Starting from the imperial palace guards, his clones spread all over the world.

Chapter 623 Make me kill myself?
The bugle call signaling the change of shifts echoed long and deep in the twilight.

Liang Jin followed the Imperial Guards, their steps orderly yet slightly weary, leaving the towering palace walls and merging into the streets and alleys of the capital.

The clanging of armor against armor and the heavy sound of footsteps are the only distinguishing features of this team.

As he approached a familiar street corner, Liang Jin's gaze habitually swept towards the roadside.

really.

The slender figure stood quietly in the rising twilight, just as she always had.

Zhao Yiyi stood on tiptoe, her delicate neck slightly tilted forward, her clear almond-shaped eyes searching eagerly among the passing Imperial Guards.

Her appearance had long become a regular sight in the eyes of Liang Jin and his platoon of imperial guards.

Zhao Yiyi always liked to wait for Liang Jin on this inevitable road, either to bring him food or to give him new clothes that she had sewn herself.

How could anyone not understand the relationship between Liang Jin and Zhao Yiyi?
"Hey! Boss Liang!"

A bearded veteran next to Liang Jin nudged him with his elbow, winking and lowering his voice:
"See that? Your fiancée, who's not even married yet, is here waiting for you again! Tsk tsk, that unwavering dedication, rain or shine!"

These words immediately drew suppressed laughter from those around them, the soldiers' rugged faces showing good-natured teasing.

Liang Jin raised the corners of his mouth slightly in response, then broke away from the group and strode towards the beautiful figure.

Now he is no longer a soldier, but at least an officer, and can temporarily leave the ranks during marches.

"Brother Liang!"

When Zhao Yiyi saw him, her eyes lit up instantly. She ran to meet him, her cheeks flushed with excitement and a slight pant.

"My parents told me to tell you to come over for dinner tomorrow night!"

"My brother-in-law got a really good piece of cured pork. Mom said it should be cooked until it's delicious so everyone can have a taste!"

Liang Jin stopped in front of her, looking at that familiar face.

Her almond-shaped eyes were clear and bright, with slightly drooping inner corners and upturned outer corners. Her nose had a straight and smooth bridge with a slightly upturned tip.

Her lips were small and full, her neck was long and slender like a swan, and her skin was as white as jade.

As time passed, Liang Jin began to forget many things from his previous life, and sometimes he even forgot that he had transmigrated from another world.

Only by gazing at that face can one unlock the fragments of his past life, almost sealed away deep in his memory, making those blurry images exceptionally clear.

"No need to wait for dinner."

Liang Jin's voice carried a hint of barely perceptible gentleness:

"I have a day off tomorrow, so stay home and wait for me. I'll come find you and take you out for a walk."

Zhao Yiyi's eyes lit up with even greater joy, but then a hint of hesitation crept in, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her dress.

"But...but I can't stay out too late...I have to go back early to help my parents prepare dinner."

"My eldest and second eldest sisters' families are both coming over tomorrow night, there's a lot to do..."

Liang Jin smiled as he looked at her cautious demeanor.

"Don't worry, I'll go back with you and lend a hand."

Zhao Yiyi's eyes lit up, all her worries vanished instantly, and she nodded vigorously, her smile as bright as a newly blossoming flower:
"Well! I'll wait for you then!"

Liang Jin waved to her, then turned and quickly caught up with the group that had already walked some distance.

Zhao Yiyi's gaze, however, seemed to be drawn by an invisible thread, closely following that tall, upright figure until he disappeared into the shadows of the street corner and could no longer be seen.

She stood there in a daze for a long time before she came to her senses.

She then noticed that many passersby and street vendors were looking at her with kind, amused smiles on their faces.

Some even whispered jokes:

"Look at this girl, her soul has flown away with her lover!"

Zhao Yiyi's face flushed bright red instantly, like a ripe shrimp, with even her ears and neck turning crimson.

She stomped her foot in embarrassment, but couldn't help raising her little face with a hint of pride, and retorted crisply:

"That's my brother Liang!"

