Chapter 2165: 2162: Recommendation
Chapter 2165: Chapter 2162: Recommendation
“Suddenly, three cavalry battalions are to be formed. How many soldiers should be selected for each battalion?” Xiang City heard that Chu Heng had already been involved for a long time, and felt a surge of resentment, tinged with a hint of jealousy.
He had fought hard on the battlefield to reach his current position, thinking that after the King of Huainan was gone, he would have more military power. Who would have thought that Chu Heng would suddenly appear and interfere.
He was just a scholar, never having been on the battlefield, yet receiving more attention from the Emperor than himself.
No one noticed the dissatisfaction in Xiang City’s heart. Having struggled for a long time, this improper mindset made him focus more on the cavalry battalion. These three battalions, he intended to control at least two, thereby increasing his influence in the Northern Region’s military camps since these specially trained cavalrymen were no longer around.
What use were those infantrymen?
Elder Zhong stepped forward to answer: “Since it is a battalion, it starts with one thousand men, and if progress is smooth, more manpower can be added later.”
“Then which generals should be assigned to the cavalry battalions? I happen to have some veteran generals to recommend.” Xiang City, without showing any emotion, began recommending his own people.
Upon hearing this, Minister Qi inwardly scoffed, and also voiced out: “Minister Xiang need not be anxious, the selection of cavalry battalion generals requires careful consideration, as they will be the main force against the Beirong soldiers. All capabilities must be outstanding.”
“Minister Qi’s words are reasonable, but ultimately this is a matter for the Ministry of War, and the recommended officials will surely align more with the Emperor’s requirements.” Xiang City argued relentlessly.
Minister Qi, still like a smiling tiger, was not angered by these words: “Minister Xiang has some valid points, but when it comes to character evaluation, the Ministry of Revenue is more adept, as the annual evaluation of officials is conducted through the Ministry of Revenue.”
“Minister Zhong, Lord Chu, what do you say?”
Xiang City was unwilling to miss such a good opportunity and was not fixated on debating with Minister Qi, instead turning his attention to others.
Before the two could respond, he smiled and said: “Although Lord Chu has only transferred to the Ministry of War for a few months, he has gained a lot of understanding, so he surely would have better ideas.”
Receiving the ball that was kicked his way, Chu Heng cupped his hands and said: “This matter, the Emperor will have his own conclusions, and we will follow instructions for arrangements, so there is no need to argue and waste time, as the final result will surely convince everyone.”
“Lord Chu is broad-minded. We, too, are concerned about the people of Great Chu, hence overthinking, which makes us appear as quarrelsome as children.” Between the lines, Xiang City showed no goodwill towards Chu Heng, while explaining himself, he did not forget to mock him.
Chu Heng had no interest in arguing with these court officials, as long as the final result was in his favor, there was nothing they could hold against him.
He naturally remained composed throughout: “Since Minister Xiang is so worried about the country and the people, let’s have the people themselves select the candidates.”
“Lord Chu, what kind of joke are you making?” Xiang City thought he was crazy to respond this way: “Since we are officials, we are here to solve the people’s problems. Otherwise, why have the Imperial Examinations to select talented individuals.”
“Minister Xiang’s idea makes sense. As officials are selected from the people, I think the cavalry battalion generals should also be directly selected. To ensure fairness, both the civil and military exams are indispensable, and there is no need for recommendations. Any soldier in the military camp can participate in the written exam.”