"Please wait a moment, I will go and report it immediately."

Before long, the gate of the mansion creaked open, and Li Yan, the Minister of War, hurriedly appeared with a solemn expression on his face.

He didn't recognize Chen Zhennan until the other person coughed lightly, and the familiar voice awakened his memory.

"So it was the big one..."

Before he could finish speaking, Chen Zhennan's gaze stopped him from continuing. Li Yan quickly changed his tone and nodded, inviting the two into his residence.

"The commander-in-chief's visit so late at night must mean he has something important to discuss," Li Yan asked.

Chen Zhennan nodded slightly and said slowly, "Li Yan, at the morning court tomorrow, you propose to establish a Military Affairs Office, try to win the position of chief of the Military Affairs Office, and then issue an order to withdraw the 100,000 troops guarding Tianyang Pass."

Upon hearing this, Li Yan's eyes widened. This was no small matter; once the order was issued, his position in the court would be in grave danger.

"General, it's not that I'm unwilling to obey, but I'm worried that the time isn't right yet. Could we postpone it a little?" Li Yan's voice carried a hint of hesitation.

Chen Zhennan's heart tightened. Li Yan was unwilling. Could it be that he was wavering?

Frowning slightly, Chen Zhennan said coldly, "Li Yan, I am well aware of your concerns, but this matter is urgent. You must propose the establishment of the Grand Council without hesitation at tomorrow's court meeting. The 100,000 troops stationed at Tianyang Pass must be withdrawn within three days!"

Chen Zhennan's gaze made Li Yan feel an invisible pressure, and his whole body trembled involuntarily.

"Your subordinate understands and will do his utmost."

After giving a soft "hmm," Chen Zhennan's attitude softened slightly.

“Li Yan, you are the Minister of War, a position of paramount importance. I don’t need to teach you how to flatter and fawn. Remember, you must make Song Xuan believe in you, and then sideline Song Xuan.”

Li Yan nodded slightly, but his heart was filled with conflicting emotions.

Now that the Great Wu Dynasty has changed hands and Song Xuan is the new emperor, the risk of sidelining him is too great.

"Rest assured, General, I will do my utmost. Tomorrow at the morning court, I will strongly recommend the establishment of a Military Council and the recall of the 100,000 troops from Tianyang Pass."