The Great Martial Saint!

Chapter 768 Internal Deliberation, Newly Appointed Garrison Commander

Today's schedule includes an internal review meeting in the morning, so there's plenty of time.

However, Chen Ping'an spent a considerable amount of time talking with the two from Beishan Prefecture, learning about current events and the flow of information. By the time he saw them off, time was already running out.

Internally, this review meeting was of extremely high caliber, and those who could participate were all key figures stationed in important garrisons. They were among the most powerful and influential within the provincial military command.

When Chen Ping'an served as the garrison commander of Beicang, if he were stationed here, he would probably only be able to obtain a minor official position. The value of being stationed in Xuanling on behalf of the interests of an entire prefecture is thus evident.

Due to the nature of the review meeting, the heads of all the relevant government departments arrived early and waited in advance. Although the room was quiet, there was a lot of whispered conversation among them.

The topics of discussion mostly revolved around the matters that needed to be reviewed that day. Occasionally, the matter of the newly appointed garrison commander was also mentioned.

In this atmosphere of exchange, time slowly passed, and the time for the review meeting to begin drew near.

The review meeting was about to begin, but Lord Shen had not yet arrived, which surprised many people present. Lord Shen always liked to arrive early and disliked meetings starting at the last minute. This was different from the usual top leader, perhaps a habit he had developed when he was second in command.

It's a bit strange that the time hasn't arrived yet.

"Perhaps something has happened," someone guessed, but didn't think much of it.

With busy official duties and complicated current affairs, Lord Shen was working tirelessly, facing immense pressure from all sides. It was indeed not an easy task.

As the time for the deliberation meeting drew near, the discussions in the room gradually subsided. Although telepathic communication was discreet, that was only for ordinary people. As a grandmaster of martial arts, Lord Shen was at the pinnacle of his art; their methods were somewhat self-deceptive.

Until half a quarter of an hour before the review meeting began, the room was truly silent.

However, this silence was soon broken by the arrival of Lin Qing'e.

"Lord Lin, is it just you who came? Where is Lord Shen?" Someone looked on curiously, confirming that only Lin Qing'e had come.

In the past, Lin Qing'e would always accompany Lord Shen before the meeting began, but now only Lin Qing'e came; Lord Shen was alone.
Is there something going on?

Faced with everyone's questions, Lin Qing'e did not say much, but simply stood aside and waited quietly.

Her demeanor commanded respect from everyone present.

Judging from this, it seems to be something special.

Those present were all shrewd individuals; they could easily discern even the slightest movements. Many wore solemn expressions, but their minds were already racing.

Under these circumstances, Chen Ping'an, dressed in his chief executive suit and with a sword at his waist, strode into the deliberation hall. Shen Huiqing, in a long dress, followed half a step behind Chen Ping'an.

"This humble servant, Lin Qing'e, greets Your Excellency the Garrison Commander. Long live Your Excellency! Long live Your Excellency!" Lin Qing'e greeted him respectfully, her expression solemn and her words dignified, showing no sign of slackening.

Upon seeing this, everyone present was taken aback for a moment, then reacted and respectfully greeted, "We, your humble servants, pay our respects to the Garrison Commander. Long live the Garrison Commander! Long live the Garrison Commander! Long live the Garrison Commander!"

The crowd spoke in unison, their voices resounding, for fear that if they spoke too softly, they would be remembered.

A new broom sweeps clean, and nobody wants to be the first to step forward. Everyone fears the fire will spread and bring about their own downfall.

Chen Ping'an looked around the room, his expression calm, and said indifferently, "Get up, everyone."

"Yes," everyone replied in unison, responding loudly.

After bowing, everyone bowed to Shen Huiqing.

Under normal circumstances, Shen Huiqing would have readily accepted the greeting. However, with superiors present today, and this being her first time attending a meeting, she naturally couldn't overshadow the host.

This situation naturally surprised everyone.

However, being seasoned veterans, they were not surprised, but they still went through the pre-event procedures without showing it on their faces.

By this time, they had all realized that the man in front of them was the newly appointed garrison commander, Lord Chen Ping'an.

Those present at the time of the appointment announcement already knew the details. Their feelings about the new garrison commander varied. But such crucial emotions, at this stage, would naturally not be easily revealed.

However, there were naturally many who felt indignant on behalf of Shen Huiqing.

