The bustling reconstruction of shops and the warmth of reassurance for the people had not yet completely dispelled the gloom in the city, and an undercurrent was already quietly brewing. In recent days, the situation in the city had become increasingly tense, with various rumors and gossips spreading like ghosts through the streets and alleys, bewitching people. Some previously neutral forces, under the impact of this undercurrent, began to waver, like candles in the wind, ready to fall at any moment in an unknown direction. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er keenly sensed this dangerous atmosphere. They knew that if they could not quickly win over allies and stabilize the situation, all their previous efforts would be in vain, and the city would once again fall into endless chaos and crisis.
Xiao Yichen stood in the study of his mansion in the city, his brows furrowed, his gaze fixed intently on the map on the wall. The outline of the city on the map seemed shrouded in a fog, filled with uncertainty and danger. Lin Wan'er said softly beside him, "General, recently there have been constant rumors in the city, mostly slanderous against you and the government. These rumors are coming on strong, and I'm afraid they are deliberately spread by someone with ulterior motives, intending to disturb the people's peace and disrupt the current stability in the city."
Xiao Yichen nodded slightly, a hint of worry in his eyes: "I've also noticed it. These rumors not only damage the reputation of the government, but also sow doubt among the people of the city, shaking their trust in us. And those forces that were originally neutral must have heard these rumors, which is why they've started to waver. We must find out the source of the rumors as soon as possible and stop them. At the same time, we must actively win over allies and strengthen our camp."
After pondering for a moment, Lin Wan'er said, "General, I think we can start with the major families in the city. These families have deep roots in the city and possess considerable power and influence. If we can gain their support, it will greatly benefit the stability of the situation. However, these families have always focused on their own interests, so it will not be easy to win them over."
Xiao Yichen tapped the table lightly and said, "Wan'er is absolutely right. We need to understand their needs and concerns, and offer them corresponding benefits and promises in order to win their trust and support. You can arrange for someone to secretly contact these families, sound them out, and see what their attitude is."
Lin Wan'er accepted the order and quickly dispatched several shrewd and capable subordinates to the mansions of several prominent families in the city. These subordinates were all eloquent and quick-witted; they knew the importance of this mission and dared not slack off in the slightest.
However, things did not go as they had hoped. The men sent to the Zhao family returned first, reporting to Lin Wan'er with a dejected look on their faces: "Miss, the Zhao family's attitude is ambiguous. Although they have not explicitly refused to cooperate with us, they have put forward many harsh conditions, such as demanding a larger share of the commercial profits in the city, and that the government provide them with additional protection and privileges."
Lin Wan'er frowned slightly, understanding that the Zhao family was taking advantage of her misfortune. However, she also knew that the situation was urgent and she couldn't easily give up the opportunity to cooperate with the Zhao family. "You go and rest first, I'll think it over some more," Lin Wan'er said to her subordinate.
Subsequently, the subordinates sent to the Qian and Sun families returned one after another, bringing equally pessimistic news. The Qian family stated that they would observe the situation for a while before making a decision; the Sun family, on the other hand, directly declined the cooperation proposal, citing busy internal family affairs.
Lin Wan'er informed Xiao Yichen of the situation, and after a moment of contemplation, Xiao Yichen said, "It seems that these families are all weighing the pros and cons, trying to gain the greatest benefit from this chaos. We cannot sit idly by and wait for our doom; we must take the initiative. I will personally visit the Zhao family and discuss things with them face to face; perhaps there will be a turning point."
Xiao Yichen arrived at the Zhao family residence, where the Zhao family head personally came out to greet him. However, his face carried a subtle hint of arrogance and aloofness. "General Xiao, what brings you here?" the Zhao family head said with a forced smile.
Xiao Yichen cut to the chase, saying, "Brother Zhao, we both know that the situation in the city is critical. Those rumors are trying to destroy the peace we have worked so hard to build. I have come here today to discuss cooperation with you. Let us join hands to stabilize the situation in the city and share prosperity in the future."
