Chapter 102: Campaigning at the Border, Ruler and Minister Exchange Hearts, the Duke's Wrath, Angrily Whipping the Hundred Officials

Sniffle sniffle sniffle.

Gu Jin Nian felt as if he couldn't catch his breath.

The intense wine aroma mixed with milk scent rushed into his nose, making Gu Jin Nian feel somewhat overwhelmed, ah.

Gu Jin Nian wanted to pull away, but he didn't know why; the fragrance was toxic, and he felt his whole body go weak.

He didn't know if it was a psychological effect or something else.

"Does it smell good?"

Just then, a calm voice sounded, accompanied by a hint of laziness.

The voice was pleasant, accompanying this voice as it sounded.

Gu Jin Nian also immediately came to his senses.

He stepped back a few paces, and his vision instantly returned to normal.

And what came into view was.

It was a woman.

More precisely, it was a woman with an incredibly hot figure.

The woman was in her early twenties, her long hair coiled up with a jade-green hairpin; her face was absolutely beautiful, her skin like white snow, her complexion like congealed fat, and her features looked very delicate.

But the main point was her figure; she wore a plain garment, very ordinary clothing, without any lace or embroidery, just simple.

Yet it revealed her perfect figure; Gu Jin Nian could only describe her upper body with five characters.

Big big big big big.

Her hips were full; the plain garment could not conceal such a figure, extremely sexy, every movement displaying her sensuality to the fullest.

Especially since she dressed casually, unlike other women who would conceal themselves; the woman before him completely did not treat herself as an outsider, ah.

If we say, Yang Hanrou belongs to the type of beauty like a petite jade.

The Jade Pool Immortal Maiden belongs to the type that does not partake in mortal fireworks; she is not exactly aloof, just too detached from the mundane.

As for Shangguan Baiyu, Zhao Siqing, and Anran, they are also top-tier beauties, but compared to them, they are slightly inferior.

There is an old saying: it's not that we fear goodness, but we fear comparison.

Shangguan Baiyu and the two others are clearly no match for the Jade Pool Immortal Maiden and the woman before him.

The Jade Pool Immortal Maiden is the epitome of pure desire style.

The woman before him, however, displays feminine sensual beauty to the fullest.

Mainly because it's too big.

Especially, the woman held a red gourd in her left hand, inside which the wine aroma was rich; her expression was carefree, and she gulped it down in one big swig, appearing extraordinarily heroic, and indeed she did not treat herself as an outsider at all.

Gu Jin Nian never imagined that a woman drinking alcohol could look so good.

This gourd is truly white, ah.

No, this gourd is truly round.

Not that either.

"Ha."

After a gulp of strong liquor, the woman's expression became slightly intoxicated, her eyes full of ease, and she exhaled deeply, the wine aroma filling the room.

And at that moment, Gu Jin Nian came to his senses.

"May I ask, senior, who are you?"

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian came to his senses.

A woman suddenly appeared in his own room; how could Gu Jin Nian not be suspicious?

However, the other party was full of tricks, trying to dazed him right away; fortunately his Dao heart was steadfast, otherwise he might have fallen into this heretical path.

"Don't call me senior; I'm only a few years older than you."

"You're Gu Jin Nian, right?"

The other party spoke, sounding very casual, while gazing at Gu Jin Nian and asking thus.

Hearing the question, Gu Jin Nian was somewhat at a loss for what to say.

Not even knowing who he is, you suddenly pull this stunt? Aren't you afraid of an accident? "I am indeed."

Nevertheless, on the surface Gu Jin Nian answered honestly.

"Mm, that's correct."

"I am Yao Yunrou of the Pure Subtle Immortal Sect, acting on the Sect Master's orders, coming to subdue you."

Yao Yunrou's voice sounded.

Her voice was pleasant, yet full of tiger-and-wolf words, making people unable to resist.

Especially with her slightly intoxicated visage, fiery figure, and a hint of alcohol breath, she truly is irresistible, ah.

However, Gu Jin Nian finally figured out who this person was.

Of the Pure Subtle Immortal Sect.

He even has a cousin in the Pure Subtle Immortal Sect.

Upon learning that she was neither an enemy nor a foe, Gu Jin Nian also breathed a sigh of relief.

"What are you still dazed about?"

The other party spoke, then took another gulp of wine.

"Immortal Maiden, what do you mean?"

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat curious.

"Go onto the bed, ah."

"In two more hours it will be dark; finish up early so I can return early to make my report."

