Liver into a martial arts legend: starting with Embroidered Spring Blade

Chapter 110: A Counter-Espionage Strategy, The Struggle for the Position of Chief Eunuch of the Eastern Depot! [10,000 words, please subscribe to all chapters]

The next day.

Jinyiwei Yamen.

Jiang Xuan sat quietly behind his desk, reviewing official documents.

"Master!" Lin Pingzhi walked in from outside.

Jiang Xuan didn't look up, but casually asked, "Has everything been investigated?"

Lin Pingzhi shook his head: "The 'travel permits' they have are probably fake, and their true origin cannot be found. However, we did find a lot of large-denomination silver notes issued by Wanbao Bank, totaling several million taels!"

As Lin Pingzhi spoke, he stepped forward and handed over a stack of silver notes, which read "Wanbao Money Shop" and the amount of the notes, the smallest being ten thousand taels.

Most money shops only had a maximum denomination of one thousand taels.

However, Wanbao Money House was an exception. The largest denomination it issued was even one million taels, and each large denomination banknote had a special mark that made it impossible for anyone to counterfeit.

Because behind this Wanbao Money Shop was Wan Sanqian, the richest man in the Ming Dynasty, whose wealth was comparable to that of a country.

Jiang Xuan glanced at the silver notes and nodded slightly.

This time it wasn't entirely fruitless.

"If we can't find it, let's leave it at that. Just be more careful in the future."

The 'Red Shoes' is a mysterious organization that has never appeared in the martial arts world, making it extremely difficult to thoroughly investigate.

Having memories of his past life, he knew about its leaders, such as Gongsun Da Niang and Ouyang Qing, but he couldn't possibly remember everything about the organization clearly.

But now that the biggest threat, Granny Gongsun, is dead, even if the 'Red Shoes' group and others are still alive, they can't cause much trouble anymore.

Jiang Xuan didn't take it too seriously.

Moreover, if the remaining people still want to avenge Gongsun Da Niang, they will eventually step forward.

If we pay more attention in the future, we might have a chance to catch them all in one fell swoop and eliminate this future threat.

"Yes!" Lin Pingzhi nodded respectfully.

stomping on...

Just then, a series of hurried footsteps approached, and a captain rushed in to report: "Reporting to the Commander, someone from the palace has arrived, saying that the Emperor summons you to the palace for an audience!"

Jiang Xuan paused, then frowned.

Such a trivial matter, how could it reach the ears of the emperor?
"I see."

Jiang Xuan waved his hand, then stood up, took out a million-tael note from the banknotes, and handed the rest to Lin Pingzhi: "Keep it."

Lin Pingzhi stuffed the silver notes into his pocket and asked, "Master, did the Emperor summon you because of what happened last night?"

"Maybe, we'll see when we get there."

Jiang Xuan nodded and said, "If Li Yanbei comes, have him wait at the yamen."

"Yes!"

Lin Pingzhi saw him off at the door.

But as soon as they reached the door, they saw Li Yanbei coming towards them, followed by two servants, each carrying a gift box.

"grown ups!"

Seeing Jiang Xuan leave, Li Yanbei was also stunned for a moment, then quickly stepped forward and bowed respectfully.

Jiang Xuan nodded slightly and said, "I have something to do at the palace. You can wait here at the yamen."

"Yes, yes! Please go ahead with your work, sir!"

Li Yanbei nodded repeatedly.

"Chief Li, come with me!"

Lin Pingzhi glanced at him, then turned and went inside.

"Yes, thank you for your trouble!"

Li Yanbei quickly followed.

……

Qianqing Palace.

Zhu Youjian sat wearily on the dragon throne, while Wang Chengen stood behind him, gently massaging his head to relieve his fatigue.

Before the eunuch faction issue could be resolved, a mutiny suddenly broke out in Ningyuan, followed by a sudden attack on Jinzhou by the Manchu Tartars. Although the situation was temporarily stabilized, it caused Zhu Youjian great trouble.

In addition, there were bandits from the northwest entering the country and a civil uprising occurring in Shandong.

These momentous events, each capable of shaking the very foundations of the nation, occurred almost simultaneously.

In addition, the recent large-scale purge of the eunuch faction has caused widespread panic both inside and outside the court.

If not handled properly, the entire Ming Dynasty could be in danger of collapse.

How could Zhu Youjian not be anxious?
These past two days, the court has been embroiled in heated debate over the issue of sending troops.

However, the selection of a commander has yet to be finalized.

"call……"

After a long while, Chief Prosecutor Zhu You sighed and waved his hand.

Wang Chengen understood and stepped aside, handing the teacup to Zhu Youjian.

Zhu Youjian took a sip, sighed deeply, and said, "Wang Chengen, today all the ministers in the court have submitted memorials requesting that I reinstate Yuan Chonghuan to lead troops to Liaodong to supervise the defense against the Qing army. Do you think I can trust him?"

