After successfully repelling Murong Xuan's men who came to seize the grain, and safely transferring and storing the grain from "Mu's Grain Shop," Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er knew that sufficient financial support was essential to gain a more advantageous position in this contest with Murong Xuan. After all, whether it was stabilizing prices in the city, ensuring people's livelihood, or further expanding military equipment to cope with possible larger conflicts, all required strong financial backing.

Standing in the courtyard of his mansion in the city, Xiao Yichen gazed at the sunset and said to Lin Wan'er, "Wan'er, while this acquisition of the grain store has temporarily solved our immediate crisis, we still need a large amount of capital to completely break the deadlock. Although the wealthy households in the city have already provided some assistance, it is still far from enough. I intend to explore other avenues. Do you have any ideas?"

Lin Wan'er frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and then said, "General, although the city's commerce has been somewhat turbulent due to Murong Xuan's conspiracy, there is still some potential to be tapped. We can encourage the city's residents to start their own businesses, and the government can provide certain support and preferential policies, such as tax reductions and exemptions, and provide venues. Once these industries develop, tax revenue will naturally increase, which can bring us a flow of funds."

Xiao Yichen nodded slightly, “This plan is good, but it takes a long time and cannot solve the immediate problem. We need some more direct and effective methods. I have heard that there is an abandoned mine outside the city that was once rich in copper, but it was abandoned because it was difficult to mine and the veins were once depleted. I want to send people to explore it again. If we can find new veins and mine them, we will surely obtain a lot of wealth.”

Lin Wan'er's eyes lit up. "General, your plan is brilliant. However, reopening the mine requires professional miners and technical personnel, as well as a large amount of initial investment, such as mining tools and transportation equipment. Where will these funds come from?"

Xiao Yichen paced back and forth in thought, then said, "We can first recruit some experienced miners in the city, offering them high rewards to attract them to the mines. As for the initial investment, I plan to use some of the government's reserve funds. Although this move carries some risk, the current situation is urgent, so we have no choice but to do it. At the same time, I will personally go to the mines to supervise the mining work and ensure that everything proceeds smoothly."

Lin Wan'er said with some worry, "General, if you go to the mine in person, what will happen to the city? Murong Xuan will definitely take the opportunity to stir up trouble in the city."

Xiao Yichen smiled slightly and comforted her, "Wan'er, I'm at ease with you in charge of the city. You are resourceful and familiar with the affairs of the city, so you will definitely be able to handle things with ease. I will leave some capable generals to assist you and jointly protect the city. I'm going to the mine to try to find the vein as soon as possible, extract the copper ore, and bring back the funds."

Seeing that Xiao Yichen was determined, Lin Wan'er could only nod and say, "Then General, you must be careful on your journey. I will do my best to guard against Murong Xuan in the city and await your triumphant return."

Afterward, Xiao Yichen began preparations for the mining operation. He posted notices throughout the city, recruiting experienced miners. The notices immediately attracted considerable attention. Many people who had lost their jobs due to the turmoil in the city's commerce came to apply, including some veteran miners who had previously worked in the mines.

Xiao Yichen personally selected a group of strong and experienced miners to form a mining team. At the same time, he also sent people to purchase a batch of mining tools and transportation equipment, and prepared enough dry food and supplies to be transported to the mine.

Before setting off, Xiao Yichen made detailed arrangements for the city's defenses and various affairs. He instructed his generals to strengthen patrols along the city walls, closely monitor Murong Xuan's movements, and report any unusual situations to Lin Wan'er immediately. He then said to Lin Wan'er, "Wan'er, if Murong Xuan stirs up trouble in the city, you should first take measures to appease the people and avoid causing panic. If he takes further military action, you should rely on the city's fortifications and hold your ground until I return from the mine."

Lin Wan'er agreed to everything, "General, rest assured, I will handle the matters in the city properly. Please take care of yourself in the mine and do not overwork yourself."

After everything was arranged, Xiao Yichen led the mining team on a grand journey towards the mine outside the city. The mine was located deep in the mountains dozens of miles outside the city, and the roads were rugged and difficult to traverse. However, the group, filled with hope for the future, persevered despite the hardships and continued their journey.

