The Great Martial Saint!

Chapter 580 A Letter That Captivates the City, Transferred to Leiming (Seeking Monthly Tickets~)

Chen Ping'an had subtly inquired about the situation in Long'an during his conversation with Yao Guang.

However, Yao Guang did not elaborate on this, only pointing out that after Chen Ping'an was transferred to Leiming, his position as the garrison commander of Beicang might be taken over by Lü Yuanzai.

"Lü Yuanzai?"

Chen Ping'an was quite surprised when he heard this.

Lu Yuanzai served in the Canglong Prefecture Garrison Command, in charge of important town affairs. He was one of the few candidates for the position of Garrison Command Commander.

While he may not be considered extremely powerful, he was certainly a figure of considerable influence.

How could this appointment be?

At that time, Chen Ping'an's thoughts had changed, and he had already begun to have a vague guess.

But his meeting with Gu Rencheng at this moment completely confirmed his guess.

The rebellion in Long'an enraged the Canglong Prefecture Garrison Command, which reported it to the Northern Border Garrison Command, drawing their attention.

The special envoy from the Canglong Prefecture Garrison arrived in Long'an, bringing with him an appointment, but also accountability.

Nie Yunlong, the garrison commander of Long'an, failed in his duties, resulting in the loss of Long'an. He was relieved of his post as garrison commander of Long'an and transferred to the Canglong Prefecture Garrison Command to assume the responsibility of Grand Attendant.

Not only the Canglong Prefecture Garrison Command, but also the Qingling Prefecture Garrison Command's special envoy arrived in Long'an during these few days.

Bearing the will of the Southern Border Garrison, Jing Xingyan was dismissed from his position as deputy garrison commander of Long'an, which shocked countless people.

It was initially thought that with Nie Yunlong's downfall, Jing Xingyan might take over as the garrison commander of Long'an, becoming the new commander of this important town. The current situation is indeed developing in that direction.

The garrison was led by Deputy Commander Long'an, with Jing Xingyan overseeing the overall situation. But who would have thought that it would end up like this?

In addition, there were numerous personnel appointments and adjustments throughout the Long'an Garrison Command.

Bai Yuanqing, the Grand Master of the Long'an Garrison, was also stripped of his position and held responsible for the unrest. Furthermore, the Chief Officer of the Long'an Garrison Defense Office, who failed in his duties, leaving the defenses weak and unable to quell the unrest in Long'an in a timely manner, will be reassigned as the Deputy Chief Officer of the Long'an Defense Office. The new Chief Officer will be additionally appointed by the Canglong Prefecture Garrison.

The head of the Long'an Town Pacification Office's patrol office failed to conduct a satisfactory inspection, leaving a significant gap in his position. He was relieved of his post and replaced by an additional official from the Qingling Prefecture Pacification Office.

and also
Numerous personnel appointments and adjustments caused a major upheaval in the Long'an Garrison Command.

Not only that, but there is also a series of reform measures.

This matter was not publicized; it was only announced by the special envoys of the two prefectures' garrison at the deliberation meeting.

Gu Rencheng, as a representative of the Gu family's influence, also attended the review meeting and learned of this matter.

According to Gu Rencheng, several high-ranking officials of the Long'an Garrison Command were dismissed and replaced on the spot.

"They really acted swiftly and decisively!" Chen Ping'an exclaimed.

"Who would defy the will of the Northern and Southern Garrison Commands!" Gu Rencheng sighed.

Anyone who witnessed that scene would feel the same sorrow as him.

A supreme grandmaster was dismissed without a second thought, without any regard for his dignity.

The implication is self-evident, especially since it happened in front of everyone.

Sure enough, peer organizations will still give you some face, but when higher-level organizations get involved, who cares who you are?

The network of contacts you've painstakingly cultivated within your peer group over the years is essentially useless at this time.

If they can say a few words in your defense when things are discussed afterward, that's already a testament to your skillful management.

"This appointment was made so quietly, it seems like they're serious about it." Gu Rencheng stood up and looked out the window.

Chen Ping'an nodded. If Gu Rencheng hadn't told him, he probably would have remained in the dark.

For such a significant matter, the more low-key the external publicity, the more it indicates that the matter is serious and that a great deal of effort is being made to rectify it. The widespread rumors and speculation are often just a way to create public opinion and divert attention.

