Chapter 171: Xuzhong Empire's Personnel
She had already introduced the empire's progress. Today, her focus would be on the personnel she had appointed across the empire to ensure smooth operations.
With five major cities under her control, along with a network of smaller towns, villages, and newly built cities, spread across vast tracts of land, strong and capable leadership was crucial.
As everyone opened their ledgers, she began to speak.
"As you know, over the past year, we've secured control of five major cities. These cities form the backbone of the Xuzhong Empire.
I have appointed governors, generals, and other key personnel to ensure that our territories not only remain secure but also thrive."
She paused briefly, her voice steady and authoritative. "Let me begin by discussing the five major cities and the leaders I have placed in each."
Jingzhong City, the capital of the empire, was the first city she discussed.
"Jingzhong City is our political and military center. As the heart of the empire, it requires strong leadership. I have appointed Xu Han as the governor of the city."
Since it was the first city they controlled, she chose Xu Han, a highly qualified person, known for his calm demeanor and decisive actions.
"He has shown exceptional skill in managing the complex political landscape of the capital city, and his diplomatic expertise has been vital in maintaining our alliances."
Everyone nodded. Huang Xinyi had already mentioned stepping down as city lord because the role consumed a lot of her time—time she could use for more important tasks.
As the empire's territory expanded, the amount of paperwork she had to handle increased significantly, so she appointed a spokesperson who would act as the city's public face.
Xu Han managed most of the city's day-to-day problems, leaving only the most critical decisions for her.
As a Xu family member, his loyalty was unquestionable, making him the perfect choice for the role.
"For the military defense of the capital," Huang Xinyi continued, "I have appointed General Li Sheng as the commander of the city's forces.
General Li is a battle-hardened leader who has served in many of our campaigns. His strategic mind and unwavering loyalty make him the perfect person to defend Jingzhong City.
Under his leadership, the city's military has been strengthened, and its defenses fortified."
She then moved on to the second major city, Baishan City, which is known for its wealth and trade.
"Baishan City is the economic hub of the empire. Trade flows through this city like blood through veins, keeping the empire alive and thriving.
Governor Zhou Min has been placed in charge of the city. Zhou Min is not only an expert in commerce but also someone who understands the needs of both merchants and citizens.
Her policies have attracted numerous trade agreements, and Baishan City's wealth has steadily increased under her leadership."
Huang Xinyi had also appointed General Feng Zhihao to manage Baishan's military defense.
"General Feng is a man who understands the importance of swift action. His quick thinking and strong grasp of tactics make him the ideal leader for Baishan's defense forces.
He has fortified trade routes and established patrols to ensure merchants can move safely through the region.
With the help of Sister Meiying's Chamber of Commerce, trade routes have expanded, creating more jobs and increasing the resources we can procure."
The next city she discussed was Lingyun City, a hub of education and culture within the empire.
"Lingyun City plays a different role than the others. It is a center for learning and culture where scholars, artisans, and cultivators gather.
I have appointed Governor Yan Zhi, a knowledgeable man with a deep understanding of history and traditions, to lead this city.
Under his leadership, Lingyun has become a place of learning, attracting citizens from all over the empire to study. This ensures that our future leaders are well-educated."
General Wang Lan was appointed to lead Lingyun's defense.
"General Wang is a disciplined and meticulous leader. His attention to detail has made Lingyun one of the best-defended cities in the empire.
Though the city focuses on education, its military strength should not be underestimated."
Huang Xinyi then turned her attention to Nanhe City, a crucial southern stronghold.
"Nanhe City is our gateway to the southern territories and a key trading port.
Governor Liu Qiang is in charge of this city. His experience in managing border cities makes him the ideal candidate for overseeing Nanhe.
He has already implemented several policies that have improved trade and increased security along the southern border."
Nanhe was built on an island in the middle of a massive lake where several major rivers converge.
These rivers flowed across the continent, making Nanhe a vital trade and transportation hub connecting river routes from different regions.
General Chen Rong was appointed to defend Nanhe.
"General Chen is known for his fearless leadership. He has led numerous successful campaigns against southern raiders and has fortified the city's defenses.
His aggressive tactics have made Nanhe City a formidable stronghold, deterring any would-be challengers."
Finally, she addressed Beiyang City, the northern frontier's critical outpost.
"Beiyang City is our first line of defense against northern threats.
Governor Zhang Lei oversees this city, and his ability to manage the harsh environment and maintain the city's infrastructure has been invaluable.
Zhang Lei has ensured that the city remains well-supplied and its defenses are in top condition, even during the harsh winter months."
Beiyang's military commander, General Zhao Lin, was renowned for his defensive strategies.
"General Zhao takes a different approach than some of our other generals. He excels in defensive warfare and has built an impressive network of fortifications along the northern border.
His focus on maintaining strong defenses has made Beiyang a near-impenetrable fortress."
Having covered the governors and generals of the five major cities, Huang Xinyi then turned her attention to the empire's overall military structure.