Do not judge Liang Shicheng by his current bestowed Jinshi title by the emperor; he himself knew that while this title might serve as a mere pretense in times of peace, it was practically useless when real issues arose, unlike the qualifications of civil officials.
The state's preferential treatment of scholars and officials was no mere empty talk. Even Cai Jing, who once wielded absolute power and harbored deep hatred for the core members of the old factions, resorting to extreme measures like the Party Members Tablet, could only ultimately strip those individuals of their positions.
However, those who were granted the Jinshi title by imperial favor were a different matter entirely! What was bestowed could also be rescinded with a single word!
"Master, Grand Commandant Liang is here to see you!"
Under Zhang Ruhui's guidance, Liang Shicheng arrived at Lin Ling'su's chambers in less than the time it takes for an incense stick to burn.
"Thank you for your trouble, Grand Commandant Liang. This humble Daoist is deeply grateful..."
Upon seeing Liang Shicheng re-enter, Lin Ling'su struggled to sit up.
"Sir, you are unwell, please remain lying down. I merely came to visit, there's no need for such formality between us!"
Seeing him attempt to rise, Liang Shicheng quickly stepped forward and pressed him down.
"Ruhui, you may leave for now. I have a few words to speak with Grand Commandant Liang!"
After coughing a couple of times, Lin Ling'su waved his hand, signaling Zhang Ruhui to guard the door outside.
"As you command!"
Zhang Ruhui responded, and then, leading the few young Daoist boys serving nearby, turned and left.
"You all may withdraw now, your services are no longer required here!"
No sooner had the door closed than Zhang Ruhui ushered out all the servants and young Daoists attending to the courtyard.
"Sir, why did you go to such lengths this time?"
Only after the sound of their footsteps faded did Liang Shicheng speak again.
Hearing his words, Lin Ling'su let out a wry smile.
"As expected, nothing can be hidden from Grand Commandant Liang..."
Having served by Zhao Ji's side for so many years, Lin Ling'su naturally understood that many things could not be concealed from Liang Shicheng's discerning eyes. However, his relationship with Liang Shicheng was far more harmonious than his relationship with Wang Fu. Furthermore, the two of them had collaborated on several matters in the past. If truth be told, neither of them had clean hands, and a complete breakdown in their relationship would benefit neither. Therefore, upon hearing Liang Shicheng's words, Lin Ling'su saw no point in maintaining any pretense.
"Between us, there's no need for such superficialities. This matter, sir, is because of..."
As Liang Shicheng spoke, he pointed directly towards the southeast.
"Yes and no..."
Letting out another wry smile, Lin Ling'su finally spoke.
"Sir, you have truly spared no expense this time. I wonder if this humble one can assist you in your endeavors?"
After gazing deeply at Lin Ling'su, Liang Shicheng continued.
"If Grand Commandant is willing to help, that would indeed be most fortuitous!"
Hearing this, a smile immediately appeared on Lin Ling'su's face. The play must be performed in its entirety; given his current physical condition, executing the plan flawlessly was proving somewhat challenging. However, with Liang Shicheng's assistance, the matter would become much easier. Although the Imperial City Department was currently under Zhao Kai's control, when it came to managing those below, Zhao Kai might not necessarily surpass Liang Shicheng. If Liang Shicheng were to intervene, even if certain aspects of the plan were not perfectly executed, someone would surely help cover them up.
"Then, may I ask, sir, what is your next move?"
Seeing Lin Ling'su agree, Liang Shicheng asked with a smile.
"Please lean closer, Grand Commandant!"
Lin Ling'su coughed a few times and said weakly. Liang Shicheng did not stand on ceremony and leaned his ear closer.
After the two spoke in hushed tones for a few more moments, Liang Shicheng realized that this fellow Han Mo had, without anyone noticing, laid such a grand trap. If it weren't for his relatively amicable relationship with Han Mo, he would have been tempted to eliminate this person at this very moment.
"Please do not mock me, Grand Commandant. I am forced into this position, unable to retreat with so many disciples relying on me!"
Lin Ling'su's expression turned somber as he spoke his last words. When Han Mo first advised him, he was still filled with pride and unwilling to back down. However, by the time Han Mo advised him for the second time, he had already begun to entertain the thought of retreat. But matters had progressed to this point, and he found himself in a position where he could no longer easily withdraw.
Those monks, outwardly appearing upright and serene, speaking of karmic retribution and benevolence, yet their actions betrayed any hint of wishing well for others. The struggle between the Taoist traditions was inherently a life-or-death matter, with no possibility of compromise. If he dared to retreat, those monks would immediately attack. Judging others by his own standards, given the deeds they had committed over the years, Lin Ling'su would not believe it if those monks did not dig up the graves of his ancestors for eighteen generations.
"These monks have indeed gone too far. Please rest assured, sir, I will not stand idly by in this matter!"
"Thank you, Grand Commandant Liang, for your righteous assistance. This debt of gratitude I shall remember!"
"Since sir has not fully recovered, perhaps you should focus on recuperating!"
"Please do not think less of me, Grand Commandant. If you have any instructions, you may directly send word to my disciple!"
"Then, I shall not stand on ceremony!"
Liang Shicheng smiled and cupped his hands towards Lin Ling'su once more.
"It is this old Daoist's honor to be of service to Grand Commandant!"
"Sir, please recuperate. I shall take my leave now!"
"Farewell, Grand Commandant!"
Only after Liang Shicheng had departed did Lin Ling'su let out a long sigh of relief.
"Master! Is your body alright?"
After seeing Liang Shicheng out of the Shenxiao Palace and watching him board his carriage, Zhang Ruhui returned to Lin Ling'su's chambers.
"I won't die just yet. Has that old fellow left?"
Lin Ling'su spoke while sitting up. Although his complexion was still pale, there was a noticeable increase in his strength when he spoke.
"I saw him board the carriage with my own eyes before returning to report!"
"That old fellow has seen through our charade, but thankfully, he has no ill intentions. He merely wishes to use our hands to teach those baldasses a lesson!"
Rubbing his chest, Lin Ling'su spoke slowly.
"Then, what shall we..."