The Zhao family head sneered, "What the general says is good, but my Zhao family has been operating in the city for many years and cannot easily take risks. If the general wants my Zhao family to cooperate, he must agree to a few conditions. First, as I said before, in the distribution of commercial profits, my Zhao family must take 40%; second, the general must guarantee that my Zhao family's businesses in the city will not be infringed upon by any force, and if necessary, the government must send troops to protect them; third, if any members of my Zhao family intend to get involved in officialdom, the general must provide them with convenience."
Xiao Yichen's heart sank. He knew that the Zhao family's conditions were extremely harsh, but he still suppressed his displeasure and said, "Brother Zhao, the conditions you have proposed are a bit too much. The interests of the city should be shared by everyone. How can we allow your Zhao family to have a monopoly? Moreover, the government's deployment of troops for protection must follow the law and the overall situation of the city. It cannot be done arbitrarily. As for the Zhao family members entering officialdom, they should be based on their true talents and learning. I will treat them fairly."
The Zhao family head's expression changed, and he said, "General, if you say that you don't want to cooperate with my Zhao family, then please leave. My Zhao family will find another way out."
Seeing the Zhao family head's resolute stance, Xiao Yichen knew that today's negotiations were fruitless. He stood up and said, "Brother Zhao, please consider this carefully. The situation in the city is changing rapidly. If we miss this opportunity for cooperation, we may regret it later."
After leaving the Zhao family mansion, Xiao Yichen felt heavy-hearted. He knew that if he couldn't quickly win over allies, the situation in the city would become increasingly difficult to control. At this time, news also came from Lin Wan'er that some small gangs in the city were beginning to stir, seemingly colluding with those spreading rumors and intending to create even greater chaos in the city.
Xiao Yichen realized that he had to take decisive measures to crack down on these forces that were sabotaging him in the shadows, and at the same time, find other allies. After discussing with Lin Wan'er, he decided to first send soldiers to investigate and wipe out those small gangs as a warning to others.
Under the soldiers' powerful crackdown, the small gangs scattered like birds and beasts, and the city's order was temporarily restored. However, Xiao Yichen understood that this was only a temporary measure, and to truly stabilize the situation, he needed to find reliable allies.
Just as Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er were racking their brains over this matter, a mysterious figure suddenly arrived at the mansion in the city, requesting an audience with Xiao Yichen. Xiao Yichen was puzzled, wondering who the visitor was, but he decided to meet him anyway.
The mysterious figure was dressed in a black robe, his face covered by a black cloth, making it impossible to see his features. Upon seeing Xiao Yichen, he bowed slightly and said, "General Xiao, I have long admired your name. I have come today to lend you a helping hand."
Xiao Yichen looked at him warily and asked, "Who are you? Why are you helping me?"
The mysterious figure slowly said, “General, you need not know who I am. I only know that you are wholeheartedly dedicated to protecting the city and working for the well-being of the people. I admire your noble character. Now, undercurrents are surging in the city. Behind those forces that are trying to cause destruction, there is actually a much larger force in control. If you want to fight against them, you must unite all the forces that can be united.”
Xiao Yichen's heart stirred, and he asked, "Who exactly is this greater force you mentioned?"
The mysterious figure gently shook his head: "I cannot tell you yet, General. But I can provide you with some clues to help you find other allies. There is a master swordsman named Li in the west of the city. He is highly skilled in martial arts and has a great reputation in the martial arts world. He is an upright man who always cares about the people of the city. If you can get his support, it will greatly help stabilize the situation."
After a moment of contemplation, Xiao Yichen said, "Thank you for informing me. I will immediately send someone to find Master Li."
The mysterious figure nodded slightly: "General, please wait. I have another piece of advice for you. When you are trying to win over allies, you should not only focus on their power and interests, but also pay attention to their character and beliefs. Only those who share the same ideals can work together to overcome the difficulties in this chaotic world."
After speaking, the mysterious figure turned and left, disappearing into the vast night. Xiao Yichen watched his departing figure, lost in thought. He knew that the appearance of this mysterious figure might be a turning point, or it might be a trap. But regardless, he had to try, for the sake of the city's people, for the future of this city.
Xiao Yichen immediately dispatched Lin Wan'er to the west of the city to find Master Li. After many twists and turns, Lin Wan'er finally found Master Li in a secluded valley. Upon hearing Lin Wan'er's purpose, Master Li pondered for a long time before saying, "Miss Lin, I have wandered the martial world for many years and had no intention of getting involved in the city's conflicts. However, I cannot bear to see the people suffer. If General Xiao can truly uphold his belief in protecting the city and bringing benefits to the people, I am willing to lend him a helping hand."