Chen Ping'an took his seat at the head of the deliberation meeting, the same seat Shen Huiqing had always occupied. Shen Huiqing, on the other hand, sat in the deputy seat beside him, her skirt swaying gently, her expression serene and devoid of any emotion.

This scene was naturally witnessed by everyone, and many people had some thoughts in their minds.

Chen Ping'an wasn't here to waste time at the review meeting. His main purpose was to familiarize himself with the proceedings, and with Shen Huiqing's attitude in place, many things didn't need to be done anymore. As for establishing authority, it didn't have much significance internally.

At his level, even if he wanted to establish authority, it should be through external means. Having reached this level, with his deputy's stance already clear, trying to establish authority internally would seem rather ridiculous.

The best way to establish authority has always been through external struggle. By taking a strong stance and securing local interests, one can create a powerful image and win over the hearts and minds of the people.

This is the difference between a commander of troops and a commander of generals, and it also reflects a significant difference in management logic.

"I believe everyone already knows who I am. As for my personality and temperament, you will gradually understand as you get to know me. I don't like idle talk, and since I've just arrived, I won't say much more," Chen Ping'an said calmly and in a composed tone.

There were no lengthy speeches or slogans; just a few simple words were enough to conclude the opening remarks of the newly appointed official.

"Lord Shen, you will preside over this meeting." After saying this, Chen Ping'an leaned back and sat down without saying another word.

Chen Ping'an's reaction was, without a doubt, unexpected by everyone present. This scene was completely different from what they had imagined.

No nonsense, no slogans, no statements, just simple and straightforward, and that's all that was said.

and also
Having just taken office, he immediately issued orders to Lord Shen in a commanding tone—such an attitude!
Everyone had different thoughts, and they all looked at Lord Shen, who was sitting to the side of the head of the table, wanting to see her reaction.

I thought that even if Lord Shen didn't refute me on the spot, he would at least have some objections. But to my surprise, Lord Shen readily agreed to the matter, without showing any emotion in his words. Instead, he bowed slightly to show his respect.

"Very well, since Lord Chen has asked me to chair this meeting, then I will chair it. There are five topics in total, and three key points need to be clarified. Let's begin."

This scene undoubtedly left everyone present somewhat bewildered.

And it was in this atmosphere that the review meeting came to a complete close.

After the meeting ended, Chen Ping'an didn't say much and got up to leave. Shen Huiqing hurriedly said, "That's it, everyone disperse," and then quickly followed him.

This scene and situation truly baffled everyone.

Someone glanced at Lin Qing'e, who was still in the meeting room, and, considering that their relationship was fairly good, couldn't help but ask her a question via telepathy.

"Lord Lin, this is..."

Lin Qing'e smiled without saying a word and prepared to leave.

Some people were still unwilling to give up and wanted to know more. Lord Shen's behavior today was too abnormal and completely outside their expectations.

This posture is far too subservient. It's completely different from what they expected. Is Lord Shen acting this way intentionally, or...?
Everyone's thoughts were scattered and their feelings varied. Some people caught up with Lin Qing'e and cautiously inquired about her whereabouts.

"Lord Lin, I hope you will not hesitate to enlighten me and give me some pointers. I will be very grateful."

As Lord Shen's trusted subordinate, Lin Qing'e should obviously know something. If she could seize the initiative and find out what was going on, it would undoubtedly be of great benefit.

Lin Qing'e glanced at the person who asked the question, considered it for a moment, and finally sent a message through telepathy.

"All you need to know is that the new garrison commander is no ordinary person."

"Unusual?"

The man was taken aback and was about to ask another question when he saw Lin Qing'e leave with an inscrutable expression.

"Extraordinary? How so! A rising star, isn't that extraordinary enough?"

"What on earth is going on?!"

"What do you think of the matters discussed at the review meeting, sir?" Shen Huiqing followed behind Chen Ping'an and asked softly. "Just handle them according to the established tone," Chen Ping'an said calmly.

The review meeting discussed many issues, including several thorny and difficult ones, especially considering the strategic location of the garrison. This was evident from the atmosphere of the discussion.

The situation regarding the Xuanling's garrison was more serious than Chen Ping'an had imagined. The discussions at the deliberation meeting largely exposed this problem.

