The Empress has abandoned me? I'll support a new emperor and destroy your kingdom!

The red-lacquered gates of the Princess Zhenguo's residence slowly closed, shutting out the various gazes that were still peering out from the street outside, as well as the invisible undercurrents.

Inside the door, a completely different scene unfolded.

The courtyard was swept clean, and a brand-new lantern bearing the inscription "Residence of the Princess Zhenguo" hung under the corridor. Servants walked briskly but in an orderly manner, and the air was filled with a new atmosphere, a mixture of the scent of ink, busyness, and a hint of excitement.

Inside the study, the charcoal fire was burning brightly.

Li Gang, Zhou Bo, Zhao Jianing, Pang Xiaopan, Yin Wujiu, Han Lie, and two young clerks selected from the "Listening Eyes" who were skilled in document writing, stood solemnly below the hall.

This was the first formal meeting of the core members of the Princess Zhenguo's residence.

Yun Jin had changed out of her court robes and was now dressed in a moon-white casual robe. She sat upright in the main seat, her gaze calmly sweeping over the faces below, some familiar and some still somewhat unfamiliar.

Li Gang was about fifty years old, with a lean face, three long strands of beard, and a peaceful yet dignified gaze.

Zhou Bo, still in his armor and covered in dust, had a look in his eyes that reflected both the fierceness he carried from the northern frontier and the caution of someone newly arrived in the capital.

Zhao Jianing is capable and reserved, with sharp eyes like an eagle.

Pang Xiaopan wore a smooth smile typical of businessmen, but her eyes gleamed with shrewdness.

Yin Wujiu stood with his hands at his sides, like the most inconspicuous shadow.

Han Lie could not hide his excitement and was eager to try.

"Everyone," Yun Jin began, her clear voice breaking the brief silence.

"From this day forward, we are in the same boat, sharing both glory and disgrace, and bound together by fate."

His Majesty's great favor in establishing our government and military headquarters has given us a door to serve our country, but it has also placed us in the eye of the storm.

Externally, the three princes were eyeing the country covetously, and court officials were attacking them; internally, everything needed to be rebuilt, and there were many complicated matters to attend to.

The road ahead is arduous, needless to say. However, we have already overcome the snowstorms of the northern frontier, the floods of the Yangtze and Huai River regions, and the open and covert attacks in the imperial court.

We gather here today to forge a path for the court, for the nation, and for ourselves, right here in the capital!

She spoke little, yet possessed an inspiring power. Everyone stood at attention, and in unison declared, "We are willing to serve Your Highness!"

"Chief Secretary Li." Yun Jin looked at Li Gang.

"Your humble servant is here." Li Gang stepped forward.

"You will be in charge of all official documents, etiquette, external communications, and performance evaluations of subordinates within the government."

You are a veteran official of two dynasties, familiar with the laws and regulations of the court. With you here, I feel at ease. In addition, since I am establishing my own government, I need to recruit talented people from all over the country.

You may draft a proclamation to recruit virtuous and capable individuals, regardless of their background, based solely on their talent. Anyone knowledgeable in classics, history, finance, law, or crafts can recommend themselves or others. You will oversee the initial selection, and then report to the Palace.

"Your humble servant obeys!" A hint of excitement flashed in Li Gang's eyes.

He had been disheartened, but now that he had been given this important task, he felt greatly appreciated.

"Commander Zhou, Commander Zhao," Yun Jin said, turning to Zhou Bo and Zhao Jianing.

"Your subordinate is here!" The two men clasped their hands in greeting.

"The Imperial Guard's Shence Battalion will be handed over to Commander Zhou. He must quickly familiarize himself with the battalion's affairs, gain command of the troops, and enforce discipline. I don't want a bunch of idle, ineffective soldiers; I want an elite force like the Northern Frontier Army—one that can be deployed and win!"

Yun Jin spoke solemnly, "Commander Zhao, the establishment of the Imperial Guard is of paramount importance. Secretary Pang will provide full support in terms of personnel, garrison location, equipment, and provisions. Remember, the Imperial Guard is my last resort, and also the face of the Princess's residence. Quality over quantity is key; every soldier must be reliable, well-equipped, and highly trained!"

"Your humble servant obeys! I will certainly not fail Your Highness's trust!"

Zhou Bo and Zhao Jianing responded in deep voices, their eyes blazing with fighting spirit.

Taking command of a battalion of the Imperial Guards in the capital and forming an independent personal guard is an opportunity and challenge that every military man dreams of.

"Secretary Pang, you are in charge of the household's finances, property management, and transactions with the outside world. I will also use my inspection tours to open doors for you with the Department of Revenue. Remember, increase revenue and reduce expenditure to solidify the foundation. The Princess's residence and many of our future actions will require financial support."

"I understand! I will do my best to manage Your Highness's finances well!" Pang Xiaopan bowed with a smile, but her tone was extremely serious.

"Mr. Yin." Yun Jin looked at Ye Xiao.

"Your subordinate is here." Yin Wujiu bowed slightly.

"The affairs of the Legal Affairs Bureau are more important in secret than in the open. You will be in charge of internal surveillance, intelligence gathering, and special matters. The reorganization of 'Diting' into 'Jing'an Division' needs to be expedited, and a network should be established in the capital and key prefectures as soon as possible. In particular, keep a close eye on the movements of the Third Prince's residence and several key figures in the court. In addition,"

She paused for a moment, then said, "I need to investigate a few cases at the Department of Revenue and Finance in the coming days. I need manpower to assist in the investigation and evidence collection. Please dispatch a few experts who are proficient in criminal law and accounting to be at your disposal."

"Yes, I will take care of it immediately," Yin Wujiu replied succinctly.

"Military Advisor Han,"

Yun Jin looked at Han Lie one last time and said, "The affairs of the Ministry of Works may seem complicated, but they are actually our future support."

Improving weaponry and developing new products are of paramount importance. You may set up a workshop in a secluded spot within the manor, recruit reliable craftsmen, and report the required materials and funds to Secretary Pang.

The "Armor-Piercing Crow Arrow" and "Thunderclap Bomb" need to be improved and stockpiled as soon as possible. Additionally, we should try to develop some defensive and offensive equipment, just in case.

"Your subordinate obeys!" Han Lie replied excitedly, his face flushed.

Being able to study machinery in the capital with the princess's support was like paradise for a technical officer like him.

With the assignments finalized, Yun Jin's tone softened slightly: "Everyone, please perform your duties and work together."

If you encounter any difficulties, feel free to contact me.

Since our foundation is still weak, we should prioritize prudence in our actions, but we should not be timid or hesitant.

We must fight for what needs to be fought for, and we must investigate what needs to be investigated.

"I want this Princess Zhenguo's residence to become a pillar of the court, and I also want it to be a place where you all can realize your ambitions and achieve great things!"

"Thank you, Your Highness!" The crowd bowed again, their eyes shining.

After a brief meeting, everyone accepted their orders and went about their own business.

Only Yun Jin and Su Che, who had quietly entered the study at some point and was now sitting in a corner enjoying tea, remained in the study.