Lin Wan'er was overjoyed and said, "Don't worry, Hero Li. General Xiao is wholeheartedly devoted to the people, and this belief has never wavered. With Hero Li's support, we will definitely be able to stabilize the situation in the city and restore peace to the people."
Lin Wan'er brought Li Daxia back to his mansion in the city. Xiao Yichen and Li Daxia met and had a very pleasant conversation. They discussed the situation in the city and their strategies for dealing with it, and reached many consensuses.
With the help of Master Li, Xiao Yichen gradually won over several heroes of the martial arts world and ambitious individuals in the city. Although their individual strength might not be as great as that of the powerful families, they were united and fought for a common belief. Through their joint efforts, the rumors in the city gradually subsided, and the previously wavering neutral forces began to reassess the situation. Some families even took the initiative to express their willingness to cooperate with Xiao Yichen to jointly maintain the stability of the city.
As their allies grew, Xiao Yichen's camp expanded. They began a full-scale crackdown on the forces secretly sabotaging the city, digging deep to uncover the mastermind behind them. After a difficult investigation and battles, they finally found the source of the rumors—it turned out to be a remnant of Murong Xuan's faction, attempting to use rumors to incite the city's forces and regain lost power.
Xiao Yichen decisively ordered the capture of the remaining accomplice and his associates. The situation in the city finally stabilized completely, and the people gradually regained their confidence after the crisis. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er looked at the city gradually recovering its vitality, their hearts filled with relief. They knew that in this chaotic world, only by upholding their beliefs and uniting all forces that could be united could they protect the city and create a better future for the people.
The situation within the city was gradually stabilizing, but Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er knew this was merely the calm before the storm. Although Murong Xuan had been killed, remnants of his faction remained, and numerous forces outside the city were also eyeing the city, hoping to seize a share while the situation was still unstable. For the sake of lasting peace, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er decided to take the initiative, carefully selecting allies among the various forces in the city—those with a strong sense of justice and considerable strength—to jointly defend against external enemies.
Xiao Yichen summoned his trusted advisors to his mansion in the city to discuss the choice of allies. The hall was brightly lit, the atmosphere heavy, and everyone's faces solemn. Xiao Yichen spoke first, his voice booming: "Gentlemen, although the city has temporarily gained a respite, dangers lurk everywhere. To break this predicament, we need the assistance of allies. However, the forces in the city are complex and varied, and we cannot rashly trust anyone. The most urgent task is to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each force and choose the best one to follow."
Lin Wan'er nodded slightly and then said, "What the general said is very true. There are many families and gangs in the city, each with its own plans and considerations. For example, the Chen family in the south of the city has been in business for generations and is extremely wealthy. Their wealth can be used for military purposes, but their family members rarely get involved in martial arts, so they may not be of much help in military matters. The Qinglong Gang in the east of the city has many members with excellent martial arts skills and a great reputation in the martial arts world. They can protect the people in the streets and alleys, but their style of doing things is a bit reckless and they lack careful planning."
An advisor stroked his beard and pondered for a moment before saying, "There is a martial arts school in the north of the city, whose master, Li Feng, is highly skilled in martial arts, upright, and chivalrous. He often teaches his disciples the principles of loyalty and righteousness. Although his disciples are fewer in number than those of any gang, they are all highly capable. If we can gain their assistance, it will greatly benefit the city's defense. Moreover, he enjoys a high reputation among the people of the north of the city. If we form an alliance with him, we can reassure the people of the north."
Xiao Yichen's eyes flickered slightly as he said, "This martial arts school is indeed a cause for concern. However, I have also heard of a mysterious organization in the west of the city called the Shadow Society. Its members are all skilled in stealth and assassination, appearing and disappearing without a trace. If we could obtain their assistance, we might be able to secretly investigate the enemy's strengths and weaknesses and carry out a surprise attack to decapitate them, making it impossible for the enemy to defend against us. However, this society operates in secrecy, and its purpose is unclear. I wonder if it is possible to join forces with them."
