The next morning.
Li Changfeng led a finance minister to an open area within the imperial city, where members of the three great families had long been waiting.
Beside them sat chest after chest of silver, each guarded by a frail old man on his last legs. When they saw Li Changfeng arrive, their wrinkled eyelids twitched slightly.
"Deputy Commander, you have arrived! These are our real account books, along with the fines for privately withholding taxes. Please inspect them!"
Li Changfeng frowned at the sight. He had not expected the three great families to hand over the fines so readily, and suspicion immediately arose in his heart. They actually paid the fines so obediently? There must be something wrong here!
Li Changfeng signaled to the finance minister, telling him to inspect the silver and account books for any issues.
The finance minister immediately understood and went over to examine them. After a quarter of an hour, he nodded to Li Changfeng. "Commander, the amounts are correct. The fines are correct as well!"
Li Changfeng narrowed his eyes slightly. "Men! Carry this silver away!"
"Yes, sir!"
With that, the men slowly carried away the silver, while Li Changfeng stared fixedly at the three elders, watching for any reaction.
Even after all the silver had been removed, their expressions did not change in the slightest.
Li Changfeng gave them a deep look and waved his arm. "Return!"
Just then, the three elders spoke. "Deputy Commander! Since this matter has been settled, it is time to settle our grudge!"
Li Changfeng paused, then slowly turned around with a smile. "Oh? So you have finally shown your true colors. I was wondering why you handed over the silver so obediently. It turns out your target was me!"
A chill appeared in the three