Yang Ling walked out of the palace in a daze. The palace guards had been withdrawn. Although Shi Wenyi was angry when he saw him, he still went forward to greet him. Shi Wenyi did not do anything wrong today. Although he knew that he was on Liu Jin's side, Yang Ling still apologized with a smile.
The dignified Duke apologized to a small Imperial Bodyguard. Shi Wenyi, who was covered in dirt, could be considered to have saved his face. Yang Ling left the Meridian Gate and remembered that Gao Wenxin was still in the Liu residence of the Golden Needle. He quickly led the crowd back to the Liu residence.
Gao Wenxin was gentle and gentle. She smiled and didn't ask him anything until they got on the carriage. The two of them sat on the same bed. Gao Wenxin carefully observed his face and said, "My husband, why were you in such a hurry to leave? You … don't look so good. "
Alas! How could his face be good? Princess Yongfu … had become a Fate Cultivating Nun, and the nunnery was built in the western suburbs. They would definitely see each other when entering or leaving the capital. This matter had become a sore point. The girl had been so heartbroken that she had become a nun. Yang Ling felt sad every time he thought about it.
He sighed tiredly and lay down on his side. He rested his head on Gao Wenxin's warm and soft thighs. His cheek was pressed against her plump breasts. He told her everything that happened in the palace today. Gao Wenxin listened and her pretty face turned pale.
A woman loved once for a lifetime. Because of her rough experience, no one valued this kind of relationship more than she did. The An family actually did such a heartless thing. If the marriage was really settled and An Ye suddenly died, what would happen to Princess Yongfu? With her husband's character, he would probably be sad for the rest of his life.
Gao Wenxin sighed softly and stroked Yang Ling's cheek. She said softly: "Don't worry. Fortunately, the heavens help you. Didn't my husband get back the marriage certificate in time? Although the Princess's reputation is not good, at least she didn't make a big mistake. Just choose another son-in-law. "
She lowered her head and gently kissed Yang Ling's forehead with her soft cherry lips. She chuckled and said, "It's just a ball of silk. It's not a big deal to swallow it. The Former Emperor's treasured calligraphy is still enshrined in our home, and the current Emperor's treasured calligraphy has been brought back by you. The ink in my husband's stomach was bestowed by the Emperor, how can you not be happy? Hehehe! "
Yang Ling let out a long sigh and said, "If it was just taking back a piece of His Majesty's calligraphy, then it's fine. I also took back Princess Yongfu."
Gao Wenxin's giggles stopped abruptly. Her eyes widened as she stammered, "Princess … Princess?"
Seeing that she was so scared that her beautiful face turned pale, Yang Ling could not help giggling. Among his wives and concubines, only Gao Wenxin was a genuine young lady from a noble family. She came from a family of officials, therefore, she had the most reverence for the imperial power.
Yang Ling could not bear to scare her anymore. He gently scratched the tip of her nose. But thinking of Yongfu, his face turned gloomy again. "That's right," he said, "Princess Yongfu heard that the son-in-law she was picking with great fanfare was actually a tuberculosis patient who could die at any time. She was scared and angry at the same time. She actually … actually wanted to leave home and become a nun …"
"That's right!" Yang Ling suddenly opened his eyes. Holding her hand, he said, "His Majesty is preparing to build a nunnery in the western suburbs. Princess Yongfu will be the head of the nunnery. She will lead the nunnery. After she has cultivated her Taoism and Buddha's heart has settled down, she will officially undergo tonsure. Wen Xin, if you ruin the princess's life, your husband will never be happy.
Anyway, it's in the western suburbs. The distance should not be too far. When you have nothing to do, you, Young-niang and the others can pretend to be believers who worship Buddha and go to the nunnery to accompany her. It's best … it's best to talk about the happiness and beauty of the world of mortals. It will make it difficult for the princess's mortal heart to calm down. Maybe after a year or two, she will change her mind and return to the palace. "
"Okay!" Gao Wenxin thoughtfully said, "Let's not talk about the distance. Even if it's far away, for my husband, I will still go. I must persuade the princess to change her mind. Not only will it make up for our family's mistake, it can also be considered as accumulating merit."
As they were talking, the carriage and horses had arrived at Gao Village's Public House. In front, Da Bang Chui loudly shouted, "Duke Ye, we are home."
Yang Ling replied with a 'hmm'. In this short period of time, he had already thought of many crooked ideas. The princess was only sixteen years old, what kind of ideas could she have? Yutang Chun and Sheridan were a pair of vixens who specialized in seducing people's souls. They also knew a lot about the love stories of young men and green women. If the princess really became a nun, he would send the two of them. Even if he, Yongfu, lived in the Toad Palace, he would still be able to seduce this little nun until she wanted to descend to the mortal world.
