Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

The civil and military officials of the Ming Dynasty had never been on good terms, like ice and fire in winter, which were difficult to blend. Lin Xiaofeng, a gentle and refined civil official, saw the rift between Lieutenant General Li and Shao Shihan getting worse and worse, like a candle in a strong wind, swaying and about to fall. He hurried forward to dissuade them, saying, "Forget it, stop arguing. We are all for the country and the people, so why bother with a verbal argument?" His voice was gentle and firm, like a spring drizzle, trying to extinguish the anger in the hearts of the two.

The emperor sat on the dragon throne, his face was calm and his eyes were deep, as if he could see into people's hearts. He spoke slowly, his voice was not loud, but it was full of unquestionable majesty: "I think Lieutenant General Li's strategy is still worthwhile. However, a radius of 100 miles is too wide, 50 miles is enough." His words were like a sharp blade, accurately cutting to the core of the problem.

He went on to say, "As for the problem of civil unrest that Minister Fang is worried about, it's actually not a big deal. We will give silver to the relocated people. The specific amount will be determined by the Ministry of Revenue. Don't be too stingy or too extravagant." His tone revealed a calm confidence, as if everything was under his control.

The corners of Shao Shihan's mouth twitched slightly, and he said hesitantly: "Your Majesty, the national treasury..." There was a hint of worry in his voice, like fallen leaves in autumn, swaying unsteadily.

The emperor smiled indifferently, and his smile contained an indescribable profound meaning: "Don't worry about the problem of silver. I have my own way to solve it." His voice was like warm sunshine, dispelling the haze in Shao Shihan's heart.

Thinking back to three days ago, the emperor did not dare to say such words. But today was different. The wealth obtained from the confiscation of property was so abundant that even the emperor himself was surprised. Those gold and silver treasures poured into the treasury like a mountain torrent, making the emperor feel more confident than ever before.

First, two million taels of silver were dug out from behind the Yangxin Palace. The silver shone with an alluring light, as if it could illuminate the entire palace. Then, two hundred thousand taels of silver were seized from the residences of Tang Xing and Wang Zhengzhi. Those silvers were as plump and tempting as fruits in autumn. The residence of Duke Chengguo was even more amazing. Two million taels of silver, 110,000 taels of gold (equivalent to one million taels of silver), and property worth three million taels were seized. The piles of gold and silver treasures were so huge that it was hard to take it all in. Seventeen thousand taels of silver were also seized from Zhang Jinyan's home, and the silver flowed into the treasury like water. On the night when the prince moved south, he looted more than four million taels of silver from the court officials and nobles. Those silvers were as bright and dazzling as the stars in the night sky. And from the eight profiteers, Gongsun Yuchun seized more than ten million taels of silver and property worth nearly three million taels! Each business firm possesses more than one million silver coins, and those silver coins are like drops of water in the ocean, gathering into a powerful force.

However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. The real wealth is not here, but in their hometown! There are mountains of gold and silver, with endless wealth and treasures! This silver is the confidence and capital for the emperor to exempt the country from land tax for one year! He seemed to own the whole world and could exert his will as he pleased.

Seeing that the emperor no longer mentioned money, Shao Shihan stopped talking and just nodded in agreement. Although he still had doubts in his heart, he could only choose to remain silent in the face of the emperor's majesty.

The emperor asked, "Does anyone else have any good strategies?" His voice was like a spring breeze, carrying a hint of expectation and inquiry.

Everyone was silent. At this time, Pang Zijin, the lieutenant general of the Yongwei Camp, stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, I think the suggestion of Deputy General Wang of the Shenshu Camp has some merit." His voice was firm and powerful, as solid as a rock.

The emperor said, "Tell me in detail." There was a sharp light in his eyes, as if he wanted to see through Pang Zijin's inner thoughts.

Pang Zijin replied, "The bandit army is approaching the capital. We can send light cavalry to harass them along the way. We don't ask for too many casualties, but only to slow down their march while protecting ourselves. In this way, we can both defend our city and train new recruits and strengthen the city walls." His voice revealed confidence and determination, as if he had seen the dawn of victory.

The emperor nodded in agreement: "Okay! Select three to five hundred people from the Yongwei Camp. Remember, everyone who goes must return safely, and there must be no casualties." There was a hint of concern and exhortation in his voice, like a father's advice to his children.

He went on to say, "The matter of relocating the people is very important. Let Minister Fang be fully responsible for this matter. He can mobilize the Five Cities Army to assist. Others will perform their duties and prepare for war." His voice revealed an unquestionable majesty and determination.

Everyone responded, "Yes, Your Majesty." Their voices resounded through the hall like thunder, demonstrating the emperor's majesty and power.

After everyone left, the Qianqing Palace returned to silence. The emperor sat on the warm couch and began to review the game. His face was calm and profound, as if he could see through everything. At this time, he was no longer an emperor but a strategist who planned and won thousands of miles away. The civil and military officials in the court, the soldiers in the city, and even the people of the world became his chess pieces. He was fearless as long as he could win! However, a wrong step could lead to a complete loss. Therefore, he had to be extremely cautious, as if walking on thin ice.

After a long time, the emperor opened his eyes, and his eyes revealed a sharp light, as if he could see the future victory. He called out: "Guo Tianyang, ask Gongsun Yuchun to find a few trustworthy people for me, preferably those who have parents, wives and children. And they must be strangers, loyal and not afraid of death." There was a hint of determination and firmness in his voice, as if he had already seen the future victory.

