General Denzhen watched his older brother, Emperor Puyin, ensconced on the elevated throne, utterly captivated by the large hologram being cast from the round table. Its dim light bathed the many faces encircling it in surrealistic shades of blue - the Grand Chancellor and advisor, Lin Zexu, political representatives from distant districts, minor lords and ladies, and the four Dragons, two of whom were present virtually through hologram. These were the key players in Kowloon's power game, and currently, that game was kickstarting Puyin's Zhaisheng.
Cautiously, Denzhen scanned the five stoic Manchukuo guards who stood cloaked in shadows along the chamber walls. Distinguished former Kingmakers, the Manchukuo served as the royal protectors of Emperor Puyin and his family. They wore midnight blue armour, enhanced with an intricate weave of graphene for added durability, and held towering spears against their shoulders. They remained a silent yet imposing presence in the upper levels of Yu Tower, scattered between the royal palace and its political nerve centres.
'I wish to proceed to the next stage with building the algae farms,' Puyin said. 'What do you think, Zexu? Pairing these farms with my new energy generators could be what finally ignites my Zhaisheng in the Western Reaches. Emperor Hongwu's great Renaissance, the Hongwu Zhaisheng eight-hundred annui-cycles ago, will soon look like child's play in the history books.'
Chancellor Zexu stood stroking his long white beard, seemingly lost in thought.
Annoyance creased the Emperor's face. 'Surely, it does not take a scholar to recognise its greatness! Well, Zexu?'
'Forgive my silence, your Highness. I was pondering the logistics of your most excellent plan. However, let there be no doubt about its unparalleled promises.'
Puyin's features softened and he nodded, leaning back on his throne.
General Denzhen exchanged a worried glance with General Han Xi, the other general physically present. Denzhen, ever the voice of caution, was the first to temper his brother's enthusiasm with pragmatic advice.
'We shouldn't get too ahead of ourselves, brother. A tandem launch of the farms and the energy generators may place financial pressure on our other projects in the region. We are accruing debts we won't be able to pay off within any of our lifetimes.'
Puyin responded as if it was a trivial concern. 'Fear not, little brother. East Kowloon is the Zhaisheng's collateral. They have little to offer my renaissance apart from a steady flow of Hongs through taxes.'
'Which we've increased six times in the past four annui-cycles.'
'And I'll increase it six more if my Zhaisheng calls upon it! But don't worry, they'll soon reap the benefits of my plan,' Puyin interjected with finality.
At that moment, Denzhen understood he wasn't pointing out an oversight in the Emperor's plan, but rather a deliberate strategy. This was the essence of Kowlooni politics, where the game was played on a scale most could scarcely imagine, its consequences affecting unfathomable numbers of people.
Zexu floated his hand through the hologram and pulled up a 3D rendering of the new farms.
'Emperor, you suggested building the farms here in Tong Feng's warehouses, yes?' Zexu asked, tapping and enlarging several prompts floating above the simulated render of the factory, 'The inspection team have approved the construction parameters. Some areas will need to be torn down but otherwise, the conditions are ideal to move forward.'
General Denzhen subtly shook his head, signalling his continued disagreement with the proposed construction. He noticed the Emperor catch the gesture, a slight frown forming as he leaned his head against his palm, his gaze lingering on Denzhen with a hint of disapproval.
'General Denzhen,' Chancellor Zexu began, looking at him through the ice-like holograms, 'let me clarify something the Emperor may not have made clear to you.' General Denzhen resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the older man, frowning as the chancellor spoke to him in paternalistic tones. Here he goes again, on both knees for my brother, Denzhen thought as Zexu continued. 'The Zhaisheng isn't an exclusionary project. In fact, it is a beacon of hope for the places you are concerned about, like the East. Let me tell you that as one with eastern heritage, the Zhaisheng is projected to lift 70% of eastern regions out of their famine within a handful of annui-cycles.'
