Chapter 101: Imperial Edicts of the Sacred Kingdom, Ruling the Eastern Wilderness, the Ever‑Prosperous Emperor Can No Longer Sit Stil

Da Xia Imperial Palace.

Prince Jingjing knelt quietly in the Yang Xin Hall.

His expression was slightly heavy.

What happened yesterday was entirely an unprovoked disaster.

The officials began to clash with the Emperor.

On one side was the Da Xia Emperor, on the other the civil‑military officials, both sides being extremely stubborn.

But from his perspective, he could not in any case allow his own father, the Emperor, to dismiss the officials; it was not because those ministers had many allies, but because national stability took precedence.

Removing the officials would invite a catastrophe of monumental scale.

The Da Xia Dynasty now enjoys flourishing fortunes, so there is no need to create trouble for oneself, especially over matters like this.

A clash of pride holds little significance.

"Eldest brother, you say Grandfather Gu has left, does it serve any purpose for us to keep kneeling here?"

"If you ask me, we should summon Lord Zhen Guo Gong and give the officials a good beating; that would basically settle the matter."

"Grandfather Gu is setting up the Eastern Depot merely to tighten official supervision. These officials are all guilty of petty crimes. How about this: you act as a lobbyist to persuade the officials, I'll go fetch Lord Zhen Guo Gong, and the two of us will resolve this."

"If the officials step back, and then Grandfather Gu steps back, isn't that just perfect?"

Li Sui, standing beside him, spoke up; his knees were sore from kneeling, so he sat down, looking rather helpless.

"I think this method isn't bad."

"Eldest brother, second brother, you two go. I'll stay here to plead; when Grandfather Gu returns, I'll say some good words. What do you think?"

"Honestly, establishing the Eastern Depot is hardest on the Xuan Deng Department and the Zhen Fu Department; what are these civil officials afraid of?"

Prince Wei also spoke; he is the commander of the Zhen Fu Department, possessing supervisory and apprehension authority, though he cannot act against the court officials, dealing mainly with domestic intelligence matters.

The Xuan Deng Department mainly handles matters involving demons and monsters, or investigations ordered specifically by the Emperor; only then can the Xuan Deng Department act.

The Eastern Depot is essentially a merger of the Xuan Deng Department and the Zhen Fu Department, plus it has taken over parts of the Ministry of Justice's authority and the Censorate's authority.

Review, apprehension, and adjudication form a single entity; the power is boundless, strengthening imperial authority, which isn't a bad thing for the princes.

After all, it's a matter of one's own family, so deep down they support it.

"Stop messing around."

"You even want to drag Lord Zhen Guo Gong in?"

"These officials each claim lofty integrity; supervision isn't the issue. The point is Grandfather Gu wants to concentrate power in his own hands, and for them the biggest problem is the potential for injustice."

"Moreover, the establishment of the Eastern Depot isn't necessarily a good thing; too much power in the hands of eunuchs could spell disaster if Da Xia later produces a foolish ruler."

The Crown Prince spoke, unsure whether his two younger brothers were feigning ignorance or truly didn't understand.

The creation of the Eastern Depot is certainly not a good thing.

"Eldest brother, you've been deceived by these scholars since childhood; there are few good ones among them, except for my brother Gu Jin Nian."

Prince Qin Li Sui spoke, looking down on those scholars, except for Gu Jin Nian.

"I don't care about the process; right now we just need to calm Grandfather Gu. The Zhen Fu Department still has many matters, the Xuan Deng Department has already detained people who are under interrogation. If I weren't here, who knows what would happen."

"If you two brothers discuss this and can soothe Grandfather Gu, everything will be fine."

Prince Wei, being the typical doer, has no thoughts on the struggle for imperial power.

As for the other princes, they said little, but their thoughts were similar to Prince Wei's.

"Fine, I'll go to the Wen Xin Hall, but second brother, you must never go ask Lord Zhen Guo Gong, or you'll just add fuel to the fire."

"Also, if the matter is resolved, third brother, when you host the subordinates, do not use any extreme measures against Li Shan; treat him well."

"The other brothers are all waiting here, understand?"

At the critical moment, the Crown Prince asserted his authority; upon hearing it, everyone complied, nodding in agreement.

After the Crown Prince left.

Prince Qin looked left and right, then stood up and said to Prince Wei.

"I'll step out for a moment; third brother, you stay kneeling here. If Grandfather Gu arrives, tell him I have an upset stomach."

Prince Qin also sneaked away.