This only drew louder laughter.

She couldn't hold back any longer, covered her face, and ran away quickly like a frightened little rabbit.

The heavy gates of the military camp slowly closed behind us, shutting out the hustle and bustle of the city.

Liang Jin returned to his tent.

Within the Imperial Guard, there was a strict hierarchy.

Officials are officials, and soldiers are soldiers.

Now that Liang Jin is a military officer, his treatment has improved significantly. He no longer has to live the cramped life of a dozen people crammed into one tent, with snores echoing everywhere, as he did when he was a soldier.

The tent he shared with Wang Quan, the flag officer, was spacious, with thick felt, and even had two simple wooden beds and a small table.

The two had just removed their heavy armor when the tent flap was lifted.

Wu Huan's slightly round face, which showed a hint of impatience, was revealed.

"Brother Liang! Wang Quan! Quick, come with me!"

Wu Huan's voice suppressed excitement and a hint of barely perceptible tension:

"The new camp commander for our Xiliu Camp has been decided, sir!"

"Come, follow me to pay our respects to the superior! This is our first time, we can't be late!"

Liang Jin and Wang Quan exchanged a glance, quickly straightened their armor, and followed Wu Huan out of the tent.

The original commander of the Xiliu Camp, where the group belonged, was Xi Rong, but Xi Rong had died at the hands of Liang Jin, leaving the position of commander vacant.

Wu Huan dared not even entertain the slightest thought about the position of battalion commander.

Within the Imperial Guard, high-ranking positions were held by powerful and wealthy families, and Wu Huan's family background was far inferior.

While high-ranking official positions require connections, they are still military positions, so at least basic martial arts skills are required.

Wu Huan's martial arts skills, however, were only at the eighth rank.

It's fair to say that Wu Huan's career was essentially over once he became the bank president.

He didn't dare to have any grand ambitions, and he knew his abilities were limited. He only hoped that he could hold onto his position as bank manager.

He was even worried that his position as bank president was unstable, so he brought Liang, who was believed to have the sixth-grade cultivation level, into the position of flag commander to increase his own strength.

Since Wu Huan wasn't going to argue, Liang Jin didn't bother with the matter either.

As a result, the position of battalion commander has been vacant for so long, and now someone has finally filled it.

Eight men were already standing outside, waiting patiently. They were the other banner commanders and officers under Wu Huan's command. The group followed Wu Huan toward the largest and most imposing general's tent in the center of the camp.

On the way, there was a somewhat suppressed excitement.

Someone couldn't help but whisper to Wu Huan:

"Sir, the new battalion commander...who is he from? Have you heard anything about him?"

"Yes, sir, it's good for us to know what's going on so we don't offend our superiors."

The Imperial Guard was a quagmire of deeply entrenched factions.

Finding out the superior's background is the first step to survival.

As Wu Huan walked, he cautiously scanned his surroundings, his voice extremely low, carrying the solemnity of sharing a major secret:

"Listen up, everyone! This time, it's the Liu family of Taixuan who's here!"

"His name is Liu Shuxun, and he is the son of the former Grand Tutor."

hiss--!
Everyone gasped in unison, their eyes instantly filled with a mixture of awe and complex emotions.

Tai Xuan Liu Shi!

That was one of the most famous aristocratic families in the Great Qian Dynasty, and its members had deep roots in the officialdom of the Great Qian.

For a moment, the atmosphere in the team became subtle.

Those who were related to Liu or shared similar views could not hide their joy; conversely, those who were not related to Liu frowned and were filled with worry.

Only Liang Jin remained calm and composed, as if he had only heard an insignificant name.

Upon arriving outside the general's tent, they happened to encounter another group of officers who had just finished paying their respects. They nodded to each other, exchanging first impressions of their new superior.

Once everyone inside had left, Wu Huan straightened his clothes, took a deep breath, and led the group inside.

"Your humble servant Wu Huan, along with his banner commanders and officers, pays his respects to the camp commander!"