Wang Chengen hesitated for a moment, then shook his head and said, "Your Majesty, this is a matter of great military and political importance. This servant dares not speak presumptuously. Your Majesty should make the decision."

Zhu Youjian frowned: "You dog of a servant, when did you learn to be so cunning?"

Wang Chengen said in a panic, "This servant dares not."

"That's it!"

Zhu Youjian waved his hand helplessly and changed the subject, asking, "Has the matter from last night been investigated? Minister Han of the Cabinet submitted a memorial impeaching Jiang Xuan, accusing him of abusing his power, arbitrarily mobilizing troops to disturb the people, and colluding with underground gangs in the capital. What exactly happened?"

Wang Chengen whispered, "According to the eunuchs in the palace, it seems that Lord Jiang ordered three underground forces in the capital to conduct a city-wide manhunt for an assassin organization called 'Red Shoes.' I don't know the specifics."

Zhu Youjian frowned: "Such a big matter and you didn't even report it to me? When he comes, I'll have to give him a good talking to!"

“Your Majesty is right,” Wang Chengen echoed.

"Your Majesty, Commander Jiang of the Embroidered Uniform Guard requests an audience!"

At this moment, a young eunuch came in to report.

"Let him in!" Zhu Youjian waved his hand.

"Yes!"

The young eunuch left.

Soon, Jiang Xuan, dressed in a bright yellow flying fish robe, strode in and solemnly cupped his hands: "Your subject Jiang Xuan pays respects to Your Majesty!"

Zhu Youjian narrowed his eyes, picked up a memorial from the table and pushed it in front of him, saying, "Governor Jiang, this is the impeachment memorial that the cabinet presented to me this morning. Shouldn't you give me a reasonable explanation?"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Xuan knew it was indeed because of the bandit suppression last night.

He did not take the memorial, but cupped his hands and said, "Your Majesty, there is a reason for this matter, and I have not yet had time to report it to Your Majesty."

"Oh? Tell me then, what exactly happened?"

Zhu Youjian asked, "And what about this 'Red Shoes' organization? What is its origin? How could it cause you, the newly appointed commander, to make such a fuss?"

Jiang Xuan said, "Your Majesty, this matter occurred the night before last."

"The night before last, on my way home from duty, I was suddenly attacked by assassins. Afterwards, I secretly investigated and discovered that this matter was related to the assassination of Wei Zhongxian on behalf of the Emperor in Fucheng County half a month ago..."

"what?"

Zhu Youjian frowned: "Is that so?"

"You mean this 'Red Shoes' organization was Wei Zhongxian's men, and they assassinated you because you killed Wei Zhongxian for me?"

"That's right, Your Majesty guessed correctly."

Jiang Xuan nodded: "After some investigation, I have finally confirmed that this assassin organization is a member of the eunuch faction serving Wei Zhongxian. That is why I sent people to arrest them overnight."

"After my deployment, all the assassins were killed last night. I was originally planning to go to the palace today to report to His Majesty, but I did not expect that His Majesty has already been alarmed."

As he spoke, Jiang Xuan bowed and said, "This matter was decided on my own initiative and I failed to inform Your Majesty in advance. Please forgive me, Your Majesty."

"I see."

Zhu Youjian's expression softened slightly, and he waved his hand, saying, "Since it was caused by Wei Zhongxian, this matter is understandable. Moreover, you are the victim in this matter, and I have wronged you."

"I serve Your Majesty with all my heart, even unto death!"

As Jiang Xuan spoke, he took out the million-tael silver note from his pocket and presented it to Zhu Youjian with both hands: "This is a million-tael silver note from Wanbao Bank that was found on the assassin. Please accept it, Your Majesty."

"Ah this..."

Zhu Youjian's eyes lit up, almost turning into gold ingots. He glanced up at the door, then subtly took the silver note, coughed lightly, and said, "You're very kind, my dear minister."

"Your Majesty flatters me. This is merely the duty of a subject," Jiang Xuan said solemnly.

Zhu Youjian was now a little embarrassed.

The purpose of summoning Jiang Xuan to the palace was originally to give him a warning, but it turned out to be a misunderstanding.

Jiang Xuan was assassinated because he was doing something for him.

Even according to the laws of the Ming Dynasty, assassinating a third-rank official was a capital offense.

Jiang Xuan's decision to send men to capture and suppress the assassin was in accordance with the law.

The only problem was that he didn't report it in advance, which alarmed the court officials and led to his impeachment.

But not only did the man sincerely confess his guilt, he also handed over a silver note worth a million taels of silver. How could he possibly reprimand him?

At this moment, Zhu Youjian not only abandoned his intention to reprimand Jiang Xuan, but even wanted to reward him. However, he couldn't think of anything else to reward him with, so he could only subconsciously ask with concern: "Um... my dear minister, were you not injured anywhere after being assassinated?"

