Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Chapter 2396: Ownership of Military Power

If they could not reach an agreement on this matter, discussing anything else would be pointless.

The issue of military power was not only a concern for the present but also for the future.

General Feng and the others were appreciative of Shao Yunduan’s assistance with grain transportation, and Xie Jingrong, Minister Old Yun, Qi, Meng Wanfu, and others were supportive. It was an ideal time for the Northwest Army to align with Shao Yunduan.

But what about the future?

If he did not address all potential scenarios now and propose targeted solutions, it would be too late when problems arose.

Discussing countermeasures at that point could harm the harmony between the two sides. Even if issues were resolved, repairing the cracks between them would be challenging.

Zhang Wenshu said, “My lord, forgive me for being blunt. Even with General Shao in the Northwest Army, this concerns the control of military power and the future of the 300,000-strong force. The Northwest generals will likely resist relinquishing their control. If they do not surrender their power, there will be too many variables. Who knows if they might harbor ulterior motives in the future?”

“…Even if they don’t harbor any disloyal intentions, having a large force gathered in the northwest and not following orders is a significant hidden danger. I trust General Feng, General Xu, and the others, but they are aging. They have at most ten years left before they must step down. What will happen then?”

“Therefore, my lord, you must control this military power! At the very least, we need to ensure the Northwest Army listens to us!”

Jia Heming agreed. “Lord, I share the same concern. We cannot compromise on this issue; otherwise, it will lead to endless trouble.”

Zhang Wenshu added, “If this matter is not resolved properly now, it will be even more difficult to address in the future. Even if it seems to strain our relationship, we need to clarify it now.”

Qiao Xuan smiled. “Indeed, it’s a difficult situation. The Northwest Army’s generals will resist handing over military power, but my lord must secure control before he can fully trust and integrate them. Everyone will need to make some concessions.”

Zhang Wenshu sighed. “Madam is right. This is the truth. We must make concessions, but the key is how to do so. We need to anticipate all possible scenarios over the next ten, twenty, or even thirty years. Only by preparing thoroughly can we move forward with confidence.”

Jia Heming said, “Then let’s discuss what concessions we can make today. How can we approach the Northwest Army’s retreat…?”

Four days passed in the blink of an eye.

Xie Jingrong had shown General Feng, General Xu, and the others around the South. When they returned, General Feng and his companions were much more cordial toward Shao Yunduan and regarded him with admiration.

Seeing was believing. They witnessed the prosperity and order of Jiangnan firsthand. They observed the common people living and working in harmony, and saw the vast, fertile fields with thriving crops. In such a chaotic world, it was rare to find Jiangnan in such a flourishing state.

As those sensitive to food, they hoped for a bountiful harvest in Jiangnan more than anyone else.

Lord Shao, being a benefactor who cared deeply for the welfare of the people, naturally inspired greater trust and reassurance.

When the official negotiations began, it was clear that General Feng’s visit was not merely about the annual provisions, supplies, clothing, medicine, and weapons sent to the Northwest Army. It was also about ensuring the future security and stability of the Northwest Army.