The newly appointed General at Chentang Pass is named Lao Lechuan. Originally, he was a minor official in Zhaoge. Although he was adept at maneuvering, in a place like Zhaoge, there was no shortage of people skilled in such matters.
Without the right connections, no amount of maneuvering would help.
Lao Lechuan's connection was Fei Zhong.
When the news of Li Jing's death reached Zhaoge, it was passed up the chain of command until it was intercepted by Fei Zhong, who did not report it directly to King Zhou.
Fei Zhong knew that this was a great opportunity to make money.
The death of a General was not something uncommon, but when the Emperor appointed a new General, he would definitely ask for his opinion. At that time, whoever he recommended would depend on whose 'sincerity' was more genuine.
So, Fei Zhong quietly released the news, causing those who had been sending him gifts recently to nearly break down his door.