Yao Yunrou is very straightforward, also very overbearing.

She hardly gives Gu Jin Nian any time to consider.

"Fairy Maiden Yunrou."

"I, Gu, am an upright gentleman; in life I always follow the righteous path."

"I hope the fairy maiden will respect herself."

Gu Jin Nian rises and speaks.

"Come on, in broad daylight, even if we want to chat, we should change the location, right?"

After all, this is Da Xia Academy; it's not convenient—what if someone knocks on the door? That would be troublesome. "Don't worry, it's the righteous path, not crooked."

"Although I'm also a novice, I've seen quite a few pictures, so I should understand a bit more than you."

"The process shouldn't be too complicated."

"Cut the chatter."

"I can tell what you're thinking at a glance."

Yao Yunrou is somewhat languid.

But Gu Jin Nian seems a bit out of place.

"What do you mean 'understand a bit more than me'? You just looked at some pictures; I definitely understand more than you."

"Also, what do you mean by 'the righteous path'?"

"What on earth are you talking about?"

Before Gu Jin Nian could continue speaking, Yao Yunrou waved her hand; in an instant, a faint golden rope coiled around her, binding herself.

"My master was right—you scholars just love putting on airs."

"Forget it, I'll do it myself."

Yao Yunrou looked somewhat resigned, then promptly took hold of the golden rope and directly pulled Gu Jin Nian onto the bed.

She also gulped a mouthful of wine, but this time she didn't drink it, puffing her cheeks, which made her even more lovely.

However.

"Fairy Maiden, I really can't."

"In broad daylight, can we change the location?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke, not because he's being pretentious, but mainly because this is Da Xia Academy; following normal plot development, someone will surely knock on the door soon.

"If we change the location, say to the Duke's residence, Gu Jin Nian guarantees there won't be too much trouble."

"Tonight will definitely be fine."

"Here, even with your toes you can tell you'll definitely be interrupted."

"\"Wild goo goo goo goo outside? \""

Hearing Gu Jin Nian's voice, Yao Yunrou became a bit curious; she spoke, but because she had wine in her mouth, it sounded somewhat strange.

"\"What wilderness? \""

"\"Fairy Maiden, don't cause trouble, okay? Can we go to my place? \""

Gu Jin Nian felt numb.

"He could accept this plot, but don't play around the edges—if we're going, let's go straight to the Duke's residence and see who's afraid of whom."

"Here, it's purely waiting for social death."

"\"Goo goo goo goo, no. \""

Yao Yunrou spoke, her attitude very firm; right here, don't waste time.

"\"Fairy Maiden, what are you doing holding a mouthful of wine? \""

"\"Can you speak normally? \""

Gu Jin Nian really got anxious.

An inexplicable panic.

"\"Goo goo goo, can't. \""

"\"I goo goo goo want goo goo goo, detox goo goo goo poison. \""

The latter spoke, and because she was overly excited, a little wine dripped from the corner of her mouth.

In an instant, Yao Yunrou furrowed her brows; her slightly flushed complexion plus her stunning beauty really gave off another kind of charm.

But.

"\"What does 'disinfect' mean? Disinfect your sister's poison? \""

"\"I love cleanliness, okay? \" Before Gu Jin Nian could speak, the other party had already come onto the bed."

The two were very close.

The aroma of wine accompanied an indescribable fragrance that filled the bed, making one intoxicated.

For a moment, both fell silent.

Just then.

The room door opened.

Creak.

"\"His Highness the Heir Apparent. \""

"\"Someone is looking for you. \""

It was Su Huaiyu's voice.

As expected, not beyond Gu Jin Nian's expectation, at the crucial moment someone will surely interrupt.

To be frank, Gu Jin Nian truly has no ulterior motives; it's not that he's incapable, but he's too familiar with this routine.

The next moment.

A few silhouettes walked in.

Leading them was Su Huaiyu, followed by four others.

Yang Hanrou, the Yaochi Fairy, plus two women he had never seen before.

It was Wang Wan Yue and Princess Taiyue, the two princesses who had previously been married off, who arrived together.

Yang Hanrou introduced them, for the two had almost been married off to the Xiongnu; had Gu Jin Nian not spoken up in righteousness, the outcome would have been unimaginable.

Now that things have settled, the two naturally wish to come and thank Gu Jin Nian.

But what they didn't expect was that, upon entering, they were met with such a disgraceful scene, and in an instant Wang Wan Yue and Princess Taiyue were stunned.