When he thought of this, his heart relaxed. He suddenly had the intention to tease her. When he got up, he bent his finger and suddenly flicked Gao Wenxin's soft breasts. Gao Wenxin's soft breasts were tall and straight. Her breasts were the shape of a peach. It was very easy to find them. When he flicked her breasts, Gao Wenxin quivered and could not help but hit him shyly.
Yang Ling chuckled. He lifted the curtain and stood on the shaft of the carriage. When he was about to jump down, he suddenly noticed that there were a lot of people busy working in the vast field in front of the square of his house. Yang Ling was a little baffled. Who was working in the field in the middle of winter? What could they be doing?
Yang Ling put his hand on the awning and looked for a while. He suddenly realized that those people were all wearing long robes. There was a man in a blue robe standing on the ridge of the field and gesticulating. It was obvious that he was dressed like a palace eunuch. Yang Ling was even more surprised. He hurriedly asked Chief Gao who came out to welcome him, "Housekeeper, what are they doing over there?"
People in the north rarely went out in the middle of winter. Housekeeper Gao did not know what to do. Yang Ling thought about it and was worried. He said, "Housekeeper, accompany Madam back first. I will go and take a look!"
Gao Wenxin was worried. She refused to go back to the residence and accompanied Yang Ling. The group of people led more than ten family warriors across the river and walked on the ridge of the field. They heard the man in the blue robe shouting, "Yes, yes, dig a pond there. Plant some lotus flowers and golden fish. Remember to pile up a rockery here and build a swing next to it. How can one be enough? Build four swings. The east side? Plant all the grass on the east side. We have to leave a racecourse! "
Yang Ling coughed in a dignified manner. The man turned around and saw Yang Ling's appearance. He suddenly cried out in surprise and happily greeted, "Mr Yang … No, no, no, Duke Wei. Hehe, I pay my respects to Duke Wei. Aiya … a close neighbor is better than a distant relative. I hope Duke Wei can take care of me in the future. "
Yang Ling took a look. It was Gao Feng, one of the Eight Tigers. He couldn't help but be surprised, "Eunuch Gao? You … you want to build a residence here? "
Gao Feng was one of the Eight Tigers. However, after two years of interaction, Yang Ling gradually found that Gao Feng was not bad among the Eight Tigers. This person was relatively low-key. He was also greedy for money but he was not greedy. He did not have any conflict of interest with Yang Ling and Liu Jin. Although he was favored by the Emperor, he requested to retire twice this year because of his poor health. Therefore, Yang Ling still had a good impression of him.
He knew that the eunuchs in the palace were rich and had luxurious private residences in the capital. He didn't expect Gao Feng to buy the land opposite Duke Wei residence to build a residence.
Unexpectedly, when Gao Feng heard this, he smiled and said, "Duke Wei must be joking. How can we afford to buy such a large piece of land to build a garden? Hehe, this is to build a White Cloth Nunnery … Her Royal Highness Princess Yongfu cultivated with her hair. This auspicious residence with good Fengshui was chosen here. "
Yang Ling's jaw almost dropped. He was stunned and said, "Her Royal Highness became a nun. This … the nunnery was chosen here?"
"Yes!" Gao Feng said confidently, "The Fengshui here is good. The west side is the inner factory, safe. The opposite side is Duke Wei's residence. The east side is the official road to the capital. It's convenient. It's backed by the three mountain ridges. The Fengshui is good. What do you think of the place we chose?"
Yang Ling made a sound as if he had a toothache. Before he could say anything, a young apprentice ran over from the side, "Eunuch, eunuch, what should we build on the east side? Master, please tell us so that we can draw the blueprint when we go back. "
Gao Feng glanced at it and said, "That area. There's nothing to build on that area. Dig! Dig a big hole that's a few acres of land. Draw water and plant lotus flowers. Build a pavilion in the middle. The princess also likes to row boats. Oh right, move the excavated soil to the west and pile it up into a small hill. "
Yang Ling's eyeballs almost popped out of their sockets. Gao Feng was still gesticulating, "I almost forgot. The entire mansion has to be pushed back by an acre of land. We have to leave a large yard in front and pave it with limestone slabs so that we can park our horses and carriages. The lion in front of the gatehouse and the stone base are three people tall. It takes up a lot of space. Don't forget. "
"Crack!" Yang Ling's jaw almost dropped again. "There's a fish pond, a rock garden, and a swing in front. There's a racecourse in the west and a man-made lake in the east. This … is this White Cloth Nunnery or White Cloth Park?"
Yang Ling laughed dryly and said, "This White Cloth Nunnery … is really big."
"Yes, yes." Gao Feng beamed. She stood on her tiptoes and pointed into the distance. "Duke, do you see those four trees? This nunnery is built on a field. It won't look good without trees. Those four trees are facing the north. Planting more trees can prevent the wind and sand.
