Chapter 112: If I were to become the Blue Emperor another year, I would cause the peach blossoms to bloom together [seeking monthly t

The twelfth year of Yongsheng.

December 25.

Early morning.

After seeing off yesterday, Gu Jin Nian returned and has not slept.

He fainted, his body somewhat weak.

More precisely, it is mental weakness; he has endured too much lately, his spirit has collapsed.

The main reason is still that the ancient tree absorbed the resentment of all beings.

Yin hour.

The sky had just begun to lighten.

A night's thoughts have calmed Gu Jin Nian considerably.

Bang bang.

Accompanied by repeated knocking sounds.

Gu Jin Nian knew someone had arrived.

"Come in."

Soon.

The door pushed open, revealing Su Huaiyu's figure.

He entered the room, gently closed the door, then walked in and sat down.

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent."

"The capital has an imperial decree."

"All officials are impeaching you; this time you have gone too far, overstepping many rules. Before the law, even His Majesty may not be able to protect you."

Su Huaiyu remained calm, he spoke the capital's decree and informed Gu Jin Nian.

But upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian felt no resentment.

Instead, he felt His Majesty was not wrong.

The state has state law, the family has family rules; although I act for the people, I have indeed overstepped many rules.

To speak bluntly, if anyone else had done this, regardless of purpose, they would likely have been executed on the spot.

His Majesty's choice is not wrong, and the officials' impeachment is not wrong.

However, there are some ulterior motives among them.

"I understand."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

He remained calm, mainly because he knew his grandfather would surely protect him, and besides, his actions were not worthy of death.

Gu Jin Nian understands better than anyone.

He has always kept to the bottom line; although he overstepped the rules, he kept it just right.

If one were to call it wanton wrongdoing, then yesterday he would have slaughtered the 100,000-strong army of Prince Qilin.

But not choosing to do so has three reasons.

First, the 100,000-strong army does not deserve death.

To speak bluntly, Prince Qilin harbors ulterior motives, but he has no relation to those 100,000 troops; they also have their own families, parents, and children.

If, in a fit of anger, he killed the 100,000 troops, he could indeed gain a world-renowned reputation, but the consequences would be unimaginable.

Dying on the battlefield is acceptable, but to slaughter 100,000 in a fit of anger is neither gentlemanly nor benevolent.

Second, the Da Xia Dynasty is about to go to war with the Xiongnu State; the court will send troops to suppress them. If they do not take the twelve cities, that's fine—the court's large army is sufficient.

But if it is to seize the twelve cities, or if the war undergoes a drastic change, Prince Qilin's 300,000-strong army must act either way; if he does not act, he can merely wait to die.

Then, at this critical juncture, killing 100,000 people would inevitably invite trouble.

Third, and most importantly, slaughtering soldiers damages one's fortune; under the current struggle for Heaven's Mandate, I bear the Mandate, though I do not understand its function, I still have some awareness.

Such a thing must not be done.

These three points are Gu Jin Nian's rationality, and also why he does not kill the 100,000 cavalry.

Hearing Gu Jin Nian's tone, Su Huaiyu also appeared calm.

However, he continued to speak.

"This return to the capital, I fear the Heir Apparent will suffer imprisonment."

"This is also a good thing; at least we can use this opportunity to see clearly who is targeting the Heir Apparent."

Su Huaiyu is very rational.

"I understand."

"Brother Su, no need for many words; upon returning to the capital, let the court punish as it sees fit."

"The state has state law, the family has family rules; I, Gu, understand in my heart, I will not make His Majesty's task difficult, nor will I make my grandfather's task difficult."

Gu Jin Nian naturally understood; he knew Su Huaiyu's meaning was worry that after returning to the capital, if His Majesty did not choose to help him, he would develop a mental knot and accumulate resentment.

"As long as the Heir Apparent understands, that's fine."

Su Huaiyu nodded; since Gu Jin Nian understands, he need not say more.