However, for Chen Ping'an, it wasn't a crucial matter. As long as the overall situation was stable, these minor troubles would resolve themselves.

A general leads troops to deal with the most pressing issues, while a commander observes the situation and controls the overall direction.

If the strategy succeeds, a few difficulties will be insignificant.

"Yes, sir," Shen Huiqing replied softly.

After several encounters, she discovered that Chen Ping'an was completely different from what she had imagined. It wasn't just his strength, but also the many details revealed during their interactions.

There is no arrogance of a prodigy, nor the swagger of someone who has achieved success. There is no power struggle or boastful talk as one might imagine. Instead, there is only the calm beneath the surface of a deep well, as unfathomable as the ocean, yet one can sense its profound and unspoken depth, which inspires trust.

In the case of the special envoy from Beishan Prefecture, despite an unfavorable start, the conflict was resolved peacefully. A pleasant conversation led to the abandonment of past grievances, and the two became close friends, building connections. Throughout the process, there was no arrogance of a prodigy, nor the swagger of someone who had achieved early success; only a worldly and insightful understanding of human relationships.

His words, vision, and overall perspective are truly admirable.

Looking at the man before her, Shen Huiqing felt a complex mix of emotions. Perhaps the heavy burden she had carried for so long could finally be lifted. From now on, someone would shelter her from the storm, and she would no longer have to endure such hardship and bitterness.

"My lord, you have just taken up your post and have not yet started working. Where would you like to arrange for you to be seated? Should we keep the room left by the previous garrison commander, or should we choose a new one?" Shen Huiqing said softly, offering several options.

I briefly explained the pros and cons of several locations.

Chen Ping'an didn't let her finish speaking, but simply said, "You can arrange it as you see fit."

“Yes, sir. I’ll arrange for you to be in the East Garden. It’s closer to my office building, so it will be more convenient for us to communicate and exchange information if there are any important matters,” Shen Huiqing suggested.

Chen Ping'an remained noncommittal and said nothing more.

Along the way, Shen Huiqing inquired about many things. For example, Chen Ping'an had just taken up his post and did not yet have a place to live. According to custom, garrison commanders in Xuanling City should be entitled to a housing quota. The garrison could apply for a residence on Xuanling Mountain on their behalf.

Shen Huiqing's words were indeed true; he had just arrived in Xuanling and didn't have a place to stay. Since the Zhenfu Division wouldn't arrange anything for him, he was temporarily staying at the Yayuan Xiaozhu.

However, at his level, owning a mansion is already standard practice. The only difference is the quality of the mansion.

Having a mansion quota from Xuanling Mountain is not bad; Chen Ping'an is quite satisfied.

In addition, Shen Huiqing also reported on some other matters. For example, since he had just taken up his post in Xuanling and assumed authority over the Azure Dragon faction, a welcoming ceremony should be held to invite guests from all sides to facilitate networking and familiarization. There was also the matter of the number of seats on the garrison review committee.

Chen Ping'an entrusted all these matters to Shen Huiqing, letting her handle them. She could report to him on any important developments, but otherwise, she could make the decisions.

Shen Huiqing readily agreed to all of these.

The discussion also touched upon the situations of organizations such as the Bicang Chamber of Commerce, the Xuanling Chamber of Commerce, and the Hengshan Sect. The garrisoning of Xuanling involves not only the power struggles among various states but also the strategic maneuvering with external forces, making it an extremely important issue.

The key is that during the game, one cannot simply become hostile. When internal conflicts arise in the future, external forces may be needed. In negotiations, it is essential to maintain a balance of power and compromise, with give and take.

Chen Ping'an was aware of these matters and didn't say much. However, listening to Shen Huiqing's insights, he gained a clearer understanding of Xuanling's situation.

"Oh, by the way, arrange a car frame for me, I need to go out for a bit," Chen Ping'an mentioned.

He needed to visit the Gu family's residence. He had just taken up his post in Xuanling and it was time to pay his respects and familiarize himself with the place. Yesterday it had been too late for him, but today was the perfect time, and the news had already spread, so it wouldn't be appropriate for him not to make the visit.

Whether or not to visit someone, and when to visit them, is not just a matter of etiquette, but also a reflection of one's attitude.

The Gu family's situation in Xuanling isn't great. As a key figure stationed in Xuanling, his attitude is crucial to the Gu family. Utilizing his influence could be beneficial.