Yang Hanrou was also momentarily stunned in place.

In her impression, Gu Jin Nian was originally a playboy, though undeniably handsome; after drowning, he became immensely talented, a gentleman of virtue, graceful and courteous, and exuded strong masculine charm.

She occasionally recalled that day at the banquet when the Xiongnu asked her to sit with them, and Gu Jin Nian made his entrance.

Especially the line, "Sister Hanrou, come over," which she could not forget.

Thus her favor toward Gu Jin Nian grew increasingly, and to be honest she didn't know what she felt; she just kept thinking of Gu Jin Nian from time to time.

Now, seeing a woman of superb figure sharing the same bed with Gu Jin Nian, she felt a confusing mix of emotions—some discomfort, but mostly distress.

As for the Yaochi Fairy beside them, her expression remained calm, untouched by worldly affairs, forever giving the impression of being admired only from afar.

Yet upon witnessing the scene, the Yaochi Fairy's beautiful eyes involuntarily narrowed slightly; her previously decent mood instantly turned odd.

"Crown Prince."

"Did I disturb you?"

"Shall we step outside?"

At that moment, Su Huaiyu's voice rang out again, bluntly asking Gu Jin Nian whether he was being a disturbance.

Inside the bed.

Gu Jin Nian was completely numb.

That Su Huaiyu was definitely doing it on purpose; he must have realized that Yao Yunrou was already in the room, yet said nothing.

Bringing someone in at the crucial moment—truly a heart worthy of condemnation.

Sour dog.

This bastard is certainly a sour dog, envying my booming love luck and deliberately trying to disgust me.

"Yaochi sister, save me."

But at the crucial moment, Gu Jin Nian forced himself to lift his head, seeing only a sea of white; unfortunately he was bound by a magical artifact and could not move, so he could only call out for the Yaochi Fairy to rescue him.

With those words spoken,

The Yaochi Fairy did not hesitate, raised her hand, spiritual energy radiating, and a palm‑sized flying sword shot straight toward Yao Yunrou.

It was decisive and ruthless, showing no mercy at all.

Clang.

As a crisp sound rang out, a flaming red wine gourd behind Yao Yunrou blocked the flying sword.

On the bed.

Yao Yunrou sighed, then swallowed the wine in her mouth, saying helplessly,

"I told you to hurry; had you agreed earlier, it would be over by now."

She felt helpless, then turned and looked at the Yaochi Fairy, saying,

"You really are ruthless, coming up with a flying sword right away."

"Aren't you afraid of hurting little sister me?"

Yao Yunrou reached out, the golden rope binding Gu Jin Nian loosened and fell into her hand.

Freed from the binding, Gu Jin Nian let out a long sigh.

But there was no smile on his face.

"What does it mean 'start earlier' and it's already finished?"

"Do you know what 'day after day' means?"

"Master once said that the Qingwei Immortal Sect acts without shame, especially a disciple named Yunrou."

"Seeing today, my master did not deceive me."

The Yaochi Fairy's eyes showed a hint of anger; she could see that Gu Jin Nian was being forced.

"Heh."

"The Qingwei Immortal Sect has no shame—what a huge joke; who in the world doesn't know that your Linglong Immortal Palace is the most shameless?"

"Anyway, I'm too lazy to argue with you. This contest among the great sects for the immortal spirit root is purely based on ability; you arrived half a month earlier than I did, but in the end it's just that you lack capability."

"If I were the sister, I would have taken it already. I tell you, Yaochi sister, you have no ability yourself yet blame others? Linglong Immortal Palace really is overbearing."

Yao Yunrou spoke; she showed no anger, only thought that the Yaochi Fairy was being unreasonable.

"Hmph."

"The notion of romantic fate values mutual consent; your actions are overly forceful."

The Yaochi Fairy's words were noticeably more than usual.

And her emotional swings were a bit large.

However, Yang Hanrou beside her kept nodding, thinking the words were spot on.

"Isn't this precisely mutual consent?"

"Look at the Crown Prince; isn't he still lying on the bed?"

"I haven't bound him now, have I?"

Yao Yunrou spoke lightly, glancing at Gu Jin Nian; her eyes held a gentle smile.

However, upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian immediately stood up.

The reason was simple.

Isn't this harming myself? I just didn't react in time—what do you mean? I just stood up right away, and my vision blurred again.

Numb.

This time it's over.

"Shameless."

"Demonic woman."

