Chapter Sixteen: Eradicating the Bandits—Dying Without Regret

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The officials had not expected Fang Han to be so impulsive. Once the bandits were angered, forget about developing production or improving political achievements; even their own survival would be at stake. From the bandit’s description, it was clear that the court no longer took Southern Frontier seriously. They had thought Fang Han’s arrival was authorized by the court, but it turned out he was exiled due to jealousy of the Great General. Some even speculated that if Fang Han were not the elder brother of General Fang Li, he might not have been appointed Protector of the Southern Frontier, or even a county magistrate.

Seeing their varied expressions, Fang Han suddenly slammed the table. “These bandits are outrageous, daring to slander this official so!” The officials kept their heads low, unwilling to look at him. The Protector’s true colors had been exposed, and in his shame and anger, he might vent on them. After all, Fang Han was still nominally the Protector of the Southern Frontier.

Now some were even considering siding with the bandits. Political achievements mattered, but without life, there was nothing. Fang Han glanced discreetly at the officials; their complicated expressions gladdened him. Once today’s events became known, he would be branded as incompetent, granting him ample time to develop his position. The Southern Frontier was divided among warlords; apart from some ignorant bandits, other forces wanted to develop. It wouldn’t be a problem to imprison or even kill that man outright.

But Fang Han dared not act rashly yet. He was unsure if all the warring factions had capable aides. If they were mere empty suits and suddenly attacked in fury, it would be troublesome.

“As an official appointed by the court, now that I have come to the Southern Frontier, I will wipe out all bandits and restore peace to the people!” Fang Han declared solemnly.

Su Zihuan frowned and stepped forward. “My lord, the bandits in Xiyun County are numerous and spread out. They even have court officials turned bandits, advising them. I beg you to reconsider.”

“Please reconsider,” the officials echoed.

Fang Han glared at them angrily. “How dare you suggest I compromise? You, as court officials, should think of benefiting the people! Have you all wasted your education?”

The officials, stirred by Fang Han’s words, looked dazed, as if recalling the vows they made in their studious youth. As scholars and officials responsible for the people, they sought to plead for justice and leave a righteous legacy. To be cowardly and manipulative was a disgrace to their learning.

Suddenly, an official stepped forward with dignity. “Gentlemen, after years of waiting, what have we been striving for? Is it not to one day eradicate the Southern Frontier bandits and bring peace to this land?”

“Now the court has sent Protector Fang to suppress the bandits. Shall we retreat?”

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“The Protector brings farming techniques. Once the bandits are eliminated, how can the Southern Frontier fail to prosper?”

“I, Han Youxin, am willing to spend all my family wealth to support the Protector in suppressing the bandits. Even if I cannot be remembered in history, I will die without regret!”

With his words, the entire hall was ignited.

It is said that an old steed in the stable still aspires to gallop a thousand miles. These officials, though gradually aging, now brimmed with passionate resolve like a magnificent steed.

“Die without regret!”

“Die without regret!”

Fang Han was startled. He had not expected such ambition among these officials. Even the young Su Zihuan began to doubt himself. Was he here only because of his status as a lesser son? He accepted that lower status but wondered if a lesser son could not become a pillar of the court.

“This is playing a dangerous game,” Fang Han thought bitterly. He had underestimated these officials who had endured for so many years. Their survival depended on this belief, now reignited, and it was hard to extinguish.

He had not intended this—it was tantamount to seeking death.

“I must find a solution,” Fang Han’s mind raced, suddenly recalling Fang Li. At present, Fang Li was seen as jealous and resentful, and this could be exploited. If he made them realize that he was merely stirring their emotions without a real plan, it might work.

“Die without regret! Everyone in the capital knows Fang Li is both a military and civil talent, leading armies to quell rebellions.”

“But no one knows that I, Fang Han, am an even greater talent. What he can do, as his elder brother, I can do as well.”

“If he cannot pacify the Southern Frontier, I will. I want the world to know that I, Fang Han, am more outstanding than Fang Li.”

Hearing Fang Li’s name, Su Zihuan trembled. The other officials felt as if doused with cold water, realizing they had nearly made a grave mistake.

“Gentlemen, follow me to the training grounds to muster troops. I will personally lead the army to pacify the bandits in Xiyun County!” Fang Han declared.

No one responded. He breathed a sigh of relief.

“What, are you afraid?” Su Zihuan said, “My lord is new to the Southern Frontier and is not yet firmly established. Moreover, unfamiliarity with the terrain means direct confrontation is unwise. I believe this matter requires careful planning.”

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Chen Xingshi also stood up in agreement. “Yes, my lord, it is planting season now. If we start a war at this time, we risk missing the farming period.”

Fang Han’s gaze swept over their faces as he spoke slowly.

“I understand all your concerns. But as long as the bandits remain, the people of the Southern Frontier cannot find peace, and development will be impossible.”

“Sir, why not first stabilize the bandits, develop production, and seek the court’s aid later?” an official suggested.

Fang Han’s face darkened. Clenching his fists tightly, he feigned reluctance.

“Sir, we control the means of production. Why not use this to negotiate with them?”

Fang Han turned sharply, his voice cold. “Are you suggesting I collude with bandits?”

The official hurriedly explained, “Sir, great achievements require flexibility. At this moment, you lack both favorable timing and terrain advantage. It is truly difficult to confront the bandits head-on.”

Han Youxin, the first to be stirred to action, pondered and said, “Exactly, my lord. Even General Fang was powerless when the Great Zhou’s wars began. You should seize the opportunity. I implore you to reconsider.”

“Please reconsider.”

Fang Han weakly released his grip and said, “Bring him here.”

The officials finally relaxed.

Soon, the man was brought forward. He smiled slyly, surveying everyone present.

“Protector, have you come to your senses? Will you agree to the demands of Xiyun County, or will you join us?”

“Impudent! Guards, drag him out and execute him!” Fang Han shouted.

The officials were startled and quickly tried to dissuade him.

Fang Han ceased and coldly said, “Go back and tell your leader that I am willing to provide farming techniques, but you must exchange labor.”

The envoy was momentarily stunned, then a gleam of joy flashed in his eyes. He had thought Fang Han was shallow and destined to die here. Unexpectedly, Fang Han actually agreed to the terms. It seemed they were still dreaming of unrealistic things. Exchanging labor for farming technology was a surefire, profitable deal.