I'm planning to plant seven to eight acres of forest there. Weeping willows, white elms, dragon-clawed locust trees, redwoods, spruce trees, sycamore trees, crape myrtle red maple, ginkgo biloba, purple magnolia, and so on.
Hmm … we'll draw a river in the middle. Hey, let the trees be evergreen all year round. Even those that lose their leaves in winter will look good when paired with pine trees, ice trees, and rime ice trees. Then, with the snow, water, and rock garden, it'll look like a paradise on earth. The Emperor said to build it according to the scale of the imperial gardens. "
Yang Ling was shocked. "What a big scale. It's going to cost a lot. You've been talking about gardens for a long time. The house in the middle hasn't been built yet. Also … planting seven to eight acres of forest on the side? How big is this residence? "
He stood on his tiptoes and looked for a long time. Then, he asked in confusion, "I say, Gao gonggong, where are the four trees you mentioned? Why can't I see them?"
"Isn't that? They're right there. Why can't you see them? I just came back from riding a horse. Oh … the sun is leaning west in the afternoon. I can't see them clearly from a distance. "
"… …"
"Duke, what's wrong?"
"The Emperor … really loves the princess! How much money will this cost? "
"Isn't that so. The Emperor said that an older brother is like a father. If he doesn't take care of his younger sister, who will? Hehehe, but the money isn't from the Emperor. Didn't he say that you'll take it? "
"Ah? … … "
"I've already enclosed this land. The imperial family will expropriate it. The price will be increased by forty percent. The bill will be paid after the new year. I've already written an IOU to the landlord in the name of Duke. "
Gao Wenxin was shocked. She didn't care about her husband who was in a daze. She hurriedly asked, "What? How much silver will it cost for my family to take it? "
Gao Feng glanced at her. When she saw her attire, she hurriedly saluted and said, "This must be the Duke's wife. I'm sorry for my lack of manners. It's not much, only seven thousand and four hundred taels."
"Oh!" Gao Wenxin had just relaxed when Gao Feng added, "This is the land price. For planting forests, digging ponds, buying Tai Lake stones, building houses and pavilions, we'll have to wait for the craftsmen to roughly calculate the price before we know."
Gao Wenxin suddenly turned pale. Yang Ling's eyes stared blankly. After a while, he suddenly turned his head and said, "Wen Xin, you go back first. I have to go back to the city immediately."
Gao Wenxin asked curiously, "Going to the city again? Is there anything else that you haven't done? "
Yang Ling's voice was dry as he said, "The Emperor gave me the task of confiscating the An family's property and investigating the An family's corruption. He said that the silver will be used to build a nunnery. I … I have to go find Liu Gonggong to take it immediately."
※ ※ ※
"What! Is this a nunnery? Did Princess Yongfu become a nun or is she on vacation? This is basically an extra-large imperial garden! "
Cheng Qiyun was also anxious. She did not treat herself as an outsider. What Yang Ling had was hers, and what she had was Yang Ling's. Although the inner factory earned a lot of money, Yang Ling did not take it into his own house.
The large sum of silver that Yang Ling gave her to operate had to be used to develop the overseas market. It had to be used to open up new commercial circulation channels through the military post stations. It had to be used to invest in a large number of informants in Liaodong and the Western Region. It had to be used to rearrange the various forces that had separated from the inner factory.
Cheng Qiyun rolled her eyes and suddenly asked, "Princess Yongfu became a nun and was appointed as the head of the White Dress Nunnery. What is the Buddhist name of this royal nun? I didn't take it to heart just now. "
Chu Ling replied, "Cultivation fate."
"Cultivation fate?" Cheng Qiyun repeated. She muttered to herself as she paced around the room for a while. Suddenly, there was a flash of understanding in her eyes.
She sat back on the chair and closed her eyes. She secretly sorted out all the illogical parts and combined them with all the information she had received. Finally, she confirmed that her judgment was not wrong. Cheng Qiyun could not help but reveal a faint smile on her face.
Well, this is also good. The house will be built for hundreds of years. What needs to be spent must be spent. The current High Duke's Public House was rebuilt on the basis of Imperial Physician Gao's residence. It used to be quite big, but after he became the High Duke, this residence was no longer big enough. Now, new houses were constantly being built in the backyard, and the planning was limited. It did not look imposing at all, and it did not match the status of a High Duke at all.
Haha … if she wants to build it, then let her. Even if the silver she stole is not enough and she needs our house to subsidize some, it is still acceptable. Anyway, it will be our house sooner or later.
Cheng Qiyun thought of this and smiled slightly. She said, "Yes, I know. Daren wants to search the Dark house and build a 'nunnery' for the princess. There should be no more big things in the capital."