The Yaochi Fairy's face flushed red, though more so it was anger.

Yang Hanrou beside her couldn't help shouting "demonic woman," looking very angry.

"Don't misunderstand."

"I've been poisoned."

Gu Jin Nian immediately stepped back, regained his vision, and then spoke with a solemn expression.

Clang clang clang.

The flying swords shot again, but were all blocked by the gourd; Yao Yunrou slightly shook her head, her hair swaying, making her look especially beautiful.

"Alright, I'm not messing with you anymore."

"Yaochi Fairy, with your current realm, it's impossible for you to defeat me."

"However, as fellow disciples of the Immortal Dao, I won't bully the lesser with my greater strength; everything will be fair competition."

"I'll give you a chance, so as not to tarnish the name of my Qingwei Immortal Sect; but, sister, I'll finally advise you with one sentence."

"If you don't take the initiative, don't blame others."

Yao Yunrou spoke up; she was four or five years older than the Yaochi Fairy, and her cultivation was naturally somewhat stronger.

But for now, with everyone here, it's not realistic to try to deal with Gu Jin Nian; besides, this is the Da Xia Academy, and there is a quasi Half Saint present, so she doesn't want to make a big scene.

"Don't spout nonsense here."

The Yaochi Fairy remained unconvinced, but Yao Yunrou's words indeed gave her a sense of crisis.

As for her feelings toward Gu Jin Nian, the Yaochi Fairy didn't know how to describe them; she only knew that she indeed felt great affection for him.

If she had to call it affection, she couldn't be sure.

However, upon seeing Yao Yunrou and Gu Jin Nian sharing the same bed, she indeed felt uncomfortable, an indescribable feeling.

She also didn't know what it was.

"Ah, a little girl is just a little girl."

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, let's wait until next time."

"If you want it, you can also come find me; I'm fine with that, sister."

Yao Yunrou ignored the Yaochi Fairy, instead looking at Gu Jin Nian as she spoke, and took a sip of wine; it was clear her drinking habit was truly strong.

But before Gu Jin Nian could speak, in an instant Yao Yunrou leaned in and lightly touched his cheek.

It was slightly warm, but more so it was shock.

Good fellow.

Really, that straightforward?

"Demonic woman."

The Yaochi Fairy showed no mercy; in an instant three flying swords appeared, flying toward Yao Yunrou to kill her.

One of the flying swords was entirely scarlet, with a small jade attached to its hilt.

Seeing this flying sword, Yao Yunrou frowned, and in an instant vanished from the bed, leaping out of the room.

"Your master truly dotes on you, even giving you the Red Sleeve Immortal Sword."

"Better than my master; sister, I'm truly envious."

Yao Yunrou indeed felt some apprehension; this scarlet flying sword is one of the two great immortal swords of the Linglong Immortal Palace, named Red Sleeve, and is not an ordinary object.

However, the Yaochi Fairy clearly had no intention of dealing with Yao Yunrou; the three flying swords crossed, forming a sword formation, as if she had truly been roused to anger.

But just then, a voice sounded, suppressing the spiritual energy of both sides.

"This is the Da Xia Academy; no fighting is allowed."

The voice rang out; it was Su Wenjing's.

It was obvious he had also observed this; the Yaochi Fairy was clearly enraged, even brandishing the Red Sleeve Immortal Sword, and if not stopped it would bring trouble.

Upon hearing Su Wenjing's voice, the Yaochi Fairy recalled her flying swords, while Yao Yunrou remained calm, even standing on a tree and taking another big gulp of wine, glug glug glug.

And at that moment.

Inside the room.

Yang Hanrou immediately came to the bedside, looking at Gu Jin Nian, and asked concernedly.

"Brother Jin Nian, are you alright?"

Hearing Yang Hanrou's voice, Gu Jin Nian immediately came to his senses.

"I'm fine; I was just affected by the Soft Fragrance Powder, leaving me weak and limp."

"It's fine now, Sister Hanrou; please don't misunderstand—I'm truly a gentleman."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

At the same time he made up an excuse.

However, Su Huaiyu in the room spoke lightly.

"Soft Fragrance Powder?"

"I guess the milky fragrance has dispersed, right?"

He opened his mouth, his tone calm.

With those words, Gu Jin Nian's expression became even more upright.

"Brother Su, don't baselessly sully another's innocence."

"I am the victim in this matter."

Gu Jin Nian said seriously.