Guo Tianyang did not dare to ask more questions and hurried to convey the message. This request was difficult. It was not until the afternoon that Gongsun Yuchun brought three people to the gate of the Qianqing Palace. They were thin and had a malnourished earthy yellow face, as if they were warriors who walked out of the mud.

"Your Majesty, Gongsun Yuchun requests to see you." Guo Tianyang's voice was like a spring breeze, carrying a hint of warmth and respect.

"Announce." The emperor's voice resounded through the hall like thunder, demonstrating his majesty and power.

The three men were very young. They did not dare to look directly at the emperor. As soon as they entered the hall, they knelt on the ground and kowtowed. Their movements were like fallen leaves in the autumn wind, swaying but firm.

After completing the ceremony between the monarch and his subjects, Gongsun Yuchun began to introduce: "Your Majesty, these three people are the secret guards I just transferred back from Henan. There are no more than five people in the capital who know them... no..." He raised his head and glanced at Guo Tianyang, then glanced at the emperor out of the corner of his eye, and then changed his words: "Seven people!" There was a hint of nervousness and caution in his voice, as if he was afraid of saying a wrong word.

The emperor nodded, his eyes revealed a deep light, as if he could see into the hearts of the three people. He said: "Don't be nervous, come, from left to right, introduce yourselves one by one." His voice was like warm sunshine, trying to dispel the tension and fear in their hearts.

With the emperor's comfort, the three men relaxed a little and began to introduce themselves. Although their voices were still a little trembling, they were able to clearly convey their identities and origins.

"My name is Zhang Yuanheng, I'm 21 years old, and I'm from Jinan Prefecture, Shandong." His voice carried a hint of the Shandong people's boldness and straightforwardness.

"My name is Zhou Tiezhu, I'm 19 years old and from Kaifeng, Henan." His voice carried a hint of the simplicity and tenacity of a Henan native.

"My name is Li Bao, I'm 21 years old, and I'm from Jingzhou Prefecture, Huguang." His voice carried a hint of the wit and flexibility of the people of Huguang.

The emperor looked at them expressionlessly, his eyes revealing an indescribable deep meaning. After everyone had introduced themselves, he turned around and asked them with his back to them: "Have you all been paid the wages you are owed?" His voice was as sharp and cold as a blade in the cold wind.

Zhang Yuanheng was very excited. This was his first time in the palace. Although Guo Tianyang told them not to look around, he couldn't help but take a few peeks. It was a great honor for him to be summoned by the emperor this time. He suppressed his excitement and tried his best to control his body so that his voice would not sound so trembling: "Reply...Reply to Your Majesty, they have all been sent out." There was a hint of trembling and awe in his voice.

The emperor nodded. The efficiency of the cabinet was indeed very high. Even the salaries of the Jinyiwei secret guards were paid. A warm current surged in his heart, and he appreciated the cabinet's ability to do things.

"Do you think I can defend the capital? Don't tell lies or empty words, tell the truth." The emperor asked. His voice was like the drizzle in spring, gentle but firm.

Zhang Yuanheng licked his cracked lips and looked at Gongsun Yuchun. His eyes revealed a kind of confusion and uneasiness, as if he was seeking Gongsun Yuchun's help.

"Tell the truth." Gongsun Yuchun winked at Zhang Yuanheng, thinking that I brought this kid here, so I must not say the wrong thing. If I say the wrong thing, His Majesty will blame me, and I will be implicated. His eyes revealed a kind of anxiety and worry.

After receiving instructions from Gongsun Yuchun, Zhang Yuanheng replied seriously: "Your Majesty, it's pretty tough!" There was a hint of firmness and honesty in his voice, as if he was ready to face everything.

Gongsun Yuchun's legs went weak and he almost fell to his knees. He did not expect Zhang Yuanheng to answer the emperor's questions so frankly, which made him panic and uneasy.

"I think so too." The emperor didn't care about Zhang Yuanheng's answer. He just wanted to hear the truth. His voice was like the fallen leaves in autumn, with a hint of desolation and helplessness.

"So I have an important matter now, are you willing to do it?" the emperor asked. His eyes revealed a kind of expectation and inquiry, as if he hoped that they could become his right-hand men.

"I am willing!" Zhang Yuanheng, Zhou Tiezhu and Li Bao all expressed their willingness. There was a hint of firmness and determination in their voices, as if they were ready to face anything.

"You may never come back, so you should think carefully." The emperor reminded them. His voice was like an alarm bell in the cold wind, reminding them of the dangers and unknowns ahead.

Zhang Yuanheng paused for a moment, then kowtowed very seriously and said: "Your Majesty, I am young and have little education, but I understand one thing: I am a Ming citizen when I am alive and I am a Ming soul when I die. I will go through mountains of swords and seas of fire, and there is only death!" There was a hint of tragedy and determination in his voice, as if he was ready to sacrifice his life for his country.

Lin Xiaofeng was shocked. He didn't expect that Wang Baolin, the secret guard of the Jinyiwei, would say such a thing. He looked at Wang Baolin intently. Although he was still young, just over the age of twenty, his beard on his chin was already quite thick. His face was still a bit childish, like a young leaf that was just beginning to show its edge in spring. However, his eyebrows faintly revealed the heroic demeanor of a general, a spirit of not fearing difficulties and moving forward courageously. Observing his appearance, Lin Xiaofeng thought to himself, this is really a good seedling for leading troops in battle. In time, he will become a great man.