Zexu pressed a button on the holotable, and the image of the empty warehouse filled with state-of-the-art farming machinery. The hologram displayed large cylindrical machines that spun and whirred, simultaneously processing algae, mushrooms, and grain. Water coursed through aqueducts and gutters where they meandered around machinery and drained out of basins near the bottom. Raised metal catwalks arched and dipped over these waterways, letting workers operate and maintain the hefty machinery. Plants and small trees adorned the walls and hung from the ceiling, making the warehouse resemble more of a garden than an industrial farm. This vivid, captivating display offered a tantalising glimpse into the grandeur of the Emperor's visionary project.
Zexu continued, 'With the help of the quantum-energy generators, we can produce food in such quantities that we might be able to build a whole new East with just grain and algae alone. We may even be able to help some towns in the Huang Wildlands who have endured years of famine.'
Still sceptical that the structures could live up to these monumental achievements, Denzhen looked at his fellow Dragons to gauge their feelings. Across the holotable, General Han Xi sat with his arms crossed, his face turned away in disapproval. Cao's expression was unreadable through the static and waves of the hologram, while General Qin Shi, the eldest and most experienced of the four Dragons, nodded at Zexu's promises.
Perhaps there is something I'm not seeing if the wisest of us agrees with the Emperor's plans, Denzhen wondered, swallowing his concerns.
Puyin spoke up once more. 'Indeed, Zexu. Denzhen, I understand your concern for those who may struggle until the Zhaisheng fully transforms Kowloon. So, should we not endeavour to reach the light at the end of this dark tunnel as swiftly as possible? Why settle for a slower pace that merely prolongs this momentary suffering? The tandem construction of the farms and power storage stations will be beneficial. Since you are so wary of this Denzhen, why don't you pay Tong a visit in Fengcheng to see these farms for yourself? Let her know I will be approving construction in less than fifteen work-cycles. I am sure she will be able to allay your fears.'
Denzhen could tell the Emperor was utterly convinced of his Zhaisheng's success. It was as if he had already foreseen his golden age happen and returned to the past to convince everyone else of its greatness. For the time being, Denzhen allowed himself a cautious nod of agreement.
'Does anyone else have any questions?' Emperor Puyin asked the room.
General Cao's flickering hologram raised its hand. 'My Emperor, I have been in district Taiku Xhing for about three menses-cycles now, and I have observed some troubling trends with the new hospital equipment you are bringing in. Sain Victus Hospital has seen waves of job losses, and right now many of the former doctors and nurses are considering moving to more impoverished hospitals in districts down south, where your Zhaisheng has yet to arrive.'
'The unemployed will need to reevaluate the skills they will offer to my post-Zhaisheng world,' Emperor Puyin countered.
'So I've heard. But that is not my concern, Your Highness. I am more worried that those who refuse to make the treacherous migration south will take up the mantle of the Yang instead.'
The twenty-five attendees at the meeting collectively inhaled. Denzhen knew General Cao's observation about the Yang was accurate. It wasn't just happening in the North, but in many districts around Kowloon.
Again, Zexu stepped in. 'Your concerns are not without merit, General. But these projects will create new job opportunities in unexpected areas, and in many unforeseen ways. Emperor Hongwu's great Zhaisheng 600 annui-cycles ago may have put a few people out of work, but in the end, the people adapted and found new jobs elsewhere. Back then, people thought the changes Hongwu brought were hopeful, others viewed it as controversial. Now his efforts for the renewal of the sciences, arts, and literature are considered legendary, an era of unmatched prosperity. Right now, we are seeing a repeat of those mixed feelings that came before Hongwu's Zhaisheng officially started. We just need to be patient.'
As Zexu's encouraging words filled the room, the Emperor's face brightened once more. General Cao exchanged a glance with General Qin Shi, who nodded to him with conviction. The room fell silent, signalling a tentative consensus.
