In Hongwu, we started as rebels

Chapter 826 Luring the Enemy Deeper, Waiting for Them to Fall into the Trap

The Imperial College in the capital city was a sacred place in the hearts of all the students of the Ming Dynasty.

At this time, academies in various regions had not yet flourished and were being severely suppressed by the imperial court.

For students who aspire to pass the imperial examinations and enter officialdom, there are only two paths:

First, they buried themselves in their studies to pass the imperial examinations and gain official rank.

Secondly, he entered the Imperial College.
The latter, whether they pass the imperial examinations or become officials directly, have a much higher chance of success.

This is because not only are there scholars of the Five Classics here, but also great Confucian scholars, and even the top three scholars from previous years often come back to give lectures.

Whether it's acquiring knowledge or gaining favor with important figures in the court, the opportunities are much greater.

In early September, the weather was still hot and humid.

As evening approached, it was time for classes to end at the Imperial College.

The deep, melodious chimes rang out.
Countless students dressed in the robes of the Imperial Academy poured out of the main halls and buildings.

They walked toward the gate, books in hand, chatting and laughing.

Sun Si'an walked slowly out of the gate of the Imperial College with his classmates.

The afterglow of the setting sun shone on the bluestone slabs, casting long shadows of everyone.

He stood tall and straight, though he had already taken off his military armor and put on a scholar's robe.

But his brows still exuded a heroic air, and his skin was a healthy bronze color.

"Brother Sun, you have a day off tomorrow. Do you have any plans?" A thin-faced classmate asked with a smile.

Sun Si'an smiled slightly:
"No plans yet, I'm just studying at home."

"Haha, Brother Sun is so diligent, he will surely pass the imperial examination in the future." The classmate's eyes were full of admiration.

Sun Si'an humbly replied:

"Thank you for your kind words. I hope that I can enter officialdom together with my classmates in the future and serve the court."

After exchanging a few more pleasantries, everyone dispersed.

Sun Si'an stood still, her gaze sweeping across the doorway.
A simply decorated carriage was sitting quietly there.

The coachman wore a straw hat and had a straight posture.
Although he couldn't see her face clearly, Sun Si'an's heart tightened.
The familiar figure instantly put him on alert.

Chen Jingyi!
He forced himself to remain calm, bid farewell to the students around him, and slowly walked towards the carriage.

As he approached, Chen Jingyi slightly raised his head, a hint of a smile appearing in his eyes beneath his bamboo hat.

Sun Si'an understood perfectly, and without making a sound, boarded the carriage and climbed into the compartment.

The carriage started slowly, its wheels rolling with a dull thud.

Inside the carriage, Sun Si'an lowered his voice and asked:

"Is something wrong?"

Chen Jingyi's voice came from outside the car, carrying a hint of seriousness:

"Something's happened. The situation in the capital has been complicated lately, with the Embroidered Uniform Guard being very active."
The master is worried something might have gone wrong, so he specifically sent me to inform you.

Sun Si'an frowned slightly and said in a deep voice:

"But it doesn't matter."

"The master instructed you to closely monitor the movements of the students within the Imperial Academy, especially those who have connections with powerful figures in the court," Chen Jingyi said.

Sun Si'an nodded slightly:

"I understand. There are many students in the Imperial Academy, and their relationships are complex. I will investigate carefully. Is there anything else?"

Chen Jingyi then said:
"There's one more thing, the master asked me to tell you."
The stronghold in Shangnan Lane was abandoned and then used as a trap; he had already informed Mu Jinghe of that place.

This action was taken to investigate whether Mu Jinghe was having an affair with the Imperial Guards.
Find out who she really works for.

You must closely monitor the movements of the Imperial Guards at the Shangnan Lane stronghold, or whether any suspicious persons appear.
Record everything immediately if anything happens.

Sun Si'an's gaze sharpened, and his expression turned serious.

A gap was lifted in the carriage curtain, and a letter was handed in.

Chen Jingyi said:

"This is a list of Jinyiwei personnel in Yingtian, the capital. You can use it as a reference, but you cannot use it as the basis."

"why?"

Sun Si'an looked shocked.

How did you manage to get your hands on something like this?
Could it be that you, sir, have already infiltrated the Embroidered Uniform Guard?

"This list was obtained from Mu Jinghe."