Lin Wan'er frowned and said, "I have also heard about the Shadow Society. Although they are powerful, their secretive and unpredictable nature makes people uneasy. If we form an alliance with them, there may be changes in the future, and we may suffer the consequences. It would be better to send someone to secretly investigate their background first, and then make a decision."
Everyone nodded in agreement. Xiao Yichen then ordered several shrewd and capable individuals to be selected, disguised, and infiltrated the west of the city to investigate the details of the Shadow Society.
Meanwhile, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er personally led a group of people to visit the Chen family in the south of the city. The Chen family mansion was ornately decorated and magnificent, exuding an air of wealth and power. Upon hearing of Xiao Yichen's arrival, the Chen family head led his family members to greet him respectfully at the mansion gate.
Upon entering the mansion, Xiao Yichen stated his purpose directly: "Brother Chen, the city is currently in turmoil. The remnants of Murong Xuan's faction still exist, and external threats are imminent. The Chen family is a prominent clan in the city, renowned for its wealth. I have come to discuss an alliance with you, Brother Chen, to jointly protect the city and ensure the peace and tranquility of the people."
The head of the Chen family looked troubled and declined, saying, "General Xiao, the Chen family has been in business for generations and only knows how to make a profit. We are completely ignorant about military affairs. Moreover, the family members are all weak and frail and I am afraid they are not capable of shouldering this great responsibility. I am afraid I cannot accept your kind offer, General."
Seeing this, Lin Wan'er gently advised, "Brother Chen, you are mistaken. When the city falls, everything will perish. Even if the Chen family is the wealthiest in the world, it will be difficult for them to remain unscathed. Now that the general has sincerely invited us to form an alliance, the general will naturally protect the Chen family. Moreover, the prosperity of commerce in the city also requires a peaceful world. The general will provide strategic planning in military matters, and the Chen family will provide strong financial assistance. We can each benefit from our strengths. Wouldn't that be ideal?"
After pondering for a long time, the head of the Chen family was finally moved: "What Miss Lin said makes some sense. However, I still have a concern. If the Chen family provides full assistance, how will the Chen family repay us after the situation in the city is stabilized?"
Xiao Yichen said loudly, "Brother Chen, rest assured. When the city is at peace, the government will definitely formulate good policies to support the Chen family's business, offer preferential treatment, and protect the Chen family's status and interests in the city. Moreover, the Chen family's actions will go down in history and be admired by the people."
After careful consideration, Chen Jiazhu finally nodded in agreement: "In that case, I, Chen, will form an alliance with the general to overcome these difficult times together."
Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er were overjoyed and then discussed the details of the alliance with the Chen family head, agreeing on matters such as the supply of goods and the allocation of personnel.
Since the Chen family returned, those who investigated the Shadow Society have also reported back. It turns out that although the Shadow Society operates in secrecy, its purpose is indeed to protect the peace of the region. However, because many of its members have grudges in the martial arts world, it is inconvenient for them to show themselves openly. Moreover, they have already taken action against the remnants of Murong Xuan's faction in secret, eliminating many troublemakers.
Upon hearing this, Xiao Yichen resolved to personally travel to the Shadow Society's headquarters to negotiate an alliance. The Shadow Society's headquarters was located in a remote valley west of the city, heavily guarded and filled with sentries. As Xiao Yichen and his party approached the valley entrance, they were blocked by several masked men dressed in black.
Xiao Yichen stated his purpose, and the man in black went inside to announce his arrival. A moment later, a man who appeared to be the leader of the black-clad group appeared and said coldly, "General Xiao, my Shadow Society has never had any dealings with the government. What brings you here, General?"
Xiao Yichen clasped his hands in a salute and said sincerely, "Leader, please do not misunderstand. I know of the Shadow Society's reputation for chivalry, and I also know of your secret efforts to protect the city. Now that the remnants of Murong Xuan's faction have not been eliminated and external threats are imminent, I wish to form an alliance with the Shadow Society to jointly resist the enemy. I am well aware of the Shadow Society's secretive nature. After this alliance is formed, I will not force you to show yourselves in public. You only need to assist in secret, gather intelligence on the enemy, and carry out surprise attacks, and we can achieve great success."
