Hunyuan Immortal Sect

Chapter 417 Industry Competition
Now, the Hunyuan Sect had finally obtained the authorization to breed Fire-Tailed Rabbits from the Beast Taming Sect. According to calculations, if all goes well, this industry could bring the sect about 20,000 to 30,000 spirit stones in revenue each year.

The original plan was to raise fire-tailed rabbits in the Tianshan Mountains. The specific location had already been selected because the fire-tailed rabbits were imported from the Muhe Grassland. Some of the rabbit meat spirit food produced in the future was also intended to be sold to the Muhe Grassland region, so raising them in the Tianshan Mountains was quite suitable.

Unexpectedly, Xiao Ling wanted to interfere and take over the business.

"The cabinet has already discussed this matter! They want to raise the animals in the Tianshan Mountains, and preparations are already underway there. It's not suitable to suddenly change the location now."

Su Zhirou persisted, "It's just a change of location. It doesn't matter where we raise them. I heard that the Firetail Rabbit cubs haven't been transported here yet, and the formation on the Tianshan Mountains hasn't been set up yet either. Changing the location won't cause any problems."

Song Xian shook his head helplessly: "Then you go and talk to Junior Brother Zichen yourself! See if he'll give you face."

Su Zhirou twisted her body and said coquettishly, "I can't control him anyway, husband, go and talk to him."

"You don't handle these matters, so why are you getting involved? If Xiao Ling wants to fight for it, let her talk to the cabinet herself and let her fight for it herself. How can you keep forcing me to help her?"

"She doesn't know anyone in the sect. If she doesn't turn to me, who else can she turn to? It's already a favor if the people in the sect don't ostracize and bully her. Why would they help her?"

"With you here, who would dare to bully her?"

Su Zhirou gently nudged him with her head: "I already promised Ling'er, just this once, husband, go and talk to them."

“I don’t believe it. They always say it’s just this once. How many times has this happened?”

When her gentle approach failed, Su Zhirou bit down on his neck, a piece of his flesh in her mouth, and threatened indistinctly, "Will you talk, my husband?"

Song Xian had no choice: "You said it would only be this once! Don't come looking for me again next time."

Su Zhirou finally let go of her mouth, satisfied.

.........

The next day, after finishing his day of cultivation, Song Xian ordered someone to summon Jiang Zichen.

In the spacious and bright hall, Jiang Zichen entered from outside and bowed: "What orders does the Sect Leader have for me?"

"I've thought about the Firetail Rabbit breeding project, and I think it's better to do it in Bianxi City. I've heard that Wuyu Mountain is a good place for breeding, so let's set up a breeding site there! The corresponding spiritual food refining and processing will also be moved there."

"Yes." Jiang Zichen didn't ask any further questions about why the breeding grounds had to be moved from Tianshan to Wuyushan as originally agreed, and simply nodded in response.

"I heard that Liao Yuan is very experienced in raising these kinds of spirit beasts. He used to be in charge of this kind of affairs in the Luoyun Sect. The raising of the Fire-tailed Rabbits will be entrusted to him. This way, it can also show that the sect has no sectarian bias and appoints people based on their talents."

"I will have His Highness issue the appointment immediately."

"The breeding sites and the person in charge are as I said; the rest of the specific plans will be discussed and decided by the Cabinet."

"Yes, if the sect leader has no other instructions, then I shall take my leave."

"Go!"

Jiang Zichen responded and went to the council hall. He ordered someone to summon Qi Xiaobai, the head of the Finance Hall, Yu Lian, the head of the Internal Affairs Hall, and Feng Yan, the head of the External Affairs Hall. Before long, the three of them arrived one after another.

"Junior Brother Jiang, what brings you here so late?" Qi Xiaobai asked as he entered last and sat down.

"The previously discussed Firetail Rabbit plan has been changed. It has now been decided to relocate the Firetail Rabbit farm to Wuyu Mountain, and the corresponding spiritual food refining and processing procedures will also be moved there." Jiang Zichen, as always, wore a friendly smile and spoke calmly.

However, all three of them looked surprised upon hearing this.

Feng Yan glanced at the two of them and, seeing that they seemed unaware of the situation, asked, "Why the sudden decision to relocate to Wuyu Mountain? Wasn't it already agreed that we would raise livestock in Huafeng Valley in Tianshan? The breeding base there is already under construction and will be completed soon."

"This is the Sect Leader's intention. He just summoned me and brought up this matter. In addition to relocating the breeding site, the Sect Leader also appointed Liao Yuan as the person in charge of this industry."

Upon hearing this, the three immediately understood.

In the past, such matters were decided by the cabinet, and Song Xian usually did not get involved, let alone the sudden cancellation of a base that was already under construction.

Now they suddenly want to relocate the breeding site, and specifically named Liao Yuan as the person in charge.

This person was originally a disciple of the Luoyun Sect, but who is behind him remains unknown.