"Have you ever been to school?" Lin Xiaofeng asked, with a barely perceptible gentleness in his tone.

"Yes, I studied in a community school for a few years." Wang Baolin replied with a firmness in his voice, as if the time spent in the community school was the most precious memory in his heart.

Community schools are schools established by county governments. They are where the dreams of countless children from poor families begin. Above them are prefecture-level county schools and imperial-level national schools. They are like ladders, leading students to climb the peak of knowledge step by step. The Ming Dynasty was different from the Qing Dynasty. During the Qing Dynasty, illiteracy was everywhere, while the Ming Dynasty popularized education (at least in name), requiring all children of school age to go to school, and violators would be punished by their fathers and brothers. During the Hongzhi period, the court issued many orders, requiring prefectures, counties and cities across the country to establish community schools, stipulating that all children under the age of fifteen must go to school, regardless of their status, wealth, and status. What a broad mind and foresight!
"My plan is difficult. If it succeeds, the capital can be defended; if it fails, the Ming Dynasty will be in danger!" Lin Xiaofeng sighed, his eyes became deep, as if he could penetrate time and space and see the changes in the future.

Wang Baolin and the others looked at each other, and could see panic in each other's eyes. At first, they patted their chests and assured that it was just a secret little thing that could be solved with just a little effort. However, the longer they listened, the more they felt that the responsibility on the emperor's shoulders was as heavy as Mount Tai, which made people breathless.

Wang Baolin said anxiously: "Wansui, we still don't know what this is going on! Although we are not afraid of death, we are afraid of delaying Wansui's plan." There was a bit of urgency and fear in his voice, like a soldier about to step into an unknown battlefield.

Lin Xiaofeng waved his hand to signal him to be quiet: "Just go and do your best. If it fails, it is fate." Although his voice was soft, it carried an unquestionable firmness.

The atmosphere in the hall was so oppressive that it was hard to breathe, as if even the air had frozen. Guo Tianyang, Li Ruolian and others looked at Emperor Chongzhen, their hearts filled with worry. The Ming Dynasty had been in turmoil for more than a decade, the emperor was tired, and the Ming Dynasty was tired. They were all wondering what the plan was that made His Majesty say such a thing?

"Young men, can you accomplish the task entrusted to you by His Majesty?" Gongsun Yuchun patted Wang Baolin on the shoulder and asked, with some encouragement and expectation in his eyes.

"Yes!" The three young men knelt in a row, their voices firm as iron, as if their oath could penetrate the clouds and reach the sky.

Lin Xiaofeng nodded, "Okay, very good. My plan is to let you surrender to Li Zicheng, do you understand what I mean?" There was a barely perceptible chill in his voice, like a chilly wind in winter.

"Counter-espionage plan?" Wang Baolin was stunned but with a hint of excitement. His eyes suddenly brightened, as if he saw the dawn of victory.

"You are very smart, but you haven't thought of the ultimate." Lin Xiaofeng said with a smile. His smile contained some admiration and some depth.

"Your Majesty, I... don't understand." Wang Baolin felt that his brain was not enough. He frowned and tried hard to think about the emperor's words.

Not only Wang Baolin, but also Guo Tianyang, Gongsun Yuchun and other smart people didn't know what the emperor was up to. They were all wondering what kind of strategy was this that made the emperor value it so much?

"I'm not asking you to rebel among the bandits, I'm asking you to become bandits!" Lin Xiaofeng's words stunned everyone. They stared at the emperor with wide eyes, as if they had heard a fairy tale.

Wang Baolin stood there stiffly, feeling a chill down his spine. “Your Majesty, I will be loyal to the Ming Dynasty and Your Majesty all my life, and I will never betray you and surrender to the enemy.” There was a hint of trembling and determination in his voice.

Others also knelt down and bowed their heads to show their loyalty. They all knew that betraying the Ming Dynasty and the emperor was more terrible than death.

Lin Xiaofeng smiled and said slowly: "I am not testing you, but I want you to become bandits loyal to me. You just need to lie in wait, do things for me and pass on information on a daily basis. When the time comes, you will be my insiders, do you understand?" There was some temptation and majesty in his voice.

Wang Baolin opened his mouth and pondered for a moment. He was about to nod, but he was embarrassed. As a Jinyiwei secret guard, even if he successfully joined the bandits, it would be difficult to get promoted without merit. If he could not get promoted quickly, then there would be no way to talk about the insider. By then, not only would he not be able to complete the mission, but it might even be meaningless for three people to go and three to return.

Lin Xiaofeng smiled and said, "Don't worry, I have prepared a letter of surrender for you. You just need to make up a false identity." There was a hint of mystery and depth in his eyes.

"Don't worry about other things." His voice was confident and calm, as if everything was under his control.

After saying that, he ordered Guo Tianyang to hand the first issue of the newspaper in the seventeenth year to Wang Baolin, and said: "This is the latest news from within the court, take it with you." There was a hint of seriousness and expectation in his voice.

"There are two more things, remember them." His eyes became sharp, as if he could see into people's hearts.