Chu Ling looked curiously at Cheng Qiyun. Just now, she was flustered and exasperated as if her house was raided. How did she become so happy in the blink of an eye? Not only men could not guess Miss's thoughts, even women, especially sisters who had been together for many years, could not guess.
"Is there still no news from Hong Niangzi's side?" Cheng Qiyun lazily picked at her nails and asked without raising her head.
"Yes, Miss. It is really difficult to keep track of a person. In addition, she is good at martial arts. Our people were divided into six groups to monitor her. But when she reached Qingzhou, she went through the back door of a satin shop, flashed through three alleys, and then disappeared. Our people in Qingzhou used many city foxes and society rats, but did not find any news of her."
Cheng Qiyun's pair of black eyebrows furrowed. "Zhou Dean received the Ministry of War's official seal and has already gone south to take up his post. His martial arts skills are very high. After receiving the warning from the Imperial Bodyguard, he became even more careful and specially accompanied the tax ship officers and soldiers going south. A smart person should not be looking for any opportunity to make a move.
But … Zhou Dean had not left the capital. No one knew what method he used to take up his post, but Hong Niangzi had already gone to Shandong. Could it be that she had foresight and knew that there would not be a chance to make a move? "
Cheng Qiyun gently pinched her delicate and beautiful chin and slyly said, "She said … she wanted to poke a big hole in the sky for Daren to mend. Humph! I want to know what big things this stupid woman can do! Let's also go to Shandong. She would not leave behind the enemy who killed her father and run there to wander around, unless it's to meet her lover. But her lover's older brother is busy making money to build a new house in Beijing. He is not living in Qingzhou. There must be something fishy about this! Let's go and take a look! "
Chu Ling playfully rolled her eyes. "If other people have something fishy, then you don't? In the end, isn't it because of Mr. Yang's words, 'I have never taken the initiative to chase after a woman, you are the first'? Ai! No matter how amazing Miss is, in the end, she is still a woman. Once she gets jealous, she can't care about other things. "
Cheng Qiyun seemed to be aware of her thoughts. Her pair of charming and astonishingly beautiful eyes narrowed dangerously. Her red lips revealed a row of white teeth. "Ling 'er, what are you thinking about?"
"Ah! Nothing! This servant was thinking … there has been no news from Sister Chu Yan's side. Should I send someone to ask? "
"No need. Chu Yan is more scheming than you, and Adeni is not easy to deal with. Besides, there is still Ma Lian 'er above them. She is a nine-tailed fox spirit who has cultivated for thousands of years. Moreover, the three of them are mainly responsible for half of Jiangnan's business. They have Wu Jiyuan and Xu Jing, these old business generals to help them. They also have Eunuch Gu, Town Governor Qian, Official Min, and General Han, these officials. What else can happen? "
Chu Ling was unconvinced. "Miss always praises that Ma Lian 'er is powerful. I can't see how she is powerful other than her beauty. Hmph, if we are talking about talent and ability, there is no need for Miss to show up. Even this servant is confident that she is stronger than her!"
Cheng Qiyun smiled. "You can't see how powerful she is. That is the real powerful one. You are good at planning and can be a hero. Ma Lian 'er is good at controlling people. She is a person above others. The true art of controlling people is like the spring wind and rain, silently nourishing things. You can't feel it, but you will unknowingly fall into it. That is a great skill.
In terms of appearance, Lian 'er is the prettiest of Daren's wives and concubines. Even I may not compare to her. But of Daren's wives and concubines, she is the most pitiful one. She had already given herself to Daren, but for Daren's reputation, she had to stay silently in Jiangnan. She had no status, and didn't receive Daren's care. Even when she gave birth, Daren wasn't by her side.
Now that Daren is plotting against Liu Jin, he doesn't dare to leave to visit her. But she has no regrets, not even a word of complaint. Do you think that Ma Lian 'er is that kind of well-behaved and virtuous woman? Ha! Don't you see what kind of personality Daren has? He doesn't say it, but inside, he feels that he owes her endlessly.
Just you wait, no matter who is a co-wife or a shiqie, when they enter the door of the Yang House, other than Eldest Furen, no one can surpass her position in Sir Yang's heart! And Daren's eldest daughter, she can only see her father when she can call him daddy. How will Daren dote on her to make up for the guilt of being a father? Ha ha, enduring two years of lovesickness in exchange for a lifetime of endless love and pampering, it's worth it! If it was me, I would also endure it! "
Chu Ling gaped. "So powerful! She … … really is pitiful. Even I feel that Daren is ruthless. Even though he has so many matters to deal with, it is too unfair to such a beautiful woman. But she is willing to endure it. So … … so … … but Miss is still the best. Only you can see it. "
Cheng Qiyun smiled and said, "She is brilliant here. So what if you can see it? She has suffered and suffered. Whoever dares to say such things to Daren is sowing discord. Even if you can see it, there is nothing you can do. Don't you think she is brilliant?