He ignored the Crown Prince's words, got up immediately, and left to find Grandfather Gu.

Watching the Crown Prince and Prince Qin depart, Prince Wei remained calm, staying kneeling there and counting the hours.

All the princes did the same.

But only one prince remained exceptionally serene.

It was Prince Jin.

Wen Xin Hall.

At this moment, the officials gathered inside the hall, each looking strange, but the most troubled was Minister of Personnel Hu Yong.

There was no way; with the Chancellor absent, he was essentially the head of the officials, and everyone kept asking him how to resolve it, which made Hu Yong inevitably troubled.

"Minister Hu, you say this matter has reached this point—what should we do?"

"Right, it was fine until someone insisted on forcing a resignation, truly pressuring the Emperor; no one can reap any good results."

"The establishment of the Eastern Depot does have its drawbacks, but it shouldn't be this extreme, should it? Shouldn't everything proceed gradually?"

The officials spoke, especially the generals; they didn't feel anything, only that everyone's commotion was too fierce and completely unnecessary.

Listening to these remarks.

Hu Yong couldn't help but sigh.

"Gentlemen, don't you understand?"

"If the Eastern Depot is established, will we ever have good days again?"

"We have a clear conscience and truly do not fear oversight, but the problem is, who can stand when someone picks at us?"

"To put it mildly, official duties are busy; we, who are diligent, find it hard to oversee others. If a household servant commits some misdeed and is caught as a pretext against you, how would you explain it?"

Hu Yong spoke, laying out the threat of the Eastern Depot.

For a moment, everyone fell silent.

In reality, could the high officials not know that the Eastern Depot is an agency targeting them? Yet the problem is, being dismissed over such matters would be a loss outweighing any gain.

We've struggled to reach this position; now, being implicated and dismissed over such a thing—honestly, can anyone not feel distressed?

And given the current situation, if it truly erupts, we might not even live to see it.

"Continuing like this, when will it end? Regardless of who wins or loses, the common people end up suffering."

"Indeed, no matter what, the people bear the hardship."

The officials understand, and even more so know that if this continues, no one gains any benefit.

"Sir Yang, what is your view on this matter?"

Someone else spoke, asking Yang Kai.

Hearing this, the previously silent Yang Kai merely shook his head.

"The Eastern Depot will inevitably be established."

"Regardless, it must be stopped."

Yang Kai sighed; this was his thought.

He had already figured out the purpose of the Eastern Depot: supervising officials? Unnecessary. Though the Zhenfu Office and Xuandeng Office involve various forces, they still serve a function.

The real core lies in intelligence.

The His Majesty wishes to create a wholly personal intelligence agency, to grasp all affairs of Da Xia.

Officials are merely a part; moreover, as long as no fundamental blunder is made, the emperor will turn a blind eye to some matters—after all, who among mortals is without fault? Intelligence is the primary concern.

He realized this, so Yang Kai understood that the Eastern Depot's establishment was inevitable, differing only in method or cost.

But at that moment, Yang Kai's thoughts multiplied.

In fact, while the Eastern Depot appears to supervise officials and be detrimental to them, those who see through it naturally comprehend its true purpose.

If I can think of it, Li Shan should be able to as well, right? Since Li Shan can think of it, why would he refuse? Moreover, why such rigidity? Leading the resignation, forcing everyone to quit? There's deeper strategy here.

Yang Kai continued pondering the issue, generating thoughts he perhaps shouldn't have.

At the critical moment, he dared not delve further.

Without evidence or omen, further contemplation would only invite trouble.

At that instant, the gate of Wenxin Hall opened.

It was the Crown Prince's figure.

The Crown Prince's arrival instantly revived the officials; each stepped forward to ask the emperor whether there was a new decree.

Learning that the Crown Prince had come as a spokesperson, the crowd felt helpless; then a dialogue began, and the Crown Prince earnestly…

…hoped the officials would concede a little.

However, this matter was led by Li Shan; now that Li Shan is absent, the officials, even if inclined to soften, dare not.

One is imperial authority, the other is ministerial authority.

They wish not to offend either; moreover, Li Shan still speaks for them—if they withdraw now, they may be isolated in the future.

Thus, this becomes a deadlock.

At the same moment.

Inside the palace.

Emperor Yongsheng had returned to the palace, but instead of going to the Wenxin Hall, he went to Wanxiang Garden.

"Wei Xian, go summon the Crown Prince for me."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, gazing at the pond, his thoughts inscrutable.

