Long Live Money in Anime Crossover

The Embroidered Uniform Guard under Gao Hai had only been established for a short time, and its presence was only briefly demonstrated when he participated in the election for prime minister, which was far from sufficient.

As a secret service agency, how can it pass the test if it doesn't inspire fear and dread?

Momo and his team entered the preparation channel together; the rest is up to Momo's opponents to decide how to proceed.

Author's Note:

PS: Thank you so much Gigantic for the generous donation of 10000 + 1500*3 and the support of 18 monthly tickets! I'm in awe!

Thank you to 不吹不黑小油条, 漠求, and lr世界线 for each of the 100-point donations, and thank you to 求S的小火花, 大贤者丶sama, 燚, hentai熊, and 不吹不黑小油条 for each of the monthly tickets.

PS2: I expect to update six times today, this is the first one, I'll do my best...

087 Expanding Ambition

At this very moment, news of the changes in the Forbidden City and Luoyang had already reached the ears of all local powers within the Chinese Empire. They knew clearly that the Forbidden City had fallen into chaos.

If the chief eunuch's rebellion still surprised them, Gao Hai's subsequent appointment as prime minister was something they simply couldn't understand.

The mutual checks and balances between the imperial power and the cabinet and the Dragon-Biting Pavilion were a tacit understanding that had been established over a long period of time. In the eyes of the local forces, this was a concession by the emperor to preserve his dignity and dignity.

On the surface, the emperor is still the emperor. As long as the emperor stays obediently in Luoyang, everyone will continue to recognize him and allow the declining Chinese empire to continue operating.

The local powers originally considered this an unspoken understanding, one that would remain unchanged no matter what happened. Especially since the current emperor was no longer a naive newcomer; having reigned for decades, he should have fully grasped the spirit of this agreement.

But now, everything has changed.

Gao Hai seized the position of Yaolong Pavilion and, relying on the newly established Jinyiwei (Imperial Guards) wearing red five-pointed star hats, forced all cabinet members to continue operating the cabinet. This was tantamount to seizing power from their local forces.

The previously harmonious situation has been completely destroyed. The old emperor in the central Forbidden City, Gao Hai and his group, as well as the newly emerged genius, all seem destined to go mad. This forces the local powers to collectively consider how to deal with all of this.

Currently, Cao Yuanming, as the representative of the Cao family in Liaodong, is presiding over a telephone conference with the participation of all local aristocratic families.

Cao Yuanming, a descendant of Cao Cao of the Cao family, is also the current leader and decision-maker of the Cao family's power in Liaodong. Over forty years old and in his prime, he is no longer satisfied with the current situation of being too enlightened and wants to make a name for himself while he is still young.

The Cao family was also one of the most powerful branches in the Chinese Empire. Its 1,800-year history allowed it to become deeply rooted in Liaodong. In fact, in Liaodong, people only knew about the Cao family and not the emperor, which made the Cao family essentially a state within a state.

The powerful Cao family is also the leader of the invisible alliance of all local forces. Although they don't necessarily follow the Cao family's lead, when the Cao family wants to do something and asks other local powerful families for assistance, Cao Yuanming's words are almost more effective than the emperor's words.

However, the Cao family also has its troubles. Currently, the Cao family is entrenched in Liaodong, and the enemies they face are the EU and Britannia, which is attacking Japan. Neither of them seem to be people they can afford to offend.

Moreover, as a local power, even though the Cao family is currently the most powerful of all local powers in the Chinese Empire, its inherent weakness in status means that the Cao family can only stay quietly in Liaodong.

He couldn't afford to offend either Britannia or the EU, and he certainly couldn't rebel against the emperor, otherwise the emperor would lead the other powerful families to turn around and crush the Cao family.

As the only local aristocratic family that has survived from the founding of the Chinese Empire to the present day, the Cao family naturally has its own way of survival. Cao Cao, the ancestor of the Cao family, left behind ancestral instructions that no matter what, the Cao family members must never take the initiative to challenge the authority of the emperor, let alone have the slightest rebellious idea of ​​becoming the emperor. At most, they can try to regain the power of the prime minister and use the emperor to command the feudal lords.

This ancestral precept has accompanied the Cao family for 1,800 years. Although there have been many family heads like Cao Yuanming who scoffed at this precept, no one has dared to disobey it for 1,800 years.

Gradually, all members of the Cao family came to believe that it was the protection of their ancestor Cao Cao and the Cao family's adherence to ancestral teachings that allowed them to escape major historical calamities and continue to this day.