After several days of trekking, they finally arrived at the foot of the mine. Looking at the desolate mine before him, Xiao Yichen secretly vowed to find a vein here and obtain enough funds to protect the city and its people.

He led the miners into the mine and began the arduous exploration work. The mine was dark and damp, with a complex network of passages and frequent rockfalls from above, making it extremely dangerous. But Xiao Yichen took the lead, venturing deep into the mine with the miners, carefully searching for signs of a mineral vein.

However, several days passed, and the exploration work progressed slowly, without finding any obvious ore veins. The miners began to feel discouraged, but Xiao Yichen encouraged them, saying, "Don't lose heart, everyone. This mine used to be rich in copper, so there must be ore veins. We just haven't found the right location yet. Let's persevere. As long as we find the ore veins, our hard work will not be in vain, and we will surely be richly rewarded in the future."

Encouraged by Xiao Yichen, the miners rallied and continued their exploration. Finally, in a secluded corner, an old miner discovered traces of copper ore. Upon hearing the news, Xiao Yichen rushed over to investigate. He saw a faint patina of copper on the rock face; though not obvious, it was enough to prove the existence of a mineral vein.

Xiao Yichen was overjoyed. "Great! We've finally found it! Everyone, let's work harder and mine along this vein. We're sure to find a lot of copper ore."

The miners became excited and picked up their tools to begin mining along the vein. As the mining progressed, copper ore was gradually exposed, and its quality was quite good. Xiao Yichen directed the mining while arranging for people to transport the extracted copper ore out of the mine, preparing to ship it to the city for sale.

Meanwhile, things weren't easy for Lin Wan'er in the city either. After learning that Xiao Yichen had gone to the mines, Murong Xuan indeed began to make frequent moves in the city. He secretly instructed his men to spread rumors that Xiao Yichen disregarded the lives of the city's people and went to the mines to search for treasure for his own selfish gain, causing widespread panic in the city.

Upon learning of this, Lin Wan'er immediately took action. She posted notices throughout the city to clarify the rumors and inform the people that Xiao Yichen had gone to the mines to seek funds to better ensure the city's food supply and the stability of its people. At the same time, she personally went to the streets to talk with the people and soothe their anxieties.

"Fellow villagers, General Xiao is doing this for your benefit. He is going to the mine to thwart Murong Xuan's conspiracy and bring us more food and supplies. Do not believe the rumors. Trust that the general will protect our city and our homes." Lin Wan'er's clear and firm voice echoed through the city, gradually dispelling the doubts in the hearts of many people.

However, Murong Xuan did not stop there. He sent men to create small-scale disturbances in the city, such as vandalizing shops and looting people's belongings. Lin Wan'er decisively dispatched soldiers to strengthen patrols and severely crack down on these illegal activities. She also organized the city's residents into a self-defense force to assist the soldiers in maintaining order.

"We cannot sit idly by and wait to die. We must unite and fight against Murong Xuan's evil deeds together," Lin Wan'er said to the people.

Thanks to Lin Wan'er's efforts, the situation in the city gradually stabilized. Although there were still some minor setbacks, they did not give Murong Xuan any opportunity to take advantage of the situation.

Meanwhile, Xiao Yichen's mining operations were progressing smoothly. Large quantities of copper ore were extracted and transported to the city. Lin Wan'er arranged for someone to handle the sale of the copper ore, which was sold to merchants from other regions. Due to the high quality of the copper ore and the gradual stabilization of the city's situation, it attracted many merchants to purchase it, and the prices were quite considerable.

With the sale of the copper mine, funds began to flow steadily into the city's government treasury. Xiao Yichen was gratified upon learning of the situation in the city. He accelerated the mining operation, hoping to obtain more funds to prepare for a potentially larger challenge from Murong Xuan.

During the mining process, Xiao Yichen also discovered other mineral resources, such as silver and iron ore. Although the reserves were not as abundant as those of copper mines, they still had certain development value. He decided to moderately develop these mineral resources while mining the copper mine to further increase his income.

After a period of hard work, Xiao Yichen reaped considerable profits from the mines. He led his mining team back to the city with a large sum of money. Upon learning of General Xiao's return, the city's residents flocked to the streets to welcome him.