Qi Xiaobai and Feng Yan exchanged a silent glance, neither of them saying a word.

Yu Lian frowned slightly. The person in charge of the Firetail Rabbit industry was originally recommended by him, and the position had already been internally decided, but suddenly someone else was replaced. However, this was personally appointed by Song Xian, so although he was dissatisfied, he dared not have any objections.

"Senior Sister Feng, please send someone to inform Tianshan immediately to stop the construction of the breeding base."

"Senior Brother Yu, send a team to Wuyu Mountain to rebuild the breeding grounds and set up the corresponding formations there."

"Senior Brother Qi, please ask the Finance Department to allocate another sum of money for the construction of the base."

"Apart from the main person in charge, we will decide on the specific plans for other matters. A large number of Firetail Rabbit cubs will be transported here soon. Construction at Wuyu Mountain needs to start immediately, otherwise it may be too late."

"Senior Brother Yu, you need to hurry up and make special arrangements. Whether it's funding, manpower, or array materials, whatever you need, I'll approve it immediately."

All three nodded in agreement, and the meeting quickly ended. After they left, Jiang Zichen returned to his inner chamber. His wife, Hua Yuan, greeted him upon his return: "Why did the sect leader summon you so late? Why did it take you so long? Did something happen?"

"It's nothing serious." Jiang Zichen shook his head and briefly recounted the matter of the Fire-Tailed Rabbit.

"Liao Yuan?" Hua Yuan frowned slightly. "Is he the one in charge of the Taoyuanling stone mine?"

"Who else could it be but him?" Jiang Zichen casually took off his coat and returned to the mansion, his face no longer bearing that friendly smile.

"Isn't he originally from the Luoyun Sect? How come such a large enterprise is being managed by someone from the Luoyun Sect?"

"What do you think?" Jiang Zichen shook his head, feeling quite helpless about her slow reaction.

Hua Yuan suddenly realized: "Is Xiao Ling behind all this?"

"You're so smart, you finally figured it out."

"Xiao Ling's reach is too far! It's one thing to secretly promote people from the Luo Yun Sect, but now she's even snatched up the spirit beast breeding industry. How is she so capable that she can get the sect leader to personally order her people to take charge?"

"She's only been in the sect for a short time, what abilities could she possibly have? She's just relying on her relationship with Senior Sister Su Zhirou."

"The sect leader isn't someone who's easily swayed, so why did he suddenly change his mind?"

"Whether someone is easily swayed or not depends on who they are dealing with. Everyone has weaknesses, and the sect leader is no exception."

"Then...should we say hello to Senior Brother Lin?" Hua Yuan asked hesitantly. She knew the inside story; the Firetail Rabbit business had gone through many twists and turns from its inception to its finalization.

Several factions within the sect were vying for this lucrative opportunity, and the matter had been discussed multiple times during cabinet meetings. The final decision to raise the rabbits in the Tianshan Mountains was the result of compromise among all parties. The Tianshan Mountains were under Hu Xiaobao's jurisdiction, but the person in charge of the Fire-tailed Rabbit industry was recommended by Lin Zixiang.

But now, the aquaculture industry has moved from Tianshan to Wuyushan, and the disciple in charge of the industry has been replaced by Xiao Ling's people. This has affected many people's interests, since this is a sizable industry with considerable profits.

"There's no need for that. The sect leader has already spoken, so what's the use of their dissatisfaction? Besides, I don't need to go and tell him personally; Senior Brother Lin will get the news soon enough."

.........

In the spacious and bright hall of Tianshan, Huang Sheng, the former leader of the Qingxuan Sect, sat upright. When he saw Hu Xiaobao enter from outside, he quickly stood up and went to greet him respectfully, saying, "Greetings, Uncle Hu."

He became acquainted with Hu Xiaobao because of the pole industry, and was later promoted and transferred to Tianshan Market. By chance, he met Hu Xiaobao again and made several suggestions for the development of the market.

Seeing that he was quick-witted, had his own opinions and strategies, Hu Xiaobao transferred him to his side. He has gradually become one of Hu Xiaobao's trusted people, and is dedicated to giving him advice and strategies.

"What is it?" Hu Xiaobao went straight to the head seat and waved his hand, indicating that he should sit down as well.

"The sect has sent people here, saying that they are acting on orders from the cabinet to relocate the Firetail Rabbit breeding base to Wuyu Mountain and that we must immediately stop the construction of the base."

Hu Xiaobao was taken aback: "Why the sudden move to Wuyu Mountain?"

"The person who gave the order didn't know either; he was just following orders. I asked him, and it seems that in addition to the relocation of the breeding site, a person in charge of the Firetail Rabbit industry has also been appointed, with Liao Yuan in charge."

Hu Xiaobao frowned slightly: "Liao Yuan? Who is he?"

"Formerly a member of the Luoyun Sect, now in charge of Taoyuan Ridge."

Hu Xiaobao seemed to be deep in thought.

