Chapter 192: Return to the Mansion

Jiang Mingyu successfully captured Chuyun City; he led his army into the treasury and was astonished to find a mountain of gold and a mountain of silver. Chuyun Commandery was the wealthiest in Xiangcangzhou, its treasury piled high with gold, silver, jewels, grain, cloth, and all manner of rare treasures. Jiang Mingyu was overjoyed and immediately ordered Tukesiluo to inventory the wealth and divide it into three parts: one for rewarding soldiers, one for expanding the army, and one for developing commerce.

"My lord, we've struck it rich this time," Tukesiluo grinned. "These riches are enough to expand our army by twenty thousand, and still buy more weapons and equipment."

"Good," Jiang Mingyu nodded. "With this money, we can strengthen our power and deal with Li Xian and Fei Hou."

"My lord, you are truly wise and mighty; the people of Chuyun Commandery are grateful for your benevolence," Tukesiluo added.

"Nonsense," Jiang Mingyu replied humbly. "I fight only for the people's welfare—I dare not claim credit."

"My lord, you are too modest. You are the people's heart, the destiny of all under heaven," Tukesiluo praised.

Jiang Mingyu smiled and said nothing. In his heart, he knew that though he claimed to rid the land of evil, his true aim was his own ambition—he sought to conquer Xiangcangzhou and establish his own dynasty, to become a supreme ruler.

After inventorying the wealth, Jiang Mingyu ordered Tukesiluo to summon Song Yusheng from Longteng County.

Soon, Song Yusheng arrived before Jiang Mingyu and bowed deeply. "Your lordship."

"Yusheng, you've worked hard," Jiang Mingyu said warmly. "How are things in Longteng County?"

"Your lordship, I have done my utmost," Song Yusheng replied. "I have recruited five thousand troops, trained them well. I have managed the county's affairs and pacified the people."

"Excellent," Jiang Mingyu praised. "You are truly one of my fiercest generals—you've surpassed my expectations."

"My lord, you flatter me," Song Yusheng said modestly. "I merely fulfill my duty."

"No need for modesty," Jiang Mingyu said. "You have talent, ability, and merit—I appoint you as Inspector of Chuyun Commandery. Will you accept?"

"My lord!" Song Yusheng exclaimed in delight. "I am deeply grateful! I accept your appointment!"

"Good," Jiang Mingyu smiled. "From today, you are Inspector of Chuyun Commandery. Govern it well and build me a strong fortress."

"Yes, my lord!" Song Yusheng said eagerly. "I swear I will not fail your trust—I will serve you with all my strength!"

"Go then," Jiang Mingyu waved. "I have other matters to attend to."

Song Yusheng took his leave of Jiang Mingyu and went to the Chuyun Commandery office. Filled with gratitude and admiration, he saw Jiang Mingyu as his benefactor and idol. He vowed to serve Jiang Mingyu faithfully, never disgracing his trust.

Two days later, Jiang Mingyu led his army back to the provincial capital. He planned to rest there for a time before marching to Lingna Commandery to fully seize Xiangcangzhou.

Back in the capital, Jiang Mingyu pondered his plan to attack Lingna Commandery. Lingna was the largest commandery in Xiangcangzhou and the seat of provincial government, with strong walls, elite troops, and under the command of Inspector Li Xian. Taking it would not be easy.

The moonlight flowed like water over the provincial inspector's mansion.

Jiang Mingyu returned to his study; as soon as he opened the door, he saw Zhuge Yu waiting inside.

"Disciple, how goes the preparation for Lingna?" Jiang Mingyu asked bluntly.

"Master, I have recruited twenty thousand elite troops, training them day and night; they will be ready to march in half a month," Zhuge Yu replied respectfully.

"Good, good!" Jiang Mingyu clapped and laughed. "I can hardly wait to march on those barbarians of Lingna. Well done, disciple."

After speaking, Jiang Mingyu hurried to Liu Yi's workshop.

As he reached the door, he saw a strange young woman standing beside Liu Yi. She wore coarse cloth, her expression timid.

"Who is this girl? Why is she with you?" Jiang Mingyu asked curiously.

"Her name is Xing Youli. I took her in recently. She suffered hardship since childhood; I pitied her and brought her home," Liu Yi said gently.

Xing Youli timidly greeted Jiang Mingyu, then blushed and slipped out of the workshop.

Jiang Mingyu nodded and turned to Liu Yi: "Tonight I'm hosting a banquet. Invite your father and the Zhang family—there's business to discuss."

"Of course, I'll notify them right away," Liu Yi replied happily.

That evening, the provincial inspector's mansion glowed with candlelight. Jiang Mingyu invited all his trusted officers, his father-in-law, and the Zhang family to discuss grand plans.

"What is this?" Liu Yi asked, astonished by the dishes on the table. "I've never seen these before."

"I made them myself—new recipes. Tonight's banquet is meant to surprise you," Jiang Mingyu said shyly.

Liu Yi smiled joyfully: "You're becoming ever more thoughtful."