Regarding today's matters.

Gu Jin Nian offered a perfect solution, which is a good thing.

However, this does not mean that he can accept or understand the officials' actions today.

To put it bluntly,

Even if he himself erred, or acted harshly, the officials should not display such behavior.

Threatening him with resignation?

This is a tremendous insult and a massive provocation.

He is the emperor, the ruler of Da Xia; matters can be discussed with him, but ultimately the right to interpret lies with him.

When the emperor reasons with you, that is the greatest honor of being his subject.

Playing this trick, huh? Emperor Yongsheng does not intend to let it pass; he must severely punish a group of people.

Yet these are not the main issue.

The biggest problem is—

Ministerial authority.

The events of today sparked such a huge conflict precisely because of ministerial authority.

With Li Shan at the forefront, causing the officials to follow; of course, the officials' stance is entirely because Li Shan supports them.

In the eyes of ordinary people, it is understandable.

But in his eyes, there is no justification at all.

In an instant, a thought flashed through his mind.

One thought sufficient to overturn the Da Xia court.

About two quarters of an hour later.

The crown prince ran over, his head beaded with sweat; his body was extremely weak, having suffered a fetal movement during gestation that almost prevented his birth. Fortunately, the palace's imperial physician was highly skilled and managed to save the crown prince.

But ever since childhood he was frail and sickly, and no matter what methods were used the congenital injury could not be healed. Precisely because of this, Emperor Yong Sheng was relatively merciful toward the crown prince, forbidding him from practicing martial arts and instead allowing him to study peacefully.

Watching Li Gao approach, Emperor Yong Sheng felt a stir in his heart.

He knew that his son was very clever, beloved by the officials, truly a benevolent ruler, far better in temperament than himself.

"Your Son bows to Father Emperor."

Li Gao came forward and, upon seeing Emperor Yong Sheng, gave a deep bow.

"You have gone to the Hall of Inquiry."

Emperor Yong Sheng was straightforward, asking thus.

"Returning, Father Emperor, Your Son has gone."

Li Gao did not lie and admitted it outright.

"What did they say?"

Emperor Yong Sheng looked at the other party and asked.

"The officials have already been softened, but the matter of establishing the Eastern Depot is like a sword hanging over the throne. Your Son believes the Eastern Depot can be postponed; now the Da Xia Dynasty enjoys prosperous national fortunes, and the Da Xia envoy to the Xiongnu has been traveling through the night, so barring any mishap he should arrive at the Xiongnu royal court today."

"Our court should concentrate all forces on the border war; to let such trivial matters delay the campaign would be a regrettable loss of the greater opportunity."

"Please, Father Emperor, extend your generous mercy, pardon the officials' faults, and prioritize the state's major affairs first."

Li Gao spoke.

He both declined on behalf of the officials and did not contradict Emperor Yong Sheng, positioning himself in the middle, using the border war to handle the matter.

However, Emperor Yong Sheng showed no joy, and spoke slowly.

"No wonder the entire court of civil and military officials says I have a good crown prince."

"Being loved by the officials, you truly have talent."

"Years ago I appointed you as regent and asked whether to go to war; you always refused me. Today, to protect the officials, you are willing to agree to my declaration of war."

"Heh."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke lightly, and the eunuch Liu Yan beside him was startled to the bone.

"Father Emperor."

"The declaration of war is not because of the officials; Da Xia's national fortunes have risen, morale is high, and moreover Gu Jin Nian has twice weakened the enemy's fortunes, so the Xiongnu are bound to consider raising troops. Had these not occurred, Your Son would not have agreed to war."

"Please, Father Emperor, see clearly."

Li Gao spoke, his eyes showing no hint of change, appearing especially resolute.

"The matter of yesterday, I have also come to understand."

Emperor Yong Sheng did not continue to press his own son, but returned the discussion to the Eastern Depot matter.

"Establish the Eastern Depot as before, but its powers—drafting, supervision, interrogation, dispatch, arrest, and adjudication—will be re‑divided by me."

"Create the Eastern Depot and also the Inspectorate; the Eastern Depot will hold the three powers of drafting, supervision, and interrogation. The drafting right will be selected by you, and the chosen individuals must be from humble families and have passed the imperial examinations."

"The supervision and interrogation powers will be handled by the Eastern Depot eunuchs."

"As for dispatch, arrest, and adjudication, those will be the Inspectorate's responsibility; within the Inspectorate, the Great Scholar will be in charge, and if necessary, an Imperial Censor may be appointed concurrently."