"General Xiao, you've worked hard!" "General, you are truly our great hero!" The cheers of the people rose and fell, expressing their gratitude and respect for Xiao Yichen.

Looking at the enthusiastic crowd, Xiao Yichen was filled with emotion. He knew that these funds were hard-won and the result of everyone's joint efforts. He said to Lin Wan'er, "Wan'er, with these funds, we can further implement our plan and engage in a more powerful contest with Murong Xuan."

Lin Wan'er smiled and nodded, "General, your trip to the mines has not only brought us funds, but also stabilized the confidence of the people in the city. With our united efforts, Murong Xuan's conspiracy will surely be completely crushed."

Therefore, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, with the funds they had raised, began to plan their next strategic deployment, preparing to deliver a fatal blow to Murong Xuan and safeguard the peace and tranquility of the city.

In a secluded room of Xiao Yichen's mansion in the city, candlelight flickered, illuminating their solemn faces. On the table lay a map of the city and some scattered intelligence about Murong Xuan.

Xiao Yichen spoke first, his voice low and serious: "Wan'er, although we now have funds, to completely defeat Murong Xuan, we still need to be fully aware of all his plans and movements. Intelligence gathering is of utmost urgency, as it will be the key basis for our strategy."

Lin Wan'er nodded slightly, her gaze firm: "General, you are absolutely right. Murong Xuan is treacherous and cunning, and his schemes must be intricately linked. We must investigate thoroughly. I think we can start with those around him, such as his confidants, advisors, and merchants who frequently deal with him. These people may know some of his core plans."

Xiao Yichen tapped the table lightly, pondered for a moment, and said, "Hmm, breaking through from those around him is a good direction. I will arrange some subordinates who are good at concealing their presence and tracking and gathering intelligence to monitor these key figures around the clock. But Murong Xuan will definitely be on guard, and his subordinates may have been trained in counter-tracking, which will be a considerable challenge for our spies."

Lin Wan'er said, "We can have our spies take turns tracking him in different sections to avoid being discovered. We can also set up lookouts at key locations so that they can relay messages as soon as the target enters a suspicious area. In addition to tracking and surveillance, we can also try to win over some of his subordinates. Offering them great rewards or appealing to their sense of righteousness might get them to reveal the truth."

Xiao Yichen frowned slightly: "Although there are risks involved in turning them to defect, it's worth a try. However, Murong Xuan has always treated his subordinates with a combination of kindness and severity, so finding the weak points in his camp is not easy. We need to carefully study the backgrounds and personalities of these people and select the most likely candidates to be turned."

Afterward, Xiao Yichen began selecting suitable spies. He chose a group of agile, resourceful, and skilled soldiers from his elite troops and gave them detailed mission instructions.

"You must be extremely careful on your journey. Do not reveal your identities under any circumstances. If you are discovered, not only will your lives be in danger, but you will also alert the enemy and disrupt the entire plan. Record in detail everything the target does, including who they meet, where they go, and what they say, and report back promptly," Xiao Yichen solemnly instructed.

The spies accepted their orders and quietly blended into the city's streets and alleys.

Meanwhile, Lin Wan'er began investigating the backgrounds of those around Murong Xuan. She carefully sifted through the city's intelligence network for useful information, while also dispatching some astute subordinates to contact people who had previously interacted with Murong Xuan, gathering information indirectly.

After several days of effort, Lin Wan'er finally discovered a possible breakthrough. One of Murong Xuan's strategists, named Su Jin, was originally a poor scholar who was recruited by Murong Xuan because of his talent. However, Lin Wan'er recently heard that Su Jin seemed dissatisfied with some of Murong Xuan's extreme methods, and that his elderly mother was seriously ill and urgently needed money for treatment.

Lin Wan'er informed Xiao Yichen of this news: "General, I think Su Jin is someone we can try to win over. He has weaknesses and has already developed disloyalty towards Murong Xuan. If we can help him solve his family's predicament, perhaps he will be willing to work for us."

After pondering for a moment, Xiao Yichen said, "We need to proceed with caution in this matter. We cannot show ourselves directly, lest we arouse Murong Xuan's suspicion. We can arrange for a reliable person to approach Su Jin as a chivalrous knight-errant, sound him out first, and then act accordingly."