"It's just a minor injury, nothing to worry about. Your Majesty is very grateful for your concern."

"It's okay."

Zhu Youjian said something, and the atmosphere became somewhat awkward again.

Seeing that neither of them spoke, Wang Chengen stepped forward to smooth things over, saying, "The Emperor is right. This Lord Han is also wrong. He didn't even investigate the matter properly before submitting a memorial to impeach Lord Jiang. It's really inappropriate."

Zhu Youjian quickly replied, "Wang Chengen is right. I will definitely question Grand Secretary Han about this matter and clear your name."

Han University Scholar?

Han Kuang, the newly appointed Grand Secretary?
Jiang Xuan narrowed his eyes slightly, secretly noting the matter down, but his face remained expressionless. He cupped his hands and said, "As long as I can serve Your Majesty, it is nothing but a little grievance. I will not take it to heart."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Youjian felt even more guilty.

Suddenly, as if he had thought of something, he looked at Jiang Xuan and said, "I heard from Wang Chengen that you came from a poor family. Now that you have been promoted to commander, how can you continue to live in that dilapidated place in the south of the city? That place is not only unsafe, but also unbecoming of your status."

"Perfect timing. Now that you have eliminated Wei Zhongxian for me, his mansion in the east of the city will be vacant. I will bestow it upon you."

Jiang Xuan's eyes brightened slightly, and he quickly thanked the emperor, saying, "Your Majesty, I thank you very much."

Wei Zhongxian's mansion was located in the most prosperous area of ​​Dongcheng District, and it was also in the inner city area.

That place is incredibly valuable, and it's inhabited by high-ranking officials and nobles; even if you have money, you might not be able to buy a place there.

Although he can now afford a larger house, he can't explain the source of his income, and even if he has money, he doesn't dare to use it to buy a house.

So even after being promoted for so long, he could only squeeze into a small courtyard in the south of the city with his two apprentices.

Zhu Youjian's reward just solved his immediate problem.

It was truly worth it for me to offer one million taels of silver...

Zhu Youjian nodded with a smile: "I'm glad you like it, my dear minister."

At this moment, Zhu Youjian's eyes flickered, and he asked, "You must have heard about the recent mutiny in Liaodong and the internal strife in the Northwest and Shandong, right?"

"Yes, Your Majesty, I have heard of it."

Jiang Xuan immediately became alert. Was he being asked to go and suppress the bandits?

Zhu Youjian sighed and said, "Today, the ministers in the court advised me to reinstate Yuan Chonghuan and appoint him as the commander of Liaodong to resist the Qing army."

"But Yuan Chonghuan was also a member of the eunuch faction back then, and he even wrote a memorial to build a shrine for Wei Zhongxian. I don't know whether I can trust him."

"My dear minister, you have recently eliminated many eunuchs for me. In your opinion, can I trust Yuan Chonghuan?"

Jiang Xuan was immediately relieved and casually said, "This is a matter of great military and political importance, and I dare not speak presumptuously."

"It's alright, just give your opinion. Even if you're wrong, I will forgive you," Zhu Youjian said, waving his hand.

"This……"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Xuan hesitated for a moment before saying, "Then I will dare to offer my advice."

Zhu Youjian nodded.

Jiang Xuan thought for a moment and said, "I believe that Yuan Chonghuan is a trustworthy person."

"Oh? You think so too?"

Zhu Youjian frowned: "Tell me your reasons."

"Yes."

Jiang Xuan nodded: "Back when Wei Zhongxian was in power, he controlled the military and political power. Although the eunuch faction was greedy and insatiable, very few people dared to covet the border military funds."

"Back then, Yuan Chonghuan also sided with the eunuch faction because of the issue of military pay, and petitioned to build a shrine for Wei Zhongxian."

"But in essence, they were also loyal to the emperor and the Ming Dynasty."

"Moreover, this man was a skilled and capable warrior. During his time in Liaodong, he repeatedly repelled Qing invasions and was familiar with the Qing army's tactics."

"Sending them to Liaodong to resist the Qing army would give us a great chance of defeating them and defending Jinzhou."

Zhu Youjian frowned and pondered.

"but……"

Jiang Xuan changed the subject, saying, "Although this person is talented, he is arrogant and stubborn. If Your Majesty wishes to employ him, you should make sure he has some constraints."

"Oh?"

Zhu Youjian's eyes flickered: "Then what suggestions do you have, my dear minister?"

Jiang Xuan thought for a moment and said, "Since Your Majesty wishes to reinstate Yuan Chonghuan, why not also appoint another Liaodong commander?"

"What are you referring to, my dear minister?" Zhu Youjian's eyes narrowed slightly.

"Sun Chengzong".

Jiang Xuan stated frankly: "During the period when Sun Chengzong was in charge of Liaodong, he also repeatedly defeated the Qing army. He also worked with Yuan Chonghuan and others to oversee the construction of the Guan-Ning-Jin defense line, which blocked the Qing army outside Jinzhou City and they were unable to conquer it despite repeated attacks."