"If that still does not work, let them retire to the countryside."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, presenting Gu Jin Nian's proposal.

Upon hearing this, Li Gao fell silent, pondered for a moment, and then was overjoyed.

"Father Emperor, you are wise."

Li Gao's heart was delighted; the officials resisted the Eastern Depot precisely because its power was too great and was run entirely by eunuchs, wasn't it? Now the power is fragmented and divided, the arduous tasks fall to the eunuchs, and the drafting right is given to a selection of humble scholars; thus the eunuchs' authority is reduced to supervision and interrogation.

To put it bluntly, the Hanging Lantern Office and the Town Government Office also have supervisory authority; having a group of eunuchs supervise is no problem if you have done nothing wrong, so how could those eunuchs trouble you? As for interrogation, the Hanging Lantern Office and the Town Government Office's interrogations are even more terrifying, aren't they?

"Equally terrifying."

In Li Gao's view, the sovereign has taken a step back, and a big one at that.

The real great authority still lies with these civil officials, so naturally there is nothing left to dispute.

"However."

"The incident of yesterday is unprecedented; all participants shall have their salaries halved for six months to reflect, otherwise once the border affairs are settled, I will certainly settle accounts in the autumn."

Emperor Yong Sheng continued speaking.

The punishments that should be given must still be given.

Li Gao was correct; the border issue is paramount and must not be acted upon rashly, and the interior of Da Xia must remain calm.

But after the border turmoil is pacified, the reckoning can proceed slowly; he already intends to replace personnel, at least more than half of the officials in the court.

"Father Emperor, your words are absolutely correct."

"Then shall Li Shan also be released?"

Li Gao also agreed with Emperor Yong Sheng's words; indeed a lesson must be given, otherwise they would return next time.

"Do not release."

"Let him stay in prison for a while."

"Furthermore, whatever treatment other prisoners receive, he shall receive the same; anyone who dares to give him extra care, I will not be lenient, whoever it is, understand?"

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

The officials can be temporarily spared, but Li Shan cannot.

He must make an example, killing a chicken to warn the monkey.

Detain him for a while to make him reflect; if he does not submit, simply replace him with a prime minister—what difference does that make?

"Yes."

Hearing this, Li Gao did not continue to plead for Li Shan; after such a serious incident, the emperor's voluntary concession was already a great mercy, so there was no need to keep pleading.

At that moment, Li Gao left and headed toward the Wenxin Hall.

He wanted to tell the hundred officials this good news as soon as possible.

At that time, Wei Xian's voice sounded.

"Your Majesty, the Duke Zhen Guo requests an audience outside the palace."

The voice sounded again.

Emperor Yongsheng showed no surprise, merely nodding and saying,

"Invite the Duke Guo to come; I indeed have business for him."

The matters within the court have been settled, and now we truly must address the border affairs.

A quarter hour later.

The figure of the Duke Zhen Guo appeared.

"I, Gu Yuan, salute Your Majesty."

The Duke Zhen Guo walked forward, with a dragon‑like stride and tiger‑like steps, his spirit full of vigor.

"Hahaha, what business has summoned the Duke Guo?"

Emperor Yongsheng smiled; in terms of seniority, he is a generation below the Duke Zhen Guo, and back when he was not yet emperor, he also studied some military tactics under the Duke Zhen Guo.

Now, with Gu Jin Nian added to the equation, the ties are even closer.

"Your Majesty, I have heard that the hundred officials have tendered their resignations—this is unprecedented. The officials, relying on favor, have become arrogant and dared such treasonous acts. I am deeply angry; I have come today to vent my fury for Your Majesty."

The Duke Zhen Guo opened his mouth.

His words were true; he had known about the officials' resignations since yesterday.

Very infuriating.

Extremely infuriating.

Each one is a cunning person, daring to act like this at such a critical moment?

War is imminent; internal matters—frankly speaking—can wait until after the war, cannot cause a ruckus now?

They must show the emperor a sour face? How tiresome! "The Duke Zhen Guo is being petty."

Hearing the Duke Zhen Guo's words, Emperor Yongsheng felt much more at ease.

"I have already dealt with this matter properly."

"Duke Guo, do not hold a grudge."

"Duke Guo, I have other business for you, and it happens that you have come as well."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, arousing a slight curiosity in the Duke Zhen Guo.

Already dealt with? He was curious but did not ask further.

"Your Majesty, speak plainly."

