C13 Embassy Area

Not only did Gao Shaoyi notice, but the surrounding ministers did as well. Given Gao Shaoyi's rank, he should have been called upon long ago. What was happening now?

The architect behind these arrangements was Prince Kang. Prince Kang had a longstanding grudge with Gao Shaoyi's father, a fact well-known throughout the court. Yet, the more perilous assignments had already been filled. Could it be that Prince Kang had a change of heart?

That seemed highly unlikely! Prince Kang was notorious for holding grudges and, as a prince of the empire, he was second only to the Emperor and his sons, disregarding the wishes of others. Now presented with a chance to exact revenge on his enemy's son, it was inconceivable that he would pass up the opportunity.

"Why is Gao Shaoyi's name missing from the list? Isn't he supposed to be undergoing training as well?"

When the final name was announced, everyone, including the Emperor, was left puzzled, casting questioning glances at Prince Kang, wondering what he was plotting.

"In response to His Majesty's query, among this group of young nobles, Gao Shaoyi is a standout. I boldly recommend a new position for Gao Shaoyi, one where he can fully utilize his abilities and not waste his considerable talents."

Prince Kang lavished praise on Gao Shaoyi, yet some in attendance wore no smiles, all too familiar with such tactics—this was clearly a setup.

"Enough with the empty words. Tell me, what useful position have you arranged for him?"

The Emperor cut Prince Kang off.

"The Embassy Area in the Eastern Suburbs is in need of an Imperial Censor..."

As Prince Kang finished his statement, the faces of those present turned ashen. Prince Kang had indeed followed through with his plan, and it seemed he was sending Gao Shaoyi to his doom.

The Emperor, among others, was now critical of Prince Kang.

Gao Shaoyi's father was a hero of the empire, and Gao Shaoyi was his only living heir. It was unthinkable to assign him to the Embassy Area.

The role of Imperial Censor in the Embassy Area, though a prestigious second-rank position commanding three inspection squads, was significant within the capital city.

In the heyday of the Qian Empire, such a post would have been highly coveted. However, with the empire's fortunes waning, the Embassy Area had become a treacherous assignment—both previous Imperial Censors had met their ends at the hands of foreigners.

How did the Imperial Court handle it? They simply provided the families with a bit of silver, encouraging them to keep the peace.

It was from that time that the position of Imperial Censor in the Embassy Area remained vacant for over a year. No one was willing to fill a role that was tantamount to a death sentence.

The foreigners had their reasons for such actions. According to the agreement, the Imperial Censor was in charge of all affairs within the Embassy Area. The foreigners couldn't arbitrarily replace the Censor, but they found another solution: assassinate the Censor.

One or two deaths might not raise concern, but if we kill too many, who would dare defy us? The Embassy Area has essentially become a state within a state.

"Prince Kang has gone too far. Don't worry, cousin, I'll present a memorial to the throne on your behalf and arrange for your return to our northeastern homeland," said the Third Prince, standing beside Gao Shaoyi, one of the few royal kin who still showed concern for him.

"Hold on, cousin. What's the composition of the three battalions under the Imperial Censor in the Embassy Area?"

Upon hearing Gao Shaoyi's question, the Third Prince was stunned. Others, upon learning of Prince Kang's memorial, would have hastened to address the issue. What was Gao Shaoyi thinking, inquiring about the composition of the battalions at a time like this?

"Have you lost your mind? Each of the three battalions is an infantry unit, totaling six thousand men. But do you truly believe those six thousand can protect you?" the Third Prince exclaimed in frustration.

Indeed, the Imperial Censor commanded six thousand soldiers, all stationed within the Embassy Area.

Many of the lower-ranking officers had been bought off by the foreigners, rendering the Imperial Court's commands ineffective.

Moreover, the deaths of the previous two Imperial Censors were linked to these very officers.

Gao Shaoyi pondered quietly.

What he currently lacked was military authority. If Prince Kang were to offer him this position, he could leverage it to make demands of the Imperial Court, avoiding the need to leave the capital.

When it came down to it, the opportunity seemed promising. And as for the threats from the foreigners, I've faced down the Envoy of East Di Country with just four of my men. Why would I take such empty threats to heart?

"I'm addressing you, Shaoyi..."

While Gao Shaoyi was deep in thought, the Third Prince nudged him, drawing his attention to the Emperor, who was seeking his counsel.

The Emperor had earlier considered Gao Shaoyi for the position, but Prince Kang had filibustered at length. Moreover, he had presented a joint memorial from over ten Ministry of War officials, all endorsing Gao Shaoyi for the appointment.

"I am prepared to serve as the Imperial Inspector Censor of the Embassy Area..."

Gao Shaoyi's response cut through the air, stirring a buzz of conversation throughout the hall.

The young man was fearless, seemingly undaunted by the prospect of facing foreigners who might well devour him.

A look of astonishment crossed Prince Kang's face. He had expected Gao Shaoyi to stubbornly resist the appointment in the hall, looking for ways to decline the role. Yet, here he was, accepting it outright.

"However, I have certain conditions..."

The Emperor was about to respond when Gao Shaoyi interjected with his stipulations.

"Go on, let's hear them."

The Emperor remained noncommittal, leaving it to Gao Shaoyi to elaborate on his thoughts.

"The Embassy Area is a critical hub within the capital. The current three regiments are insufficient for its protection. I propose the reestablishment of the King Protector Army."

The suggestion sent a ripple of astonishment through the assembly. Such a proposal might have been met with applause had it come from your esteemed father. But you, known for your frivolous pursuits of pet-walking and dog-fighting, now aspire to resurrect the King Protector Army?

"Your Majesty, the Young Marquis makes an excellent point. The King Protector Army has been the most formidable military force since the dawn of the Qian Empire, founded by the old marquis himself. Should the Young Marquis carry on this legacy, it would surely deter any malefactors."

At a glance from Prince Kang, several high-ranking Ministry of War officials stepped forward to support the motion.

Rebuilding the King Protector Army would undoubtedly require substantial funds, something the Emperor was likely weighing in his mind.

Since this young man is so eager to march to his doom, we must at least give him our support.

"You make a good point, but the treasury is depleted..."

The Emperor glanced at the Minister of Revenue beside him.

This official was a protégé of Prince Kang. Despite the empty coffers, he had caught Prince Kang's meaningful look and knew he had to find a way to come up with the funds.

Should he cause any delay in Prince Kang's plans, it wouldn't just be his position at risk, but potentially his very life. Everyone knows Prince Kang never lets a slight go unpunished!