"Compared to Yuan Chonghuan, Sun Chengzong is more composed. If Sun Chengzong is appointed as the commander of Liaodong and Yuan Chonghuan as his deputy, the situation in Liaodong will surely be stabilized."

Hearing Jiang Xuan's words, Zhu Youjian's eyes showed some interest, and he began to carefully consider whether this move was feasible.

Jiang Xuan stopped there and said no more.

His suggestions were all based on the history of the Ming Dynasty.

Yuan Chonghuan was indeed a capable man; if he hadn't died, the Ming Dynasty wouldn't have fallen so quickly.

However, his personality flaws are also quite obvious.

Arrogant and self-important, stubborn and headstrong.

When he was in charge of the Liaodong campaign, he dared to kill the general Mao Wenlong without authorization, and even shamelessly proposed a plan to "pacify Liaodong in five years". The result was predictable.

Ultimately, his strategy failed, and he was killed by Emperor Chongzhen through a counter-espionage plot by Huang Taiji, and executed by slow slicing.

As for Sun Chengzong, although he resigned after the defeat at Liuhe, his contributions to the Ming Dynasty were also extremely significant.

His military capabilities were in no way inferior to Yuan Chonghuan's. It was precisely because of the Guan-Ning-Jin defense line that he oversaw its repair that the Ming Dynasty was able to resist the Qing army outside Jinzhou City for years during the reign of the eunuch faction, preventing the Qing army from conquering it.

Moreover, he has a more composed personality and knows how to act and retreat appropriately.

With him as the main force and Yuan Chonghuan as the assistant, there would definitely be no problem in guarding Liaodong.

Whether or not Zhu Youjian listens to advice depends on his own thoughts.

After a long period of silence.

Chief Inspector Zhu sighed and did not bring up the matter again, presumably because he already had a solution in mind. He then asked about another matter: "As for the banditry in the Northwest and the peasant uprising in Shandong, do you have any suitable candidates to recommend?"

You're even addicted to asking questions, aren't you?
Jiang Xuan was somewhat helpless, but after thinking for a moment, he still gave his suggestion: "If Your Majesty has no other suitable candidates, you may consider Qin Liangyu and Lu Xiangshan."

Qin Liangyu, the strongest female general of the Ming Dynasty; Lu Xiangshan, the founder of the strongest militia in the late Ming Dynasty, the "Tianxiong Army," were both first-rate generals.

"I know Qin Liangyu, the Pacification Commissioner of Shizhu."

Zhu Youjian frowned: "And what is the background of this Lu Xiang-sheng?"

Wang Chengen quickly stepped forward and whispered, "Your Majesty, if I remember correctly, this Lu Xiang-sheng is the prefect of Daming Prefecture."

Prefect?

Zhu Youjian nodded slightly, unsure of what to choose. He nodded to Jiang Xuan and said, "I appreciate your advice, my dear minister. I will consider what you have said."

"This is my duty," Jiang Xuan said, bowing.

"Oh, right, there's one more thing."

Zhu Youjian said, "Now that Wei Zhongxian is dead, I want to reactivate the Eastern Depot. The three heads of the Eastern Depot have all reported to me that Cui Yingyuan and others were plotting a rebellion, and have expressed their desire to take charge of the Eastern Depot."

"My Imperial Uncle, the Iron-Blooded Marquis, has advised me to recommend Liu Xi, the Third-in-Command of the Eastern Depot. However, Cao Zhengchun has also recommended himself. My dear minister, which of these people do you think is more suitable to lead the Eastern Depot for me?"

Iron-Blooded Marquis recommends Liu Xi?

Jiang Xuan frowned, then said, "I believe that Eunuch Cao is more suitable."

Although Cao Zhengchun also had ambitions, he was still easier to control than the Iron-Blooded Marquis.

Although he didn't know the relationship between Liu Xi and Zhu Wushi, since Zhu Wushi had recommended him, he certainly wouldn't recommend him.

Zhu Youjian nodded slightly: "I also think that it would be more appropriate for Eunuch Cao to take charge of the Eastern Depot for me. Right now, all the people in the Eastern Depot were promoted by Wei Zhongxian, and I dare not use them."

"Your Majesty..." Wang Chengen was somewhat anxious, but after being met with Zhu Youjian's cold gaze, he immediately dared not speak further.

Zhu Youjian looked at Jiang Xuan and asked, "Does my dear minister have a way to resolve this matter?"

"What does Your Majesty mean?" Jiang Xuan's eyes flickered slightly.

Zhu Youjian made no attempt to conceal his murderous intent, a glint of killing intent flashing in his eyes, and said, "I want to thoroughly clean up the Eastern Depot from top to bottom!"

“But after Wei Zhongxian died, I said that only the ringleaders would be punished and the accomplices would not be questioned. Moreover, enough people in the eunuch faction have died recently, and the court is in a state of panic.”