At the same time he saw through Su Huaiyu's thought: "Isn't she just jealous that my romantic luck is good? Can I be blamed? It's because I have an Immortal Spirit Root."

Listening to their words, Yang Hanrou's face flushed a faint pink, but subconsciously she still believed Gu Jin Nian was the victim, so she couldn't help speaking up.

"I've never seen a woman like this; she observes no feminine propriety, almost tarnished Brother Jin Nian's purity."

Yang Hanrou spoke, and it was clear she was quite displeased with Yao Yunrou.

"Sister Hanrou, you shouldn't say that; after all, they are practitioners of the Immortal Dao, and worldly ethics mean little to them."

"Moreover, I, as brother, remain steadfast in heart, walk the righteous path, untempted; that's a blessing amid misfortune."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, gently curbing that thought.

After all, Yang Hanrou still has a great role; we can't let her develop such ideas.

With those words, Yang Hanrou frowned slightly, glanced at Yao Yunrou outside, then at Gu Jin Nian, and odd thoughts involuntarily surfaced.

Could it be that Brother Jin Nian simply enjoys this? Yet I must admit, Yao Yunrou's figure is truly enviable; even as a woman, I can't help envying.

Look at myself; I'm okay, but compared to Yao Yunrou, I'm lacking.

"Enough, Yaochi Fairy, let this matter end here."

Gu Jin Nian said.

He called out "Yaochi Fairy," not wanting the situation to flare up; after all, the process was still manageable. Yet hearing Gu Jin Nian's voice, the Yaochi Fairy felt somewhat displeased.

She had previously called herself "Yaochi sister."

Now she calls herself "Yaochi Fairy" again?

Just because of this woman? Thinking that, the Yaochi Fairy couldn't help speaking.

"Personal grudges."

She said lightly; those four words left Gu Jin Nian speechless.

In the tree, Yao Yunrou lay on a branch; her immortal methods were ordinary, and she quietly observed the scene inside the house, taking everything in.

"It seems genuine feelings have been stirred."

"It's a bit tricky, but Gu Jin Nian probably doesn't know yet; if we get the rice cooked early, there's still a chance."

Yao Yunrou thought this in her heart.

At the same time she gulped down a mouthful of wine.

The atmosphere was very stiff.

Gu Jin Nian didn't care any longer; having mentioned personal grudges, what else could he say? Soon, he looked at Wang Wanyue and the other, curiosity stirring.

"Who are these two?"

Gu Jin Nian asked Yang Hanrou.

"Brother Jin Nian, this is the daughter of Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Rites Wang Jiang, and this lady is Princess Taiyue; you should know them."

"The two of them came to thank Brother Jin Nian."

Yang Hanrou spoke, introducing the two.

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian finally understood, then rose from the bed, his expression gentle as he said.

"Ladies, no need for such courtesy."

"It's a trivial matter, not worth mentioning."

Gu Jin Nian smiled faintly.

Hearing this, the two immediately made graceful bows.

"If it weren't for the Crown Prince, we would have to go far to the Xiongnu and live a life worse than death."

"We will forever remember this great kindness."

The two were young, lacking the worldly experience of elders, so they could only thank simply, yet the sincerity in their eyes was genuine.

"You're welcome, you're welcome. Miss Wang gets along well with Sister Hanrou, and Sister Hanrou is close with the Crown Prince; they're all friends."

"As for Princess Taiyue, we are family, so there's no need for formalities between families."

That Princess Taiyue is the youngest daughter of my uncle, essentially my cousin.

"Yes, yes, Crown Prince, I have visited the Duke's Residence before, but I was still young; when the Crown Prince comes to the palace later, be sure to inform me, and I will receive you warmly."

Princess Taiyue was also a lotus emerging from water; she was two years older than Gu Jin Nian, yet lacked his maturity.

I must say, Gu Jin Nian felt somewhat relieved to have stepped in to stop the marriage alliance.

Had he not halted the marriage, these two delicate beauties would have suffered.

Fortunately, fortunately.

But at that moment, Wang Wanyue's voice sounded again.

"Crown Prince, I have a request."

"Now His Majesty is raging, sentencing my father to the Lantern Office; I hope the Crown Prince can plead for him, sparing my father from bodily suffering."

Wang Wanyue spoke, saying as such.

Both the Left and Right Vice Ministers of the Ministry of Rites have been sent to the Lantern Office; not just them, two‑thirds of the entire Ministry of Rites have entered.