"First, the court has decided to fortify the city and clear the fields, and move all the people within a hundred miles to the capital. Second, the court will send a light cavalry to harass Luo Wenbin's troops along the way, not seeking to hurt the enemy, but only to slow down their speed." There was a bit of determination and coldness in his voice.

"Your Majesty... tell us this news, okay..." Guo Tianyang reminded in a panic. He didn't dare to say the last words, because the words "You are teaching me how to do things" that Lin Xiaofeng said last time were still vivid in his mind. Fortifying the city and clearing the countryside is not a secret, but harassing the enemy is a secret. Once it is leaked in advance, the cavalry will be lost at best, and the whole army will be wiped out at worst. These are all the elite of your majesty's personal army, the Yongwei Battalion!
Lin Xiaofeng pretended not to hear and continued to say to Wang Baolin: "Although this information cannot get you promoted, it should be no problem for you to be a team leader. After you go there, you only need to do one thing, burn Luo Wenbin's food and grass when you have the chance." There was a hint of coldness and determination in his voice.

"If there is no chance, don't risk setting a fire and exposing yourself, just stay hidden." His eyes were full of meaning and expectation, as if he could see victory in the future.

Wang Baolin blinked his eyes and said, "I will obey your order." His voice was firm and determined, as if he was ready to go through fire and water.

"After you leave, I will let Gongsun Yuchun take care of your family." Lin Xiaofeng looked at Gongsun Yuchun and said, "Give each of them 100 taels of silver, and I will take care of all their needs." There was some warmth and care in his voice, as if a loving father was admonishing his child.

"As you wish." Gongsun Yuchun replied. His voice was respectful and firm. It was as if he was ready to go through fire and water for the emperor.

"Thank you!" The three people knelt down excitedly to receive the order and express their gratitude. There was a hint of gratitude and determination in their voices. It was as if they had seen the dawn of victory in the future.

"Okay, you guys go." Lin Xiaofeng waved his hand. There was a bit of reluctance and expectation in his eyes. It was as if he was seeing his child off to the battlefield.

Led by the young eunuch, the three Jinyiwei secret guards left the imperial city. Their backs looked particularly determined in the afterglow of the setting sun, as if they were ready to go through fire and water for the Ming Dynasty.

Lin Xiaofeng looked at their backs and sighed. His eyes were filled with worry and expectation. It seemed that he was worried about the future war, and also that he was looking forward to the dawn of victory.

"Your Majesty..." Guo Tianyang didn't dare to ask more and could only answer vaguely. He knew that the emperor was in a heavy mood and didn't dare to disturb him easily.

"Why is your majesty sighing?" Gongsun Yuchun asked. His voice was filled with concern and confusion, as if he wanted to share some of the emperor's worries.

"Gongsun Yuchun, I have recently killed corrupt officials, nobles, and merchants, sent the crown prince to migrate south, rectified the administration, manufactured firearms, issued official reports, exempted land taxes, and recruited soldiers for war." Lin Xiaofeng listed them one by one, his voice carrying a hint of fatigue and determination, as if he was reviewing his recent actions.

"What else do you think I can do?" he asked, with a hint of helplessness and expectation in his voice, as if he was looking for an answer, an answer that would give him peace of mind.

"Your Majesty, I think this is enough." Gongsun Yuchun replied. There was a hint of respect and comfort in his voice, as if he was telling the emperor that he had done a good job.

"Not enough!" Lin Xiaofeng shook his head. His eyes were filled with determination and coldness. It was as if he was telling himself and Gongsun Yuchun that he still had more to do.

The defenders and the people of the capital had not seen the bandits. Although the newspapers reported the bandits' evil deeds, they were only written on paper. People had not seen them with their own eyes and would not really understand them. They just believed them with the attitude of believing it was better than not believing it. That's all. Lin Xiaofeng knew this very well. He knew that only by letting the soldiers and civilians in the city see the true face of the bandits could they truly understand the cruelty and urgency of war.

"What should we do to let the soldiers and civilians in the city see the true face of the bandits?" Lin Xiaofeng asked. There was a bit of urgency and expectation in his voice. It was as if he was looking for an effective way.

Gongsun Yuchun remained silent. If he didn't answer this question well, his entire clan would be exterminated! He didn't dare to speak easily, fearing that a wrong word would lead to his own death.

"Emergency requires strong medicine!" Gongsun Yuchun answered carefully after deep thought. There was a hint of caution and determination in his voice. It seemed that he was ready to offer advice to the emperor.

"What do you mean..." Lin Xiaofeng asked. His eyes were sharp and expectant. It was as if he had seen the answer in Gongsun Yuchun's heart.

"Kill people!" Gongsun Yuchun replied. His voice was a bit cold and resolute. In the past, he would never dare to say such words.

When the Jinyiwei commander Gongsun Yuchun heard this, his face changed slightly. His eyes, which were usually calm and steady, were now filled with small waves. He was immediately shocked and whispered, "Your Majesty... do you want to... kill Yansheng Duke?" His voice was low, but it was filled with shock and fear that were difficult to conceal, as if this sentence itself was a taboo. "Your Majesty, you must not do this!" Gongsun Yuchun was panicked. If it were not for the restraint of the etiquette between the monarch and his subjects, he would have almost knelt down at Lin Xiaofeng's feet and begged. His forehead was already sweating, his hands were clenched into fists, and his veins were exposed. It was obvious that he was experiencing a fierce struggle in his heart.