But Ma Lian 'er loves Daren deeply, and it is understandable that she wants Daren's deep feelings and love for her children. At the start, everyone disliked me, and only Lian' er encouraged me to marry Daren. It is because she loves Daren deeply and knows that I have helped Daren. Daren's family is big and needs a few capable wives. I also admire her ability and scheming. "
Cheng Qiyun finished and sighed faintly. The vinegar rose again. "It is a pity, no matter how great her ability is, it is not as good as luck. No matter if it is her or me, we have put in all our effort and used all our methods. Isn't it just to obtain more of Daren's pity? Look at how capable Hong Niangzi is. The moment she sees Daren, she doesn't know what to say and draws her sword at the slightest provocation. Daren is still chasing after her!
Humph! Let's go. Daren is only investigating the An Family in the capital. There won't be anything big happening for a while. Let's take this opportunity to go to Qingzhou. I want to see what kind of hole Hong Niangzi is trying to poke for our Daren to fill! "
※ ※ ※
"There are ten more days before the New Year. Grand Secretary Li has already asked for leave and wants to return to his hometown to visit his family. His Majesty has allowed it. This trip will only be back in spring."
"En, Grand Secretary Li is quite open-minded. Now that Liu Jin is in charge of the imperial court, it is fine if he pretends to be deaf and mute. Now that Liu Jin has reorganized the officials, Daren Li actually wants to return to his hometown to visit his family. Isn't he afraid that by the time he returns to the capital, all the officials in the capital will have changed beyond recognition and will no longer be able to 'clean up the old mountains and rivers'? "Yang Ling took the fragrant tea from Jiao Fang and raised his eyebrows.
It was close to the end of the year. The common people were changing into new clothes and hats and cleaning their houses in preparation for the New Year. Liu Jin was also busy. He was so busy that he didn't even have time to attend to the New Year. He ran around the internal and external courts and attended to everything personally. He was busy 'cleaning up' and 'cleaning' the officials.
Jiao Fang smiled slightly and her eyes flickered. Regarding the matter of the princess, he decided to keep his mouth shut and wait for the changes. When Yang Ling entered politics, he had always taken the unorthodox path. This time, in order to take the risk to get rid of Liu Jin, he had gone too far. Even if he could kill Liu Jin in one strike, it would bring him many future troubles in the officialdom. At least, he would not be able to participate in politics legitimately.
Therefore, what he needed to rely on was the Emperor's trust and find a way to become the representative of a large interest group so that he could have absolute influence on the court. In this way, his real power would not be affected and he could live in seclusion behind the scenes. He could attack when he advanced and defend when he retreated. There was no possibility of him being attacked in the political arena.
Since ancient times, there had been many such behind-the-scenes big shots in the political arena. However, it was too dangerous to rely on the Emperor's trust alone. This required a large interest group to follow his lead and work together to create a great influence on the Emperor, the court, and the officials without showing it on their faces.
Yang Ling now had the Emperor's trust. He had a large number of supporters and promoted important officials in the military and local areas. After he was promoted to Duke and retired from politics, he had a close relationship with Duke Wei, Duke Hui, and Marquis Kangping. He had already become the representative of the interests of the meritorious officials in the court.
If he could marry the princess … then Marquis Of Shouning, Marquis Jianchang, and Xia Kingdom's father-in-law could easily take him as one of their own. The power of these people combined would definitely be a force that could not be underestimated. As long as this marriage was concluded, there would naturally be a corresponding change to Yang Ling's position in the court and the subsequent political influence. However, Yang Ling was not the kind of person who would do anything for the sake of power. If he said it out loud, it might have the opposite effect. It was better to let nature take its course.
Jiao Fang returned to his seat and picked up his cup of tea. He lightly blew on the tea leaves floating on the surface and narrowed his eyes as he said, "Grand Scholar Yang Tinghe told me in private that the case of the assassination of the imperial envoy in Sichuan has not come to a conclusion yet. It is really a loss of face for the court. He is preparing to take a leave of absence to return to his hometown in a few days. One reason is to visit his old father, and the other is to supervise the case."
Yang Ling was startled and began to feel that this was not simple. He muttered to himself for a moment and said, "What are they doing? Why do these two grand scholars seem to have discussed this beforehand? There must be something fishy going on! "
Jiao Fang chuckled. He twirled his beard and said, "Duke, this year's official examination has changed its name again. Liu Jin suggested to the Emperor that he change the system of the capital's officials being examined once every six years and outside officials being examined once every three years. He allowed the Ministry of Appointments to conduct the examinations at irregular intervals. The Ministry of Appointments is managed by Zhang Cai, and Zhang Cai is Liu Jin's trusted aide. Is there a need to ask what his purpose is?