The Xiongnu's theft of the nation's fortunes cannot be said to have no connection with the Ministry of Rites; the emperor's actions are, at most, understandable.

He heard the other's request.

Gu Jin Nian did not answer outright; after a brief silence, he gave a reply.

"I, the Crown Prince, hold no official post, so I cannot intervene, but my sixth uncle is a commander of the Suspended Lantern Department; I will give notice and offer a little assistance."

Gu Jin Nian does not wish to get involved in political matters.

The Ministry of Rites indeed has many derelictions at all levels, and if you ask whether there is any problem here, Gu Jin Nian cannot be sure.

Therefore, smoothing relations is impossible; letting Minister Wang take a couple of beatings should not be a big issue.

Of course, only a few beatings.

"Thank you, Your Highness the Crown Prince."

Wang Wanyue spoke, grateful to Gu Jin Nian; after all, with Gu Jin Nian speaking up, she felt much more at ease.

"No need to thank me; the main thanks go to Sister Hanrou."

Gu Jin Nian deliberately mentioned Yang Hanrou; she needs Yang Hanrou to have a place among these aristocratic women.

Hearing this, Yang Hanrou felt rather pleased.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, what is that?"

At that moment, Su Huaiyu pointed at the object on the bed and asked curiously.

Su Huaiyu turned back to look.

It was a letter.

Gu Jin Nian exhaled; he had thought it would be some messy thing.

The letters sent by Wang Fugui during this period were mostly trivial news; the investigation went on for quite a while, but yielded no results.

Now seeing this letter, Gu Jin Nian seemed rather casual.

He took it out and opened it directly.

After the envelope was opened,

In an instant, Gu Jin Nian's expression changed.

"This is not good."

"Something's happened."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his face looking rather grim.

For a moment, the room fell silent.

Su Huaiyu hurried over and stood before Gu Jin Nian.

With just one glance, his complexion also changed.

Because the letter contained not a single character.

It was blank.

"How could the letter be blank?"

"Could it be that Brother Wang and his party sent it by mistake?"

Yang Hanrou, standing nearby, was curious and made a guess.

"Impossible."

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian became extremely calm; the earlier laughter and anger completely vanished.

"I had previously made it clear to Brother Wang: one letter per day, regardless of what happens."

"If a letter is not sent, it will be taken as encountering trouble."

"Brother Wang may be of average talent, but he is cautious in his work and would never send a blank letter."

"They must have run into trouble."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

Having been at White Heron Mansion for almost half a month with no incidents, now an unexpected event appears?

Could this be possible?

"What should we do then?"

Yang Hanrou also seemed a bit flustered.

Gu Jin Nian gave no answer; instead, he retrieved all the letters Wang Fugui had previously sent.

He then placed them on the desk.

Fourteen days ago.

Wang Fugui, together with Jiang Yezhou and others, went to White Heron Mansion.

The first few days were fine; they merely arrived at White Heron Mansion and reported their safety.

Then, during the investigation, they found some statements that did not match.

But they were only minor issues.

Until Wang Fugui and his group said they would go to a place called Qingyuan Temple.

The letter mentioned that after going there they found nothing amiss, so they returned; two days later, that is, yesterday,

they sent a letter with blank text.

This is very odd.

"Brother Jin Nian, have you thought of anything?"

Yang Hanrou spoke, asking Gu Jin Nian.

"Nothing came to mind."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; the information was too scant, and he knew nothing.

After a brief contemplation, Gu Jin Nian's gaze inevitably fell on Su Huaiyu.

"Brother Su, what do you suggest?"

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth and asked thus.

"Go to the White Heron Residence, and all the truth will be revealed."

Su Huaiyu spoke, this was his suggestion.

The two are three thousand li apart; relying only on speculation is useless—only by going there in person will everything become clear.

Upon hearing about going personally to the White Heron Residence.

A voice rang out immediately.

"I'll go too."

The voice that sounded was Yao Yunrou's.

She was proactive, asking to go along.

But at that moment, Gu Jin Nian had no mind to talk with them; he would go, indifferent to other factors.

After all, Yao Yunrou is no ordinary person; she is a top cultivator of the Dao of Immortals, and if she goes together, she can also protect him.

However, seeing Yao Yunrou speak.

The Jade Pool Fairy's voice also rang out at once.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, I am enough."

The Jade Pool Fairy spoke, clearly also intending to go along.

"Then I'll go together as well."

Yang Hanrou also spoke, wanting to go together.