Therefore, Cao Yuanming, as the current head of the Cao family, although dissatisfied with this ancestral precept, dared not disobey it in the slightest. Otherwise, his brothers would use the crime of violating ancestral precepts—a crime that infuriates all members of the Cao family—to remove him from his position as head of the family.

Cao Yuanming originally thought that he would be like the Cao family patriarchs of all generations, destined to be a mediocre local emperor in Liaodong for his entire life. Especially now that the Cao family is facing a three-way confrontation with the EU and Britannia, this makes Cao Yuanming even more depressed. His ambition is sandwiched between three great empires, how can he possibly have any room to exert it?

However, suddenly, even Cao Yuanming himself could not believe that an opportunity had appeared before him, which instantly ignited a flame called ambition in his heart.

This is an opportunity.

Although the EU is powerful, it borders Siberia, where the Cao family's forces are located. While the EU has troops stationed there, the limited number of troops means it cannot launch a campaign.

Moreover, if the EU wants to take action against the Cao family, it will inevitably have to start with military action in Europe. That would be major news that would shake the entire world, and it would certainly be discussed in the EU parliament for several months beforehand, making sure the whole world knows about it before any action is taken.

Moreover, if the EU were to actually take action, it would mean a complete declaration of war against the Chinese Empire. As a democratic system, EU lawmakers are concerned about their votes. Unless the current ruling lawmakers are completely out of their minds, why would they risk being abandoned by their voters by proactively declaring war on that distant Eastern empire?

When the EU initially fought against the Chinese Federation, it paid a heavy price to take Siberia. However, the icy and snowy Siberia did not bring much benefit to the EU. As a result, the members of parliament who presided over the war against the Chinese Federation have long been ousted from office, and their names have been nailed to the pillar of shame.

Even if there were some blind senator who actually wanted to do it, he would be instantly attacked by his opponents, and the next day newspapers would be filled with comments that this senator was a warmonger and an executioner.

Therefore, although Cao Yuanming had to worry about the EU, as long as he didn't leave his hometown empty for an extended period of time, he didn't need to be too concerned.

Meanwhile, Britannia is currently attacking Japan, and although it is winning battles, it has not yet completely conquered Japan. Even if it does conquer Japan, Britannia will definitely be embroiled in the struggle for the huge profits from Japan, and it is certainly unlikely that it will launch a military campaign against the Chinese Federation in the short term.

Therefore, even if the Cao family gains another neighbor, Britannia, there is no need to worry for the time being.

In other words, Cao Yuanming now has time, although not a lot, but a window of time that allows him to act freely.

Now, the emperor of the Chinese Empire has gone mad, offending all the local powers in an instant. Right now, all the local leaders are meeting with him, asking the strongest warlord in each region to come up with a plan.

Isn't this the best opportunity?

His ambition was growing, growing to the point of near-uncontrollable expansion.

"Gentlemen...we need to teach the Emperor a lesson."

Finally, Cao Yuanming uttered the words he most wanted to say. Instantly, he felt his mind clear. He had waited for this moment for many years and dreamed of it for many years.

What pleased Cao Yuanming even more was that after he spoke, the faces on the television, young and old, did not show much surprise, which meant that everyone present was at least mentally prepared.

Everyone harbors deep dissatisfaction with the current emperor.

After all, the emperor's actions against the Biting Dragon Pavilion were tantamount to declaring war on local forces, and the local forces' retaliation was only to be expected.

"But we have no legitimate cause... How many years ago was the last time our region confronted the emperor? If we really take action, it will be a waste of manpower and resources, and what if we fail..."

The speaker was an old man with a white beard, Kong, the head of the Qilu Military Region. Cao Yuanming looked at him with only a mocking smile. On the surface, he talked about wasting manpower and resources, but in reality, wasn't he just trying to reduce his efforts in the upcoming war? After all, the Qilu Military Region was one of the military regions directly bordering the Capital Military Region, and it would inevitably be the first to be affected once the war started.

However, he also voiced the hidden worries of the other family heads. Although the army of each family was the foundation of their livelihood, it also consumed a lot of their efforts. Even a small loss would make everyone present feel the pain. After all, the army is destined to burn money.

Moreover, the consequences of losing a battle against the emperor are self-evident, but even if you win, what then?

The Capital Military Region remains the Capital Military Region. Although the old emperor still holds considerable interests, after they have been divided among so many local forces, what he receives will likely not be of much interest to the various family heads.