The fact that this was handled so discreetly suggests that a profound reform is truly on the horizon.

"I wonder if these new bigwigs will be easy to get along with," Gu Rencheng thought with a headache.

Having finally gotten to know and smooth out the relationships, having to start all over again is undoubtedly very troublesome. If things were as they always were, following the usual rules, it would be easier to handle. But this time is clearly different.

Three fires for the new official to take office!
Moreover, this is a newly appointed official who has just come through the Long'an turmoil and is preparing for vigorous reforms!
"I hope this fire doesn't reach me. I'm getting on in years and can't take any more trouble," Gu Rencheng sighed repeatedly.

"Elder Cheng, there's no need to worry. The Gu family has a deep foundation. As long as nothing goes wrong, this fire won't spread."

Chen Ping'an offered a few words of comfort.

"I hope so."

Seeing that Gu Rencheng still had a lot to do, Chen Ping'an exchanged a few words with him and then bowed and took his leave.

He also informed Gu Rencheng about the latest appointment.

Gu Rencheng was overjoyed at this. He said frankly that Chen Ping'an was truly a promising young man, and in a few years, he would be far beyond the reach of this old man.

Regarding the transfer, Chen Ping'an also wrote several letters and sent them to the Gu family in Canglong Prefecture and Gu Qingchan in Leiming City.

Given the Gu family's influence in the Canglong Prefecture's Zhenfu Division, they probably already knew about Chen Ping'an's transfer to Leiming. But whether the Gu family knew or not, and whether they said it or not, ultimately comes down to attitude.

In the letter, besides mentioning his recent situation and transfer, he also brought up the matter of Snow Spirit Tea. This tea has greatly benefited his cultivation, and he hoped that if there was a suitable channel, he could purchase some for him.

In addition, Chen Ping'an thought about it and also wrote a letter to Gu Qingcheng.

The letter was written in a standard and conventional manner, without any sentimentality. It simply provided a general overview of his recent situation and explained his upcoming transfer to Leiming City.

Chen Ping'an put down his pen at the end of the letter.

After hesitating for a moment, he added: "Outside the city, thunder roars, a thousand peaks vie in beauty, and ten thousand ravines flow with springs. If you enjoy traveling, perhaps we can admire the misty clouds together and listen to the pine waves by the cliffside."

Chen Ping'an paused, then added, "Outside Thunder City, apricot blossoms fall in the rain; I await the day when we can share an umbrella for a while."

As soon as he finished writing, Chen Ping'an picked up his pen to cross it out and rewrite it, but after hesitating for a while, he decided to keep it.

With a few quick strokes, he finished writing the signature on the letter.

"Wishing you good fortune and that you take good care of yourself."

Chen Ping'an, respectfully yours. (Note: "谨启" is usually used at the end of a letter, but is often mistakenly placed at the beginning in modern times. This "启" does not mean "to open a sealed letter," but rather "to state or report." Placing it at the end of a letter is a respectful way of saying "respectfully.")
However, Chen Ping'an regretted it shortly after sending out the letters.

"Thunderous rain falls on apricot blossoms outside the city; I await the day when we can share an umbrella for a while."

No matter how I thought about it, this statement didn't make sense. I wanted to take it back, but the message had already traveled halfway there, and it was too late to back out. I could only grit my teeth and accept it.

It all depends on how Gu Qingcheng interprets it.

"I must have lost my mind!" Chen Ping'an said with considerable distress.

After visiting Gu Rencheng, Chen Ping'an had basically finished dealing with all his matters in Long'an.

His appointment was extremely low-key and did not cause any turmoil in the important town of Long'an. Not only his, but also the personnel reorganization within the Long'an Garrison Command was the same.

Sure enough, when it comes to truly important matters, things are done swiftly and decisively, without much laughter or jokes.

Compared to the others in the Long'an Garrison, Chen Ping'an turned misfortune into blessing this time, receiving a promotion and a higher rank.

Chen Ping'an was not surprised that Nie Yunlong was dismissed from his post due to the unrest in Long'an.

However, Chen Ping'an was quite surprised when he learned from Gu Rencheng that Jing Xingyan had also been dismissed from his post.

However, after a brief moment of surprise, he understood.

