Prime minister and their entire faction felt the sword above their neck. They now could only pray that the people over there had made clean records as not to implicate them.
They themselves had well hidden their trail but still felt something was wrong. Indeed their instincts were right as Pei Jin had all the necessary links and trails uncovered. He was just waiting for the time to show the evidences.
They were simply not more than a fish in the chopping block. Third prince was feeling headache and fear on this new development. He now had to convince all the royals and nobles to fork out money which will cut his supply to his hidden army.
But he was also relieved that the places were not connected with his army and as for the funds he was sure that his involvement will not be known. The situation worsening he was even more determined to find that man.
He and his faction clearly felt that Pei Jin had his hand on escalating the matter or else how come a person suddenly comes with a letter to imperial censor. He also was cursing for the greedy ones even having their hands dipped into armies rations and weapons, making matters worse.
All of them knew though unspoken but emperor had suspicions for the people inside court hence if not taken good steps it was inviting the death earlier. Hence whatever feeling each went to handle their work sincerely to ease emperor's suspicion.
State advisor was a man of thirties, yet to be married very wise and good looking. He served only the emperor remaining neutral party. As per order he visited Yushengs biju villa. Though he was on par with prime minister the servants didn't try to fawn which pleaded him for their appropriate behaviour.
Zhu geng neither hot or cold invited him to pavilion where Yusheng was. As they entered the area sound of zither playing could be heard. Though second time he had to praise for her wonderful playing.
Turning her face towards the lake she was playing when they entered she stopped. Xiaoqing cleared the table and with zhu geng left after having tea prepared.
"Esteem lord, this one first asks to be excused for the coming uninvited and interrupting your time of peace" says advisor while giving formal bow.
At ease, take a seat. What has brought you? asks Yusheng. Taking the seat opposite to her, he smiles gently and with helpless voice answers "lord we as a country are facing trouble. In today's morning court the embezzling of relief fund along with rations and weapons of armies has come to light.
Holy one is very furious and worried. The cities are facing lots of difficulties and we think that might result to a pandemic along with inner conflicts.
Thus his holy one has requested for your assistance. We also are urging with all the royals, nobles and merchants to help us. Though the state treasury is in good state still need to save some for the future unseen disasters hence need help."
She listens quietly till he finishes "umm.. this lord understands.. fear not.. this lord will definetly give a helping hand to a friend in need. 5 days.. within 5 days medics will reach on the cities. No need to worry about herbs and medicines this lord will provide it. Who will be transporting and when will it be taken?"asks Yusheng.
State advisor was suprised by her easygoing behaviour. But not to seem rude he answers "by tomorrow early morning everything will be prepared. Emperor will bid them farewell after the list of support is read might be around 10. Two groups have been divided for four cities. One will be leaded by commander Yan and the other will be lead by General Lin who I believe will arrive till evening."
"Umm... this lord will have everything prepared by the time they are ready to leave..as for the physicians my disciples will directly travel there but sending extra will not pose problem. By the night I will have all the people ready. Tell emperor that with this lord alive he won't have to worry."assures Yusheng.
State advisor left in a very good mood to meet other people for same reason.
Yusheng called zhu geng, her maid servants and shadow guards. "Zhu geng send urgent letter to the valley. Have elders send our outer valley disciples to the four cities. Also have them send medicine pills, powder, herbs, bank notes and gold.
Have them here by the evening and you personally will sort out the list and see if everything is proper.
Xiaoqing you with others go and inform mu an to send grains, pickled vegetables, dried meats, dried fishes, chickens, clothes. You will take charge of this matter after sorted out present the list to zhu geng.
Li Bai your group will go and inform that stupid president of association to select 200 best of their disciples along with all the seven elders to be prepared to go with Yan Shukai and Lin qinfeng.
Remind them if not obedient and trying something funny will not live to see tomorrow's sun. Shan and Hui are to monitor those good for nothing elders. If not good kill, also make sure that those disciples stay in their place.
Li Bai send message to divine army to mingle with our outer disciples and protect them. If anyone tries something or disrespect then have them kill. My people are not to be bullied and all the world should learn it easy or the hard way. Be on your way."