"If I continue to crack down on the eunuch faction, it will inevitably provoke a backlash from other eunuch factions, which is not the outcome I want."

"Does my esteemed minister have a way to deal with them?"

Jiang Xuan smiled and said, "It's simple, just let them kill each other."

Zhu Youjian's eyes lit up, and he quickly asked, "What do you mean, my dear minister?"

Jiang Xuan said, "The Emperor only needs to release some information that the new head of the Eastern Depot will be selected from among the heads of various departments, and they will naturally know what to do."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Youjian's eyes grew brighter and brighter: "That's a good idea. Let them kill each other first. No matter who survives to the end, I can use the pretext of causing trouble for the Eastern Depot to convict them. In this way, I can eliminate these remnants without bloodshed!"

"My dear minister, your plan is excellent! You truly deserve to be called a pillar of the nation!"

Zhu Youjian was lavish in his praise. Jiang Xuan humbly bowed and said, "Your Majesty flatters me."

Zhu Youjian smiled and said, "Then I will trouble you with this matter. No matter how much trouble they cause, the scope can only be controlled within the Eastern Depot. If you feel the time is right, you may take action yourself. I grant you permission to act as you see fit."

"Yes," Jiang Xuan replied, bowing.

After he left, Zhu Youjian's smile gradually faded, and he said indifferently, "Wang Chengen, I'm sending Cao Zhengchun to take control of the Eastern Depot. Do you have any objections?"

"This servant wouldn't dare," Wang Chengen said in a low voice.

"You may not dare to say it, but I'm afraid you're already complaining about me in your heart, aren't you?" Zhu Youjian snorted lightly.

"I deserve to die ten thousand times!" Wang Chengen trembled and lowered his head without saying a word.

"Ugh……"

Zhu Youjian sighed and said, "I know your ambition, but to take charge of the Eastern Depot, you must have enough military force to suppress dissent, so that you can monitor the world for me."

"What I urgently need now is to have my own eyes."

"The Embroidered Uniform Guard alone is far from enough."

"Moreover, I need the Eastern Depot and the Embroidered Uniform Guard to check and balance each other in order to better control these two intelligence networks. If I send you to take charge of the Eastern Depot, you will not be able to control Jiang Xuan."

"I hope you can understand my good intentions."

Wang Chengen's heart trembled slightly, and he said, "Yes, this servant understands. From now on, this servant will devote himself to serving the Emperor and will never think about seizing power again."

"Ah."

Zhu Youjian nodded in satisfaction: "That's perfect. You've served me for so many years, I've gotten used to it. If I really let you go, I won't be able to adjust."

"Yes, Your Majesty, this servant will certainly serve you well."

Zhu Youjian nodded, then reconsidered the matter of sending troops.

"Sun Chengzong, Yuan Chonghuan..."

Zhu Youjian's eyes shifted as he murmured softly.

After a long while, his gaze settled, indicating that he had made up his mind.

……

"Commander, you're back!"

Upon seeing Jiang Xuan return, the guards at the Imperial Guard headquarters immediately bowed.

"Ah."

Jiang Xuan nodded slightly and asked, "Is Li Yanbei still there?"

"Reporting to the Commander, he is still here. He has been waiting for the Commander," a strongman replied respectfully.

Jiang Xuan nodded and walked straight in.

Along the way, everyone he encountered bowed and addressed him as "Governor".

These past two days, someone has been spreading the rumor that the new commander doesn't like being called "Sir." Although it's unclear whether it's true or not, everyone has tacitly changed how they address him.

Jiang Xuan didn't take it seriously and walked straight into the main hall of the yamen. He saw Li Yanbei sitting on a chair waiting anxiously, while Lin Pingzhi was entertaining him.

Upon seeing Jiang Xuan enter, the two immediately stood up and stepped forward to bow:

"Captain!"

"grown ups!"

Jiang Xuan nodded and walked straight to the head seat to take his seat.

Li Yanbei waved his hand gently, and two servants behind him quickly carried the gift box to the table in front of Jiang Xuan. Li Yanbei stepped forward and opened it himself, saying respectfully, "This is a small token of my appreciation. Please accept it, sir."

Jiang Xuan glanced at it casually.

There was a box filled with silver notes, all of them worth one thousand taels. The total value of the silver notes in this gift box was at least one hundred thousand taels.

The other box contained several tonics such as ginseng and deer antler, which looked to be quite old and were all highly beneficial to martial arts practitioners.

Jiang Xuan nodded slightly: "Chief Li is very kind."

"I'm glad you like it, sir." Li Yanbei was overjoyed and quickly replied.

Then, she stared longingly at Jiang Xuan.

Although he didn't speak, Jiang Xuan understood what he meant.

After a moment's thought, Jiang Xuan said, "When I went to the palace to pay my respects just now, the matter from last night was reported to the Emperor. Although the Emperor didn't say anything, it's not appropriate to continue with any major conflict at this time."

