Chapter 2265: MistakeEditor: Henyee Translations

At that critical juncture, Su Huai knew he couldn’t rely on Jiangning for additional rations; the Third Prince would surely refuse.

Faced with urgency, Su Huai swiftly embraced his subordinates’ suggestions: lacking manpower? Implement forced recruitment.

No elaborate screening or extensive training required; anyone capable of wielding a weapon would suffice, trained quickly to follow orders.

These recruits would be sent to the front lines. If Zheng Sangge killed them, it would incite public outrage and condemnation.

Meanwhile, Shao Yunduan intended to severely punish Zheng Sangge to garner public support and offer a justification to the world. He might even consider executing Zheng Sangge to appease public anger and facilitate their revenge.

As for provisions, Hangzhou City’s wealth in Jiangnan made grain shortages inconceivable. Su Huai planned to approach a dozen or twenty affluent individuals for resources and silver. He anticipated their compliance, offering IOUs as collateral against government funds if needed.

Facing the prospect of Zheng Sangge’s intimidation, the citizens of Hangzhou pondered their duty to contribute to the country.

Although it amounted to a blatant threat and extortion, Su Huai found himself strangely persuaded by the argument.

Having been a water bandit, his mindset had always prioritized personal convenience over broader considerations. The recent humiliating defeat fueled his desperation for a swift victory, blinding him to long-term consequences.

Thus, Hangzhou City plunged into chaos following Su Huai’s impulsive decisions.

The forced conscription caused widespread distress among the populace, with cries echoing as the Su family’s troops scoured villages for recruits.

Meanwhile, the affluent families, targeted for contributions, suffered even greater losses. Their wealth drained, their homes resounded with anguished wails amid the upheaval.

These individuals succumbed to their urges for plunder and exploitation, emboldened by the chaos. They seized the opportunity to enrich themselves and wield their authority recklessly. Many families not originally targeted for "donations" were also coerced into giving money under threat of violence and destruction.

Refusal meant they would forcibly take what they wanted, resembling a raid by bandits on a village.

The common folk felt helpless and distressed, unable to protest.

Whether Su Huai was aware of these actions remained unclear. He remained silent and indifferent, prioritizing his own objectives and the compliance of his subordinates. As long as his goals were achieved and his orders followed, he turned a blind eye to their methods.

Given the hardships faced by his brothers on the front lines, it seemed only fair for them to reap some financial reward.

Under Su Huai’s relentless urging, their forces swelled to 80,000 within five days.

Of these, fewer than 30,000 were originally aligned with Su Huai.

Gathered resources were amassed and stored in the interim officials’ quarters in Hangzhou City. Local authorities mobilized bailiffs and migrant workers to prepare for relocation.

Unable to delay any longer, Su Huai promptly led the 80,000-strong force out of Hangzhou City, aiming straight for Pujiang.

Pujiang, no longer under Jinhua’s control, had fallen into Zheng Sangge’s hands. Both Zheng Sangge and Qin Wuyou’s forces were stationed there.

Upon learning of Su Huai’s actions, Zheng Sangge’s scouts swiftly reported back.

Zheng Sangge and Qin Wuyou exchanged a rueful glance. The Third Prince’s actions defied reason. Despite his bravery and combat skills, he remained a bandit at heart.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.