Therefore, fighting against the emperor, regardless of victory or defeat, is destined to be a losing proposition.

In other words, if Cao Yuanming wanted to persuade these family heads and warlords, he had to give them a reason they couldn't refuse.

"Gentlemen," Cao Yuanming cleared his throat and said, "If the emperor can touch the Yaolong Pavilion today, he can touch our properties in Luoyang tomorrow. Moreover, don't forget the saying, 'If the name is not correct, the words will not be proper.'"

"If the Dragon-Biting Pavilion truly falls into the Emperor's hands, and he issues an order—for example, Brother Kong—that he summons you to the capital for an appointment, will you go or not? Gentlemen, to put it bluntly, if the Emperor has the ambition of the Britannian Emperor, and the Chinese Empire once again becomes a true empire, what will you all do?"

Confucius's pupils contracted. His hesitation stemmed from the fear that the losses would be too great and the gains too small, making it a poor trade-off. However, Cao Yuanming's words made him realize that if they didn't teach the emperor a lesson this time and allowed him to grow too powerful, he might eventually target the powerful families in various regions…

Then what awaits these local powers is the destruction of their families and clans!

All the residents seemed to be reminded by Cao Yuanming's words, and their eyes became filled with surprise and uncertainty.

Seeing that everyone seemed interested, Cao Yuanming knew he needed to use his final, decisive move.

088 The Final Silence

"Gentlemen, this is a matter of life and death. If no one can control the emperor's desires, and he comes to punish us with righteous indignation, it will truly be a great calamity. If that day really comes, will each of us obediently offer up our family property, or will we fight the emperor to the death?"

"But no matter which choice you make, it means that the family will inevitably suffer a great loss of vitality, and may even disappear completely."

Cao Yuanming's words resonated with everyone, but he was not satisfied. His tone suddenly became solemn as he continued, "My Cao family has a history of 1,800 years. Our ancestors fought for the emperor and helped the Jiang family ascend to the throne. Their achievements are unparalleled. However, our ancestors never boasted of their accomplishments. Instead, they were willing to lead the harsh land of Liaodong to continue guarding this region for the emperor."

"For a full 1,800 years, our Cao family has guarded Liaodong, and we can say that we have made great contributions. However, our Cao family has always taken our ancestors as role models and has never been arrogant about our achievements, because it is our duty as subjects. But the current emperor's behavior is really disheartening. He has completely disregarded the constitution, which is a huge mistake."

Cao Yuanming paused for a moment, then said, “Therefore, considering the previous rebellion of the Grand Eunuch, our Cao family has reason to suspect that the current Emperor is being coerced into making this unwise move. In order to uphold the dignity of the Constitution of the Chinese Federation and to save the coerced Emperor, our Cao family will definitely assemble an army of 150,000 and march on Luoyang within a month.”

"Our Cao family is determined to purge the court of corrupt officials!"

The moment the words "cleanse the court of corrupt officials" were uttered, all the heads of the powerful families seemed to feel a chill, a cold killing intent bursting forth from steel.

"At that time, whether you are willing to send troops or not, our Cao family will send troops to Luoyang. This is for the sake of our Cao family's fervent patriotism and for the future of the Chinese Empire. Even if we are condemned by future generations, I, Cao Yuanming, will accept it!"

Cao Yuanming's words were righteous and awe-inspiring, but all the heads of the powerful families at the moment were seasoned veterans, and naturally understood what Cao Yuanming was trying to say.

Cao Yuanming's words can be translated as: I don't care if you come or not. If you don't come, I'll go it alone. I've sent 150,000 troops, and I still can't deal with the 30,000 Imperial Guards in Luoyang.

Furthermore, I've already come up with a reason: the emperor has violated the constitution, or the emperor has been coerced by a villain. Either of these two reasons can serve as a justification for me to send troops. With these two reasons, I can openly and legitimately send troops.

Moreover, there is one more thing that Cao Yuanming didn't say, but everyone understands it in their hearts.

If Cao Yuanming were allowed to act alone and succeed, Luoyang and the emperor would fall directly under his control. There would likely be another Cao Ershi who could control the emperor and command the world. At that time, these local aristocratic families would not only be unable to divide up the benefits of Luoyang, but would probably have to give up their own interests to Cao Yuanming. Otherwise, Cao Yuanming would have a hundred ways to make these local aristocratic families unable to survive.