Therefore, Lin Wan'er selected a clever and eloquent female subordinate named Xiao Die and had her disguise herself as a female swordswoman to approach Su Jin.

Xiao Die went to a teahouse frequented by Su Jin and deliberately staged a "chance encounter." She pretended to be forthright and unrestrained, striking up a conversation with Su Jin. From poetry and literature to the state of the world, Xiao Die's talent and knowledge gradually won Su Jin's favor.

After several conversations, Xiaodie saw that the time was ripe and casually brought up Murong Xuan's actions in the city to observe Su Jin's reaction. Su Jin's expression changed slightly, and after a moment of silence, he said, "Young Master Murong's actions are sometimes too ruthless, and the people in the city have suffered as a result. I also feel guilty."

Xiao Die's heart stirred, and she continued, "I've heard that your elderly mother is seriously ill, and in these days, medical treatment is a considerable expense. Since you serve Murong Xuan, I'm sure he will generously help you, won't he?"

Su Jin gave a bitter smile: "Although Young Master Murong has been kind to me, he is only focused on power struggles and rarely cares about my family's affairs. I am currently worried about my mother's medical expenses, but I don't know what to do."

Seeing that Su Jin had revealed a weakness, Xiao Die said softly, "Although I am just a wanderer in the martial world, I cannot bear to see loyal and righteous people suffer. I know some friends who may be able to help you solve your family's predicament, but I don't know if you are willing to accept this help?"

Su Jin raised her head and looked at Xiao Die, a hint of doubt and hesitation flashing in her eyes: "Why are you helping me like this, young lady? We've only just met, how could I possibly accept your kindness so easily?"

Xiaodie smiled slightly: "Sir, there is no need to doubt me. I simply respect your talent and character. In my opinion, a person like you should not be bound by difficulties, much less be taken advantage of by treacherous people."

Su Jin was startled, realizing the deeper meaning in Xiao Die's words. He pondered for a long time before slowly saying, "I understand what you mean, Miss. However, this matter is of great importance, and I need to consider it carefully."

Xiaodie said, "Sir, there's no need to rush to answer. I will wait here for your decision. But please do so as soon as possible, as your mother's condition cannot be delayed."

Su Jin returned home and, looking at his mother lying on her sickbed, was torn by a fierce internal struggle. On one hand, there was the gratitude he owed Murong Xuan; on the other, there was his mother's life and his own conscience. Ultimately, he decided to meet with Xiao Die to learn about the power behind her and the help she could offer.

Xiao Die led Su Jin to a secluded courtyard, where Lin Wan'er was already waiting. Upon seeing Su Jin, Lin Wan'er got straight to the point: "Mr. Su, I am Lin Wan'er. I know your current predicament and that you have doubts about Murong Xuan's actions. We hope you can provide us with some information about Murong Xuan. In return, we will do everything in our power to treat your mother, ensure your safety after Murong Xuan's downfall, and even secure a legitimate future for you."

Su Jin looked at Lin Wan'er, his heart filled with mixed emotions. He knew that if he betrayed Murong Xuan, he would face enormous risks, but for his mother's sake, he had no other choice. "Miss Lin, I can provide you with intelligence, but you must guarantee my mother's safety."

Lin Wan'er nodded and said, "Mr. Su, rest assured, we will definitely keep our promise. Tell me about Murong Xuan's current layout in the city."

Su Jin took a deep breath and began to recount: "Murong Xuan has secretly stockpiled a large number of weapons in the city, hiding them in a secret warehouse in the west of the city. He has also colluded with some bandits outside the city, preparing to launch a coordinated attack on the city at the right time. In addition, he has planted spies in various industries in the city, constantly monitoring every move in the city, especially your movements."

Lin Wan'er's heart skipped a beat; this intelligence was crucial. She continued, "Does he have any specific action plan? For example, when will he launch the attack?"

Su Jin shook her head: "He hasn't decided on a specific time yet. He's waiting for the best opportunity, perhaps when the situation in the city becomes more chaotic, or when you expose a weakness while dealing with other crises. But he's been meeting with some mysterious people frequently lately, and I suspect he's plotting a bigger conspiracy, though I haven't found out the specifics yet."

After Lin Wan'er finished talking with Su Jin, she arranged for someone to secretly move Su Jin's mother to a safe place and invited the best doctor in the city to treat her.

