The Minister of Water Transport, Zhao Mingzhi, was practically the overlord of the Lianghuai region. In Lianghuai, no one dared to provoke him. Even the former Salt Transport Envoy, Lord Yin, had to show him some respect. Su Jingchen secretly reported his misconduct to the Emperor, jeopardizing his financial avenues. How could he tolerate that?
Zhao Mingzhi disclosed Su Jingchen's actions to the leader of the water bandits, Boss Zhu. Upon hearing that Su Jingchen planned to ruin their livelihood, Boss Zhu and his fellows immediately glared in fury, vowing to make Su Jingchen regret messing with them.
"That Su guy doesn't know the heights of the sky or the depths of the earth. It's time we show him our might."
"Yes, let's teach him a lesson!"
"Starting tomorrow, we won't allow any salt boats going out to sea to operate, especially those from Hai State. They're absolutely forbidden to come towards Yangzhou."