Li Yanbei's expression changed slightly: "Then what does Your Excellency mean..."

Jiang Xuan said calmly, "Today, the Emperor bestowed upon me a house in the East District. From now on, all the underground businesses in the East District will be yours."

“I’m in charge of begging, and you probably don’t care about his line of work, so there won’t be any conflict between us.”

Li Yanbei looked somewhat troubled and said in a low voice, "My lord, you are unaware that the lowest-class businesses in the East District are the most lucrative. Therefore, the businesses here are basically controlled secretly by the major families of the capital and the ministers of the court. If I were to try to sneak in from the West District, I'm afraid..."

"I'll take responsibility, what are you afraid of?"

Jiang Xuan glanced at him: "Just do it. Whether you can win it or not depends entirely on your own ability. I will help you deal with any troubles on the official side."

Upon hearing this, Li Yanbei's expression changed several times, then he gritted his teeth and said, "Yes, I will certainly live up to your expectations!"

"Go."

Jiang Xuan waved his hand.

Li Yanbei bowed respectfully, took his leave, and departed.

"Master."

Lin Pingzhi stepped forward and whispered, "Master, the reason you didn't let him touch Du Tongxuan in the south of the city is because you didn't want him to become too powerful and wanted the two of them to check and balance each other, right?"

Jiang Xuan glanced at him in surprise, then said approvingly, "It seems you've made quite a bit of progress lately."

"Indeed, that's exactly what I intended, but it's not just that!"

This morning, someone surnamed Han impeached him; this matter is probably not as simple as it seems on the surface.

Han Kuang was previously just an ordinary cabinet minister and a non-partisan member.

It was not until Zhu Youjian came to power that he was promoted to Grand Secretary.

However, the fact that he has managed to remain in power for so many years without being affiliated with any political party must mean he has some unique qualities.

Coincidentally, Han Kuang also lived in Dongcheng District.

He might have a share in the underground businesses of Dongcheng District.

Yesterday, he summoned underground forces from the three major urban districts to help him find someone, causing quite a stir.

Han Kuang impeached him, probably because he was worried that Han Kuang would take the opportunity to subdue the underground forces in the three major districts and then take action against the underground forces in the East District, thus affecting his own interests.

Otherwise, why would such a trivial matter warrant a Grand Secretary personally writing a letter of impeachment, especially since I haven't offended him?
That being the case.

Then you can't blame me.

The more you try to stop me from taking action against the Dongcheng District's influence, the more I'll show you!
Anyway, I didn't directly get involved in this matter.

What does the fighting between the underground forces of the two districts have to do with me, the commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard?
At most, I'll just take people to deal with it after it happens. Do you think I can control whether others take action or not?

Of course, if the other party uses official means to deal with Li Yanbei, then don't blame me for doing the same.

As a commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard with real power, do you think I'm afraid of a few mere civil officials?
Moreover, he has no weaknesses that these people can exploit, no family power that they can target, and he is not afraid of offending them.

As members of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, they should have kept their distance from civil and military officials.

His opposition to these civil and military officials actually made Zhu Youjian feel more at ease.

These matters have all been carefully considered.

Now that his position is secure, it's time for him to take control of a force in the capital.

Although this force is underground, it operates openly. 'Youming' is not suitable to do such public things; only Li Yanbei is the most suitable.

This way, he and Du Tongxuan in the south of the city can check and balance each other, and there's no need to worry about him causing any uncontrollable trouble once he becomes too powerful.

These words were not explicitly stated, but Li Yanbei was a smart man, and he naturally understood his own thoughts.

If one day I really develop ambitions and want to break free from my control...

Jiang Xuan wouldn't mind changing the person in charge.

Now, he is the undisputed ruler of the underground forces in the capital.

……

Three days later, a light drizzle began to fall.

Jiang Xuan stood at the gate of the courtyard, gazing at the sky, and frowned: "Wasn't today supposed to be an auspicious day for moving? Is this really good weather?"

"Master, everything is ready!" Lin Pingzhi came over to report.

There weren't any valuables in the house, and Jiang Xuan didn't plan to sell the courtyard, so apart from a few clothes and a few boxes of gold and silver treasures, there was nothing else he needed to take.

Jiang Xuan only sent two of his disciples to help, found a carriage, and casually consulted a fortune teller to calculate an auspicious date. He then prepared to move directly to the East District.

But it seems that the fortune teller was only half-baked; he could even get the weather forecast wrong.

Everything's already packed up; there's no way we can not move it now.

Jiang Xuan shook his head and said, "Let's go."

Locking the gate, Jiang Xuan looked at the dilapidated little courtyard where he had lived for many years and felt a pang of melancholy.

Although I haven't started a family yet, I've been in this world for so long, met so many people, and worked hard and cautiously for the past two years. Now I feel like I have a sense of belonging.