After all, no matter what, the Zhenfu Division still controls the moral high ground, the formulation of systems, the proposal of strategies, and the final decision-making.

However, the sheer number of methods available to control the situation created a sense of power slipping through everyone's fingers. And indeed, that was the reality.

Within the Bicang territory, the Zhenfu Division's influence is not strong enough compared to some core central authorities, which combine the power of several territories or even an entire realm to suppress various forces and prevent them from daring to speak out.

However, whether or not there is suppression is only relative. In some military-held areas, the real power lies with the military. But compared to ordinary people, the military's influence is usually low-key and has little impact on the general public.

Chen Ping'an traveled light this time; the carriage with its black jade ornaments and eight spirit steeds was still in Canglong Prefecture City. He still needed the station's support to make his appearance.

However, he had just taken up his post, and the garrison at Xuanling had been vacant for a long time, so there was no dedicated vehicle provided for him.

When this matter was mentioned, Shen Huiqing looked apologetic: "Sir, your chassis is not yet complete and will take some time. Other chassis are too rudimentary. How about we use mine for now?"

As the top official stationed in Xuanling on behalf of Canglong Prefecture, Shen Huiqing's carriage was naturally extravagantly luxurious and solemnly dignified. It was perfectly suited to Chen Ping'an's status.

However, Chen Ping'an wasn't that concerned about the chassis. At his current level, he didn't need to prove himself through such things.

Some bicycle frames are not valuable in themselves, but rather because they are meant to support passengers, which makes them all the more precious.

Compared to external things, he himself is the greatest value.

Furthermore, the fact that he borrowed Shen Huiqing's bicycle frame so soon after arriving was not a good sign. He had used the frame more than once or twice, and the more often he used it, the more inconvenience it would cause.

"No need, another one will suffice," Chen Ping'an said calmly.

Shen Huiqing wanted to persuade him further, but seeing Chen Ping'an's calm expression and the unyielding air in his words, she suppressed her thoughts and softly agreed.

"Okay, my lord."

The carriage frame arranged by Shen Huiqing, though described as simple, was not actually that simple. To be precise, it was still solemn, dignified, and incredibly spacious.

The so-called simplicity is only relative. In terms of actual comfort, it doesn't have a significant impact.

This is especially true for someone like Chen Ping'an who doesn't enjoy life.

We're just riding in this carriage, traveling for the journey; there's no need for anything fancy. The whole way is spent either cultivating, studying, or refining; what kind of secrets could there be?
He was truly wronged.

Despite spending most of his time diligently cultivating his spiritual practice, he earned a reputation for being a proud and philandering prodigy. His romantic escapades and hedonistic lifestyle were widely known.

While some of the events described are indeed verifiable, most of the information is embellished and fabricated. When he was alone, he considered it New Year's if he simply drank some wine, let alone held a banquet.

Such carriages were equipped with maids to attend to the guests, and the mansions were filled with beautiful wives and concubines; that was true romance and pleasure.

Like the young master Xue Guangyu of the Xue family whom I met outside the city when I first entered Canglong Prefecture. There were maids serving him in the carriage, their fingers delicate and graceful, that was what you call enjoying pleasure and romance.

He
Chen Ping'an looked around, speechless.

What are you calculating?

"Many people misunderstand me."

Chen Ping'an shook his head and sighed, looking quite disappointed.

The vehicle slowly started moving, heading towards the Gu family's residence.

Inside the vehicle, Chen Ping'an's thoughts shifted, and a golden finger panel appeared in front of him.

hum~
Name: Chen Ping'an
Realm: Celestial Being 1st Realm - Pivotal Light Realm
武学：青阳血炼法小成（0/15360）颠鸾倒凤·阴阳枢入门（225/8640）、广寒剑法（残篇）小成（0/7680）、太虚御风步大成（1078/14400）、七绝禁法圆满、七杀天罡拳圆满、霸刀圆满、万魔铸身诀圆满
Secret Technique: Soul-Guiding Incantation
Chen Ping'an slightly lowered his eyes, a flash of inspiration appeared, and an invisible divine soul power vibrated out.

Wow~
A halo of light swirled, and a jade book gleaming with a bluish light appeared in his hand.

The legacy of the sword, the Thunderous Sword Technique.

(End of this chapter)