But after Su Huaiyu finished speaking, Gu Jin Nian involuntarily began to speak.

"What about the Qingyuan Temple matter—have you found out the situation?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, asking the latter.

This matter is far from over.

Children have gone missing, taken to Qingyuan Temple; if it were kidnapping for sale, that would be understandable, after all they were taken for money.

But this matter is far from simple; the child was not kidnapped, but was used as a vessel to refine essence and blood.

This is puzzling.

There are some clues.

But it's uncertain; it seems like demonic cultivation, though the possibility is low.

Su Huaiyu spoke up, saying this.

Why?

Gu Jin Nian furrowed his brow slightly.

Heir Apparent, Your Highness, under heaven, although demonic path cultivators have peerless experts, such an expert would never need to rely on such despicable methods to cultivate.

Those who cultivate the demonic path using human essence and blood will certainly not be exceptionally strong, nor will they be too weak.

But a demonic cultivator of this level absolutely cannot affect an entire prefecture, let alone an entire commandery, and moreover implicates King Qilin and others.

Therefore, this matter is not as simple as practicing demonic cultivation.

Su Huaiyu rejected the possibility of demonic cultivation.

After hearing Su Huaiyu's speculation, Gu Jin Nian nodded in agreement.

What he said was not wrong at all.

Peerless demonic path experts would scorn using such methods to increase their cultivation.

And even mid-level demonic path experts lack this ability, so this matter is certainly not as simple as demonic cultivation.

If it's not demonic cultivation, then what could it be?

Unclear, but this matter must conceal a greater secret and is related to the Kong Clan.

Su Huaiyu speculated.

Related to the Kong Clan?

Upon hearing the Kong Clan, Gu Jin Nian's expression changed slightly.

Quite possible.

Even if there is no major relation, there is definitely a problem.

Right, Kong Zhen was taken away.

Su Huaiyu spoke up, saying this.

Taken away?

Who permitted it?

Gu Jin Nian asked, frowning.

This Kong Zhen is definitely problematic; he had some suspicions before, but he had no evidence to prove Kong Zhen's involvement in this matter.

But according to normal procedure, Gu Jin Nian would not let him off easily.

The Kong Clan came and forcibly took Kong Zhen away.

Couldn't stop them; during the few days you were unconscious, your uncle stepped in but still couldn't stop them.

But your fifth uncle is no ordinary person; he may have other ideas.

Su Huaiyu said this.

Understood.

Regarding Kong Zhen's departure, Gu Jin Nian's heart had little turbulence; after all, he is a member of the Kong Clan, and without evidence, it was indeed impossible to stop him, especially since Gu Jin Nian himself was unconscious.

However, the Kong Clan's actions are still somewhat suspicious.

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but ponder, and many pieces of information surfaced in his mind.

Jiangling Commandery.

Bailu Prefecture.

Kong Clan.

King Qilin.

A child went missing.

Concealed and not reported.

Vessel blood refinement.

Piece by piece, information surfaced in his mind; he vaguely sensed something, but could not grasp the key point or breakthrough.

Brother Su, after returning to the capital, please help me with something.

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, saying this.

Please give your orders, Heir Apparent.

Su Huaiyu nodded, without refusing.

This matter has blown up; the imperial court will surely investigate all prefectures and commanderies within Da Xia.

Whether similar incidents have occurred; it won't be long before official documents appear.

Once there is news, no matter what means are used, you must inform me immediately.

Gu Jin Nian said this.

He had an idea in his mind, but he dared not be certain; he needed more information.

Good.

Su Huaiyu nodded, but then he took out a small vial from his bosom and handed it to Gu Jin Nian.

What is this?

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat curious.

Specially made soy sauce.

The prison food is awful; although His Highness the Crown Prince wholeheartedly serves the people, even the prison wardens dare not offend him, but with so many eyes watching, the plain rice porridge has reached its limit.

At each meal, you add two drops; I've calculated the time—if nothing unexpected happens, His Highness the Crown Prince will be out in as little as seven days, or at most half a month.