This is to hold the throats of all the officials at all times. As long as you don't follow me, I can immediately investigate you and find your faults to make you scram! This is a very powerful rule. In the past, those who did not accept Liu Jin's position as an official would not be able to cover the sky with one hand before the examination. Now, it's all good. He can set up a trap to deal with them at any time. In the capital, there are those who do not have the money to bribe Liu Jin and complain to the three of us every day. It's the New Year, why don't they hide away and relax? "
Yang Ling knitted his brows and said in disappointment, "Li Dongyang and Yang Tinghe, have they also lowered their heads to Liu Jin? Ai! The officials who were originally very temperate … "
Yang Ling shook his head. Jiao Fang leaned in and whispered, "Duke, I'm afraid that Li Dongyang has already seen through Duke's plan to loosen the reins only to grasp them better. He was the one who brought Yang Tinghe into the Cabinet. If he wants to lie low, how can he not tell Yang Tinghe? In my opinion, Duke should gradually launch his counterattack.
Even though Lu Shijie is by Liu Jin's side and can help Duke play dumb, Liu Jin has many capable subordinates. Li Dongyang can see it, and they will see it sooner or later. Moreover, the inner factories have already fallen into Liu Jin's hands. Seeing that it's the end of the year, the nobles, dukes, officials, and relatives will swarm into the inner factories to receive their dividends. Liu Jin will certainly know that he has fallen into Duke's trap.
Duke's arrangement is ingenious. He should think that Duke is unwilling to hand over his power and took the opportunity to embezzle. However, it is hard to guarantee that he will not suspect that Duke is hiding something. If he dares to turn hostile and pursue the matter, Duke will fall into a passive position. So … now is the time for Master to reappear in the officialdom and give everyone a signal. "
Yang Ling pondered, "Liu Jin's crimes are not enough to bring him down. Will my early appearance arouse his vigilance?"
Jiao Fang chuckled and stroked her beard, "It is precisely because the evidence is not enough that Li Dongyang and Yang Tinghe are so clever that they can slip away. The Cabinet cannot be empty, so the disciples can only stay behind. But with only me left, Liu Jin has no scruples. "
Yang Ling smiled bitterly, "So what? It is just a raid on the Dark Residence. At most, we will investigate the corruption in the treasury. We will hand in the mission in a few days. I am afraid that Liu Jin's purge of the officials will not be over by then. "
Jiao Fang said with deep foresight, "No, no, no, this mission cannot be handed over. Now Duke wants to insert a foot into the imperial court so that he can act according to the situation. He can withdraw this foot at any time, and when the time comes, he will be able to take a step forward.
Duke cannot interfere in politics but the Imperial Envoy can. If there are any problems, he can come to me at any time. So I will not hand over the position of Imperial Envoy even if I am beaten to death. Didn't His Majesty ask you to investigate the Dark Residence? Then go ahead and investigate. Raid the Dark Residence and investigate the Corruption Treasury. After the Corruption Treasury is investigated … did the Dark Family transport the corruption money to the old residence? I heard that he bought thousands of acres of fertile land in his hometown, Bazhou. How can he let it go? After the new year, Master will go out of the capital and investigate Bazhou … "
"Bazhou? Ying 'er's home … "Yang Ling's heart swayed and his chest was beating fast," Will I meet Hong Niang when I go to Bazhou? Will she … draw her sword against me again? My men have lost track of her. I can go to Bazhou and find out what she wants to do. "
Thinking of this, Yang Ling nodded happily, "Minister Jiao is right. As long as we delay it, it will take at least a few months. During this period of time, Liu Jin will get carried away and will definitely create many opportunities for us. My presence in the officialdom will not fade away."
Jiao Fang said with a smile, "That's right. Liu Jin has been doing all sorts of perverse things in the capital, inciting the wrath of the heavens and the resentment of the people to be executed. Even with the blessing of the heavens, under normal circumstances it would take at least five, seven, eight years.