If she is a member of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, this list is just a bait-and-switch tactic. Remember, if this list doesn't exist, use it only as a reference.

"I understand." Sun Si'an nodded.

How to transmit messages?

Chen Jingyi nodded slightly:
"If you need anything, go to the old bookstore in Xiaping Lane in the south of the city and find a copy of the Analects with blue scratches on the cover."
Turn to page thirty-six. If there is a tiny red dot at the bottom of the page, write the message you want to convey on the notepad provided by the bookstore and tuck it between those pages.

Someone will check regularly, and if there are any messages, they will be sent to you in the same way.

Sun Si'an silently noted it down, pondering his next plan, and then asked:

"What if I cannot go to the bookstore in person?"

"If you really can't get away, you can find a reliable person to do it for you."
But this person must be someone you absolutely trust.
Furthermore, they were completely unaware of the current situation to avoid leaks.

Sun Si'an nodded slightly:

"I understand. I will handle this matter carefully. Is there anything else you need me to do?"

Chen Jingyi gently shook his head:
That's all for now. You must proceed with caution.

The situation in the capital is now turbulent and unpredictable. The Embroidered Uniform Guard is ruthless, and there are also rebellious factions entangled in the conflict.
"You come from a military background, so be careful in the Imperial Academy and don't be careless."

Sun Si'an's gaze was firm:

"Rest assured, I will certainly live up to your expectations."

As they spoke, the carriage arrived at a secluded spot, and Chen Jingyi whispered:

"That's enough for now. Be careful around you after you get off the bus, and don't attract attention."

Sun Si'an responded, lifted the carriage curtain, and quickly got out of the car.

He wanted to turn and leave, but he still asked the question that was on his mind:

"What should be done if Ruomu Jinghe is a member of the Embroidered Uniform Guard?"

Should we carry out the cleanup plan? We can make it an accident.

Chen Jingyi shook his head:
"No need. Killing people directly is a desperate measure used by the weak. We shouldn't use it lightly."

"understood."

Sun Si'an nodded, his figure disappearing into the twilight.

His steps were steady, and his eyes scanned his surroundings warily.

After confirming that no one was following him, he quickened his pace and headed home.

Upon returning home, Sun Si'an, without taking a break, went straight into the study and closed the door tightly.

He sat at his desk, quickly sorting through the things Chen Jingyi had told him.

The matter of the Shangnan Lane stronghold is of paramount importance, not only concerning Mu Jinghe's identity, but also serving as a battlefield for the confrontation with the Embroidered Uniform Guard.

As one of the most outstanding scouts in the former army's scout unit

He wouldn't allow himself to fail.

Sun Si'an pondered for a moment, then took out paper and pen and began to make a detailed plan.

Time passed, and night quietly enveloped the entire capital city.

Sun Si'an, dressed in a black outfit, moved nimbly through the narrow streets and alleys.

His steps were light and swift, each step seemingly calculated, and he landed almost without making a sound.

Soon, he arrived at Shangnan Alley.
This seemingly ordinary street,

At this moment, however, Sun Si'an's eyes were filled with the unknown and danger.
This is because the outpost has been exposed for a day now.

He vigilantly observed his surroundings, not missing a single subtle movement.

Finally, he arrived at the tailor shop.

The tailor shop's signboard swayed gently in the night breeze, making a creaking sound.

Sun Si'an took a deep breath and gently knocked on the door.

A moment later, the door slowly opened a crack.

A thin-faced young man peeked out.
Upon seeing that it was Sun Si'an, a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes, but he quickly regained his composure.

"Young Master Sun, what brings you here so late?"

Sun Si'an's expression was serious, and he lowered his voice to say:
"Go in and talk."

The young man nodded, opened the door, and let Sun Si'an into the house.

Inside the room, a middle-aged man and a middle-aged woman were sitting at the table.

When they saw Sun Si'an enter, all their eyes turned to him.

"Young Master Sun?" The man stood up and asked in surprise.

Sun Si'an glanced at the three of them and said in a deep voice:
"Gentlemen, the Shangnan Lane stronghold has been rendered useless and used as bait. You must evacuate immediately."

Everyone was shocked when they heard this.

The woman also stood up, her face showing shock:
"Why is that? We've been working here for so long, and we've finally made some progress. How can we just give up like this?"