The leader in black scrutinized them for a long time before saying, "What the general says has some sincerity, but the government has always regarded the martial arts world as a thorn in their side. How can we trust the general?"
Lin Wan'er stepped forward and said, "Chief, you may not know this. General Xiao and I are not narrow-minded people. We know that heroes of the martial world also have a heart of loyalty and righteousness. Now that the city is in danger, the general is only concerned with protecting the people. If we can get the help of the Shadow Society, the general will be grateful and will also vindicate the heroes of the martial world in the future, grant them a legitimate status, and work together for a peaceful and prosperous world."
The leader in black pondered for a moment, then finally said, "In that case, we will trust the general this time. However, if the general breaks this alliance in the future, don't blame the Shadow Society for being ruthless."
Xiao Yichen was overjoyed and made an alliance with the Shadow Society, stipulating their respective responsibilities and obligations, as well as the methods of communication.
Afterwards, Xiao Yichen and his group headed towards the Azure Dragon Gang in the east of the city. The Azure Dragon Gang's headquarters was located in the bustling eastern part of the city, with gang members coming and going, making it quite a powerful force. When Xiao Yichen entered the headquarters, the gang leader Zhao Long and his members greeted him.
After Xiao Yichen explained his purpose, Zhao Long laughed loudly and said, "General Xiao, I have long wanted to fight against the remnants of Murong Xuan. Although my Qinglong Gang are all rough men, none of us are afraid of death. As long as you give the order, General, we will be ready to serve at any time."
Seeing his forthrightness, Xiao Yichen smiled and said, "Chief Zhao is righteous. However, matters of war require planning. Although the Azure Dragon Gang is brave, it must follow orders to achieve twice the result with half the effort."
Zhao Long patted his chest and said, "General, rest assured. I, Zhao Long, respect heroes the most. The Green Dragon Gang will certainly obey your orders."
Xiao Yichen and Zhao Long agreed that the Green Dragon Gang would be responsible for the defense of the east side of the city, assist the soldiers in patrols, and report and participate in the battle in time if they encountered enemy attacks.
As for the martial arts school in the north of the city, its master, Li Feng, readily agreed to form an alliance upon hearing Xiao Yichen's intentions. He led his disciples in swearing an oath in front of the school: "Though we are not soldiers, we also have the ambition to serve our country. We are willing to follow General Xiao to protect our city and safeguard our people."
Xiao Yichen felt relieved to see that all the forces had successfully formed an alliance. However, he also knew that this was only the beginning. After the alliance was formed, how to integrate the strength of all parties and make them fight together still required careful planning.
Upon returning to his residence, Xiao Yichen summoned representatives of his allies to discuss strategies for defending against the enemy. The people in the hall were either heads of families, leaders of gangs, or owners of martial arts schools, with diverse identities, but all had come for the sake of peace in the city.
Xiao Yichen stood in the hall, his gaze sweeping over the crowd, and said in a deep voice, "Gentlemen, we have formed this alliance for the sake of the people in the city and for the sake of this land. The remnants of Murong Xuan's faction and the enemies outside the city will not let this go easily. We must each play to our strengths: the Chen family will provide the military supplies with resources, the Qinglong Gang and the martial arts disciples will hold the line in the city's defenses, and the Shadow Society will gather intelligence in the shadows and launch surprise attacks. Only by working together can we ensure peace in the city."
Everyone nodded in agreement, expressing their willingness to follow Xiao Yichen's orders.
From then on, under the leadership of Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, the various forces within the city formed a strong alliance. They trained day and night, preparing for battle and standing ready against the remnants of Murong Xuan's forces and the enemies outside the city. Seeing this, the people of the city were also filled with renewed confidence, spontaneously helping to transport supplies and pass on messages. Amidst the turmoil, the city gradually showed signs of peace thanks to the unity of its people, like the dawn before sunrise—faint yet full of hope, foreshadowing the coming light and victory.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, the various forces in the city were finally united. An alliance against the remnants of Murong Xuan's faction rose slowly like the morning sun over the gloomy city, radiating the light of hope. The Chen family's immense wealth in the south, the passionate members of the Azure Dragon Gang in the east, the skilled disciples of the martial arts school in the north, and the mysterious power of the Shadow Society in the west, each contributed their strengths and joined hands to protect this city that had endured so much hardship.