Huang Sheng glanced at him and lowered his voice: "I think this matter is inseparable from Uncle Xiao Ling. Logically speaking, even if the cabinet suddenly withdrew the Firetail Rabbit breeding area from Tianshan for other reasons, it should not be the Luoyun Sect who is in charge."

"Moreover, given Uncle Jiang Zichen's personality, even if he wanted to move the assets from Tianshan, he would definitely send someone to inform you beforehand."

"I believe that it was Martial Aunt Xiao Ling who pleaded with the Sect Leader through Martial Aunt Su Zhirou, and then the Sect Leader issued this order."

"The people in the Luoyun Sect are very closely united, and they also have Martial Uncle Xiao Ling as their backer. Now, Martial Uncle Xiao Ling is in charge of all the affairs in Bianxi City, and she has promoted many people from the original Luoyun Sect. Martial Uncle Xiao Ling is also very close to Martial Uncle Su Zhirou. Given time, they will surely rise as a new force within the sect."

Hu Xiaobao's expression remained unchanged: "There's no need to pay attention to them. Let the fire-tailed rabbit breeding site be moved if that's the case!"

Huang Sheng hesitated for a moment, looking as if he wanted to say something but couldn't.

Hu Xiaobao glanced at him, frowned, and scolded, "Say what you have to say, don't beat around the bush."

"Yes, in my opinion, you can get in touch with them. You and Aunt Su Zhirou are already close. Isn't Aunt Xiao Ling's great ability also due to Aunt Su Zhirou?"

"If you can win them over, it will greatly enhance your influence within the sect."

Hu Xiaobao didn't take it seriously: "Trying to win them over? There's no need for that. Whether inside or outside the sect, cultivation is everything to gain a foothold. Instead of racking your brains to win over this person or that person, it's more practical to focus on cultivating and improving your cultivation. I feel like I might break through to the fourth level of Foundation Establishment soon. It's not a big deal, so don't bother me."

"Yes." Seeing his attitude, Huang Sheng said no more.

.........

In the dimly lit room of Bianxi City, Luoyun Mountain, Xiao Ling sat at the main table, flipping through files. Seven or eight disciples dressed in Hunyuan Sect robes stood in the room, heads bowed, like children being punished, not daring to breathe.

The room was completely silent, except for the sound of Xiao Ling flipping through the files. Her gaze occasionally swept over the group of people, but no one dared to meet her eyes.

"What's going on with the Tiger Soul Jade Spirit Wine from Xuziwu? Why were there so many substandard products last month?" Xiao Ling turned to a page of the file and stopped, her gaze fixed on one of the men.

The man lowered his head and replied softly, "Because there was a problem with the sealed jar of demon blood, many insects grew in it, causing a batch of spirit wine to taste somewhat sour and foul."

"Then whose problem is this?" Xiao Ling crossed her arms over her chest, leaned back in her chair, and stared at him with her head held high.

The man swallowed hard and lowered his head even further: "It's my fault."

"What do you suggest we do?" Xiao Ling's gaze remained fixed on him.

"This disciple is willing to accept punishment," the man said in a soft, gentle voice.

"I didn't hear it."

"This disciple is willing to accept the punishment," the man said, raising his voice in resignation.

"You said it yourself," Xiao Ling said coldly. "Everyone in Xuziwu will only receive their salary this month, with no bonuses or commissions. As the person in charge, you will be fined double and will only receive your salary for the next two months. And next time, the loss from scrapped products will be deducted directly from your salary."

"Yes," the man could only bow his head and reply.

Just then, a knock sounded at the door. Xiao Ling called out, "Come in!" and a woman walked in, bowing, "Uncle Xiao, Senior Brother Liao has arrived."

Xiao Ling waved her hand: "You can all go now!"

"Disciple takes leave."

"Disciple takes leave."

The people inside felt as if they had been granted a pardon and fled as if they were escaping.

"Call him over."

"Yes." The woman responded and left. A short while later, a slender middle-aged man entered from outside, bowed, and said, "Disciple greets Martial Uncle Xiao."

"The matter of raising fire-tailed rabbits has been finalized. A base will be set up in Wuyu Mountain, and you will be in charge of this industry."

"Thank you, Uncle-Master." The man's face lit up with joy, and he bowed again.

"I had to swallow my pride to get this. It's the first important business we took over after joining the Hunyuan Sect. You can't mess it up. Otherwise, not only you, but I will also lose face."

"Uncle-Master, rest assured, I will do my utmost. I promise not to disgrace you."

Xiao Ling nodded: "I know you have experience, that's why I recommended you. If you handle this well, I can arrange for you to take on more important positions in the future. If anything goes wrong, don't come to see me again."

"We've already offended quite a few people because of this, and we have to worry about them secretly sabotaging us. Go to Wuyu Mountain immediately and keep an eye on their base construction plans, making sure they don't take advantage of any loopholes."

"Yes." The man immediately responded and left.

(End of this chapter)