Sun Si'an frowned slightly and said in a deep voice:

"This is an order. The Embroidered Uniform Guard is active frequently, and the Shangnan Lane stronghold may have already been exposed."

Staying here is tantamount to suicide.

The burly man, though still resentful,
But seeing Sun Si'an's serious expression, he didn't dare to say anything more.

The young man who opened the door frowned and asked:

"Young Master Sun, where shall we retreat to?" Sun Si'an nodded slightly.

"It's all arranged. Come with me and leave here first. Once we're in a safe place, I'll tell you all the details."

The three of them got up and started packing their things.

Sun Si'an watched their busy figures and sighed inwardly.

He knew that this evacuation meant that all previous efforts might be in vain.
But for the sake of the bigger picture, this was a decision that had to be made.

In no time, everyone had finished getting ready.

Sun Si'an led them quietly through the back door of the tailor shop and, under the cover of night, walked out of the alley.

Next, Sun Si'an led everyone to a nearby alley.

This alley is even more secluded than Shangnan Alley.

Surrounded by tall walls and dense trees, few people would notice this place.

Sun Si'an pointed to an abandoned house at the end of the alley and said:
"This is our new base. Although it's a bit dilapidated, it's well-hidden and safe."

"Settle down here first. The money will be allocated tomorrow, and you can do whatever you want then."

The group entered the courtyard and found it overgrown with weeds and the houses in a state of disrepair.

But they all knew that now was not the time to be picky; having a place to settle down was already a blessing.

Upon entering the courtyard, the first thing to set up is the observation point.

They erected simple wooden frames on several high points in the courtyard and set up platforms for people to stay.

Here, through the panorama,
You can clearly see the tailor shop in Shangnan Lane through the gaps in the high walls!
The young man looked curiously at the telescope and asked:

"Young Master Sun, is this thing really that magical?"

Sun Si'an smiled, picked up the telescope, and handed it to him:
"Just try and you will find out."

The young man took the telescope, placed it in front of his eyes, and looked into the distance.

A moment later, he opened his mouth in astonishment:

"This...this can see farther than a telescope; you can even see the birds on the roof of the opposite house clearly."

Sun Si'an patted him on the shoulder:

"This is a new type of weaponry, and it is top secret. Protect it well, or your entire family will be exterminated if you are caught."

"Yes, I will definitely protect it."

"Alright, I'll be going now. I'll arrange for three people to work at the tailor shop tomorrow."

Be wary of suspicious individuals near Shangnan Alley, especially those who smell like members of the Imperial Guard.

"Yes!"

The night was even darker, and there were hardly any lights to be seen in the entire southern part of the city.

But in Midtown, the Miaoyinfang was brightly lit and bustling with activity.

Among them, a group of maids hurried about, moving through every corner.

They carried all sorts of goods in their hands: exquisite silks, gorgeous porcelains, and spices that exuded a faint fragrance.

These goods are all for the purpose of preparing for the next day's business.

Judging from the way they're restocking, Miaoyinfang's business is really doing well.

Mu Jinghe wore a plain-colored long dress, her hair styled in a high bun.

A few stray hairs fell on either side of her face, adding to her gentle beauty.

She was also busy among the crowd, arranging the goods neatly, her eyes focused and attentive.

"This batch of spices should be stored in a well-ventilated place to prevent the fragrance from dissipating."

Mu Jinghe spoke to a maid, her voice soft yet carrying an undeniable authority.

The maid nodded quickly: "Yes, sir."

At this moment, the maid Xiaorou hurried over and whispered a few words in Mu Jinghe's ear.

Upon hearing this, a struggle flashed in Mu Jinghe's eyes, and a hint of hesitation appeared on her calm face.

But she quickly regained her composure, nodded slightly, and gestured for Xiaorou to step back.

"You guys keep going, I'll be right back."

Mu Jinghe spoke to the maids around her, then turned and walked towards the backyard of Miaoyinfang.

After passing through a quiet path, Mu Jinghe arrived at a hidden entrance to Miaoyinfang.

Mu Jinghe took a deep breath and stepped inside.

The underground area was a spacious government office, brightly lit yet exuding a sinister atmosphere.

Upon arriving at the underground government office, there were hardly any officials left.
She took a deep breath and walked inside.

Arriving at the innermost office, Mu Jinghe suppressed her nervousness and gently knocked on the door.

"Come in."

