Continuous pressure and continuous blockade are Zhu's strategies, and also some of Zhu Xiong Ying's strategies.
In such a situation, it's not enough to simply weaken the opponent's strength. More importantly, we need to diligently study and train to strengthen our own power. Only then can we continuously suppress those nomadic tribes, drive them to more distant places, or directly eliminate or assimilate them. We cannot allow them to recover.
After carefully inquiring about the craftsmen, Zhu Xiong Ying wasn't particularly disappointed.
There were no major improvements in gunpowder, and little progress in developing firearms, but Zhu Xiong Ying wasn't worried at all. Such things couldn't be accomplished overnight; he needed to continuously invest resources and cultivate talent.
It's not bad. Zhu Xiong Ying is quite satisfied with many things, even though he's not directly in charge. Most things are under his control, and everything is proceeding smoothly, which is naturally very good.
The young Zhu Xiong Ying felt he couldn't afford to be idle. While things were progressing smoothly in Beiping, he hadn't forgotten that a whole host of matters awaited him in Tianjin. This naturally meant he needed to put in even more effort, and he had to keep a close eye on things in Tianjin at this time.
After all, it was the center of the Grand Canal, and now it was also a base for supplying Korea and Japan, so it couldn't be treated carelessly. Even though the seasoned veteran Li Shanchang was in charge, Zhu Xiong Ying wouldn't be careless; he had to be serious when necessary.
Li Shanchang was not surprised by Zhu Xiong Ying's arrival. He greeted him politely and reported on official business. However, at this time, it was mainly Li Qi, the nominal prefect, who was reporting on various matters.
As the husband of Princess Lin'an, the eldest daughter of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, Li Qi was extremely arrogant in his youth, probably because he was the legitimate son of Li Shanchang. Therefore, he wouldn't visit Emperor Zhu when he was ill, likely because he had once been highly regarded by the emperor.
However, after nearly wiping out his family, Li Qi became much more docile and dared not be arrogant anymore. Even when facing the Crown Prince, a nominal junior, Li Qi dared not be disrespectful in the slightest. This was probably a case of learning from one's mistakes; setbacks are indeed the best way to temper one's character.
Looking at the cautious Li Qi, Zhu Xiong Ying appeared very enthusiastic. However, he was rather satisfied inside. He certainly didn't want to see an arrogant and conceited uncle, and Zhu Xiong Ying was used to being treated with respect.
After carefully listening to the report, Zhu Xiong Ying rested at the prefectural government office.
As the eldest daughter of Emperor Zhu, Princess Lin'an, Zhu Jingjing was actually quite worried. Because she was born out of wedlock, she wasn't actually favored. Moreover, given her husband's family's current awkward situation, Zhu Jingjing was naturally even more cautious. At least when facing Zhu Xiong Ying, she wouldn't act like an elder sister.
Zhu Xiong Ying sat in the guest seat, but Zhu Jing Jing sat in the host seat, as he was the elder.
Looking at his cousins Li Fang and Li Mao, Zhu Xiong Ying asked with a smile, "Cousin, what are your plans?"
Li Fang immediately cupped her hands and carefully replied, "Your Highness, this sinner..."
“Cousin, that’s not right,” Zhu Xiong Ying waved his hand, feigning displeasure. “Grandfather values kinship above all else. Even a prince entering the court is required to observe the proper kinship rites. Besides, cousin, you are innocent. How can you be considered a criminal?!”
Li Fang then gave a dry laugh and said, "Your subject knows his crime."
Zhu Xiong Ying looked at Zhu Jing Jing and said, "Aunt, I've heard that my cousin is quite talented, and under the careful guidance of Master Li and Uncle, he has also become quite accomplished. If you're willing, please let my cousin come with me to Beiping. Beiping is currently short of people."
Zhu Jingjing looked at Li Shanchang and Li Qi, and smiled after they nodded. "Thank you for your guidance, Crown Prince. I'll entrust this good-for-nothing boy to your care."
"Auntie, you're being too polite," Zhu Xiong Ying laughed and said. "It's my cousin who's been helping me out; I should be thanking you, Auntie and Uncle."
Not only did Li Shanchang disbelieve Zhu Xiong Ying's words, but Zhu Jing Jing did as well. However, regardless, this presented Li Fang with an opportunity to rise in status, given the Li family's current predicament and the slim chances of restoring their title.
But if Li Fang proves herself, she might be able to build up a fortune!
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