Having said all that, the seasoned veterans present were all quick to understand the situation. Instantly, they became agitated, loyal to the emperor and patriotic, wishing they could personally rush to Luoyang to purge the corrupt officials from the emperor's court and save the emperor from his dire straits, thus demonstrating their loyalty and patriotism.

The hesitation and cunning on their faces had long since vanished.

Soon, this group of loyal and patriotic local warlord families had reached a preliminary agreement on sending troops.

The time will be just one month from now. At that time, the thirteen armies will march together to Luoyang to purge the emperor's inner circle of corrupt officials!

……

In Luoyang, Mo Mo was still busy, and the entire city was quiet.

On Artoria's side, Jiang Shang respectfully returned the appointment letter to Artoria that same day, his temper completely gone, and he looked utterly convinced of her worth.

After all, Artoria had the help of a generation of great men behind her. After letting Jiang Shang, who was in a tactical wasteland, see novel tactics such as mobile warfare, guerrilla warfare, blitzkrieg, sparrow warfare, annihilation warfare, and commerce raiding, he had no face to put on airs in front of Artoria after losing all ten battles.

All the officers who witnessed the whole process were equally convinced. Even Karen, who was initially confused but impressed, seemed to be captivated by Artoria. Whenever Artoria had free time, she would go to ask her for advice, leaving Jiang Lihua feeling sullen and only able to pester Mo Mo.

Fortunately, although Mo Mo had many things to do, he had long since developed the habit of being a hands-off manager, arranging things for his subordinates to do, so he had time to spend with Jiang Lihua studying and playing.

As a result, it became common to see Mo Mo strolling around Luoyang City with CC and Jiang Lihua, followed by the grinning Youji, under the protection of Li Xingke and others disguised in plainclothes.

Of all the people, perhaps only Mo Mo is the one who can let go, and CC, the lazy woman who doesn't care about anything and just follows Mo Mo around, eating and waiting to die—although she won't die, she is the most leisurely.

Asuna and Kuroyukihime were with Artoria, undergoing reorganization and training of the Special Reaction Force under Artoria's guidance. This Special Reaction Force would then undergo adaptive training in conjunction with the weapons and equipment that Momo could produce in a short period of time. It was almost a transformation from scratch, and the difficulty was unimaginable.

Argo wasn't idle either; it seemed her true nature as a cunning merchant had been fully awakened, and she was genuinely planning her own espionage scheme. Furthermore, at Momo's request, she was now leading a large group of people on a whirlwind tour of the area surrounding Luoyang, conducting detailed surveying work.

Currently, the world of Lelouch's rebellion has no satellites, and mapping still relies on relatively primitive methods. As requested by Momo, Argo needs to draw a detailed map of the area surrounding Luoyang, making detailed markings and calculations for each region. This is related to one of Momo's important plans.

The entire city of Luoyang seemed to gradually feel a surge of vitality, with a series of factories operating at full capacity and secretly entering a state of wartime. This created a large number of jobs, giving many people who had not worked for a long time another opportunity to work.

However, under the covert control of Gao Hai and his Imperial Guards, Luoyang maintained a facade of relaxed tensions. But this appearance couldn't last long. Factories were operating day and night, engineers and technicians who had acquired the technology from Mo Mo were working themselves to the bone, and the frequent reorganizations and troop movements within the Luoyang Military Region meant that anyone with a modicum of sense would realize something was amiss.

Meanwhile, news began to circulate from various regions, with many elite local troops regrouping and preparing their equipment and weapons. Representatives of various local forces were also meeting and communicating frequently. Even those who hadn't heard the actual news could mostly guess what was about to happen.

War is imminent.

Moreover, this war involves the coordinated efforts of all local forces, making it an incredibly powerful campaign. Even more surprisingly, the Luoyang Military Region is also actively preparing for battle, seemingly not only unconcerned about the local forces' mobilization but also eager to challenge them.

Does all of this mean we're really going to have to fight head-on?

Then came further confirmation: war was really coming!

In contrast to the secrecy and quietness of the Luoyang Military Region, the local warlords seemed to lack a strong sense of secrecy, or perhaps believed that secrecy was unnecessary. The mid-level officers already knew the purpose of this mobilization and operation: to seize Luoyang and purge the emperor's inner circle of corrupt officials.

In this way, it's as if the entire local power faction also knows all of this. If the local power faction knows, how could its representative in the Luoyang Military Region not know all of this?