Upon learning this intelligence, Xiao Yichen immediately strengthened the defenses in the west of the city and sent men to investigate any spies within the city. "Murong Xuan's conspiracy is becoming increasingly clear; we cannot let him succeed. We must disrupt his plans before he acts."

Just then, the spies responsible for tracking Murong Xuan's confidants also brought news. They discovered that one of Murong Xuan's confidants frequently visited an abandoned manor in the south of the city. The manor appeared deserted, but there were many hidden sentries around it. The spies risked getting closer and heard faint conversations coming from inside the manor, seemingly mentioning a plan for a "water attack."

Upon hearing this news, Xiao Yichen immediately went to the south of the city with Lin Wan'er to observe the terrain of the abandoned manor. He saw that the manor was near a river; if Murong Xuan were to actually carry out his water attack plan, the consequences would be unimaginable.

“We must find a way to stop him. Either sabotage his water supply system or change the course of the river,” Xiao Yichen said.

After a moment's thought, Lin Wan'er said, "Changing the river's course is quite difficult and may affect the irrigation of farmland for the surrounding people. We can send people to scout out the location of his water supply facilities first, and then try to sabotage them. At the same time, we should set up sandbags and other defensive fortifications in the low-lying areas of the city, just in case."

Xiao Yichen nodded in agreement: "We'll do as you say. This matter is of great importance, and we need to act as soon as possible."

So, Xiao Yichen dispatched another elite squad to quietly approach the abandoned manor under the cover of night to search for Murong Xuan's water supply facilities. Meanwhile, Lin Wan'er organized the people in the city to move sandbags and build defensive fortifications.

The atmosphere in the city grew increasingly tense. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er knew that they were racing against time with Murong Xuan. Whoever could prepare first would gain the upper hand in this life-or-death struggle.

Based on the intelligence they had gathered, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er quickly devised a plan to counter Murong Xuan's conspiracy. However, they knew that to achieve final victory in this contest, they not only needed to disrupt Murong Xuan's plans but also strengthen their own power. Acquiring "Mu's Grain Store" and controlling the city's grain resources was a crucial step.

In the study of his mansion in the city, Xiao Yichen once again laid out the relevant information on "Mu's Grain Store," his brow furrowed as he fell into deep thought. Lin Wan'er said softly beside him, "General, although we had initial contact with the grain store manager last time, he refused to sell grain because he was wary of Murong Xuan. Resuming the purchase this time will definitely be fraught with difficulties, and we need to come up with a comprehensive plan."

Xiao Yichen nodded slightly and said, "That's right. The shopkeeper is a cautious person. Our visit last time had already aroused his suspicion. This time we cannot alert him again. We need to act secretly and increase the stakes so that he can see sufficient benefits and security."

After a moment's thought, Lin Wan'er suggested, "General, we can first send someone to spread the word in secret that Murong Xuan is too busy with other matters to attend to the grain store, and that his influence in the city is gradually being weakened. This might shake the grain store manager's confidence in Murong Xuan."

Xiao Yichen's eyes lit up. "This plan is excellent. However, the spread of the news must be done subtly, without letting Murong Xuan find out. I will arrange some reliable people to handle it. In addition, we also need to prepare a more lucrative acquisition plan, not only to tempt the manager with the price, but also to resolve his worries."

Therefore, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er began to meticulously prepare for the acquisition. They recalculated the grain store's grain reserves and value, and set a purchase price that was 20% higher than before. At the same time, Xiao Yichen personally wrote a guarantee, promising that if the grain store manager was willing to sell the grain, he would do his best to protect his safety and arrange a new residence and property for him in the city so that he could enjoy the rest of his life in peace.

After the news spread, rumors began to circulate in the city about Murong Xuan and the grain store. The grain store manager had also heard about it and couldn't help but feel a little suspicious. At this time, the messenger sent by Xiao Yichen quietly arrived at the grain store again.

Upon meeting the grain shop manager, the messenger respectfully said, "Manager, my general heard about your concerns last time and specifically ordered me to come and discuss the acquisition with you again. This is a new plan prepared for you by the general; please take a look." With that, the messenger handed over a document filled with terms and conditions.