Jiang Xuan let out a long breath, turned around and walked out of the alley. Cheng Shifei was already waiting at the alley entrance in his car.

Jiang Xuan led Lin Pingzhi onto the carriage and instructed, "Let's go."

Soon, the carriage entered the East District and arrived at the new house.

As soon as he entered, Cheng Shifei couldn't help but exclaim, "Wow, it's huge!"

“It really is huge!” Lin Pingzhi nodded in agreement.

Although he had once been from a wealthy family, his house was still far inferior to the mansion before him.

The house is T-shaped, connecting to South Street in the east and Ju'er Hutong and Gulou East Street in the north and south respectively. It looks extremely spacious, with rows of houses neatly arranged, covering at least several tens of acres.

With such a size, it would not be crowded even if there were dozens or hundreds of retainers and maids, let alone three people living there.

The three of them walked into the central hall and couldn't help but sigh again.

This lobby alone is several times larger than the entire courtyard where they previously lived.

When Wei Zhongxian left, perhaps thinking he could return, he only took money and some valuables with him. The furniture and other items inside were all still there, which saved him a considerable expense.

"But cleaning such a big place is a difficult task!"

Jiang Xuan said helplessly, "It seems we still need to find some maids and retainers."

"No need to look anymore!"

Just then, a voice came from the side.

Jiang Xuan turned around and looked at them, somewhat surprised: "Why are you here?"

Three stunningly beautiful women, each with their own unique charm, walked gracefully towards them. They were none other than Xi Yu, Qiu Moyan, and Yang Huizhen.

"This courtyard is too big for you to live in by yourself. We'll help you find a room!"

Xi Yu remained expressionless and stepped forward, saying, "Leave the matter of finding maids and retainers to me as well. I'll definitely find some trustworthy ones for you."

Jiang Xuan nodded: "Wei Zhongxian is dead, so you don't need to worry about your identities anymore. You can stay here... What about Jin Xiangyu?"

Qiu Moyan scoffed, "She can't bear to part with her inn."

Jiang Xuan said seriously, "This place is not suitable as a 'Netherworld' stronghold. There are many spies nearby, and it would be easy to be exposed. The inn still needs to be kept. You should go and help her when you have time."

“I know,” Qiu Moyan nodded.

"Alright, then the task of tidying up the house is up to you. Choose whichever room you like," Jiang Xuan nodded.

"Great! I'll go choose first!" Cheng Shifei cheered and immediately ran to the backyard.

Jiang Xuan smiled, then turned around and found a clean room to begin practicing his skills.

Recently, apart from circulating his internal energy to transform true qi, he has spent the rest of his time practicing the 'Heavenly Net Step' movement technique and the sword technique 'Raging Sea Dragon'.

One of these two martial arts techniques enhances movement speed, while the other relates to the improvement of one's artistic conception; therefore, Jiang Xuan did not slack off.

As for the process of converting internal energy into true qi, based on the current conversion speed, it should be completed in as little as six months to as little as a few months.

Then, open up the upper dantian and enter the Grandmaster realm.

Then, you can try to go to the ninth level of the Heavenly Prison to obtain the Absorption Technique and the Vajra Indestructible Divine Skill.

He feared that if he went now, he would be killed by Gu Santong's palm before he could even open his mouth.

Gu Santong's strength was comparable to Zhu Wushi's.

Forcibly seizing property is absolutely unacceptable.

To acquire both divine skills, one still needs to rely on Cheng Shifei.

Secondly, one must at least have some ability to protect oneself.

……

East Factory.

More than half a month has passed since Wei Zhongxian was dismissed.

But for so long, the emperor seemed to have forgotten about the existence of the Eastern Depot, ignoring it completely.

Although the Eastern Depot's administrative affairs were under the leadership of various heads and supervisors, they were temporarily operating normally.

But even the emperor didn't care, and as time went on, everyone became somewhat uneasy.

But today, news suddenly spread from within the palace—

Recently, the Emperor intends to reactivate the Eastern Depot, and the Director of the Eastern Depot will be selected from among the various heads and supervisors of the Eastern Depot.

But the emperor is still considering who to choose.

This news sent shockwaves through the entire Eastern Depot.

"Great!"

Zhao Jingzhong's face lit up with excitement as he clenched his fist: "I knew it! The Emperor couldn't possibly kill us all; he needs manpower to do his job!"

"I am determined to obtain the position of Director of the Eastern Depot!"

The eunuch who was reporting the news whispered a reminder: "Chief, although the Emperor said he would select from within our Eastern Depot, he hasn't decided who to choose yet."

Zhao Jingzhong narrowed his eyes slightly and said, "Most of those supervisors, managers, and stewards are my people now. Who can compete with me?"

"That's not necessarily the case."

The young eunuch whispered, "Master, besides you, there are quite a few eunuchs siding with the second and third masters."

