Protect Our Chief

Jiang Zhuyi spoke eloquently, exuding confidence in every gesture. This was a stance often held by the talents of the Immortal Dynasty. In terms of economic and educational levels, as well as overall power, the Immortal Dynasty far surpassed Daqian. From a young age, people from the Immortal Dynasty were exposed to more, which often resulted in a higher mindset.

However, Jiang Zhuyi, as an outstanding member of the direct lineage of his family, also had ambitions to expand and establish his own line. Assisting Prince Kang to ascend to the throne of the Emperor of Daqian was undoubtedly the best shortcut.

"Hmm," Prince Kang slightly frowned and responded noncommittally, "Younger Brother Gong Yang has always been proud and ambitious, acting somewhat according to his whims. Let it be, his strength is not something that would easily lead to a loss."

After a pause, he asked again, "What about Elder Xin, have there been any reports?"

If Elder Xin succeeded, they could use this opportunity to secretly suppress Wang Shouzhe. It was even possible to turn Wang Shouzhe to their side.

Upon hearing this, Jiang Zhuyi’s expression became grim. "There’s news, but it’s not good."

"I’ve heard that when Elder Xin and the Wuu Brothers carried out their task, they were extremely unlucky. They encountered Celestial River Zhenren, the dean of Longzuo Purple Mansion Academy, who was visiting the Wang Family... As a result, all three were killed on the spot as evil cultivator criminals!"

"What!? Elder Xin was killed as well?" Prince Kang suddenly stood up, his face drastically changing, "And why was that Celestial River old geezer at the Changning Wang Family?"

"I’ve already inquired from the Government Office’s reports, all three were killed. Fortunately, Elder Xin chose to self-destruct before being captured, keeping his identity a secret." Jiang Zhuyi lowered his head and said, "I heard Celestial River Zhenren was hired by the Wang Family, using his Divine Techniques to help redirect the Spirit Vein, laying the foundation for a family Spirit Gathering Array."

"This seemed to be a coincidence. Both the Wang Family and Celestial River Zhenren only considered the three as criminals wanted by our dynasty. Otherwise, if they had captured ’Elder Xin,’ they would certainly use it as an opportunity to strike us."

Jiang Zhuyi’s analysis was "very reasonable," but unfortunately, he knew nothing of Wang Shouzhe’s true mindset.

Neither Elder Xin nor the Wuu Brothers, despite being Prince Kang’s people, would cause immediate entanglement with him if captured. They had plenty of ways to shirk responsibility.

On the contrary, this incident would reveal the true strength within the Wang Family, likely attracting even more powerful enemies. It would be better to let Celestial River Zhenren take the fall, which was the most appropriate course of action.

"Elder Xin!" Prince Kang’s eyes were faintly red, anger and hatred brewing within him. "Wang Family, Celestial River, this prince will not coexist with you!"

Unlike others, Wu Zhongxin had been following Prince Kang from an early age, protecting him as he grew up.

Even though Prince Kang was cold and indifferent, he was still human, still capable of feeling.

"Please calm your anger, Your Highness." Jiang Zhuyi cupped his hands and said, "At this point, anger is meaningless. What we need to do now is to find a way to get through this tax inspection crisis, at least minimize the losses. Only if you ultimately win the position of the Emperor’s Son can you avenge Elder Xin."

"Huff, huff~"

Prince Kang took several deep breaths, barely suppressing his emotions, then turned a sharp gaze to the other side, "Mr. Yude, previously I sent a valet back to request you to organize the accounts, how’s the situation?"

Mr. Yude was in charge of the total accounts of Prince Kang’s Mansion, overseeing dozens of clerical officers. He came from a declining branch of the Imperial Family, full name "Wu Yude," with ancestors who managed accounts for the Dexin lineage.

"Replying to Your Highness," Mr. Yude said, "The accounts of Prince Kang’s Mansion are extremely complex, in a short time..."

"Enough, I just want to know, if we calculate the taxes based on actual dues and what we have paid, what’s the difference? Is it less than fifty percent..." Prince Kang always grasped the big picture, knowing the total income and expenses of the household but unclear on the exact amount of tax evasion. Normally, he had no need to manage such matters.

"This..." Mr. Yude’s forehead was drenched with sweat, and he clenched his teeth, "Your Highness, you are too conservative. It’s... at least eighty percent..."

Prince Kang was taken aback, almost fainting on the spot.

He was incredibly furious, roaring, "How is that possible? You people, what audacity, such audacity! Eighty percent, how is it even possible?"

"Your Highness, it’s a misunderstanding," Mr. Yude said bitterly, "Originally, we at Prince Kang’s Mansion reduced about fifty percent according to usual practice. But over the last century, as you’ve been striving for the Emperor’s Son position, internal funds have gradually become strained. Without increasing tax avoidance, many things might not have been operable."

Moreover, he dared not make such decisions on his own; he had always sought permission from His Highness before acting, though His Highness probably forgot he had agreed.

"Can’t we find a way to even out the accounts?" Prince Kang had a headache, rubbing his temples.

Mr. Yude almost choked, nearly blurting out. Come on, here’s the accounts, even them out and let’s see?

But if he dared say that, he’d likely get beaten to death.

Helpless, he could only say dryly, "Your Highness, financial accounts are interconnected, influencing one another completely. Despite our cautious efforts, once large-scale tax evasion is thoroughly and meticulously investigated, problems will surely surface."