This matter is clearly the result of a power struggle between the Northern and Southern Garrison Commands. Originally, Nie Yunlong and Jing Xingyan, as representatives of the two garrison commands, checked and balanced each other within the important town of Long'an. Now that Nie Yunlong has been dismissed, if Jing Xingyan were to take over, it would be a loss for the Canglong Garrison Command.

This outcome was only achieved through a process of negotiation and compromise.

This isn't hard to understand. When the two were checking and balancing each other, they shared power. Now that something's happened, how can one of them hide behind and silently enjoy the spoils? Naturally, it would be reasonable for both of them to be dismissed.

Such was the outcome of the grand scheme of things, but for Jing Xingyan, it was somewhat disheartening.

He could have easily taken the position of garrison commander of Long'an, but due to connections with higher-ups, the matter was forced to be postponed. Not only did he lose the garrison commander position, but he was also relieved of his existing position as deputy garrison commander.

Indeed, the timing of taking power is crucial. When the overall situation is unfavorable, it is naturally extremely difficult to rise to power.

Even if you have lofty ambitions, under the circumstances, without anyone to support you, you will likely end up in a dismal failure.

Sometimes, no matter how much you do personally, if the overall situation is unfavorable and the results are poor, it will all be in vain.

But sometimes, even if you haven't put in much effort, the situation is favorable and the results are remarkable, so you can reap the benefits without lifting a finger.

This is like a favorable wind propelling you to great heights!
Over the next two days, in addition to his normal cultivation and refining of the divine weapon, Chen Ping'an also went to see Yao Guang.

Compared to last time, Yao Guang was much busier this time. Chen Ping'an didn't exchange many pleasantries.

He came to say goodbye to Yao Guang, and taking the opportunity to bring up the idea of ​​purchasing Xue Ling tea.

"Lord Yao, after tasting the Snow Spirit Tea, Ping An lost his appetite and couldn't eat or drink anything. He really enjoyed it. Ping An would like to ask if you have any way to purchase some Snow Spirit Tea. I wonder if you have any information to share with me?"

Yao Guang didn't give a perfunctory answer to this matter. He just smiled bitterly and said frankly that Xue Ling Tea was very precious, and now that the tea season had passed, it would probably not be so easy to purchase it.

He could ask around next year, but there was nothing he could do for this year. Although he didn't know if Yao Guang's words were true or false, Chen Ping'an still bowed and said goodbye.

Before parting, Yao Guang gave Chen Ping'an a few Snow Spirit Leaves.

Chen Ping'an said that this item was precious and that Lord Yao should not be allowed to spend so much money, so he wanted to purchase it with Yuan Crystals.

However, Yao Guang refused, saying that the mere Snow Spirit Leaf was nothing to worry about. He would give it to Ping An as a farewell gift, to be savored in the future.

Chen Ping'an was extremely grateful and accepted the few Snow Spirit Leaves.

Although these few Snow Spirit Leaves weren't many, they were enough for him to use for several days. Furthermore, Snow Spirit Leaves were extremely precious, and considering the previous appraisal, Yao Guang's offer was quite generous.

After leaving Yao Guang, Chen Ping'an went to visit Du Moyuan, Zhong Lisheng, and Zhou Zhaowu in turn.

There's no need to elaborate on the several times we've met.

Zhong Lisheng seemed to have some idea about Chen Ping'an's transfer, and Chen Ping'an did not hide it from him and told him frankly.

"Brother Chen's meteoric rise is truly enviable!"

Although Zhong Lisheng's words were flattering, they were sincere, and there was a hint of regret in his expression.

He had been working in the State Garrison for over a hundred years, but in the end he was only a courtier, far from being a senior candidate for the position of head of the Garrison under Chen Ping'an, let alone being considered for the position of deputy head.

Such comparisons are hard to describe.

There was also a Supreme Elder of the Bixia Sect whom Sword Elder needed to visit.

However, the conversation had ended rather awkwardly, with much of it tinged with embarrassment. Chen Ping'an didn't want to waste his time trying to win over a cold shoulder.

Although the Sword Elder's words did not completely rule out the matter of customizing divine weapons, Chen Ping'an did not want to spend any more effort on it.