Grand Chancellor Zexu clasped his hands together with a sense of finality and spoke, 'Well then, Emperor Puyin, esteemed lords, ladies, and generals, it seems we are ready to embark on this new venture with the algae farm project and quantum stores. May we proceed, your Highness?' Zexu turned and bowed to the Emperor.
'Brilliant, Zexu. Truly.' The Emperor nodded in approval. 'Denzhen, as I said, go to Kam Shan's capital. Tong Feng and her triads have been waiting for this. We stand on the threshold of a new era for Kowloon.'
With the meeting adjourned, the room gates whispered open, bathing its exiting members in light. Denzhen emerged, blinking against the sudden brightness, when he noticed Yutai sitting on one of the waiting couches outside. There he is. I hope he's brought some more news on Keung. Denzhen walked over and Yutai shot to his feet and saluted. 'Sir!'
Denzhen waved him down, 'At ease, young man. Walk with me. Is everything okay? Word of Keung's incident only reached me as I entered the meeting. I've only heard a little – what's happened to Keung? Is he okay?'
'Keung is in the infirmary sir; from what Cheng told me, he suffered a concussion and some broken bones, but he's okay. Regrettably, we suffered a fatality, and two others have been grounded, awaiting questioning. All three were ours.'
As Yutai's words registered, Denzhen felt the world tilt on its axis. His steps faltered, and he came to an abrupt halt in the empty corridor.
A Kingmaker was dead.
Such a disaster hadn't befallen them in a quarter of a century, not since the District Rebellions all those annui-cycles ago. Their ranks were thin as it was since the conflict.
Breaking the silence, Denzhen found his voice again, albeit raspy with emotion. 'So, who took down and cremated Jian? Was it Keung after all?'
Yutai adjusted his trench coat as they both continued walking. 'It's hard to say, but I think all four were planning on doing it when they ran into each other and … well, got into a fight. That's what I understood from the rumour, but I might be wrong.'
'You haven't spoken to Keung yet?'
'Uh, no sir. Not yet, but I was planning to after this. Cheng is with him right now.'
General Denzhen came to a stop in front of a lift. But before he pressed the button to call it, he turned to face the Praefect.
'Listen Yutai, the Emperor has requested I go visit the Lady of Kam Shan to tell her the Zhaisheng has arrived in the Western Reaches. But after what Keung did last night, there will be consequences that I must deal with elsewhere, and I cannot risk frustrating the Emperor during this crucial moment in his plans.' General Denzhen placed a hand on the side of Yutai's arm.
'Of course, sir. What is your order?'
'I need you to head to district Kam Shan as soon as you can, straight to Tong Feng's den in Fengcheng. Let her know the farm project is a go; she'll understand what that means. It won't hurt to bring along someone from your team. Tong and her crew can be a bit rough, but you're more than able to deal with any surprises.'
'Sounds easy enough, sir.'
'There's one more thing.' The General cast a cursory glance around the room without moving his head, the very embodiment of caution.
'The Aunt needs help with something vital. I won't be sharing more details as I don't know the full story myself, but whatever it is, you need to see it through. That's really why I'm asking you to do this in my stead.'
'What about my work on the Yang situation, sir?'
'- On hold for now. You don't have to explain anything to your team; I'll handle the paperwork.'
The general continued in an even lower voice, and the weight of Yutai's frown deepened as he listened.
'This is a strictly unsanctioned assignment, Praefect. Whatever you end up reporting afterwards, upload it as a personal assignment. I did not give you this job. Do I make myself clear?'
With a cautious nod, Yutai snapped a brisk salute before making his way towards the change rooms.
****
Cheng sat beside Keung in the infirmary, watching as the young lieutenant struggled against the tight bandages wrapped around his body.
'How're you feeling now, brother?' Cheng asked, his voice tempered by concern. Keung reclined on the medical bed, shifting beneath the thin hospital blanket.
'Still okay, just as I was five minutes ago, Cheng,' Keung snapped.
