true colors. Marshal Qi Xieyuan has shown that he cares far more for german gold then for the lives of china. The German government supports him and get fat off of his incompetence and corruption. Should we back the Japanese lap dog?” Zhang Yi asked the audience .

“No!” They shouted back.

“Should we back the German lap-dog?”

“No!” The audience replied again.

“That is right. For the empire to survive, for China to thrive again. China shall come to greatness, not through selling herself to the highest bidder like Tioyuan or Xieyuan but through her people, through modernization. The warlords stand against that lining their own pockets and selling out china. They must be crushed and destroyed!” He said ending his speech to a thunderous applause.

As the speech came to a close, the tea started to flow again. Yi went to meet with a number of the men who had arrived to hear him speak. Cao Fei stayed at her table watching it with a smile as she sipped her tea. Later on the husband and wife took the same car back to their home. On the way home Cao Fei turned to her husband to discuss his recent speech

“It was a great speech, however, I am sure you are aware that the Zhili have decided upon inaction.” Cao Fei said.

“I am not blind to their inaction.” Yi said.

“Well if the Zhili have no plans for leading China. We must be the ones to do it.” Fei replied.

“The Zhili hoard their power greatly they are not going to give it up lightly.” Yi said.

“They won’t but just look at the window. Anger and tension is growing. Their inaction may allow us to get rid of them.” Fei said.

“Even if the opposition parties unite we still need allies from the army and government to remove them.” Yi said.

“Then let us hope that opportunity comes sooner rather than later.” Fei said.

Bloodbath on the Yangtze
Only a few days ago reports came in about the governor of Anhui defecting to the Fengtian government. However now news changed everything. So a meeting was called among Zhang Yi and his allies. In addition to Hao Lei and Guo Da, Cao Fei noticed that He Jin and Jin Xing had also joined them at the house to discuss the chaos in the country. He Jin was a new member to their little group a friend of Yi and another member of the Young China Party. While Jin Xing was a young woman who had become friends with Cao Fei and Hao Lei.

“So what does everyone knows about the chaos in the League.” Zhang Yi said starting the meeting.

“There was a massive Riot in Hubei and Governor Xiao Yaonan stopped it by slaughtering them all.” Hao Lei said.

“I thought it was Governor Wang Huaiqing was responsible for the massacre? Jin Xing said.

“So either conflicting information or that the governors have crushed these rebels with violent force” Cao Fei said.

“Which normally wouldn’t be an issue but its exacerbating a contentious and fragile peace down south.” Zhang Yi.

“Refugees have begun to pour in to northern China. I helped support a bill providing relief to them. Even the Zhili recognize the public relations backlash not helping them would bring.” Zhang Yi said.

“Unfortunately the southern governors have decided to cut contact with Beijing. We do not know what is going on down there.” He Jin said.

“Even the Model Governor of Shanxi has denounced the central government for what happened in the south.” Zhang Yi said

“So are there any governors who are not against the government?” Hao Lei asked.

“What about Sichuan?” Guo Da asked

“Sichuan is a patchwork of warlords. So we can not rely on them.” Cao Fei said.

“There is one.” He Jin said.

“Who?” Jin Xing asked.

“Zhang Tianrian and Shandong.” He Jin said and that news brought gasps to the group.

“The fanatic?” Lei asked.

“The very one.” He Jin replied.

“Wonderful news.” Cao Fei said sardonically.

“It is what it is.” He Jin said

“We best start to put those plans into motion soon. It seems like the Opportunity to move against the Zhili is arriving much sooner than later.” Yi said.

“What we are going to need are allies in the military. If we are to make any moves we need them.” Cao Fei said.

“Most are tied to the Zhili and their thugs.” Guo Da said.

“Well I might be able to help there.” Jin Xing said.

“We are all ears.” Cao Fei said.

Jin Xing took a breath before she spoke. “Well I am seeing someone in the Army, an officer.” she paused a little embarrassed. Of the group gathered, she was the newest member and revealing who she was courting was still nervous and embarrassing.. After taking another breath, she spoke again. “Perhaps, I could arrange a meeting?”

“And who is this Officer of yours?” Hao Lei asked.

“Ji Qilin.” Jin said.

“Very well, see if we can get the army on our side. The coming days and weeks are going to require all the assistance we can get.” Yi said.

 

[stnylan]

Ideals are all very well, but at some point of time in this sitaution one needs guns.