The grain shop manager took the document and read it carefully. When he saw the generous purchase price and Xiao Yichen's guarantee, a hint of interest flashed in his eyes. However, he still hesitated and said, "I appreciate your general's kindness. But I really have a hard time explaining things to Young Master Murong."

The envoy smiled slightly and said, "Shopkeeper, you are aware of the current situation in the city. Murong Xuan's conspiracy has been exposed by my general. He is in dire straits himself, so how can he care about this grain shop? If you still insist on your loyalty to him now, you will have nothing once Murong Xuan falls from power. My general always keeps his word. If you cooperate with him, you will not only receive generous rewards but also long-term protection."

The grain shop manager fell into deep thought, weighing the pros and cons in his mind. On one hand, there was Murong Xuan's power and the unknown retaliation; on the other hand, there were the tangible benefits and security he could expect right now.

Just as the grain shop owner hesitated, Murong Xuan suddenly arrived at the grain shop. His face was gloomy, and he sensed the strange atmosphere as soon as he entered. "Shopkeeper, I heard that Xiao Yichen sent someone here again? Don't be fooled by him."

The grain shop manager was startled and quickly said, "Young master, don't worry, I didn't agree to their terms. It's just that the conditions they offered were indeed tempting, and I was somewhat tempted."

Murong Xuan sneered, "Tempting? Do you think Xiao Yichen can really keep his promise? He just wants to use you to seize the grain from the grain store, and then kick you aside. You've been with me for so long, don't you know my methods? If you dare to betray me, I'll make you regret it."

The grain shop owner broke out in a cold sweat and quickly said, "Young master, please calm down. I have no intention of betraying you. It's just that this grain shop is the result of my hard work over the years, and I also want to find a good way out for myself."

Murong Xuan looked at the grain shop owner, a hint of threat in his eyes: "As long as you obediently listen to me and do as I say, I will certainly not treat you unfairly. Once I control this city, you will certainly reap the benefits from this grain shop. But if you dare to have any disloyal thoughts, hmph!"

The grain shop manager obsequiously replied, "Yes, sir. I will certainly follow your orders."

Murong Xuan nodded in satisfaction, then began to set up defensive measures in the grain store. He increased manpower to strengthen the guards of the grain store, and also set up some hidden sentries around the store to prevent Xiao Yichen and his group from forcibly purchasing the grain.

Upon learning of Murong Xuan's actions, Xiao Yichen knew the situation had become even more complicated. He discussed with Lin Wan'er, "Murong Xuan has strengthened the defenses of the grain store; a direct attack is clearly not going to work. We need to find another way to break through his lines of defense."

Lin Wan'er pondered for a moment and said, "General, I think we can start from within the grain store. Besides the manager, there must be other employees in the grain store. We can try to win over some of them and have them create opportunities for us from within."

Xiao Yichen nodded in agreement: "This plan is feasible. However, we need to be careful in turning the employees against us, so as not to arouse Murong Xuan's suspicion. Do you have a suitable candidate?"

Lin Wan'er said, "I once sent someone to secretly investigate the employees of the grain store. One of them, named Afu, was poor but honest. I think we can start with him."

So, Lin Wan'er arranged for a female subordinate to pose as a homeless woman and deliberately create an "encounter" with Afu near the grain store. The female subordinate pretended to faint at the entrance of the grain store, and Afu, being kind-hearted, helped her into the grain store and gave her water to drink.

After waking up, the female subordinate thanked Afu profusely. After that, she frequently appeared near the grain store and gradually became acquainted with Afu. During one conversation, the female subordinate casually mentioned the situation in the city and the conflict between Xiao Yichen and Murong Xuan.

Ah Fu sighed and said, "I'm just a lowly shop assistant, hoping to live a peaceful life. But now this grain store is involved in this conflict, and I'm really worried that something bad might happen."

The female subordinate seized the opportunity to say, "Brother Afu, you are a kind person, and I can't bear to see you in danger. In fact, General Xiao is a good man. He is wholeheartedly devoted to the people of the city. If you can help General Xiao acquire the grain stores, not only will the people of the city be spared from hunger, but General Xiao will also reward you handsomely, allowing you and your family to live a good life."