"Confucius has always been a role model for scholars, and Confucius' descendants have inherited the tradition of scholarship. Ever since Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty promoted Confucianism as the only school of thought, all dynasties have regarded Confucianism as orthodoxy, and the Ming Dynasty is no exception! After Taizu unified the country, he also conferred the title of Yansheng Duke on Kong Xixue to show his respect for Confucian culture." Gongsun Yuchun's words were filled with urgency, trying to shake Lin Xiaofeng's determination with the weight of history.

"The influence of Confucianism is far-reaching, and Duke Yansheng is a leader in the literary world, revered as a god by scholars all over the world! If Your Majesty kills him, it will not only shake the foundation of the country, but will also be criticized by the civil and military officials in the court, scholars all over the world and even the common people! Your Majesty, this is a taboo!" Gongsun Yuchun's voice was a little hoarse due to excitement. He knew very well the consequences of this action. It was not only a blow to a cultural symbol, but also a challenge to the entire scholar class.

Upon learning that Lin Xiaofeng intended to kill Yanshenggong, Gongsun Yuchun wondered in his heart: Has Lin Xiaofeng lost his mind? He recalled Lin Xiaofeng's usual wise decisions and couldn't help wondering if such a decision was too impulsive.

Killing corrupt officials is fine, the people will certainly applaud; killing nobles and businessmen is the same, the people will only gloat over their misfortune; killing scholars may be possible, but killing the representative of scholars, the Duke of Yansheng, is absolutely unacceptable! This is not only a blasphemy against culture, but also a trampling on the hearts of scholars all over the world.

Lin Xiaofeng smiled calmly, with a hint of amusement in his smile, and asked back: "Don't you dare?" His eyes were deep, as if he could see through the deepest fear in people's hearts.

Gongsun Yuchun fell to his knees, his voice trembling: "Your Majesty, it's not that I dare not, but I really can't! I can disregard my own reputation, but Your Majesty cannot. Once this matter is leaked, Your Majesty's wisdom will be seriously damaged. I really can't bear this responsibility." His tone was full of helplessness and pleading, as if he was making his last struggle.

"Gongsun Yuchun, your idea is very dangerous!" Lin Xiaofeng's voice suddenly became stern, and his eyes were as sharp as torches, as if he could see through people's hearts.

Gongsun Yuchun was about to explain further when he heard Lin Xiaofeng say, "I am not so stupid as to provoke the scholars of the world! My meaning is to send you to the Yansheng Duke's Mansion to kill someone, but not to kill Yansheng Duke." This sentence was like a bolt from the blue, and Gongsun Yuchun was stunned for a moment.

So that's it! Gongsun Yuchun wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, took a deep breath and his heartbeat gradually recovered. It would be better if he didn't kill Yanshenggong! Besides, Yanshenggong was in Shandong, and if he wanted to kill him, he would have to travel thousands of miles to Yanzhou Prefecture (Qufu belonged to Yanzhou Prefecture). The twists and turns and risks along the way were really not small.

"Your Majesty, please enlighten me." Gongsun Yuchun's voice contained a hint of relief, but was also full of doubts. He wanted to know what Lin Xiaofeng's plan was.

Lin Xiaofeng did not speak directly, but instead asked: "I ordered all officials and nobles to send servants to help defend the city. Has the Yanshenggong Mansion sent anyone?" His tone was calm, but sharp.

There were two palaces of Duke Yansheng in the Ming Dynasty, one in Qufu and the other next to the Imperial Household Department in the capital. These palaces were given to the descendants of Confucius by Emperor Yingzong of the Ming Dynasty. Duke Yansheng would live here when he came to Beijing to pay homage. When he was not in Beijing, his descendants would take care of them. These two palaces are not only symbols of the Kong family, but also microcosms of Confucian culture.

"Your Majesty, the Yansheng Palace has sent a servant named Zhang to guard the west gate of the city." Gongsun Yuchun's answer was cautious, as he was well aware of the sensitivity of the issue.

"Okay. Tonight you go to the Yansheng Mansion next to the Taipu Temple Yamen and kill a descendant of the Kong family. Remember, you can only kill one person! And his death must be horrible." Lin Xiaofeng's words were filled with unquestionable determination, as if he had already planned all this in his mind for a long time.

One person? Is that too few? Gongsun Yuchun muttered to himself, but did not dare to ask more.

Without waiting for Gongsun Yuchun to think carefully, Lin Xiaofeng continued: "After the killing, leave blood words on the wall: Open the city gate to welcome King Chuang, otherwise kill everyone in the city!" His voice was low and powerful, and every word seemed to be squeezed out from between his teeth, full of chillness.

"Yes, sir." Gongsun Yuchun's voice was filled with helplessness. He knew that this night would be the longest and heaviest night in his professional career.

Lin Xiaofeng had no good feelings towards the Yanshenggong clan. His thoughts drifted back to the history of the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty, when Yanshenggong Kong Kejian wrote a memorial to Emperor Shundi of the Yuan Dynasty, saying, "There are many troops serving the emperor now. If we fight them, the bandits (referring to Zhu Yuanzhang) can be pacified." However, while writing the memorial, he sent his son Kong Xixue to Nanjing to meet Zhu Yuanzhang on his behalf. Such a double-faced behavior was really abominable! This behavior of wanting to preserve oneself while trying to please the new master made Lin Xiaofeng full of contempt for the Yanshenggong clan.

