The First National Preceptor of the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 90

"What? You're being transferred? You've only been in Xiangyang for a few months. How come you're being transferred all of a sudden? Is it Zheng Zhu's doing? Are you being sidelined?" Xu Tian asked in surprise.

"Hehe, he doesn't have that much ability yet. Judging from your expression, you seem to be more afraid of him than I am." Zheng Xie's expression showed no sign of distress.

He added, "No wonder. I heard that he tried to cause trouble in this shop a while ago, but you managed to stop him in the end."

"We were lucky to get rid of him last time, but it won't be that easy next time," Xu Tian explained.

"Rumors abound, each with its own version. Whether it was luck or not, only you know for sure. However, the principle of filling the dishes with rice caused a sensation and attracted a lot of attention. That's how I learned about Zheng Zhu's matter. I never imagined that a mere dozen or so dishes, arranged in this way, would require such an astonishing amount of rice. If there were a few more dishes, I'm afraid even a bushel of rice wouldn't be enough to fill them."

“Last time we took advantage of Zheng Zhu because he didn’t understand the situation. He won’t fall for it so easily next time. I’m still having a headache about this.” Xu Tian shook his head slightly, somewhat helplessly.

"You don't need to worry about that anymore. He won't be staying here for long either. He'll also be heading to Xiangyang soon, possibly even earlier than me," Zheng Xie added.

"What happened? Is there some change in circumstances? You haven't told me why you're being transferred yet?" Xu Tian was even more surprised. There must be a reason why both of them were leaving.

"It's not a sudden change, but the situation has indeed changed somewhat abruptly. The reason is quite simple: Li Jiedu is being transferred," Zheng Xie stated directly, revealing the root cause.

“I see,” Xu Tian said, suddenly understanding. “But why is Li Jiedushi leaving so suddenly after only half a year in Xiangyang? Where will he go next? Will he go to the Hebei region or take up a post in Chang’an?”

When everyone heard last year that Li Su was coming to Xiangyang, they knew he wouldn't stay long and would definitely be transferred to the north, and now it has indeed come true.

However, the actual situation is progressing even faster than expected. In just about six months, Li Su probably still doesn't have a clear understanding of the specific circumstances in the several counties of Xiangzhou.

"No, it is the military governor of Fengxiang."

"Fengxiang, isn't that in Baoji? That's strange, why would he be transferred there?" Xu Tian asked in surprise.

He knew Fengxiang; it was located at the western end of the Guanzhong Plain. Li Su had actually been transferred there, completely different from the area near the lower reaches of the Yellow River that Xu Tian had previously assumed.

"The decision to send someone to Fengxiang is naturally based on the considerations and intentions of the court and the imperial family. We don't need to discuss it too much; just be aware of it." Zheng Xie did not express any opinion.

"I'm just a little curious. It's not a bad place. It's the western gate of Chang'an, quite close to the city, not far at all," Xu Tian said, expressing his opinion.

He then sighed, "It's just that after Brother Zheng's departure, I'm afraid it will be difficult for him to return to Xiangyang. Thinking about this, I feel deeply regretful. Although we haven't known each other for long, I feel that Brother Zheng is a person worth befriending. He is very knowledgeable, and although he is an official, he doesn't have the temper of an official. He also has no prejudice against ordinary people like me. It's very rare."

“You are too modest. To be honest, I feel the same way. Ziqing, you are not an ordinary illiterate brute. I can sense that you have a kind of pride and talent in your heart.”

Zheng Xie also commented: "Moreover, his ingenious ideas are unconventional and quite extraordinary. What is even more remarkable is that he does not treat me differently because of my official position. He is consistent inside and out, neither humble nor arrogant, which is also extraordinary."

"Thank you for your praise, Brother Zheng."

"Relocation is a common occurrence, but it's a real pity that I won't be able to enjoy this kind of cuisine again after leaving Xiangyang," Zheng Xie remarked casually, which could also be considered a compliment to Zhonghua Restaurant.