Chapter 233: An open stratagem
With manpower being mobilized on such a massive scale in the Jianghu, the Qing court could not possibly have been entirely unprepared.
After all, Great Qing had been founded by outsiders.
The Qing court's enemies included not only Ming, but also the Wulin factions founded by people of the Central Plains within Great Qing, and the rebel forces rising up throughout its territory.
Cao Shaoqin said, "The Great Qing Imperial Court has already deployed men throughout the Inner Pass to prevent these Jianghu figures from rioting. They've also sent people to infiltrate these Jianghu factions and keep them under close surveillance."
Hearing this, Yu Huatian nodded. "Then our people cannot move, at least not the Embroidered Uniform Guard or the West Depot. It isn't time for us to show ourselves yet."
Cao Shaoqin said gravely, "Director, I fear the Qing court has already discovered that Ye Gucheng is one of ours."
"No matter."
Yu Huatian waved a hand. "Their knowing is one thing. Our stepping forward is another."
"As long as our West Depot and Embroidered Uniform Guard don't act, Jianghu affairs must be settled within the Jianghu. Even if they're prepared, they won't dare interfere rashly in Jianghu affairs. Otherwise, the factions rebelling then won't be limited to the Beggar Gang, the Heaven and Earth Society, and the Red Flower Society."
Everyone nodded slightly.
Jianghu affairs were settled within the Jianghu.
The Imperial Court did not interfere in Jianghu affairs. That was the rule in every dynasty.
Of course, Ming at present was an exception.
But regardless, the Manchu Qing Imperial Court did not yet have the confidence to break that rule in Great Qing. Otherwise, it would be declaring war on every Jianghu faction.
So even if the Imperial Court knew full well