Firstly, plans can't keep up with changes. Customizing a divine weapon is no small matter, especially a top-tier one, which can't be forged in a day or two. Even if the materials are complete and the forging goes smoothly, it will still take dozens of days.

Normally, it would take three to six months, which is perfectly normal.

Originally, Chen Ping'an had planned to stay in Beicang, which would make it convenient for him to travel to Long'an. Even if the Sword Elder of the Bixia Sect intended to return to Qingling Prefecture to forge divine weapons, it would still be manageable for him to make the trip along the trade route.

But now, he's about to be transferred to Leiming, and he doesn't have much time to wait. Even if he goes to his new post first, making the trip again later won't be easy. After all, he's just arrived in Leiming; he can't just take a month or two off right away.

Secondly, his transfer to Leiming was partly due to his other plans regarding the divine weapons.

With everything settled, Chen Ping'an packed up and prepared to leave Long'an.

"Long An!"

Chen Ping'an sat inside the carriage, observing the situation within the important town of Long'an.

Following the arrival of special envoys from the two prefectures' garrison offices and the personnel reorganization of the Long'an Garrison Office, its efficiency has increased significantly.

First, the cooperation among all parties is higher. Second, there is new support, making manpower more abundant. Third, coordination is more orderly, reducing internal friction.

As the carriage traveled through the important town of Long'an, Chen Ping'an spotted disciples dressed in the attire of the Nangong family, coordinating something in front of a shop.

"The Nangong family." Chen Ping'an's mind stirred, and he thought of something.

The Southern Territory was a thriving center of commerce, and the Nangong family, having built their fortune through trade, was the largest owner behind the Tongbao Trading Company. The Tongbao Trading Company was extremely renowned, with its reach extending from the North Sea in the north to the Canglan River in the south, from Gray Mist Valley in the west to Yunlu Mountain in the east.

If the Nangong family is willing to help, they might be able to resolve the issue of purchasing the Snow Spirit Tea.

Chen Ping'an's thoughts shifted, and he thought of Nangong Liu, whom he had previously contacted under a pseudonym. Back then, Chen Ping'an had fought Nangong Liu to test the power of the Myriad Demon Blood Fiend.

At that time, Nangong Liu said: If you, senior, can let her go, I will pretend this matter never happened and will not mention it to outsiders. I will also offer you a generous gift to express my gratitude!
At the time, Chen Ping'an listened and didn't take it seriously. But now, thinking back, perhaps...
This could be used to ask the Nangong family to find a way to purchase Xue Ling Tea.

However, such thoughts only lingered in Chen Ping'an's mind for a moment before disappearing.

Firstly, it was something that happened back then, and it wasn't exactly honorable. Secondly, he was carrying this promise and asking the Nangong family to find a purchasing channel for him, but the Nangong family might not agree to it.

Secondly, due to the unrest, Long'an has many experts, and he might not be able to contact the Nangong family silently by changing his identity. Even if he did, there's a possibility of things going wrong. After all, there's no tacit understanding between the two sides, and strictly speaking, there's still some lingering resentment between them.

Thirdly, and most importantly, Chen Ping'an's true self is planning to purchase Snow Spirit Tea. If this pseudonym also allows the Nangong family to find a way to obtain it, it could have serious repercussions, potentially exposing his true self.

"Let's put this matter aside for now and see what the Gu family's connections are like. If they are unable to help, we'll consider other options later."

The vehicle set off, amidst the compliments of a group of elites, and drove out of the important town of Long'an.

"Respectfully seeing off Lord Chen!" At the gate of the important town, many elite soldiers shouted in unison, their words respectful, a far cry from the treatment they received earlier.

"What?! Mangdao's gone!?"

Inside the Bixia Sect's headquarters, Sword Elder received news that Chen Ping'an had left the important town of Long'an.

His disheveled hair resembled that of a raging lion, and a hint of confusion appeared on his rugged face.

A senior master blacksmith, his status is extremely high. Especially since he is only one step away from becoming a renowned master craftsman, he is highly sought after. Not only within the Bixia Sect, but also in Qingling Prefecture and the surrounding prefectures, he is a well-known figure.

Countless people went to great lengths to curry favor with him in order to forge a divine weapon, showering him with all sorts of precious gifts.

Many people have devoted their time and effort, even resorting to favors, all in an effort to have him forge a divine weapon.

