Black Corporation: Joseon [EN]: Chapter 562

562. Severance (1)

At Heo Hoo’s resolute answer, Hyang looked at the faces of the other ministers. Seeing that not only Jo Mal-saeng, the Minister of National Defense, but all the ministers—even Lee Sa-cheol—had similar expressions, Hyang muttered inwardly.

‘I’ve felt it several times, but these people seem to have a lot of pent-up feelings.’

As Hyang thought, the ministers who now occupied the core of the court harbored many grudges against the Ming.

The time when they were handling practical affairs under the veteran founding contributors was during the reign of Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty.

To weaken Joseon’s power and force its submission, Emperor Yongle pressured Joseon with all sorts of pretexts.

Unable to withstand this pressure, the ministers, starting with Ha Ryun, proposed the ‘Joseon-Wa Joint Strategy’ to Taejong. [This strategy suggested an alliance with the Wa (Japanese) to counter the Ming Dynasty.]

“Damn it! I can’t stand this anymore! Let’s just join hands with the Wa and strike the Ming!”

Of course, Taejong immediately rejected this proposal.

“Are these old men senile!”

Having witnessed all these events firsthand, the ministers were firmly prepared for an all-out war with the Ming.

‘But, it’s always wise to test even a stone bridge before crossing it.’

Hyang wanted to reconfirm the ministers’ resolve.

“If the situation continues like this, it is clear that our relationship with the Ming will deteriorate significantly. If that happens, we will abandon *Sadae* [Serving the Great Power], which has been the cornerstone of our diplomacy until now. If it worsens further, we will have to wage a war with the Ming, risking the very survival of Joseon. We will have to endure the sacrifices of many and the resentment of the people. Are you prepared for this?”

At Hyang’s question, the ministers hesitated to answer immediately. Starting with Hwang Hee, all the ministers fell into deep thought, and Hyang, along with the historians and scribes, quietly waited for their answers.

The first to speak was Hwang Hee.

“It is certain that we must endure truly difficult times and be prepared for many sacrifices. However, this is a gateway that we must pass through. It is a gateway that we must pass through in order for our Joseon to move forward as a great power capable of self-respect, self-strengthening, and self-reliance.”

“A gateway to success….”

“Hmm….”

Everyone gathered there pondered the phrase ‘gateway to success’ mentioned by Hwang Hee.

After a while, Kim Jeom burst into loud laughter.

“Hahaha! A gateway to success! It’s truly the perfect phrase for the current situation! Hahaha! It feels like something that was blocked is now wide open!”

Kim Jeom, who not only said so but also showed a face that was actually relieved, bowed his head to Hyang and spoke.

“Your Highness, Minister Hwang Hee is right. Now is the time for our Joseon to break free from the shadow of the Ming and stand tall. Of course, it is certain that the Ming will not simply stand by and watch. But if we give up on breaking away, Joseon will not be able to escape the shadow of the Ming until the Ming falls or Joseon falls.”

Following Hwang Hee and Kim Jeom, other ministers also continued to make similar remarks. And finally, Lee Sa-cheol opened his mouth.

“I still believe that peaceful diplomacy is the best course. However, I have no intention of insisting on peaceful diplomacy even with those who have abandoned morality.”

When Lee Sa-cheol’s remarks ended, Hyang came to a conclusion.

“Can I assume that you are all prepared?”

“Yes.”

“Then let’s all do our best.”

At Hyang’s decision, the ministers all quietly nodded.

In this way, the Dae-Ming War [Great Ming War], which had been spoken of in roundabout ways, carefully avoiding direct mention, officially revealed itself.

* * *

While Hyang and the ministers were making their decision, a military officer rushed into the Seunghwa Hall.

“Urgent report from Insanjin!”

At the same time as he spoke, the military officer handed over a thick bundle of papers. The eunuch guarding the hall received the bundle and distributed it to Hyang and the ministers.

“The enemy’s first offensive, defense successful. Whew~, thankfully.”

“Whew~. We safely overcame the first hurdle.”

