622 The Emperor of East Qingzhou
Li Zexiang’s complexion paled, listening to Qin Huai’s idealistic dreams.

There was a time when Li Zexiang held the same hopes for Lingjiang, wanting it to be a land of prosperity and peace. But his dreams were soon tainted by power and greed. The memory of receiving money from the Zhang family’s official for the first time, the weight of the coins in his hands, was a pivotal moment that changed everything.

“It’s all that Zhang guy’s fault, or else I wouldn’t have come to this point!” he cried out.

But before he could fully explain his past, Li Zexiang was enveloped in a blinding radiance and was reduced to dust by an overwhelming force. The remnants transformed into a small, dark sphere in Qin Huai’s hand.

The crowd watched in shock and disbelief. A mighty figure in the visceral prefecture realm had been obliterated in an instant.

Soon after, a voice broke the silence, “Greetings, Emperor!” and it triggered a chain reaction. Reverent bows and salutations resonated like waves, starting from the Seven Heroes Restaurant and echoing far beyond.

That day, Lingjiang City echoed with the praises of East Qingzhou’s emperor.

…

At the Nine Dragons Sect, Qin Huai relaxed on a plush purple recliner. The empress, with gentle precision, peeled oranges for him, discussing the growth and plans of the ten counties of East Qingzhou.

Li Zexiang’s faction faced swift consequences. Within days, under the empress’s direct orders and Qin Huai’s mandate, they were eradicated. Investigations revealed that while Li Zeshi and the others weren’t fully aware of Li Zexiang’s dealings, they still accepted responsibility, renouncing their posts and opting for a quieter life.

The empress elaborated on the state of the ten counties. “We’ve made remarkable progress,” she said. “Relay stations are in development, waterways are expanding, roads are under construction, and security has strengthened. Business is flourishing, and our nine-dragon coins have gained prominence, even surpassing the Great You coins.”

She demonstrated foresight and meticulous planning, thinking ahead for the prosperity of their realm. Qin Huai admired her vision and dedication.

The knowledge and experience Qin Huai carried were borrowed from the wisdom of his predecessors, and he was aware that it might not always fit the current times. While he provided a general developmental direction, he left the detailed execution to the experts, abiding by the principle that experts should handle their specialties.

He knew better than to micromanage. His primary aim wasn’t to transform the ten counties of East Qingzhou overnight, but to ensure steady growth. More importantly, Qin Huai recognized the need to safeguard these counties from external threats, given the unstable political landscape.

Despite past scandals like that of Li Zexiang, the counties were generally thriving, their flaws not diminishing their overall brilliance. The prosperity he observed was a stark contrast to the Lingjiang of his past memories.

“Husband, how long can you stay this time?” Li Shaoxiang whispered, nestling close to Qin Huai.

His response was laden with concern about the political upheavals outside Qingzhou. “It won’t be long. The entire Great You is a battleground now. And there’s a new secret realm in Pingwang…” His words trailed off as Li Shaoxiang’s actions made him lose his train of thought.

Seven days later, as Qin Huai stepped out, he looked tenderly at a flushed Li Shaoxiang lying on the bed.
“This is the life I desire,” he mused, gazing toward the direction of Pingwang county’s secret realm. To ensure such moments in the future, he knew he needed to venture there.

Deciding to revisit old memories, he toured the Nine Dragons Sect, assessing the proficiency of its disciples. The achievements were evident: inner disciples had reached the great blood refinement realm, core disciples touched the bone pattern realm, and the elite even surpassed that.

Their attire also caught his attention, especially the protective designs that seemed capable of shielding them in dangerous situations. Such luxuries were perhaps exclusive to the affluent Nine Dragons Sect.

As he strolled, Old Master Tong approached hurriedly, accompanied by his grandson bearing armor. “Emperor…”

Qin Huai interrupted, “Elder Tong, ‘Emperor’ is too grand. Call me ‘sect master’ if you prefer. Your efforts over the years have been invaluable.”

Flustered, Old Master Tong responded, “Your kindness extended my life and raised my status. I’m forever grateful.”

Curious, Qin Huai gestured to the item in Old Master Tong’s hand. “What’s that you have there, Elder Tong?”