All he saw were smiling faces, faces full of eager flattery.

Even grandmasters of the same realm would fawn over him and shower him with flattery.

Even if he refused the forging attempt, the other party would try every means to win him back. Some would be all smiles and jokes, some would be so sincere that they could move mountains, and some would even increase their demands and earnestly offer their services.

But never before has anyone left so single as Chen Ping'an.

It's as if the forging request never happened!

That day, he spoke kindly, hoping that such a brilliant genius as Chen Ping'an would become his bloodline descendant as a Daoist couple.

For this reason, he spared no expense to forge a top-tier divine weapon for Chen Ping'an. He even promised to present the top-tier divine weapon as a gift.

In addition, he also mentioned his future succession.

Such a offer demonstrates great sincerity.

Let alone Chen Ping'an, the valiant swordsman, even a grandmaster who is close to the top of the rankings would probably be tempted.

After all, as a senior master forging expert, he was only one step away from becoming a renowned master craftsman, and his wealth was extremely abundant, far exceeding what others could imagine.

To inherit his mantle is not just a matter of saving years of hard work; it's about accumulating wealth that most people couldn't achieve even after several lifetimes of struggle!
Furthermore, his bloodline descendant, his great-granddaughter, is no nobody either. She once topped the list of rising stars in Qingling Prefecture, and before she was even a hundred years old, she had already reached the realm of a top-tier grandmaster. She is destined to become a grandmaster in the future!

A grandmaster as a Daoist partner is something many people seek but cannot obtain.

Not to mention, his great-granddaughter serves as an elder of the Bixia Sect's Enforcement Hall. With her cold and beautiful appearance, her status only enhances her charm. She has countless suitors within Qingling Prefecture.

Even a grandmaster from another state tried to marry him, but he refused outright.

But now, his attempt to bring Mang Dao Chen Ping'an together has been rejected!?
This is really unreasonable!

He patiently tried to persuade him again and again, but Chen Ping'an refused each time. Later, he even bluntly stated that he was already engaged and asked Elder Jian not to bring up the matter again!
engagement?

How could he not know?

Since he brought it up, there must be a solution.

To persuade Chen Ping'an, he even brought up the age difference, appealing to his emotions and reasoning with him. Who would have thought that this kid wouldn't appreciate it at all.

Gu Qingcheng is indeed a good woman, but how can she compare to his great-great-granddaughter!?
In terms of talent, both are ranked first on the state's rising star list, making them equal. In terms of strength, Gu Qingcheng has not yet reached the Grandmaster realm, while his great-granddaughter has already reached the top Grandmaster realm. With his strong support, breaking through to the Great Grandmaster realm is only a matter of time.

I really don't know what Chen Ping'an is thinking.

As long as Chen Ping'an agrees to this marriage, not only will the Bixia Sect become his support, but he will also have this senior blacksmith as his direct elder. Furthermore, he will gain a Daoist partner who is about to become a Grandmaster!
All the wonderful things are contained within, so why is Chen Ping'an so stubbornly deluded?

Sword Elder sighed deeply and remained silent for a moment.

That day, Chen Ping'an refused the marriage proposal, which displeased him, and he turned away the guest in a huff.

However, he did not completely abandon the idea of ​​customizing divine weapons, only saying that he was in a bad mood and would leave it for later.

He had originally planned for Chen Ping'an to visit again, pleading with him to forge the item, so he could then make his move. But to his surprise, Chen Ping'an simply left.

"This brute knife"

He seems humble and polite, but who knew he had such a fiery temper!
Such a temperament truly befits the words of a rogue.

Sure enough, there are no wrong nicknames, only wrong given names!
"Mangdao Mangdao"

Sword Master flicked his sleeves repeatedly, growing angrier the more he thought about it.

He gave away all his divine weapons and beautiful women, only to end up in this situation.

Judging from Mang Dao's actions, he may have offended the guest by seeing him off earlier.

Such a temper!
How can they possibly reach the level of a Grandmaster in the future?!

Even if one breaks through to the Grandmaster realm with extraordinary talent, the obstacles ahead will be as difficult as ascending to heaven!

Chen Ping'an left Long'an, and the carriage arrived in Beicang.

(End of this chapter)