After the Eight Banners entered the pass, the Duke of Yansheng, who had been supported by the Ming Dynasty for nearly three hundred years, once again demonstrated their family's inherited ideas: people choose to serve a wise ruler, and birds choose good trees to roost in! They actually presented the "First Submission" to the young Emperor Shunzhi before anyone else. This kind of opportunistic behavior made Lin Xiaofeng deeply doubt the loyalty of the Duke of Yansheng.

Later, when Emperor Shunzhi ordered the Ministry of Rites to issue a nationwide hair-shaving order, Duke Yansheng summoned all the clansmen to discuss and then set up an incense table in front of Duke Yansheng's mansion to read the imperial edict and shave their heads collectively. In Lin Xiaofeng's eyes, this scene was undoubtedly a betrayal of Confucian culture by Duke Yansheng and his clan, and a submission to power.

Loyalty or not is secondary. What matters is that the Confucius Mansion is rich! As the first family in the world, the Confucius Mansion had as much as 2,600 hectares of sacrificial land in the late Ming Dynasty, equivalent to 260,000 mu! Sacrificial land is land allocated by the state and is exempt from all taxes. In addition to sacrificial land, the Confucius Mansion also has school land and self-purchased land, as well as the powder land brought by the wives of the Duke of Yansheng in the past. Add it up, it will be an astonishing figure!

Lin Xiaofeng didn't dare to think too much. He only needed to take 10 million taels, and keep the rest for the time being. As for the method of robbing money, he had already thought of it: bandits! In troubled times, soldiers and bandits are indistinguishable. Who would have thought that they were government troops when they put on the clothes of the Dashun Army? Thinking of this, Lin Xiaofeng couldn't help but sneer. The deficit of 20 million taels caused by the exemption of one year's land tax has been completely solved, and there is still a surplus!

After pondering for a moment, he asked, "How are the interrogations of Tu Yuhua and Dang Chongya going?" There was a hint of urgency in his voice, and it was obvious that he was very concerned about the results of the interrogation of these two people.

"Your Majesty, the two have confessed and the evidence is conclusive. But..." Gongsun Yuchun's voice was filled with hesitation.

"Just say whatever you want to say." There was a hint of impatience in Lin Xiaofeng's voice.

"Yes, but I'm afraid that the two will change their confessions and protest their innocence at the autumn execution." Gongsun Yuchun's voice was filled with some worry, as he knew very well how cunning and vicious these two were.

Lin Xiaofeng glanced at Gongsun Yuchun and sneered, "Who said I have to wait until the autumn execution to make a decision? You should immediately make public the evidence that the two of them were secretly communicating with the bandits and the Jiannu, and gain the upper hand in public opinion. Secondly, confiscate their properties and send their families to the imperial prison." There was unquestionable determination in his voice, as if everything was already under his control.

"As you command, I'll take my leave." Gongsun Yuchun's voice contained a hint of relief. He knew that this night would be the beginning of a busy day for him.

"Wait a minute, have you found the profiteer I asked you to look for?" Lin Xiaofeng's voice sounded again, with a bit of urgency.

Gongsun Yuchun knelt down hurriedly to plead guilty: "It is a crime that I did not proactively report what the emperor asked me to do. Your Majesty, please forgive me. I have been busy with interrogations these days and only found two or three well-known profiteers in the city. They are now in prison." There was a hint of panic and self-blame in his voice.

"Forget it...you can deal with them. I don't need these people anymore." There was a hint of helplessness in Lin Xiaofeng's voice. It was obvious that he didn't have much hope for these profiteers.

"I'll take my leave!" Gongsun Yuchun's voice carried a hint of relief. He knew that this night would be the beginning of his battle with the unscrupulous businessmen.

Time flies by, and night falls in the blink of an eye. Lanterns are hung high in the streets and alleys of the capital, and people are bustling and bustling. However, behind this prosperity, there are countless undercurrents.

In Kunning Palace, Queen Zhou saw Lin Xiaofeng's sad face and was very worried. Since the replacement of the cabinet's chief minister, the emperor rarely laughed sincerely. She knew that he was too tired, and as the queen, she had to share the emperor's worries.

Soon, the Tremella soup cooked by Queen Zhou was brought to Lin Xiaofeng. She blew the hot air gently and whispered, "Your Majesty has been working hard for days. This is the Tremella soup cooked by me. Please enjoy it." Her voice was gentle and caring, as if it could dispel the sorrow in Lin Xiaofeng's heart.

Lin Xiaofeng took the Tremella soup and put it on the table, hugged Queen Zhou's waist, and still looked worried. He knew very well that although the Tremella soup was delicious, it could not relieve the worries in his heart.

Seeing that Lin Xiaofeng was silent, Queen Zhou picked up the Tremella soup again and picked up the soup spoon: "Your Majesty is tired, why don't you taste this Tremella soup and rest early with me." There was a bit of pleading and expectation in her voice, as if she hoped that this Tremella soup could become a medium for communication between them.
In the morning, the sky was just beginning to light up, and the scene in front of the Huangji Palace was already solemn. All the officials were dressed in court robes, standing or standing, with different expressions, but all of them revealed an indescribable solemnity. The breeze blew past, blowing the sleeves, but it also seemed to tremble with a hint of uneasiness.