But now that Li and Yang have left the capital, they deliberately made space for Liu Jin and let him quickly pile firewood in the courtyard. Lu Shijie and Zhang Mian, that madman, keep adding oil to the firewood. It will be easy to find a spark. When the time is right, Master will be the gust of wind that blows into the courtyard. The wind blows the fire and the fire burns the city. How can this rampant crab not be cooked? "
※ ※ ※
Yang Ling's carriage stopped in front of Liu Jin's door. Just as he stepped out of the sedan, he saw Zhang Yong walking out angrily. Yang Ling could not help but laugh, "Eunuch Zhang? Hehe, long time no see, long time no see! "
Yang Ling cupped his hands and stepped forward while thinking anxiously, "What is Zhang Yong doing here? This person does not monopolize power like Liu Jin, but he is very concerned about the power in his hands. He hates people telling him what to do and ordering his subordinates without his permission. In other words, he is the kind of person with a very strong ego. Liu Jin is arrogant and domineering. He thinks he is in charge of the Three Factories and One Guard and likes to order his subordinates without Zhang Yong's permission. As a result, the two are like fire and water and have always been at odds. Could it be that he is afraid of Liu Jin's prestige and has surrendered to him? "
Zhang Yong saw it was Yang Ling and his expression softened a little. He forced a smile and said, "So it is Duke Wei. Sigh! Duke Wei is enjoying his life now. With my status, it is not convenient for me to visit you. It has been a while. "
Yang Ling looked behind him and asked curiously, "Why? Eunuch Liu is not at home? Why … did he not send you out? "
Hearing this, Zhang Yong's face turned red and he said acidly, "Haha, send me? What kind of status does he have now? All the officials in the city have to be respectful when they see him. I, Zhang Yong, am just a fart in Liu Jin's eyes! "
Yang Ling heard this and said, "Very good! It would be a wonder if these two can get along. "
Yang Ling hurriedly pulled Zhang Yong to the side and mediated, "Hey, don't say that. Eunuch Zhang is highly respected in the court. How many people dare not respect him? Eunuch Wu died of illness and returned the Seven Mile Sea and several other estates to the court. His Majesty did not return them to the Ministry of Revenue but ordered you to manage them. How great of a favor is this?
You are in charge of the capital camp on the outside. Inside, you are in charge of the Imperial Horse Inspector, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the Imperial Staff, and other matters. You are also in charge of the Shangshi, Shangyi, Leopard Room, Nanhai Zi, and more than ten other official affairs. In the inner court, you are the eunuch with the most part-time jobs. Who would dare to disrespect you? "
Being praised, Zhang Yong couldn't help but straighten his back. That was true. The Emperor's favor for him was no less than Liu Jin's. Why did he have to lower his voice to him?
Zhang Yong said with a face full of smiles, "Not at all. That is because the Emperor thinks highly of me. Haha, Duke is giving me face. We haven't seen each other for a long time. How about going to my fu for a few drinks?"
Yang Ling took the opportunity to say, "Aiya, it's too late now. Maybe another day. The Emperor has asked me to investigate the An family's cheating of the imperial relatives and embezzling property. I have to report this to Eunuch Liu."
When Zhang Yong heard this, he said, "Oh, if that's the case, then I won't disturb Duke's work anymore. However … I'm afraid that even if Duke takes over now, you won't be able to get anything. Liu Jin's confiscation is like a dog gnawing on a bone. There won't be anything left."
Yang Ling smiled and said, "Haha, I'm just following the Emperor's orders to carry out the Emperor's work. I don't plan on getting anything out of it. That's right, Eunuch Zhang, why are you here today?"
Zhang Yong said resentfully, "Don't mention it. Even if I don't have any meritorious service to the Emperor, I still have my hard work, right? I don't have much hope in this life, so I looked for Mou Bin and transferred my older brother and younger brother into the Imperial Bodyguard. My older brother is an honest and dutiful person. His ability to handle matters is limited, so I only arranged for him to be a Deputy Qianhu. My younger brother has been practicing martial arts since he was young and is well-versed in literature. He was appointed as a Commander and is in charge of the affairs of the Imperial Bodyguard.
You say that I'm a hindrance to Liu Jin? Motherf * cker, why must he remove my brother from his position? I don't mind not being an official, but I can't afford to lose this face! Today, I came to him to reason with him. Looking at his behavior, I can't wait to give him a kick. He said it in a dignified manner, but isn't he just trying to keep the Commander position for Yang Yu, Shi Wenyi, and the others? Heh heh heh, but Commander Mou has a solid relationship with us. I won't give up my position. I want to anger that old dog to death! "
When Yang Ling heard this, he didn't know whether to laugh or cry. He was about to persuade him again when an idea suddenly came to his mind. Yang Ling laughed heartily and said, "I thought it was a big deal. We were all people who served the Crown Prince together. Is there a need to make things so tense? Even if you insist on not giving up your position, Eunuch Liu is, after all, the head of the Three Mills and One Guard. Will your brother's life be easy in the future?
How about this? Gao Feng is building a house opposite my house. He has a good relationship with Liu Jin and a few others. I'll ask him to step forward. It will be of great use. Now that he can't come to Jiangnan, I'll ask Gao Feng to invite the other seven people. We're old brothers after all. Let's meet up, have a drink, and talk things over.