"You, just forget it."

"This trip is dangerous; they can protect themselves, but you have no means of self‑protection. If danger arises, caring for you would be troublesome."

"Sister Hanrou, stay in the capital; I'll send you a letter each day, and remember, I'll embed a code in the letters."

"Missing is safe, worrying is dangerous; if the letters contain the word 'worry', go to the palace at once to find my uncle."

"This is the token for entering the palace; keep it safe."

Gu Jin Nian was straightforward.

Moreover, he deliberately left a code, in case something serious actually happens.

Yet with Su Huaiyu, Yao Yunrou, and the Jade Pool Fairy present, he shouldn't encounter major problems.

After all, within Da Xia, who truly dares to trouble him? Those who play covertly certainly exist.

But those who openly challenge him, truly aren't afraid of death?

"Fine."

"But brother Jin Nian, before you go, you should return and tell the Duke and the others, right?"

"Otherwise."

Yang Hanrou nodded, understanding Gu Jin Nian's meaning, yet still a bit worried, hoping Gu Jin Nian would go back and speak.

"Alright, I understand."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; it was true—three thousand li isn't especially far, yet certainly not close.

He needed to return home to clarify; otherwise, if something happened and his family didn't know, that would be troublesome.

"When do we set out?"

Su Huaiyu spoke, asking directly.

"Tomorrow at noon."

"I need to go back to explain a few matters."

"Moreover, this journey requires preparation. Brother Su, Jade Pool Fairy, Yunrou Fairy, heading out unaware of dangers, you must be fully prepared."

Gu Jin Nian gave his answer.

Although the situation was somewhat perilous, Gu Jin Nian didn't want to be so hasty.

He must not lose his composure.

Upon hearing this, Su Huaiyu nodded; he fully agreed, with no issues.

As for the Jade Pool Fairy, it was simple: regardless of purpose, she must stay by Gu Jin Nian's side, especially since Yao Yunrou had set her sights on him.

If a single slip occurred, Gu Jin Nian could be gone.

She isn't afraid of others; she only fears this kind of person.

"Agreed."

"I'll go back first, Brother Su. If today there's still a letter from Brother Wang, find me immediately."

Gu Jin Nian didn't chatter any longer.

He'll go back first and then speak.

To explain this matter.

"Alright."

Su Huaiyu nodded, saying nothing.

And Gu Jin Nian hurried away, beginning to handle the matter.

As Gu Jin Nian left.

Yang Hanrou said little more, and led Wang Wanyue and the other two away.

The Jade Pool Fairy and Yao Yunrou stared at each other, the hostility in their eyes obvious.

As for Su Huaiyu, after glancing at the two, she slowly spoke.

"To be frank."

"Actually, I, Su, might also possess a celestial spirit root, but it requires a special method to activate."

"If you don't mind, the two fairies may consider Su."

Su Huaiyu spoke.

He looked very serious, gazing at the two fairies.

"Get lost."

Two voices sounded together, one lazy, the other indifferent.

"Fine."

Hearing that reply, Su Huaiyu nodded, had nothing more to say, and turned to leave.

There's nothing to be done; what can one say if he doesn't listen to advice?

He who ignores the elders' words suffers loss before his eyes.

Meanwhile.

Da Xia Heaven Prison.

Inside the dimly lit prison.

Li Shan's figure sat in the middle.

The conditions were harsh, the air filled with various foul smells, yet Li Shan showed no reaction; instead, he appeared exceedingly calm.

Just then.

A voice from the prison rang out.

Carrying a porridge bucket, someone entered; the bucket contained thick, wax‑yellow rice porridge made from the poorest rice, unfit even for feeding pigs.

Eating this gives a feeling of fullness but no nutrition at all.

This is the Heaven Prison.

All those detained are serious offenders.

Many of them are strong martial cultivators or strong immortal cultivators.

The food fed to them must be this nutritionally void stuff; otherwise, after being well fed for a decade or two in the Heaven Prison, they might one day break through a realm or regain strength and try to escape. As a prime minister, Li Shan would, in theory, look after them to some extent.

After all, everyone knows Li Shan hasn't committed a grave error; he merely contradicted the emperor.

One day he will still return to the court.

Although the prison officials wield great authority, they still dare not act rashly before the prime minister, so Li Shan's porridge has been mixed with something to replenish qi and blood.

Creak.

The prison gate opened.

It was a prison guard, carrying a wooden bucket, who entered the prison.