Hyang and the ministers, who read the beginning of the report, simultaneously let out a sigh of relief.

The enemy’s first offensive, defense successful.

Estimated enemy casualties, approximately 50,000. Our casualties, approximately 2,000.

The enemy has retreated to a bridgehead and is fortifying.

The enemy’s morale is still strong.

Because it was an urgent report transmitted using a light communication device, the content was extremely concise. However, even with that, important facts could be gleaned.

Hyang, who was examining the contents of the urgent report, looked at Jo Mal-saeng with a face full of questions.

“Minister of National Defense, I have a question.”

“Ask me, Your Highness. I will answer to the best of my ability.”

“Is it really possible that they lost 50,000 troops in a single battle and didn’t retreat, and their morale is still high?”

At Hyang’s question, Jo Mal-saeng answered briefly.

“It is possible because the enemy’s core troops and generals are all from the Ming Dynasty.”

“Ah~.”

At Jo Mal-saeng’s answer, the ministers, including Hwang Hee, all nodded with understanding. However, when Hyang still looked puzzled, Jo Mal-saeng added an explanation.

“Looking at the wars fought by those countries in the Central Plains, the most potent weapon is often the sheer number of soldiers they can throw at a problem.”

“Ah!”

Only then did Hyang understand.

* * *

From the time of Emperor Wu of Han in ancient times, China’s greatest advantage was its large army. In wars against foreign enemies, even if 2 or 3 of their soldiers died for every 1 enemy soldier killed, China could make up for the loss, while the opponent usually could not.

In the end, China emerged victorious.

This was also the case in the Northern Yuan conquest during the reign of Emperor Yongle. In the five campaigns, Emperor Yongle mobilized more than 1 million troops each time. Ultimately, the campaigns ceased due to military spending issues, but the Northern Yuan could no longer threaten the Central Plains.

* * *

“This makes it even more certain. This war is definitely not a unilateral decision by Zhu Qizhen.”

Jo Mal-saeng, having reviewed the urgent report, concluded with confidence.

“This is a war that could never happen unless there is an emperor behind it. The basis for that is….”

Jo Mal-saeng explained his reasoning.

-The scale of the enemy that went to war this time is estimated to be about 400,000.

-I repeat, considering the time since Zhu Qizhen came to Liaodong, it is impossible to raise an army of this size.

-Therefore, it is certain that most of them were sent by the Ming army.

-Even Zhu Qizhen cannot unilaterally dispatch that many troops. The emperor’s approval is absolutely necessary.

-If we consider that they are not wary of the Oirat [A Mongolic people whose territory was located north of the Ming Dynasty], but are disguising the vanguard to attack Joseon, then their strong morale is even more understandable. Because the main force will come soon.

“In other words, it is certain that this war was planned by the emperor.”

At Jo Mal-saeng’s explanation, Hyang and the ministers all nodded.

* * *

Ironically, this was the same conclusion reached by the Liaodong army command, including Jo Byeong-deok.

Although Zhu Qizhen was removed from his position as crown prince and made the King of Liaodong, the proviso attached later turned suspicion into conviction.

-If you obtain Joseon, I will allow you to claim the title of emperor.

“Perhaps that means he will allow an external king and internal emperor system. When the great undertaking begins, there will definitely be support.”

What led Zhu Qizhen, the Liaodong army command, and Joseon to all make the same misjudgment was that the bait Emperor Xuande offered to Zhu Qizhen was too tempting.

-A huge amount of military funds equivalent to the Ming court’s annual budget.

-100,000 troops additionally supported after the initial 150,000.

-A large number of artisans to make various firearms and iron cannons, starting with Hwaryongpo [A type of Korean firearm], and other weapons.

No one thought that these enormous resources were merely expendable.

Except for Emperor Xuande alone.

The fact that he kept his true intentions secret, being wary of Zhu Qizhen, who would definitely change his mind or resist if he found out, created this misjudgment.

* * *

Hyang, who nodded while listening to Jo Mal-saeng’s explanation, looked at Heo Hoo.

“Minister of Foreign Affairs, can you depart tomorrow?”