"Moreover, Eunuch Gu also controls the Black Riders, which are full of experts and should not be underestimated."

"Third-level Eunuch Liu has kept a low profile all these years, but when the Grand Eunuch was still alive, he commented that his martial arts skills were even better than those of you, the First-level Eunuch, and Eunuch Gu."

"If those two get up to something, you'd better be careful, boss..."

A cold glint flashed in Zhao Jingzhong's eyes, and he said coldly, "Then I'll strike first!"

"Once we get rid of those two, the rest of the fence-sitters will naturally know which side to choose!"

"At that time, the Emperor will have no choice but me!"

"But with your martial arts skills, sir, I'm afraid..." the young eunuch said with some worry.

Zhao Jingzhong narrowed his eyes slightly: "What? You think I'm no match for those two good-for-nothings?!"

The little eunuch's lips twitched slightly, and he quickly said, "How could this servant dare to have such thoughts? However, although you, my lord, are highly skilled in martial arts, there are still two of them. If you want to deal with them, you must act at the same time."

"Otherwise, if you deal with one, the other will inevitably become more cautious, and it won't be so easy to deal with them then."

"Moreover, what if another person takes advantage of the fact that you two are both injured and attacks you? Wouldn't that allow him to reap the benefits?"

Zhao Jingzhong pondered for a moment, then nodded and said, "What you said makes some sense. So what are your thoughts?"

"Father-in-law, why don't we seek outside help?"

The young eunuch suggested, "Find enough experts, set up a trap, invite the two of them, then take action and kill them in one fell swoop, and then pin the blame on them."

“Tell the Emperor that they were killing each other in their struggle for the position of Grand Eunuch, and that you, Your Excellency, went to stop them after learning of this, but in order to protect yourself, you accidentally killed them. In this way, Your Excellency can successfully escape and ascend to the throne of Grand Eunuch!”

"foreign aid?"

Zhao Jingzhong pondered for a moment, then nodded: "In your opinion, who should I find to deal with the two of them?"

"Jiang Xuan, Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard!"

The young eunuch's eyes flickered, and he whispered, "It is said that this person is highly skilled in martial arts and has already comprehended the legendary realm of martial arts. Even the Grand Eunuch was killed by him. Moreover, there are countless experts among the Embroidered Uniform Guards under his command. If we can persuade this person to help us, Your Excellency, you will surely be able to eliminate Gu Jinfu and Liu Xi in one fell swoop!"

"Most importantly, this person is already the commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, and there is no conflict of interest between him and you, Your Majesty. As long as you offer him money and benefits, he will definitely agree to help you!"

Jiang Xuan?

Mentioning this person, Zhao Jingzhong felt an instinctive sense of rejection, and a hint of disgust appeared in his eyes.

Last year, he was just a nobody who groveled before him, and it was only through Wei Zhongxian's favor that he was promoted to commander of a thousand households. Now, he has become the commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, a very important figure in the capital.

Now that he has to ask him for help, how could Zhao Jingzhong possibly agree?

The young eunuch noticed Zhao Jingzhong's concerns and whispered, "Your Excellency, we should prioritize the overall situation right now. In the entire capital, no one but him can deal with Gu Jinfu and Liu Xi. If we delay, it will be too late once the Emperor's decree is issued!"

Upon hearing this, Zhao Jingzhong took a deep breath, suppressing his displeasure, and nodded, saying, "Alright, then go to his residence and send a message inviting him to a gathering at Mingyue Tower tonight."

"Yes, father-in-law."

The young eunuch accepted the order and left.

But as soon as he stepped out the door, a look of disdain flashed in his eyes, and he muttered in a low voice, "You think you're worthy of competing with Eunuch Cao for the position of Supervisor? Idiot!"

……

"Yes, go back and tell Eunuch Zhao that I will be there on time tonight."

In the main hall, Jiang Xuan nodded, looked at the little eunuch who had delivered the message, and said calmly.

The young eunuch bowed respectfully and said, "Yes, thank you, sir. I will certainly report back truthfully."

Just as the eunuch left, a figure walked out from the side, none other than Cao Zhengchun.

Cao Zhengchun smiled and cupped his hands in greeting: "Lord Jiang, then I'll leave this matter to you."

“Our family has a special status, so it’s not convenient for us to get involved in this matter. Otherwise, they will definitely realize what’s going on, and it won’t be so easy to deal with them legitimately then.”

Jiang Xuan said calmly, "Your methods are truly remarkable. With just a few words, you made them fight amongst themselves and take control of the Eastern Depot without shedding a drop of blood."

"This is all thanks to Lord Jiang for giving the Emperor advice."

Cao Zhengchun chuckled and said, "Don't worry, Lord Jiang. Once this matter is over, I will take control of the Eastern Depot and will certainly present you with a great gift."

Jiang Xuan remained noncommittal: "Then I thank Eunuch Cao in advance."

(End of this chapter)