"There is no court meeting today. Please go back first, everyone! Everyone in the cabinet, follow me to the Qianqing Palace. His Majesty has something to say." Guo Tianyang's voice rang out in the empty square, with a bit of unquestionable majesty.

Hearing this, all the officials sighed, and their sighs revealed not only disappointment, but also helplessness and fatigue. Some of them rubbed their sore eyes, while others shook their heads helplessly.

"Alas, getting up so early only to find out that everything is for nothing!" An elderly minister muttered to himself, and the wrinkles on his face seemed to deepen.

Walking out of the palace gate, Guo Tianyang looked around with a sharp gaze, as if he was looking for something. Suddenly, his eyes paused and he found that there was one more person in the cabinet team, that was Wang Tingmei, the governor of Shuntian Prefecture.

"Wang Fuyin, His Majesty clearly said that there will be no court meeting today, so you should go back to the yamen. The affairs of defending the city and clearing the wilderness all rely on the Ministry of Revenue and your Shuntian Prefecture Yamen." There was a hint of impatience in Guo Tianyang's voice.

Wang Tingmei, the prefect of Shuntian Prefecture, had a worried look on his face. He begged, "Eunuch Guo, I have an urgent matter to see His Majesty. Please inform him."

Guo Tianyang frowned, glanced at Wang Tingmei, nodded and said, "Wang Fuyin can come with me, but let me make it clear first, His Majesty is in a bad mood today, so you'd better pray for the best."

"Thank you, Eunuch Guo." There was some gratitude in Wang Tingmei's voice. He followed Guo Tianyang's steps closely, but his heart was filled with anxiety.

Guo Tianyang walked in front with a staggering pace, his figure stretched out in the morning light, looking particularly lonely. The others followed slowly behind, their footsteps echoing in the empty square, carrying a certain heaviness.

Behind the Huangji Hall is the Zhongji Hall, behind the Zhongji Hall is the Jianji Hall, and behind the Jianji Hall is the Qianqing Palace where the emperor lived and governed. It is a towering building, magnificent and yet also mysterious and solemn.

Arriving outside the Qianqing Palace, Guo Tianyang went in to report. A moment later, he summoned everyone into the palace according to the emperor's order. The candlelight in the palace flickered, illuminating the serious faces.

Wang Tingmei looked around and saw Gongsun Yuchun of the Jinyiwei and Gu Chaosheng of the Dongchang, and he was overjoyed. He quickly took two steps forward, knelt on the ground and reported: "Your Majesty, a murder occurred in the capital last night, and I am here to report it!"

"Murder case?" Lin Xiaofeng half leaned over, his voice filled with anger. His eyes were as sharp as a knife, as if he could see through people's hearts. "You are the governor of Shuntian Prefecture, a third-rank official of the court. Why are you here when you encounter a murder case instead of investigating it? Do you want to taste the taste of the imperial cane?"

Hearing the words "court caning", Wang Tingmei's hair stood on end! The caning system had been a custom since Zhu Yuanzhang ascended the throne, and it became a custom during the Zhengtong period. In Lin Xiaofeng's time, the caning system was extremely strict, and the emperor would cane officials if he disagreed with them. During the Ming Dynasty, there were more than 500 canings in the court, and dozens of ministers were beaten to death.

Thinking that the emperor had not punished anyone for five days, Wang Tingmei became even more afraid. He hurriedly explained, "Your Majesty, this case is very serious. The case happened in the mansion of Duke Yansheng, and the deceased is the nephew of Duke Yansheng."

Hearing this, Lin Xiaofeng stood up suddenly, with a look of astonishment on his face. There was an elusive light in his eyes, as if he was shocked by the news. Gongsun Yuchun, who was standing aside, looked at Lin Xiaofeng and secretly gave him a thumbs up: Your Majesty's acting skills are really superb!

Lin Xiaofeng frowned and asked angrily: "How did he die? Has the murderer been caught?" There was a bit of anxiety and anger in his voice, as if he was particularly concerned about this case.

"Your Majesty..." Wang Tingmei wanted to vomit but swallowed it back, and forced himself to continue: "The death of the descendants of Kong was tragic. After examination by the coroner, it seemed that they were killed by a butcher." There was a little tremor in his voice, and he was obviously shocked by this case.

"The night is dark and the murderer is cunning. Apart from a line of bloody words left on the wall, there are no other clues." There was a hint of helplessness and frustration in Wang Tingmei's voice.

Butcher? Hearing these two words, Lin Xiaofeng could already guess how the descendants of the Kong family died. He didn't want to ask, nor did he want to ask too much. So he turned to ask for clues about the blood words: "What are those blood words?" There was a bit of urgency and anxiety in his voice.

"The line of blood words reads 'Open the city gate, welcome...'" Wang Tingmei's voice was filled with hesitation and uneasiness.

"Speak now, you are not guilty." Lin Xiaofeng's voice was majestic and unquestionable.

"Yes, open the city gate to welcome King Chuang, otherwise everyone in the city will be killed." There was a bit of trembling and fear in Wang Tingmei's voice. It was obvious that she was shocked and disturbed by the line of blood words.

Everyone present was stunned when they heard this, and their faces became solemn. They realized that the bandits were lurking near the capital and could cause chaos at any time! This was a serious threat, which concerned the safety of the capital and the stability of the court.

