"Don't worry, Lord Du." Zhang Keda pointed to the sea chart and said, "The mouths of the Tumen River and the Heilongjiang River will be controlled by our East China Sea Fleet. If the remaining Jianlu people find it difficult to leave the sea and flee to Kuye Island, our elite fleet will be able to wipe them out."

Du Ming nodded and said, "Once Jilin Province sends people to open up the seaport, the distance to Kuye Island will be very close, and there will be no need to go through Busan, North Korea."

"That's right," Zhang Keda said. "The Liaodong Military Region has received the Emperor's order and will be heading out to sea along the river by summer at the latest. Our East China Sea Fleet is also ready to respond. It will also be much easier for Lord Du to manage Bitter Leaf Island."

Du Ming smiled and nodded, feeling much more at ease.

Although he had volunteered during the Ministry of Personnel's selection process, hoping to work hard for a few years and achieve desirable political achievements that would facilitate his career advancement, he was still uneasy and lacked confidence in this wild and desolate land of Bitter Leaf Island.

Before leaving, the Emperor specially summoned him. For an envoy of his rank, this was considered a very special and respectful treatment.

During the meeting, the emperor gave him instructions on how to run the business after he arrived at Bitter Leaf Island.

Bitter Leaf Island is rich in minerals, including coal, oil, and natural gas. Its main natural resource is timber. Its specialty is sable fur, which is also the main tribute of Bitter Leaf Island.

At the same time, the emperor also promised him to send supplies and 2,000 immigrants to Kuye Island every year, who would go out to sea from Jilin Prefecture along the Tumen River, through Vladivostok, and reach Kuye Island.

These conditions gave Du Ming a lot of confidence. He was thinking of seeking wealth and honor through risk, but he didn't expect the emperor to attach so much importance to Bitter Leaf Island.