Wu Huan spoke in a loud voice and took the lead in bowing.

The crowd behind them bowed in unison, their movements perfectly synchronized.

All eyes quietly focused on the person in the main seat in the tent.

Behind the table sat a man who looked to be about fifty years old.

With a dark complexion and a slender build, his impeccably tailored military uniform couldn't conceal the scholarly air that had been cultivated over many years; he was clearly a renowned scholar-general.

The most striking feature was the five long, meticulously groomed strands of beard under his chin, which swayed slightly in the wind, adding to his refined and scholarly air.

This man was none other than the newly appointed battalion commander, Liu Shuxun.

Liu Shuxun stood up with a smile, his voice gentle:

"Please, everyone, there's no need for such formalities! Please rise!"

He offered a slight gesture of support, his attitude appearing quite amiable.

"From now on, we will be in the same camp, serving His Majesty and the Great Qian Dynasty. We will need your strong support."

"These formalities should be avoided if possible; doing your job well is what really matters."

That being said, who among the people in the tent dared to take it seriously?
They remained respectful, standing with their hands at their sides, awaiting instructions.

Liu Shuxun stepped down from the main seat and slowly walked past the crowd.

Surprisingly, he could accurately call out everyone's name and position, and even recite some details of their resumes, clearly showing that he had put in a lot of effort.

"Wu Huan."

He stopped in front of Wu Huan, patted him on the shoulder, and smiled warmly:
"The First Commander mentioned you to me, praising your loyalty, bravery, diligence, and unwavering devotion. Meeting you today, I can see that you are indeed extraordinary."

Wu Huan was flattered and immediately bowed:
"You flatter me, sir! I am unworthy of such praise!"

Liu Shuxun nodded and continued walking.

Finally, it stopped in front of Liang Jin.

In an instant, the air in the entire tent seemed to freeze.

Everyone's heart was in their throat, and they subconsciously held their breath. Wu Huan clenched his fists tightly with tension.

Liang Jin... is now known as the number one troublemaker in the Imperial Guard!

He dared to beat his superior, Fang Qianfeng, to death in front of all the Imperial Guards and the deputy commander of the five battalions. This audacity was enough to make his name known throughout the entire Imperial Guard.

Afterwards, in front of everyone, he once again fiercely criticized Xi Rong, making Xi Rong, who was a battalion commander, lose face.

Although Liang Jin ultimately escaped unscathed, his act of disobeying his superior was a major taboo in the military.

This is no longer courage.

It's just stupid!

Not long ago, a gambling game was set up among the Imperial Guards, betting on when Liang Jin would be killed by his superior, Xi Rong.

But unexpectedly, Xi Rong was assassinated.

That's why the arrogant and ignorant Liang Jin has survived to this day.

Nowadays, everyone in the Imperial Guard, regardless of rank, treats Liang Jin with utmost courtesy and respect. They would never be rude to him, let alone turn against him.

Because in their eyes, Liang Jin was already a dead man.

Why bother arguing with a dying person?
Moreover, Liang Jin is incredibly stubborn; he's even willing to kill his superiors without hesitation.

Nobody wants to have a conflict with him before he dies. It's bad enough to lose face and be embarrassed, but it would be much worse to be buried with him.

Now that a new battalion commander has arrived, it's probably time to deal with this troublemaker.

Liu Shuxun still wore a gentle smile, his gaze lingering on Liang Jin's face for a moment before he slowly spoke:
"This must be... Chief Liang Jin?"

There was no emotion in his voice.

"It is indeed your humble servant."

Liang Jin answered calmly, his eyes open and unwavering.

Liu Shuxun chuckled, breaking the suffocating silence:
"I had heard of your great reputation before I was transferred to this post."

"In the military competition, he defeated the bank president. This kind of bravery is truly rare."

"It is indeed a disservice to be relegated to the position of banner commander."

He abruptly changed the subject, making a startling statement:

"I have recommended you to the First Commander for promotion to the position of Battalion Commander of my Willow Camp, to assist me in handling camp affairs. I wonder what Commander Liang thinks?"