The Duke Zhen Guo inquired.

"Now, the Xiongnu Nation has lost two strands of its national fortune, while the Da Xia Dynasty has strengthened its national fortune. I believe the time is ripe to seize the twelve border cities."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, and with a single sentence the Duke Zhen Guo's expression changed.

"Your Majesty wishes to take the cities outright?"

It was hard not to change his expression. If the plan were merely to fight the Xiongnu Nation, that would be simple: he could lead troops to battle, resolve it within a year, then make the Xiongnu Nation pay silver as compensation, and the matter would essentially be settled.

But if it is a war to seize the cities, that is no small matter.

The Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty would inevitably intervene, and that would require a prolonged period; the Da Xia Dynasty fears it cannot sustain the torrent‑like military expenses.

"Hmm."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke lightly, his gaze resolute.

"This is a once‑in‑a‑millennium opportunity."

"Da Xia's national fortune is rising, while the Xiongnu Nation's is declining."

"This war will inevitably bring many unforeseeable events."

"But with the national fortune in my hands, the outcome will surely be favorable."

"Even if the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty wish to intervene, before the will of Heaven they will be powerless to change fate."

"Of course, everything still depends on the concrete circumstances."

"I intend to dispatch five hundred thousand troops, have the Duke Guo lead the army into battle, focusing on engagement, with the Ministry of War coordinating, to devise a city‑seizing campaign. If within a year a tremendous turning point truly occurs, we will go all out."

"If no turning point arises, we will stop at a point, have the Duke Guo return his troops to the court, which will also boost Da Xia's national fortune."

"Duke Guo, what is your opinion?"

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, presenting his thoughts.

Under normal circumstances, Da Xia's attempt to retake the twelve border cities is almost impossible.

It is not that they cannot win.

Rather, many forces would become involved.

The core of warfare is logistics; in a frontal clash, a decisive victory is rare, and both sides merely wear each other down—whoever exhausts their resources first meets misfortune.

Especially in sieges, the required time is even greater.

But Emperor Yongsheng's idea is simple.

Bet the national fortune: Da Xia's national fortune would soar, while the Xiongnu Nation's would plummet.

A conventional war truly cannot recapture the twelve cities; it's like back then, if not for Da Xia's internal turmoil, the Xiongnu Nation would never have thought of occupying the twelve cities.

Now, through conventional war we seek a breakthrough, and that breakthrough comes from the national fortune.

It's like when two armies of tens of thousands are about to clash, and suddenly the opposing strategist dies, or a messenger miscommunicates.

When such a low‑probability event occurs, that is the breakthrough.

Emperor Yong Sheng is betting on this.

The bet is right.

Recapturing the twelve border cities, the Da Xia Dynasty will truly enter its golden age.

If the bet is lost.

It is a war meant only to be a limited strike; after a couple of clashes it will be about even, and with such terrifying national fortune on our side, we won't lose much.

Duke Zhen Guo appeared slightly silent.

He was deep in thought.

After about the length of an incense stick, Duke Zhen Guo slowly spoke.

"The senior minister believes it is still somewhat risky, but it can be tried."

"If we hold back for the first half‑year and conduct conventional operations, with the senior minister present the border will not fall into chaos."

"Should a heavenly opportunity arise within this half‑year, we could launch a full‑scale attack, declare war outright, and catch them off guard."

Duke Zhen Guo was also quite tempted; although risky, war is inherently extremely dangerous.

"Very well."

"Since the Duke is willing, I am at ease as well."

"Earlier, I already ordered the Ministry of Revenue to transport grain to the border; the supply issue is not serious. After a while, I will have the Ministry of War attend to border matters."

"During this period, the Duke should conserve his strength, then reorganize the camps; once everything is ready, I will see the Duke off."

He said.

War cannot be rushed; the state's machinery needs time, and even if the Xiongnu state wishes to declare war on Da Xia, the two nations must exchange official documents.

The Xiongnu would never dare a surprise attack; should they do so, the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty would have no chance.

Thus there is still a reasonable amount of time.

Moreover, drafting a battle plan—including troop movements, logistical support, and costs—requires time to work out.

It is not enough simply to send troops out.

Once war begins, each region must adjust taxes; this is inevitable, regardless of how much silver the treasury holds.

As soon as war starts,

every region must levy a war tax.

At that time we will also need to quell the people's grievances; in short, a great many matters must be handled.

"All decisions rest with Your Majesty."

"However, this expedition could be as short as one to two years, or as long as four to five years."