It's best not to make a fuss. "Zhang Yong was very grateful when he heard this. He hurriedly cupped his hands and said," The High Duke's status is high, and you treat us, old friends, as usual. I don't know anything else, but I know the code of brotherhood. If you need my brother's help, please don't hesitate to ask. Then … I'll have to trouble you with this matter. "
"Heh heh, there's no need to be so polite. Eunuch Liu, have a safe journey. I'll go see Liu Jin first and settle the matter." Yang Ling was a little ashamed. This Big Brother Zhang was going to lose face again. What kind of power did Liu Jin have now? He was in the limelight for a while. He had long regarded the other seven tigers as servants. The more people gathered, the more he wanted to fight for this face, this identity, this style. Would he be willing to give up?
Why did he want to change people? And why did he want to change people with such a strong background? It was because of him, Zhang Yong. The people used by the Chief of the Capital Army and the Admiral of the Imperial Bodyguard were people that he, Liu Jin, wanted to remove and change as he pleased. What did that mean?
As long as the generals of the Capital Army and the officials of the Imperial Bodyguard wanted to be promoted, they would have to immediately throw away Zhang Yong and Mou Bin and hug Liu Jin's thigh. Poor Zhang Yong. He had just been given the cold shoulder, and now he had to lose face again.
However, Liu Jin had given face to the Seven Tigers. It was enough for them to recognize their current position. None of these people were good people. Almost all of them were petty. Once there was a crack in the relationship, the fly looking for the crack would be the 'bad guy'.
※ ※ ※
Liu Jin walked between the three main halls. There were only three days left until the New Year. Lanterns and streamers were everywhere, but it was a little deserted. Of course, all the officials were on a long holiday. The Emperor was not in the palace, and the Empress Dowager was sick. How lively could it be?
Suddenly, he saw a few eunuchs coming out of the Imperial Library. Liu Jin stopped and called out, "What are you busy with? The cabinet doesn't need to be sealed. Are there any important memorials? "
When the eunuchs saw Liu Jin asking, they hurriedly went forward and kowtowed, "Gonggong, it's the New Year. It's not a big deal. We are just sweeping."
Liu Jin grunted and was just about to leave. After thinking for a while, he turned around and turned into the Imperial Library. He often came to this place, but … today he felt like he was the owner. That feeling was different.
The warm sunlight shone in. Liu Jin gently stroked the dark, smooth, mirror-like table used by the First Secretary of the Cabinet, Li Dongyang. Then, he walked around with satisfaction and sat comfortably on the big yellow pear wood chair. His eyes narrowed slightly.
The quiet day was fragrant. The winter sun at the end of the year shone through the skylight. The room was warm and had a peaceful atmosphere. Li Dongyang had returned to his hometown. Yang Tinghe was scared away. Jiao Fang, that old bastard, said that he had a headache and did not dare to show up.
Looking around, there was not a single mischievous person left. Liu Jin could not help but burst out laughing.
Going against the family, then the family will teach you a lesson. An official of the seventh or eighth rank, in charge of a total of ten people. You still want to exclude others and say that your words are the law. Going against me, Liu Jin, do you think I will let you live?
The most amusing is Yang Ling. Yang Ling, oh Yang Ling, always riding on my head. Hehe, once the boat capsized, it will be difficult to turn it around again. A dignified High Duke, in order to atone for his crime of building a nunnery for the princess, he is so poor that he doesn't mind lowering his status. He chased the silver to the old residence of the An family in Bazhou. This unlucky child, so pitiful.
Looking inside and outside the palace, only Liu Jin is left. Everyone in the imperial court is out of my door. Cao Cao? Cao Cao even said, "Today's heroes, only the emperor and Cao Cao". I, Liu Jin, am much better than him. I want to make wine … Who is qualified to make wine with me? Hehehe …
Just as Liu Jin was enjoying himself, a small eunuch hurried in. When he saw Liu Jin, he said, "Oh, you are really here, eunuch. This is an invitation for you."
"Invitation? Who is so capable to send an invitation to the palace? " Liu Jin curiously took it and looked at it, "Oh, acquaintances. They are all acquaintances. Wei Bin, Zhang Yong, Ma Yongcheng, Gao Feng, Qiu Ju, Luo Xiang. Except for Old Gu, everyone is here."
Liu Jin bent his finger and flicked the invitation, "Oh, they are all old acquaintances. Why are they so serious when drinking wine? What kind of banquet is this?"
Liu Jin's eyes flashed and he smiled, "No matter what kind of banquet it is, I have the final say! Eight Tigers? You are not worthy of being on the same level as me. You should … should be called Seven Wolves and One Tiger! Just when I want to make wine, someone has already made it and sent it over. Oh, this is so comfortable. Hehehe … "
Liu Jin threw down the invitation and rubbed his butt against the chair. He leaned against the back of the chair and gently patted the armrest. His legs suddenly rested on the table.
I am the best … This feeling is so good!
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