As the bandits and their families approached, they saw their husbands sitting to one side, their hands and feet bound...
They rushed over, embracing each other and weeping bitterly.
At Xie Zhun's instruction, Zheng Ye ordered his men to untie all the ropes binding the bandits.
When the bandits' families saw that many of their members were injured, they were filled with gratitude once their injuries were treated.
The lunch we just had was ruined, and because of the meticulous work, everyone didn't get much rest, so Eunuch Xu simply ordered the staff to stop.
They sent men to find a water source and temporarily set up camp nearby.
Eunuch Xu quickly sought instructions from Prince Cheng.
A moment later, Eunuch Xu got off the carriage and went straight to Zheng Chengguang, Zheng Ye, and the bandit leader to discuss the matter.
The bandit leader was named You Yong, whom Zheng Chengguang and Zheng Ye had heard of before; he was also a fierce general.
Xie Zhun instructed Eunuch Xu that since they were going to use bandits, they should be open and honest.
Eunuch Xu explained his plan directly, explaining that the number of people had surged, while the supplies brought by the bandits and their families were limited...
To ensure a smooth journey ahead, it is necessary to enter the city to replenish supplies.
The nearest county town is Anqing, about an hour's drive away.
They were being watched all the way to the city gates, and it was estimated that the gates would be closed before they could get in.
"Father-in-law, please speak frankly..."
You Yong said directly.
Eunuch Xu glanced at You Yong, "I was thinking of borrowing your men for a while..."
Before the other party could reply, Eunuch Xu quickly explained, "We're mainly going into the city to purchase supplies. We won't hurt anyone, and we'll pay for it."
"Since the prince has promised to protect you, you will naturally receive a share of the supplies he has purchased."
"If you're still worried, we can distribute the portions according to the number of people afterwards so you can keep them yourselves..."
Zheng Chengguang and Zheng Ye immediately understood that Eunuch Xu wanted to create the illusion that bandits had looted the place.
The bandits would leave behind money; aside from causing a disturbance, the authorities probably wouldn't pursue the matter...
Zheng Chengguang and Zheng Ye both nodded in agreement; it was indeed a good idea.
Firstly, the bandits didn't need to disguise themselves, and their faces were unfamiliar.
Secondly, the bandits were more skilled at riding their horses...
After the bandits' families arrived, the guards, following the orders of Prince Cheng, returned the horses and prisoners to them.
With horses, they could carry heavy loads, their own luggage, and also the elderly and children.
You Yong had no other opinions, but suggested that people from the Prince's Mansion or the Duke of Protectorate's Mansion could pretend to flee to the city gate...
The bandits pursued them relentlessly, breaking through the city gates and looting as they went...
Even if they leave behind some money, the question remains: why were they hunting them down, and who were they hunting down...?
Those behind the scenes, fearing investigation, will also help cover it up...
Eunuch Xu curled his lips slightly, thinking to himself that this was truly a formidable character.
If he were to agree immediately, it would seem like he was acting rashly.
By linking the people of the Prince's Mansion and the Duke of Protectorate's Mansion together, even if the authorities investigate, they won't be able to escape...
Zheng Chengguang and Zheng Ye secretly admired You Yong's thoughtful consideration.
As a commander, one should always put the collective first...
Even though they had just come under the command of Prince Cheng, they still needed to preserve their own strength and avoid becoming scapegoats.
With no objection from Eunuch Xu, the group discussed the matter and quickly made arrangements.
To prevent the people from being frightened and harmed innocently, Zheng Ye specifically went to Ning Xi'er to ask for medicine.
The drug I used last time in Changxing County.
Ning Xi'er was quite satisfied with his current respectful attitude and generously gave him nearly twenty bottles.
Ning Xier explained that she made it using the medicinal herbs he had purchased last time, taking some time out of her busy schedule.
Zheng Ye had no suspicions. Ning Xi'er reminded him that no matter whether the powder was used up or not, he should collect it in time and store it in a centralized place.
Zheng Ye understood her reminder and left gratefully.
Before long, the servants, under Xuanfeng's personal supervision, had prepared the food.
After everyone quickly finished their dinner, Zheng Ye personally led more than twenty guards to Anqing County.
You Yong led nearly forty bandits on horseback in hot pursuit.
Grandpa Xu quickly directed people to clean up the scene.
Zheng Chengguang personally led the procession, arranging the Prince's Mansion, the Duke of Huguo's Mansion, and the bandit group in an orderly manner, so that they could all set off together.
By the time the bandits had finished "purchasing" supplies and caught up with them, the group had already approached the next county town—Anping.
The reason is simple: even if the Anqing garrison makes a show of chasing them, they will not turn back once they reach Anping territory.
"princess......"
The group set off, and Xuanfeng arrived at Ning Xier's carriage.
He lowered his voice and whispered, "Please help me check on the Prince's condition..."
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