Inside the council hall of the city mansion, the atmosphere was both lively and solemn. Xiao Yichen sat at the head of the table, his gaze firm and profound as he surveyed each of the allied representatives present. Beside him, Lin Wan'er's eyes shone with intelligence and composure, as she clutched a detailed report on the city's situation.
"Gentlemen, our gathering here today marks the official formation of our alliance." Xiao Yichen's voice was steady and powerful, echoing in the hall. "This is a solid step we have taken to protect the city and its people. However, we all know that although Murong Xuan has been executed, the network of influence he left behind remains intricate and complex, like a giant net hidden in the shadows, constantly threatening our safety. Therefore, our immediate priority is to discuss our next strategic move, resolutely strike and restrict Murong Xuan's other businesses, and completely destroy the foundation upon which he attempts to make a comeback."
Lin Wan'er nodded slightly and continued, "General, you are absolutely right. After our careful investigation, we found that Murong Xuan's businesses in the city are spread across various sectors, such as grain stores, cloth shops, and money shops. These businesses have not only accumulated enormous wealth for him, but are also important means for him to control the city's economy and disrupt people's livelihoods. If we can successfully strike at these businesses, we can cut off his economic lifeline, put his remaining followers in a difficult situation, and render them unable to cause trouble."
The head of the Chen family spoke first, stroking his beard as he slowly said, "Miss Lin's analysis is insightful. The Chen family has some experience in the business world, and I believe we can start with Murong Xuan's money exchange. The money exchange is the hub of his cash flow; if we can control it, we can effectively restrict the allocation and operation of his funds. My Chen family is willing to contribute some manpower to assist the government in investigating Murong Xuan's money exchange accounts, finding loopholes in his cash flow, and then freezing his assets."
Xiao Yichen frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and then said, "Brother Chen's plan is ingenious, but Murong Xuan's bank will definitely be heavily guarded, and most of its staff are his confidants, so they may not give in easily. We need to devise a comprehensive plan that ensures we can successfully control the bank while avoiding causing chaos in the city's financial order."
Chief Zhao of the Green Dragon Gang stood up and said loudly, "General, our Green Dragon Gang may not have much else, but we have many brothers and we are very bold. I can lead a group of brothers to make a scene outside the bank to attract their attention and create an opportunity for the government and the Chen family to sneak into the bank and take control of the situation."
Xiao Yichen nodded in approval: "Chief Zhao's suggestion is excellent. However, we must be extremely careful during the operation and avoid acting rashly, lest we alert the enemy and cause unnecessary casualties."
Master Li of the Chengbei Martial Arts School continued, "General, although our disciples are not skilled in business, they can still contribute in defense and surprise attacks. During the process of controlling the money shop, I can lead my disciples to set up defenses around the area to prevent Murong Xuan's remnants from coming to the rescue, ensuring the smooth progress of the operation."
Xiao Yichen looked at Master Li gratefully: "With Master Li's help, I feel much more at ease. Members of the Shadow Society, you are skilled in stealth assassination. During this operation, you can secretly monitor the area around the bank. If you find any suspicious people trying to tip off us or sabotage us, take immediate action to deal with them. We must not let them ruin our important mission."
The Shadow Society's leader in black nodded slightly: "General, rest assured, we will do our utmost."
After discussing the money exchange, everyone turned their attention to Murong Xuan's grain store. Lin Wan'er said, "The grain store is crucial to the livelihood of the city's people. Murong Xuan previously attempted to use the grain store to hoard grain, inflate prices, and create panic. Although we have now taken control of 'Mu's Grain Store,' he still has some small grain stores in other corners of the city. Although these stores are not large, if they are used by his remaining followers, they will still harm the people."
After a moment of contemplation, the Chen family head said, "We can adopt a combination of purchasing and sealing off these small grain stores. The Chen family is willing to pay a high price to purchase a portion of them and bring them under our control, supplying grain to the people at a reasonable price. As for those grain stores that refuse to cooperate or have close ties with the remnants of Murong Xuan's faction, we will seal them off and confiscate their grain as a warning to others."