Mao Xiang's deep voice came from inside.

Mu Jinghe pushed open the door and entered the room.

The room was simply furnished, with a huge desk placed against the wall, piled high with documents and books.

Mao Xiang sat behind his desk, his face stern, his eyes revealing a sense of authority.

"coming?"

Mao Xiang slightly raised his head, looked at Mu Jinghe, and a barely perceptible smile appeared on his lips.

Mu Jinghe bowed slightly in greeting.
"Greetings, Commander. May I ask what brings you here, Lord Mao?"

Mao Xiang looked her up and down:
"Manager Mu, there's no need to be so formal. I called you here today simply to ask you some questions."

Mu Jinghe's heart tightened, but her face remained expressionless:

"Please ask, my lord, I will answer whatever I know."

"It should be me, your humble servant," Mao Xiang smiled and continued:

Did Lu Yunyi tell you when he would return when he left Beijing this time?

Mu Jinghe lowered her head slightly, pondered for a moment, and then said:
"This humble woman is unaware."

Mao Xiang sneered:
"Manager Mu, you'd better tell the truth. Do you know the consequences if you conceal the truth?"

Mu Jinghe inwardly groaned.
She raised her head, looking at Mao Xiang with a determined gaze:

"You're asking me about things that even your Embroidered Uniform Guard can't find out?"

Mao Xiang stared at Mu Jinghe for a long time, seemingly trying to determine whether her words were credible.

After a while, he slowly nodded:

"Okay, I'll trust you this once."
After these two months of getting to know each other, what do you think of Lu Yunyi as a person? How does he treat others and handle matters?

Mu Jinghe's heart skipped a beat; she knew this was an opportunity.
An opportunity for Mao Xiang to misunderstand the adults.

"He was young and promising, but he was also stubborn and self-important, and often refused to listen to the advice of others."

In terms of interpersonal relationships and handling affairs,
He was extremely strict with his subordinates, and would severely punish them for even the slightest mistake.

Moreover, he was suspicious and often wary of those around him.

After hearing this, Mao Xiang looked at her suspiciously for a few moments.

"Really?"

"Believe it or not," Mu Jinghe replied decisively.

Mao Xiang laughed and nodded repeatedly:
"It would be strange if someone in their twenties who holds a high position didn't have a bit of arrogance."

"What do you think are his weaknesses?"

Mu Jinghe continued:

"Lord Lu values ​​power highly, is also fond of women, and loves money."

Mao Xiang burst into laughter:

"Good! Shopkeeper Mu, the information you provided is very useful."

The court officials all say he doesn't love money, but in all my years, I've never met a person who doesn't love money.

As for women, young men in their twenties, full of vigor and vitality...
Is there anyone who doesn't love women? I doubt it.

"Hahahaha." Mao Xiang laughed heartily.

A strange glint flashed in Mu Jinghe's eyes.

Adults should enjoy female beauty.
But money.
She's seen too many wealthy people; she knows what kind of people love money and what kind of people love fame.

But adults may not really love money.

Mao Xiang asked a few more questions, which Mu Jinghe answered one by one.

Finally, Mao Xiang asked:

"He didn't say he would take you as a concubine?"

"I didn't say it."

"So it seems you're ready to abandon me at any time. If that's the case, then he didn't leave you any protection?"

Mu Jinghe's breathing was heavy, and anger flashed in her eyes:
"My lord said that if someone bullies me, I should go to Duke Cao. He has already made arrangements!"

Mao Xiang's smug smile suddenly froze, and his brows furrowed instantly:

"So, he does care about you quite a bit?"

Mu Jinghe did not answer directly, but instead gave a cold laugh:
"A man like Lord Mao, who has no wife or children and is of heartless nature, would naturally treat others the same way."
Little did they know, it was Chairman Mao who was unlike any other human being.

Mao Xiang's face immediately turned ugly, and he let out a soft snort:
"Manager Mu, don't think you can talk to me like that just because you've climbed up the social ladder."
Remember this: you are now a commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, my subordinate. You must obey my orders!

"So what if I don't listen?" Mu Jinghe glanced at him disdainfully.
"If the magistrate finds out that you've placed people around him, you can expect to die."

Mao Xiang's face froze again.
Mu Jinghe turned and left without waiting for him to speak, her steps hurried.

(End of this chapter)