“I will head to the Navy of Jemulpo as soon as day breaks. Hae-eung [A fast ship] will be able to cross the West Sea faster than anyone else.”

“Go to Beijing as soon as possible and demand an explanation from the emperor. However, do not reveal that you have discerned the emperor’s intentions, and strongly demand an explanation only for the provocations of those stationed in Liaodong.”

“Are you saying that I only need to seek justification?”

At Heo Hoo’s question, Hyang nodded. Heo Hoo, confirming Hyang’s answer, spoke with a determined face.

“I will get justification even if it costs me my life.”

“I’ll say it again, please return as safely as possible.”

“I am truly grateful that you are so concerned about me.”

Hyang, who gave the order to Heo Hoo, turned to look at Kim Jeom and the Minister of Finance.

“How far has the transition to a total war system progressed?”

“It’s almost complete except for firearms and gunpowder.”

“As soon as a settlement is reached at the Yalu River, I will issue a general mobilization order. Please be ready in time.”

“I will do my best.”

The reservists currently mobilized were limited to those in the northern region. However, the moment Hyang issued a general mobilization order, all reservists throughout Joseon would be mobilized.

Hyang, who gave orders to Kim Jeom and the Minister of Finance, turned to look at Jo Mal-saeng.

“Have you heard from the Left and Right Wings?”

“Yes. According to reports received through light communication so far, they will arrive at Insanjin within four days at the latest.”

“Order them to arrive as soon as possible. And, deliver the order to General Choi Yun-deok as well. Tell him to move north out of the offensive preparation line as soon as the Left and Right Wings arrive and commence operations. We must not give the Ming time to move first.”

“Yes, I will deliver it for sure.”

Hyang, having organized the situation, turned to look at the ministers.

“Then, let’s cross the gateway to success.”

At Hyang’s words, the ministers all answered in unison.

“We will definitely make our Joseon ascend to the Yellow Dragon!”

The Yellow Dragon was the symbol of the emperor.

* * *

After the meeting, Hyang, left alone and immersed in thought, called for the eunuch.

“Go and bring Han Myung-hoi.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

After a while, Han Myung-hoi, entering Hyang’s office, politely paid his respects.

“Did you summon me?”

“I need you to go to Waeguk [Japan].”

“Waeguk, you say?”

“That’s right.”

At Hyang’s short answer, Han Myung-hoi began to carefully consider the reason for his mission to Waeguk.

After much deliberation, Han Myung-hoi cautiously spoke.

“Are you thinking about the *Wokou* [Japanese pirates]?”

“That’s right.”

“Will Daenei [A term for the Shogun] easily agree?”

“He will also realize that it is the best opportunity to get rid of those troublesome people.”

“It seems like we need a little more bait.”

“We will guarantee your safe escort during your journey, but you must inform them in advance of your return. Is there anything else you require?”

At Hyang’s question, Han Myung-hoi weighed the situation and answered.

“I believe that will be sufficient.”

“Depart immediately tomorrow.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

* * *

The next morning, Heo Hoo visited the Seunghwa Hall to pay his respects before departing for the Ming Dynasty.

“Please value your life.”

“I will face it with a determination to succeed, but I will try to avoid dying.”

Heo Hoo, answering calmly, left the Seunghwa Hall. The ministers who followed Hyang out together returned to the Seunghwa Hall, taking turns saying goodbye to Heo Hoo.

“Please return safely.”

“Please come back safely.”

After sharing what might be their last greetings, Heo Hoo left the palace. Hyang and the ministers, watching Heo Hoo depart, turned and headed back to the Seunghwa Hall.

At that time, a Ministry of National Defense official approached Jo Mal-saeng and handed him a report.

“What is it?”

“A report arrived from Insanjin at dawn.”

“Have it copied and submitted.”

“It’s already being copied.”

“Then what is this?”

“It is a report on the supplies consumed in the last battle.”

At the official’s words, Jo Mal-saeng quickly opened the report and tightly closed his eyes after seeing the total written at the very end.

“Minister Kim Jeom will try to eat me alive.”