Xiao Yichen said, "Brother Chen's plan is feasible. However, during the acquisition process, we need to carefully verify the background of the grain stores and the quality of the grain to ensure that the grain we acquire is safe and reliable and can truly benefit the people. At the same time, we must also strengthen the supervision of grain stores to prevent anyone from taking the opportunity to hoard and speculate, disrupting market order."
Everyone nodded in agreement.
Afterwards, they discussed strategies for attacking Murong Xuan's cloth shop and other businesses. Following a heated discussion, they finally formulated a comprehensive and detailed strategic plan.
According to the plan, the Green Dragon Gang would first feign trouble outside the money exchange to attract the attention of the guards. Meanwhile, members of the Shadow Society would take advantage of the chaos to quietly infiltrate the area around the money exchange, monitoring and eliminating any potential dangers. Under the cover of government soldiers, the Chen family members would quickly enter the money exchange, audit the accounts, and take control of the key personnel. Martial arts disciples would deploy defenses around the area to ensure the safety of the operation.
Regarding grain stores, the Chen family assigned specialists to handle procurement, while the government dispatched soldiers to assist in shutting down illegal grain stores. Simultaneously, notices were posted throughout the city to announce the crackdown on Murong Xuan's businesses, aiming to stabilize public sentiment and garner public support and cooperation.
On the day of the operation, as dawn broke, the air in the city seemed to freeze, thick with tension. Members of the Green Dragon Gang arrived early at the street where Murong Xuan's money exchange was located, armed with sticks and deliberately making a scene of chaos.
"Murong Xuan is dead! You bastards who aided and abetted him, why don't you surrender now!" Chief Zhao shouted from the street.
Hearing the commotion, the guards of the money exchange rushed out of the gate and confronted the members of the Green Dragon Gang. In an instant, shouts of killing and cursing mingled together, plunging the entire street into chaos.
Meanwhile, members of the Shadow Society moved like ghosts among the rooftops and alleys around the money exchange, their eyes fixed on every corner of the exchange, not missing a single suspicious figure.
Amid the chaos, the Chen family members and government soldiers quickly approached the money shop. Following their pre-arranged plan, some stormed in through the front gate, while others sneaked in through the back.
Upon entering the money exchange, the Chen family's accountants immediately began examining the accounts. Their skillful methods and keen eyes allowed them to search through the mountain of ledgers for clues about the flow of Murong Xuan's funds. Meanwhile, government soldiers swiftly subdued the money exchange's key personnel and staff to prevent them from tipping off anyone or resisting.
At the grain stores, Chen's purchasing agents went door-to-door negotiating with the owners of small grain shops. For those willing to cooperate, they signed purchase agreements on the spot, paid reasonable prices, and arranged for the grain to be transported to a safe place for storage. As for those grain shops that refused to cooperate, government soldiers decisively sealed them off, confiscated the grain, and loaded it onto trucks.
Upon hearing of the government's crackdown on Murong Xuan's businesses, the people of the city flocked to the streets, expressing their support and appreciation for the government's actions. Some citizens spontaneously assisted the soldiers in transporting grain and maintaining order, and the entire operation received a positive response from the people.
After a day and a night of intense action, the money exchange was successfully taken over, and most of Murong Xuan's grain shops in the city were brought under government control or shut down. This victory dealt a significant blow to the arrogance of Murong Xuan's remaining forces and further consolidated the alliance's position in the city.
Standing on a high platform in the city, Xiao Yichen gazed at the city gradually returning to peace and order, his heart filled with mixed emotions. He knew that this was only a stage victory in the struggle against the remnants of Murong Xuan's forces, and the road ahead was still full of challenges. But he firmly believed that as long as all parties in the alliance remained united and upheld their beliefs, they would surely be able to completely eradicate Murong Xuan's power and restore peace and prosperity to the people of the city.
"Wan'er, the success of this operation is inseparable from the concerted efforts of all allies. We must cherish this hard-won unity and continue to plan the next strategic move. We must not give Murong Xuan's remnants a chance to breathe," Xiao Yichen said, turning to Lin Wan'er.
Lin Wan'er nodded slightly, her eyes filled with determination: "General, rest assured, I will maintain close contact with all allies and discuss subsequent strategic deployments together. We will definitely be able to protect this city and allow the people to live a happy and peaceful life."
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