"The senior minister has three requests, hoping Your Majesty will agree."

Duke Zhen Guo opened his mouth, saying there is no problem at all with marching to war; serving the nation, avenging former brothers—whatever the reason—he will go to the border first.

But he still has three matters to attend to.

"The Duke speaks frankly."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

"First, the drowning incident of Gu Jin Nian; the senior minister has nearly uncovered the truth. Should we go to war now, I will resolve the matter, and some people must pay with their lives. I hope Your Majesty will understand."

Duke Zhen Guo said calmly, stating the first matter.

"Approved."

Emperor Yong Sheng hesitated not at all; he also knows about Gu Jin Nian's drowning, but he does not know who was behind it. Now that Duke Zhen Guo knows, he gives him full authority.

Even if the people involved are powerful, what of it? On a smaller scale, someone caused Gu Jin Nian's death, forcing a split with the Gu Family; that person harbors ill intent and must be executed.

On a larger scale, Gu Jin Nian's talent is such that, had he truly died then, the loss to the Da Xia Dynasty would have been incomparable.

Therefore he offers unconditional support; exterminating the Nine Clans is acceptable, provided none of the Nine Clans are his own.

"Second, the senior minister fears that petty troublemakers on the border may provoke Jin Nian. This child often acts on impulse; I hope Your Majesty, considering the hardships I endure abroad, will give Jin Nian more guidance."

This is the second matter.

"The Duke speaks seriously; I also dote on Jin Nian. If he truly errs, I will not hold it against him."

Emperor Yong Sheng nodded; even if Duke Zhen Guo had not mentioned it, he would still do so.

"No."

"Your Majesty, as long as it does not involve Gu Jin Nian's life or safety, the other matters you may simply observe."

"Jin Nian is overly rigid; he must be tempered a bit, relying on the senior minister and Your Majesty's favor, he acts recklessly. This is not a good thing; the senior minister hopes Jin Nian will suffer some setbacks, and with Your Majesty and the senior minister present, he can be fully protected."

"But one day, Jin Nian will have to face everything alone. With this temperament, he may be too rigid and break easily. Please, Your Majesty, do not dote on Jin Nian; without some hardships, he cannot grow."

Duke Zhen Guo opened his mouth again.

He, on the contrary, does not wish Emperor Yong Sheng to dote on Gu Jin Nian.

He once dote on Gu Jin Nian because Gu Jin Nian had no real ability; he would become a crown prince, living a life of fine food, drink, and wealth, which seemed fine.

But now that Gu Jin Nian possesses tremendous talent, he regrets having dote on him before.

Without experiencing a storm, how can one grow strong?

"I understand."

"Duke, rest assured."

Emperor Yong Sheng nodded; he also understood this, so he agreed outright.

"Third."

"For this expedition, life and death are uncertain. If the senior minister truly meets misfortune, I hope Your Majesty will remember my lifelong loyalty to Da Xia."

"Please, Your Majesty, do not heed slander; throughout my life I have acted with integrity. Though my sons have achieved little, they understand loyalty to the sovereign and the nation, and harbor no rebellious intent."

"Please, Your Majesty, see clearly."

The Marquis of the State, upon saying this, knelt down directly and bowed deeply before Emperor Yongsheng.

This is the final matter, and also the one he worries about most.

If this expedition is merely a brief visit, he might return in a year or two, everything would be easy, and no major incident would occur.

But if it truly involves fighting for the Twelve Cities, then it is genuine slaughter, and he cannot guarantee that he will return alive.

On the battlefield, tens of thousands of troops are beyond the sway of any individual's strength.

Life and death are uncertain; everything remains an unknown.

No one dares claim they can certainly survive the battlefield, especially when it comes to the final clash of a million troops, a living hell where corpses pile like mountains; even the Marquis of the State cannot assure his own survival.

Therefore, he has prepared himself for death.

To die for the nation.

He has no regrets.

And he fears nothing.

But the only thing he worries about is the Gu Family—his several sons, and Gu Jin Nian.

The biggest rumor in the Da Xia Dynasty is that the Gu Family will rebel.

Indeed.

Consider a military aristocratic family: the patriarch is the Marquis of the State, the foremost of the dukes and generals; his six sons each hold lofty positions, all high‑ranking officials.

Now they have also produced an extraordinary grandson, adept in both literature and martial arts.

Such a lineage inevitably commands awe; how could it not also arouse suspicion?