Afu was startled and quickly said, "How can this be? Young Master Murong has also been kind to me; I cannot betray him."

The female subordinate said, "Brother Afu, think about it. Murong Xuan's current actions are disrupting the city's order and causing suffering to the people. You work in the grain store, so you should know that he is hoarding grain to raise prices and seek personal gain. General Xiao, on the other hand, wants to return the grain to the people and stabilize prices. Helping General Xiao is the truly righteous thing to do."

Afu fell into deep thought, his resolve beginning to waver. He thought of his impoverished parents and young siblings; if he could receive General Xiao's reward, their lives would be greatly improved.

Finally, Afu gritted his teeth and said, "I can help you, but you must guarantee the safety of my family."

The female subordinate was overjoyed and said, "Brother Afu, don't worry, General Xiao will definitely keep his promise. Tell me about the situation inside the grain store first."

Afu explained in detail to his female subordinate the distribution of guards at the grain store, the locations of the sentries set up by Murong Xuan, and the internal passages of the grain store.

Upon receiving the news, Lin Wan'er immediately devised a new acquisition plan with Xiao Yichen. They decided to use Afu to create chaos inside the store late at night, then send out an elite team to raid the grain store and take it over in one fell swoop.

On a dark and stormy night, the city was silent. As planned, Afu deliberately started a small fire in the grain store's kitchen. The flames spread rapidly, plunging the store into chaos.

"Fire! Fire! Everyone come quick to put out the fire!" Afu shouted.

The shop assistants at the grain store were jolted awake and rushed to put out the fire. The guards sent by Murong Xuan were also drawn to the blaze; some went to help fight the fire, while others maintained order amidst the chaos.

Just then, Xiao Yichen led his elite squad, appearing like ghosts around the grain store. They evaded the guards' sight and quickly rushed towards the grain store's door.

Upon seeing Xiao Yichen and his group arrive, Afu quickly opened the back door of the grain store and let them in. Guided by Afu, Xiao Yichen led his team straight to the grain store's granary.

However, Murong Xuan was not entirely unprepared. Just as Xiao Yichen and his group were about to reach the granary, a squad of ambushers suddenly emerged from the shadows.

"Xiao Yichen, do you think you can take my food so easily?" Murong Xuan stepped out of the shadows and said coldly.

Xiao Yichen's heart skipped a beat, realizing he had fallen into Murong Xuan's trap. But he was fearless, drew his sword, and said, "Murong Xuan, your scheme will not succeed. Today, I am determined to get this grain."

Having said that, Xiao Yichen charged towards Murong Xuan first. His swordsmanship was fierce, like a dragon emerging from the sea, and he instantly clashed with Murong Xuan. Meanwhile, the elite squad behind him also engaged in fierce combat with Murong Xuan's ambush troops.

Shouts of battle erupted from the grain store, and the flickering light of fire illuminated the flashing blades. Xiao Yichen and Murong Xuan exchanged blows, neither giving an inch. Xiao Yichen knew that this battle was not only about the ownership of the grain, but also about the future of the city. He had to fight with all his might to defeat Murong Xuan.

At a crucial moment in the battle, Lin Wan'er led another squad of soldiers to the grain store. Seeing Xiao Yichen locked in fierce combat with Murong Xuan, she joined the fray without hesitation.

Lin Wan'er's swordsmanship was light and graceful, yet concealed deadly intent. She and Xiao Yichen cooperated effectively, gradually gaining the upper hand. Under the combined attack of Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, Murong Xuan's ambush troops began to retreat steadily.

Finally, seeing the situation was turning against him, Murong Xuan feigned a sword strike and fled the grain store. Xiao Yichen wanted to give chase, but considering that he hadn't yet fully controlled the grain in the store, he gave up.

He turned to Lin Wan'er and said, "Wan'er, move the grain away first to ensure its safety."

Lin Wan'er nodded and said, "General, rest assured, I will make the arrangements immediately."

With everyone's efforts, the grain in the grain shop was quickly loaded onto carts and transported to the safe location designated by Xiao Yichen. Although the acquisition operation encountered fierce resistance from Murong Xuan, it was ultimately successful. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er breathed a sigh of relief as they looked at the carts laden with grain. They knew this was another important victory in their contest with Murong Xuan.