'Sorry. I'm just worried.'
A moment of silence passed.
'Did you know Truong?' asked Keung.
The name hung heavily in the room, a poignant reminder of the death that Keung had unwittingly caused.
'Yes, we crossed paths a few times.'
'He seemed like a good person. The only one of them who didn't try to hurt me.'
Cheng shifted uncomfortably as he realised Keung was still feeling guilty. 'From what I gathered in our brief encounters, he seemed like a decent man.'
'Well, there you go,' Keung scoffed. 'I kill the first Kingmaker since the bloody Rebellions, and it turns out he was a fucking nice guy too.' He let out an exasperated sigh. 'What about the others?'
'Joshu and Gonjjuo. I know them too. All three were members of the fourth cohort under Captain Qi.'
Keung nodded to himself in silent contemplation. 'Do you know what's going to happen to Joshu and Gonjjuo?'
Cheng's gaze wandered away, but he continued.
'Well, it's a bit up in the air; none of us in the tower want an execution. Two more dead Kingmakers would cause uproar. Losing one is bad enough. Whoever is sent to calm the Luen siblings better do a good job because honestly, the trial hinges on how angry they remain. The Yangs have been particularly nasty in their controlled territories. But also, your word would mean a lot, sir. It's you they attacked, after all. If your father can keep his cool after he sees you, the worst they might get is some harsh discipline and beatings and it's back to work. But if things don't go their way, the Emperor may consider exile.'
Keung's eyes widened. 'Exile … that's as good as a death sentence. No one survives in No Man's Land without the Ditu's guide.'
'Hopefully, it won't come to that. As long as you testify it was all just a fistfight taken too far, Truong will remain the only death.'
'Oh, how fortunate I am!' Keung snarked as he stared at the air conditioning vents and sensors that were mounted to the ceiling, monitoring his vitals.
Another moment of silence passed, during which Cheng stared at Keung, unsure what to say.
'Keung!' Out of nowhere, a familiar voice crashed into the room like a cannonball.
Cheng and Keung turned their heads towards the dividing curtain, through which Tao's head now bobbed. The mischievous laughter of an accomplice simmered from behind the curtain, unmistakably the sound of Ushi. Cheng stood up, extending a hand to greet Tao as he emerged, when suddenly Ushi jumped through to try and scare them.
'BAH!'
Cheng barely flinched.
'Didn't expect Ushi behind me, did you, Tribune Cheng?' Tao teased as Ushi, smiling broadly, handed Keung a box of hot food. The two newcomers shook Cheng's hand in greeting. Their arrival was like a breath of fresh air, lifting the despair that had been brewing between him and Lieutenant Keung. As Cheng glanced at his wounded friend, he felt a surge of happiness seeing Keung smile again for the first time since the incident. The presence of his comrades and Ushi's box of dumplings brought warmth and comfort to the tense atmosphere.
'Of course we didn't know you were back there; you guys aren't the most trained elite of Kowloon for nothing,' Keung said with a chuckle before cracking open the lid to the box of food. 'Are these those overpriced Huet-style dumplings from Ji Sia?'
'We wouldn't cheap out on you, sir,' Tao said, placing a gentle hand on Keung's shoulder. He and Ushi settled down on chairs around Keung's bed, transforming the sterile room into a familiar gathering.
Ushi, with his bulky body folded up in the tiny chair, leaned forward. 'So … Word in the tower is you thrashed Truong with your bare hands and then wrestled Joshu and some other guy into submission.'
'You're a fool, Ushi,' Tao blurted. 'Clearly our sir was doing the right thing by giving Jian a proper funeral, but unbeknownst to Keung, our ranks had been infiltrated by three Yangs, and they wanted Jian's corpse all for themselves. So, the moles run into Keung, and Keung beats the living shit out of them, killing one with his bare fists. How close am I sir, eh?' Tao winked, nudging Keung gently with his elbow.