Why did the Marquis of the State withdraw from court early? He hoped to step aside at a critical moment, letting the younger generation take the reins, fearing that his achievements would threaten the sovereign.

Which would invite a death‑bringing disaster.

A whole‑family extermination.

Throughout history, such incidents are not common, yet they are certainly not rare.

This expedition,

With no one in the capital, many matters are beyond one's control; while campaigning abroad, even if one hears unfavorable news, one must not act rashly.

Unless the emperor orders a family's eradication, the only task out there is to win battles.

All other concerns are not for one to consider.

Within the Wanxiang Garden.

He gazed at the Marquis of the State kneeling on the ground.

Emperor Yongsheng's expression was very calm.

For a long while.

Emperor Yongsheng let out a long sigh.

He looked at the Marquis of the State and spoke slowly.

"All under heaven think the Gu Family's achievements threaten the sovereign."

"But I have never wronged the Gu Family."

"Marquis, ten years ago you withdrew from court; I understood your intention and your heart."

"But do you think I was truly pleased?"

"No!"

"I felt not a hint of joy, but anger."

"Duke, you have misread me; you think I am too weak."

"More than twenty years ago, Jian De imprisoned me, and I felt no fear at all."

"Fifteen years ago, I was caught in an enemy ambush, yet I felt no fear."

"All under heaven say I cannot win this war, but I have won it."

"The Duke bears seventy‑nine knife scars; I have seventy on my body."

"I have never feared your Gu Family."

"I have never feared any clan."

"Achievements that threaten the sovereign?"

"An emperor who can be shaken by his subjects is a weak and useless emperor."

"Do you understand?"

Emperor Yongsheng also voiced his thoughts.

From beginning to end, he has never feared the Gu Family, nor ever worried that they would rebel.

Because if the Gu Family were to rebel, he is absolutely confident he could crush them.

That is what is meant by "achievements that threaten the sovereign."

Emperor Yongsheng further dismisses it, saying the only ones shaken are some weak and useless ones.

"A emperor who fears his ministers is still called an emperor? Indeed."

Upon hearing this, the Marquis of the State fell silent.

After a quarter of an hour.

The Marquis of the State rose and paid his respects.

"Your Majesty is mighty."

"Your old servant acknowledges his mistake."

The Marquis of the State spoke; over these years he has never misread a person, but since Emperor Yongsheng ascended the throne, he simply cannot see through him.

But what he knows is that Emperor Yongsheng is proud.

He has a pride that ordinary people lack.

Without this pride, he could not have succeeded in usurping the throne.

Without this pride, over these twelve years he would not have been so diligent in governing.

Therefore he believes.

He believes completely.

"Lord Zhen Guogong, today's matter must not be raised again."

"Go back and prepare, and rest a lot."

"I await your triumphant return; to celebrate across the realm, the imperial capital will hold feasts for thirty days."

Emperor Yongsheng's tone softened considerably.

Likewise, he hopes even more that Grandfather Gu returns alive, and returns in triumph.

That is no falsehood.

"Thank you, Your Majesty; the old minister will take his leave first."

Lord Zhen Guogong said little as well, and chose to take his leave.

Soon.

Lord Zhen Guogong departed.

Meanwhile, within Wanshi Garden.

Emperor Yongsheng quietly gazed at the pond, his eyes calm; no one knew what he was thinking.

Soon, outside Wenxin Hall.

The officials, smiling broadly, walked out of the main hall.

The Emperor yielded a step; this was something they had not expected.

Moreover, he handed all supreme authority to the Great Scholar to manage, which for them was sheer delight upon delight.

But at that moment.

Grandfather Gu appeared.

He stopped the officials.

Then, without a word, palace guards stepped forward and seized all the officials.

"Lord Zhen Guogong, what are you doing?"

"Lord Zhen Guogong, what do you intend?"

"What is this? Your Majesty has already issued an edict releasing us."

"Crown Prince, what is happening?"

In an instant, all the officials were curious, not understanding what had occurred.

But the Crown Prince also did not know what had happened; before he could ask, Lord Zhen Guogong's voice rang out.

"Come, men."

"Detain all of you outside the hall; civil officials each receive fifty heavy blows, then are punished to kneel outside the main hall for half a day; military generals each receive two hundred heavy blows, then are punished to kneel outside the main hall for half a day; the remaining half day I will have you roll to the Ministry of War and kneel there."

"Especially you lords, who gave you such dogged audacity? If you don't want to live, say so; I will personally send you on your way. Tomorrow, if anyone dares not to kneel, don't blame my ruthless cruelty."

