Chapter 161 - 160 Yingzhou
Time is of the essence, so Tie Dan followed the Xiao Family’s attendant, riding a Dragon Horse through the skies, heading straight to Yingzhou. Located in the northwest of Zhen Country, Yingzhou is at the intersection of Zhen, Gen, and the Capital, making it not too much of a detour.
Moreover, the attendant was dressed in Yulin Golden Armor with the Zhen Country Qingluan King Flag on his back, posing as an Orderly, conveying that it was an urgent military matter concerning Jiangshan and Shiji. Naturally, there were no demons, heterodox paths, or other such disturbances to provoke such troubles along the way.
Thus, the journey was smooth.
While idly traveling, Tie Dan was intrigued by the response of the Purple-faced General in Lanling City toward Marquis Xichang. Even if it was to contest for Immortal Ganoderma, whether to give or not was a family matter. Stepping out to offend the Xiao Family seemed a bit too bold. Moreover, that Young Master unexpectedly confided the wrongs of his family to an outsider, which was quite rare, suggesting a possible scheme.
Thus, Tie Dan cautiously, through subtle inquiries, conversed a bit more with the attendant to clarify the underlying reasons.
It turned out that Marquis Xichang was the nephew of the Xiao Family Ancestor, the cousin of Young Master Xiao, and the father of Xiao Baoqin. Losing his father at a young age and being the second son of a concubine, he could not inherit the family estate, so he was raised by the Ancestor as his own.
Since he was not the legitimate Princely Heir of the clan, there was no title or fief for him to inherit. He could not idle away his days in Lanling leisurely, so being without a father’s upbringing or mother’s affection, he quickly developed a tenacious character, requesting early on to govern outside, representing the Xiao Family in managing affairs and forging his own path.
Of course, for such noble family descendants, as long as they are willing to work, they have the protection of the family. Promotions were merely formalities, and whether it was his real talent was hard to say. But at least compared to those playboys who spend their days in debauchery, idle but willing to work was considered commendable, naturally earning the Xiao Family’s endorsement and the support of a series of disciples and old officials.
Thus, Marquis Xichang, driven by fierce determination, rose from the grassroots level, serving successively as County Magistrate, Changshi, Capital Commandant, governor, Assistant, inspector, Chief of Staff, General... advancing through ranks without making significant errors, showcasing a versatile readiness wherever needed.
A family like the Xiao Family, producing a host of offspring, is essentially a draw of cards. Among a heap of failures and worthless spendthrifts, drawing one reliable SSR to handle affairs is a joy for the Ancestor, earning deep trust from the clan elders.