The Candidate for Governor of Eastern Continent, Li Xuanxian

Just as the emperor thought there was hope of making this work, an impassioned voice rang out from among the civil officials.

Everyone turned toward the voice.

A middle-aged civil official in crimson robes stepped out of the ranks.

"Your Majesty."

He cupped his hands and bowed to the emperor.

"Prime Minister Wen's proposal may appear sound, but in truth, it is not."

Wen Zhong furrowed his brow.

He turned to look at the middle-aged official.

The middle-aged official's heart tightened, but he steeled himself and said, "Eastern Ridge has only just been pacified. Its people are fierce, and its tribes acknowledge only strength, not royal influence."

"Governor Li destroyed Eastern Ridge in a single campaign, capturing and killing the false king, Xiong Li. His might is already established. The tribes of Eastern Ridge fear him like a tiger and revere him like a god. If someone else is sent there now, how could those newly surrendered tribal chiefs possibly submit? Eastern Ridge would surely descend into chaos again. In this humble official's opinion, Governor Li is the only choice for Governor of Eastern Continent."

"Lord Gao, that is rather alarmist."

Censor Wang spoke coldly.

"If we followed Lord Gao's reasoning, conquered territory would belong to whoever conquered it. Where would that leave the court's laws? Its authority? As for Lord Gao's concerns..."

Censor Wang gave a cold smile. "Great Zhou's experts are as numerous as clouds. If the barbarians dare rebel, we need only kill them, until no one dares rebel again."

"Censor Wang is right. Li Xinge has rendered great service, so reward him generously. How can we let his accomplishments undermine the laws of our ancestors?"

"Exactly! Well said!"

"A sound argument."

Seeing so many people object, Lord Gao broke out in a cold sweat. He hurriedly