Battalion Commander?!
A collective gasp filled the tent!
The group quickly exchanged surprised and uncertain glances.

Each battalion of the Imperial Guards consisted of one battalion commander and two battalion assistants.

The battalion commander was essentially the battalion commander's assistant officer, holding a high position and wielding great power!
And now, Liu Shuxun actually said he wanted to recommend Liang Jin to be the battalion commander?
What is Liu Shuxun up to?
Is it genuine appreciation?

Or is it a case of praising someone to death?

Or perhaps... he's being sarcastic, just making an empty promise?
But everyone felt that it was probably the latter.

Within the Imperial Guard, senior officers were generally amiable towards ordinary soldiers. If an ordinary soldier made a mistake, a senior officer would not directly punish the soldier, but would instead punish a mid-level officer to ensure the soldier was punished.

Liang Jin and Liu Shuxun are now several levels apart.

If Liu Shuxun didn't want to lose face, then there was really no need for him to speak ill of Liang Jin to his face.

After all, Liang Jin dared to openly and angrily confront the previous Xi Rong, so he obviously wouldn't care about a new battalion commander.

With the power he wielded, Liu Shuxun had countless methods to deal with a mere banner commander.

At this time.

Liang Jin bowed slightly, his tone calm and even:
"Thank you for your appreciation, sir."

He showed no sign of excitement.

Clearly, he didn't believe that a new battalion would promote him several ranks in succession.

Furthermore, Liu Shuxun also stated that it was merely a "recommendation" to higher authorities, and that such a recommendation would not be approved by those above.

Promoting someone who is insubordinate will only encourage others to follow suit, leading to difficulties in military management.

Liu Shuxun seemed quite satisfied with Liang Jin's reaction, stopped looking at him, and turned to the crowd, saying loudly:
"Tomorrow is a day of rest. I have prepared a small feast at Ya Yun Xuan and invite all my colleagues to gather together."

"Firstly, I'm new here and need to get to know everyone; secondly, we'll be working together in the future, and I'll need your help. I sincerely hope you'll grace us with your presence!"

The banquet held when a new official takes office is an important occasion for building relationships and observing subordinates.

Everyone knew the truth and bowed in agreement.
"Thank you, sir! We will certainly attend the banquet on time!"

Just as this harmonious and pleasant atmosphere was about to be established.

A calm yet exceptionally clear voice rang out, like a pebble thrown into a still lake:
"I am deeply grateful for your kindness, sir."

"However, I do have an urgent personal matter to attend to tomorrow and am unable to attend the banquet. I hope you will understand."

It's Liang Jin!
Inside the large tent, you could hear a pin drop!
Even the sound of breathing has disappeared!

All eyes were fixed on Liang Jin, a mixture of shock, confusion, disdain, and schadenfreude.

Awesome!
That's fucking awesome!
Almost everyone had the same thought in their minds—this Liang Jin truly deserves to be called the number one troublemaker in the Imperial Guard!

They even dared to turn their backs on the welcoming banquet for the new battalion commander!
When a new official takes office, he hosts a banquet to celebrate harmony and happiness among his subordinates.

In this situation, no normal person would refuse.

Liang Jin not only refused, but he refused in front of everyone, showing no respect for Shangguan whatsoever!
Is this because they think they have too long a life?

Wu Huan was so anxious that sweat beaded on his forehead. He desperately tried to signal to Liang Jin with his eyes, but the latter ignored him.

In Liang Jin's eyes, this military camp was merely a temporary refuge for him, and he had no intention of climbing the ranks or currying favor here.

With his current strength at the mid-stage of the third rank, if a mere battalion commander dared to deliberately make things difficult for him, he would simply kill him; why bother with pretense?

Under these circumstances, Liang Jin naturally did not need to flatter or fawn over anyone in the Imperial Guard.

His time is incredibly precious; how could he waste it on such meaningless social obligations?
Everyone laughed at him for being naive and courting death.