After filling the porridge bowl, a voice suddenly pressed down, transmitting sound into the ear.

"All officials have agreed to establish the Eastern Depot."

"The emperor has set up the Eastern Depot and the Inspection Office; the Eastern Depot handles drafting, supervision, interrogation, while the Inspection Office handles dispatch, capture, and adjudication."

"The Inspection Office is overseen by the Great Scholar, supervision and interrogation are handled by eunuchs, and drafting authority rests with a low‑born disciple."

"Prime Minister Li, no more disputes; the urgent matter now is the northern war situation—Fuyu Dynasty and Great Jin Dynasty have already negotiated with the Prince."

"Now, within the court, we need the Prime Minister to lead the war."

The voice sounded.

Inside the prison.

Li Shan's eyes slowly opened; he stared at the prison guard, whose gaze was vacant, like a walking corpse.

This is the Soul‑Capturing Technique.

Someone is controlling him.

A person afflicted by the Soul‑Capturing Technique will not recall what they have done, and will die of illness after a few days.

A most vicious evil art.

However, after hearing this information, Li Shan couldn't help but fall into contemplation.

"Eastern Depot."

"Inspection Office."

"In the end, it is the Emperor's wisdom that devised this; although power seems concentrated in the civil officials' hands, the seemingly insignificant drafting authority is the real power."

Li Shan murmured, his gaze complex and strange.

"These are the methods of the Li family emperor; they will never remember past sentiments."

"In the face of profit, everyone must die; utterly ruthless."

"Establishing the Eastern Depot is like an invisible blade."

"The officials are foolish; the Prime Minister should see reason. At present Da Xia's national fortune is flourishing, giving a false impression of eternal prosperity, while the northern war is destined to be a defeat."

"The Xiongnu State is about to forge a weapon to subdue Da Xia; once the divine artifact is forged, even a million troops will die on the battlefield."

"Then, the scheme we have deployed for ten years can be completely concluded."

"The Prince promised that, when the time comes, he will ennoble you as a non‑hereditary king, fulfilling all the Prime Minister's demands."

The voice continued, sounding very tempting.

However, Li Shan gave no reply; he closed his eyes and thought quietly.

The prison guard said nothing, but waited silently.

After about a moment.

Li Shan's voice sounded.

"Tell the Prince."

"As for the promises made to this old man before, as long as he fulfills them, that's enough; regarding the ennoblement, I don't care."

This is Li Shan's answer.

"Please, sir, rest assured."

The latter spoke up and directly agreed.

"However, there are some matters to be aware of; Mr. Wenjing seems to have sensed something, and have the prince's people notify him—if Mr. Su Wenjing discovers the problem, it could stir up tremendous trouble."

"Moreover, the Gu family—someone has already shown a flaw; I fear the Gu family has discovered it, and the Marquis of Changyang cannot be spared; he must die."

"Otherwise, the trouble will be great."

Li Shan spoke up.

There's nothing hidden either.

Yes.

The matter of Gu Jin Nian's drowning is related to him.

More precisely, it involves many people—a shocking secret plot that is gradually coming to light.

"Please, sir, rest assured; the prince has also noticed—the Marquis of Changyang won't survive today."

"As for Su Wenjing, there should be no problem; someone is monitoring him constantly."

"Furthermore, even if it were discovered, it wouldn't matter much; the overall trend is irreversible."

The latter transmitted his voice, appearing supremely confident.

"We still need to be careful."

"This game of chess—I have laid it out for ten years, the prince for over twenty; we are now approaching the final stage, and any change would be a consequence we cannot bear."

"Especially this Gu Jin Nian."

"He is a shocking variable."

"It's a pity that he now bears Heaven's Mandate's blessing, and with the dragon's grace and popular support, he is hard to move."

"We must keep a close watch on him."

"If necessary, have the prince spare no cost to kill him."

Li Shan spoke up.

His eyes were extraordinarily resolute.

But as soon as those words were spoken, the latter gave no reply.

After a moment, he then spoke slowly.

"I will report this matter to the prince."

"However, no one dares to act rashly against one who bears Heaven's Mandate."

"But if it truly comes to this, the prince will likely take action as well."

"Sir, please rest well; remember, you must certainly advocate for war."

The latter said these words.

He then turned and left immediately.

And in the prison.

Li Shan also slowly closed his eyes.

At the same moment.

The Manor of the State-Protecting Duke.

Gu Jin Nian also came to his grandfather's study.

(End of chapter)