Lin Xiaofeng frowned slightly and said, "This matter is not simple!" There was some thought and doubt in his voice, "I ask you, do the descendants of Kong have enemies? Has the property in your home been stolen? I suspect that someone is committing crimes in the name of bandits!" His eyes were as sharp as a knife, as if he could see through all the truth.

Wang Tingmei answered truthfully: "Your Majesty has none." There was a firmness and sincerity in his voice, and it was obvious that he had conducted an in-depth investigation into the issue.

After pondering for a moment, Lin Xiaofeng looked around at the others and said, "Master Li, what do you think?" There was a hint of respect and inquiry in his voice.

Li Banghua bowed and said, "Your Majesty, I think this is a signal from the bandits. They want to tell the people of the capital that their people are already here. They create panic to make the people panic and make the military and civilians of the capital lose confidence and determination to defend the city." There was a bit of solemnity and worry in his voice, and it was obvious that he had a deep understanding of the threat posed by the bandits.

"What a vicious plot!" Lin Xiaofeng gritted his teeth and said these three words. A trace of anger and hatred flashed in his eyes, as if he was very angry at the cunning and viciousness of the bandits.

Li Zicheng, who was far outside Juyong Pass, suddenly sneezed, looked at the sun in the sky, shook his head and continued to command the attack. He seemed to be able to sense the turmoil and unrest in the capital, and his army was about to launch a fierce attack on Juyong Pass.

In the Qianqing Palace, Lin Xiaofeng asked Wang Tingmei: "What exactly do you want to do after you've said so much, Wang Fuyin?" There was a hint of impatience and inquiry in his voice.

"I ask your majesty to order the Royal Guards or the Eastern Depot to assist in handling this case." Wang Tingmei's voice was filled with pleading and urgency. He obviously hoped to use the power of the Royal Guards or the Eastern Depot to solve this case and calm the unrest and turmoil in the capital.

Lin Xiaofeng raised his eyebrows and said, "The Jinyiwei and the Dongchang are my people, and you, Wang Tingmei, can't use them whenever you want! This is just a murder case and there is no need for them to take action." There was a certain unquestionable and majestic tone in his voice.

Wang Tingmei knelt on the ground and couldn't get up: "Your Majesty, you don't know that although it is a homicide case, the identity of the deceased is special. The officials in the capital and the students of the Imperial College are all indignant about this. They have surrounded the Shuntian government office and demanded that I solve the case within a time limit." There was a bit of helplessness and anxiety in his voice. It was obvious that he felt this case was very difficult.

"They will stay outside the government office until I solve the case." Wang Tingmei's voice was filled with fatigue and frustration. He had obviously tried his best, but the case was too complicated to solve.

"I have no one to use now, so I ask Your Majesty to order the Royal Guards or the East Factory to investigate this case." Wang Tingmei's voice was filled with pleading and expectation. He obviously hoped to use the power of the Royal Guards or the East Factory to calm down this storm.

Sure enough... the scholars have been angered. This is exactly the effect they hope for. Lin Xiaofeng thought to himself. He shook his head slightly at Wang Tingmei's request. There are coincidences, but too many times will inevitably arouse suspicion. Once suspicion arises, the crime will follow.

"No!" Lin Xiaofeng's voice was full of determination and unquestionable. He obviously didn't want the Royal Guards or the East Factory to intervene in this case to avoid causing more trouble and suspicion.

"The capital is your own territory. Murders have occurred repeatedly, but you don't want to solve the cases, but instead seek help from the Royal Guards and the East Factory. Aren't you afraid of impeachment from the cabinet and the imperial censors?" Lin Xiaofeng's voice was full of questioning and dissatisfaction. He was obviously suspicious of Wang Tingmei's motives.

"And I want to ask you who the murderer is?" Lin Xiaofeng's voice was a bit stern and majestic. He obviously hoped that Wang Tingmei could give a clear answer.

Wang Tingmei mechanically answered, "Bandits." There was a hint of helplessness and frustration in his voice, and it was obvious that he felt very powerless about this case.

"Then tell the students that the murderer is a bandit! The bandit is hiding among the millions of people in the capital, and it is difficult to capture him with the people of Shuntian Prefecture alone." Lin Xiaofeng's voice was full of determination and resoluteness. He obviously hoped to use the power of the people to capture the murderer and calm the storm.

"They have pens in their hands and mouths under their noses. Let them write and speak! Write in places where millions of people in the capital can see and tell the people in the capital! Expose the cruelty and ruthlessness of the bandits. Only when the people see the truth will they resist the bandits, hate the bandits and want to capture them from the bottom of their hearts!" Lin Xiaofeng's voice was a little excited and uplifted. He obviously hoped to use the power of the people to fight against the threat of the bandits together.

"Capturing the bandits is like capturing the murderer." Lin Xiaofeng's voice was firm and resolute. He had obviously made the decision to calm down the turmoil.

"Do I need to say anything else?" Lin Xiaofeng's voice was questioning and majestic. He obviously hoped that Wang Tingmei could understand what he meant and take action as soon as possible.

Wang Tingmei knelt on the ground for a while, kowtowed and thanked the emperor, then left in a hurry. He understood the emperor's intention and knew that he had a heavy responsibility. He had to solve the case as soon as possible and calm the turmoil to maintain the stability of the capital and the dignity of the court.

The four cabinet ministers, the commander of the Jinyiwei and the governor of the East Factory were all against Lin (end of this chapter)