Lord Zhen Guogong spoke publicly, his aura overwhelmingly domineering, and murderous intent flashed in his eyes.

These military generals truly have grown weary of life.

Lord Zhen Guogong even struck directly, slapping a group of generals across the face, showing no courtesy whatsoever, with no face left to speak of.

The lords and generals who received the slap, one by one, dared not speak, as if a father were beating his son—no temper, only fear in their eyes.

However, the beating was not the main issue; it was the words Grandfather Gu had just spoken.

They made the officials' faces turn pale instantly.

Moreover, some officials, furious beyond measure, pointed at Lord Zhen Guogong and said.

"Your Majesty has already pardoned us; Lord Zhen Guogong, what do you mean?"

"Fifty blows? Aren't you trying to take our lives? What do you intend? To kill us?"

Their voices rose, full of panic and anger.

Most were civil officials; as for the generals, each dared not speak, some even felt a slight relief, since it was not overly severe.

"Silence!"

Lord Zhen Guogong roared, shocking the entire scene.

Then his cold gaze swept over everyone.

"Court disputes are not great matters; your anger leads you to resign, truly a blunder that plagues the realm."

"It disgraces the nation and further insults the emperor's authority; I see this as a peaceful age that makes you forget who conquered this land."

"If anyone dares to nag again, I will personally execute and take them away."

Lord Zhen Guogong continued to roar.

Although the Emperor has already pardoned them, his heart still burns; today Lord Zhen Guogong is venting this malice on behalf of Emperor Yongsheng.

This is utterly unreasonable.

Just because an Eastern Depot was established, you cause a direct purge? Is this office dismissed at your whim?

Band together to threaten the Emperor?

If this is not severely punished, will it recur in the future?

Fifty blows for a civil official is at least half a life; though there is tonic, receiving fifty blows still brings tears and wailing.

It counts as severe punishment.

At that moment, the more he thought, the angrier he became; Grandfather Gu was also blunt—hadn't he just slapped the generals earlier?

Now, in front of everyone, pull the civil officials one by one.

The people we beat no longer dare to speak, each one in terrible pain.

Thus the Ministers of the Six Ministries barely escaped a disaster; after all, their status is too special, and the old master also gave the civil officials a bit of face.

Thus, after a few slaps, all officials became obedient; under the strong authority, they could only be taken away meekly, and the Ministers of the Six Ministries said not a single word from beginning to end—perhaps they know in their hearts that this beating is not actually a bad thing.

"Old master."

"This, I'm afraid, is a bit off, isn't it?"

Crown Prince Li Gao walked over, sensing something was amiss.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince."

"The old minister is saving them."

The Marquis of the State spoke calmly, and a single sentence rendered Li Gao speechless.

He is saving these people.

Of course, there are also his own personal grudges involved.

At this moment.

Within the Da Xia Academy.

Gu Jin Nian, holding a thick stack of silver notes, slowly returned to his room.

Silver notes worth two hundred thousand taels of gold.

Enough for him to do quite a lot of things.

At least the early-stage laboratory can be set up.

Yes.

Laboratory.

Since offending the Kong family, Gu Jin Nian's mind has been filled with the 'Commerce Association' plan.

The Kong family is destined to be his greatest enemy.

After all, they wield the public opinion of scholars across the realm, which inevitably inspires awe.

To counter them, one must break it from two angles.

One is women.

The other is this Commerce Association.

No matter how sharp scholars' tongues are, they are no match for women.

No matter how incisive literary works are, they cannot surpass the ordinary common folk at the very bottom of the world.

If these two points can be seized, the Kong family is truly insignificant.

Thinking this, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but smile.

Just inexplicably.

Gu Jin Nian suddenly frowned.

"So fragrant."

An indescribable fragrance spread.

"It's the scent of wine."

"And there's a bit of an indescribable scent."

The next moment, Gu Jin Nian discerned what the scent was.

Primarily a strong wine aroma, with a hint of an indescribable scent, very familiar, yet he couldn't recall it at once.

And in an instant, Gu Jin Nian's hair stood on end.

Someone behind.

It was a peerless master.

If not for this wine scent, he would not have been able to notice at all.

A sense of crisis surged instantly.

Gu Jin Nian also turned his head in an instant.

In that instant, his vision was pitch black.

But Gu Jin Nian also realized what other scent, besides the wine, was present.

Hmm.

It's a milky scent.

(End of chapter)