He laughed at the crowd for their petty scheming and inability to see through the vanity of worldly fame.

Liu Shuxun's smile froze for a moment, but it was quickly masked by his refined demeanor.

He chuckled, his tone still gentle, even showing some understanding:

"Oh? Is there some urgent personal matter? No problem, no problem."

"It is rare for the Imperial Guards to have a day off, so Commander Liang should prioritize his personal matters."

"If you don't want to come to this banquet, then you don't have to."

He waved his hand, as if he didn't care at all.

"Thank you for your consideration."

Liang Jin cupped his hands in greeting.

Everyone sneered in their hearts.

Showing sympathy? More likely, she's holding a grudge!

Liang Jin's death is imminent!
"Alright, everyone, go and rest now."

Liu Shuxun regained his composure, his gaze sweeping over everyone before finally settling on Liang Jin:

"General Manager Liang, please wait a moment."

Everyone felt as if they had been granted a pardon and quickly took their leave with mixed feelings.

Inside the large tent, only Liu Shuxun and Liang Jin remained.

The atmosphere became somewhat awkward.

Liu Shuxun strolled back to the main seat and sat down, picked up his teacup, and gently skimmed off the foam with the lid, seemingly asking casually:
"Commander Liang, I've heard that Prince Zhao Yu of Huaiyang... has been under your supervision?"

Liang Jin's heart stirred slightly, but his face remained expressionless:
"Your Excellency, it is precisely my duty."

Liu Shuxun put down his teacup, looked up at Liang Jin, and wore a meaningful smile:

"His Highness the Prince of Huaiyang is, after all, a member of the imperial family with a noble status."

“In the past, the camp may have been somewhat negligent and careless in terms of etiquette.”

He paused, and his tone became serious:
"But now that I am in charge of the Willow Camp, this situation must not continue!"

He leaned forward slightly, his gaze fixed intently on Liang Jin:

"Commander Liang, now that you have taken on this responsibility, from now on, for any matter involving the Prince, regardless of who or what needs to be moved from the camp, you may report directly to me!"

"We must... make sure the Prince is comfortable and doesn't suffer the slightest grievance!"

Liang Jin met Liu Shuxun's gaze and instantly understood.

This is hardly concern for the prince.

This is clearly an olive branch extended by Liu Shuxun, or rather, the Tai Xuan Liu family behind him, to the imprisoned prince!

This is a signal of political alignment!

It seems that Zhao Yu's backers have been quite active lately and have achieved some results.

With the emperor critically ill and the succession undecided, various factions are secretly placing their bets.

Previously, the Imperial Guards were extremely cautious and sensitive in handling matters concerning Prince Zhao Yu of Huaiyang.

However, with the emperor now seriously ill, it is clear that the Imperial Guards' attitude towards the Prince of Huaiyang has changed.

"Yes! I understand!"

Liang Jin responded in a deep voice, his tone carrying a hint of unspoken understanding.

That's perfect. From now on, Liang Jin won't have to sneak around bringing food and drinks to Zhao Yu anymore.

Liu Shuxun nodded in satisfaction, his gentle smile returning to his face, and waved his hand.
"Go."

Liang Jin bowed and strode out of the tent.

Outside the tent, dusk had fallen, and the lights in the military camp began to twinkle one by one.

The night was like a huge, black pot, slowly being turned upside down on the ground.

Liang Jin looked into the distance and sighed softly in his heart.

I wonder if Zhao Bao's assassination attempt on the Prince of Jian'an tonight went smoothly...
at this time.

Suddenly, a thought struck Liang Jin, and a strange expression appeared on his face:

"what?"

"You actually want me to kill myself?"

He had already sensed that Wang Huaishuang from the Investigation Bureau had actually approached his clone at Qingyi Tower and offered a reward.

He demanded that Meng Xinghun, the clone of Qingyi Tower, kill his clone of Daxianliangshi in Taiping Dao!

(End of this chapter)