Cheng glowered at their methods for uplifting Keung. 'Stop entertaining false rumours and glorifying this devastating tragedy. One of us is dead, for crying out loud, you two! There was no Yang mole, and there was no wrestling. Lieutenant Keung made a grave mistake, and we all have to come to terms with it if we are to sort this mess out.'
Ushi and Tao exchanged glances. 'Sorry, sir,' Ushi said apologetically. 'We weren't thinking straight.' Tao quickly nodded his head in affirmation.
Unfortunately, Keung's brief smile also died down, and Cheng watched him retreat back into his shell of despair and remorse.
Feeling a tinge of guilt for killing the joviality, Cheng spoke up to break the silence. 'Sir, will you tell us what happened?'
Keung shot his eyes to Cheng, Ushi, and Tao, who all leaned forward.
'Well … it wasn't really my greatest moment …'
'It'll all end up in a report, sir,' Cheng reasoned. 'We'd prefer to hear it from you instead.'
Keung sighed.
'Yesterday, hours after we returned to the tower, I received an anonymous call from someone I assumed was another King in the tower. The caller, whoever it was … sounded so hateful and bitter. I can't remember ever causing someone to feel this way.'
'What did they say?' Fists clenched, Cheng cut him off. 'Give me a caller ID; I can find out who it was and deal with them.'
'No, no, Cheng, they were right to be angry. Even if I had no choice but to kill Jian, I had options to choose what would be done with his body, and I decided to leave him with the people who hated him the most. My decisions weren't beyond reproach.'
'You talk as though obeying protocol is optional,' Ushi interjected. 'The law states that the body of a terrorist is property of whichever district they die in,' he scratched his chin. 'Your job was done after killing Jian. There was no need to go chasing after him.'
'Hey, Ushi. We always have an option,' Tao countered. 'What our sir did was right. If saving Kowloon during a bloody war means I can't even get a proper damn funeral, then Kowloon can get fucked! I would have done the same as Lieutenant Keung a million times over.' 'And you'd have died a million times over, Tao!' Cheng snapped. 'Keung only survived because his adrenal pumps kicked in. Unless you're hiding a pair of them up your ass, don't ever think of putting yourself in a similar situation. It was incredibly dumb, and there could have easily been more than a single death yesterday!'
The tension simmered down with Tao reluctantly acknowledging Cheng's perspective.
Keung's expression tightened into a wince, his gaze lifting to the ceiling, as he inadvertently became a silent witness to his own actions being recounted by others, dragging him deeper in shame.
'Do any of you remember Lieutenant Dong and Colonel Kai?' Cheng asked the room.
All three of them nodded. The names were familiar from their history classes. Topics covering the District Rebellions highlighted the achievements of important Kingmakers. Everyone in the tower at least heard of the names.
Cheng continued, 'They fought beside Jian in the Huang Wildlands during the civil war. Colonel Kai took a fatal bullet for Jian, while Lieutenant Dong sacrificed his entire battalion to ensure Jian's victory. Guess who their sons were?'
Realisation dawned on everyone's faces. Tao gasped, 'Gonjjuo and Joshu?!'
'Truong and Joshu, but close enough,' Cheng revealed. 'Gonjjuo is older; he served under Jian before his defection, long enough to develop a deep respect for him. Undying loyalty is a common trait of those who served under Jian. A loyalty transcending generations.'
'No wonder they wanted Keung's head,' Ushi murmured, shaking his head in astonishment. 'Our lieutenant executed someone many idolised as a father …'
Keung felt as though he had become a ghost in the room, unseen yet fully exposed to his sins by others. The recounting, as if he were not even there, drenched him in cringe-worthy shame, plunging him into deeper misery. Redemption, in that moment, seemed like a distant, unreachable goal. No longer Keung the incompetent, now, Keung the murderer.
'Where are Yutai and Shing?' He suddenly asked over the others, changing the subject, unable to bear the thought of his actions any longer.