Two drops a day is just enough to finish it.

Su Huaiyu said earnestly.

He is quite experienced, after all, he has been in prison before.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian felt somewhat helpless, but still took the specially prepared soy sauce.

Of course, he won't actually eat it—who knows what Su Huaiyu's secret method is.

Alright.

His Highness the Crown Prince, rest a bit longer; we must depart at the Mao hour, and the Ministry of Punishments' prisoner carriage has already arrived.

There are also many commoners outside watching; if His Highness the Crown Prince feels inclined, you could write a poem before you leave.

Just consider it a keepsake.

Su Huaiyu stopped talking and got up to leave.

Leaving Gu Jin Nian alone in the room.

After Su Huaiyu left.

Gu Jin Nian's mood also gradually eased considerably.

About half an hour later.

Gu Jin Nian walked out of the inn.

The inn's courtyard was filled with chrysanthemums, which looked rather pleasing; a rustling west wind blew, wrinkling his sleeves.

His Highness the Crown Prince.

I have seen His Highness the Crown Prince.

Upon seeing Gu Jin Nian step out, the guards outside the door all spoke up, bowing respectfully to Gu Jin Nian.

Gu Jin Nian nodded, which counted as returning the salute.

The west wind blew solemnly; Gu Jin Nian quietly admired these chrysanthemums.

About another half hour passed.

Personnel from the Ministry of Punishments came over, informing Gu Jin Nian that the time had come and they must depart.

This is probably the most gentle summons from the Ministry of Punishments; the two Ministry of Punishments officers were very courteous, not daring to speak too loudly.

Good.

Gu Jin Nian spoke lightly.

The two dared not say more; as long as Gu Jin Nian cooperated, that was fine.

About half an hour later.

Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath.

He left together with the Ministry of Punishments personnel.

Outside the inn.

The commoners had already filled the area.

Gu Jin Nian's deeds had spread throughout Jiangling Commandery; just the commoners of White Egret Prefecture had risen early today to see him off.

Commoners from surrounding prefectures, upon hearing this, also slowly came.

Xu Jin and Wang Peng stood at the inn's entrance, waiting for Gu Jin Nian.

After Gu Jin Nian appeared, Xu Jin and Wang Peng immediately stepped forward to inquire about his condition.

After receiving the answer, the two finally relaxed.

During this time, they personally witnessed how Gu Jin Nian served the commoners, and his actions deeply moved them both.

Although the court had already issued an edict ordering the Mountain Chief Army to return, and the 200,000-strong army had gone back, but the two brought their own confidants and elite troops, staying behind just to see Gu Jin Nian off from White Egret Prefecture.

The Ministry of Punishments' prisoner carriage appeared outside the inn's gate.

It looked quite glaring, but it also represented the two words 'state law'.

Gu Jin Nian did the right thing.

But he also did the wrong thing.

The right things can be praised, but the wrong things must be punished.

Everyone understands this principle, but the commoners do not.

When Gu Jin Nian appeared, many commoners wept, thinking he was a good person, a good official who stood up for the commoners; yet why must he suffer such a fate? 'His Highness the Crown Prince.'

'Wait until we leave the city, then board the prisoner carriage.'

Personnel from the Ministry of Punishments came over and said this to Gu Jin Nian's ear.

According to the law, Gu Jin Nian should be escorted back to the capital, but people are flesh and blood—leaving aside his uncle, who is the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Punishments, merely based on what Gu Jin Nian has done in White Egret Prefecture, he deserves mercy beyond the law.

Of course, this is also the only thing they can do.

'It's fine.'

'Follow the rules.'

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; since they were going to be escorted to the capital anyway, there was no need to make a mistake over such trivialities.

However, just before Gu Jin Nian stepped onto the prisoner carriage, he slowly halted and then turned around.

'Do you have paper and brush?'

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, asking this Ministry of Punishments chief clerk.

'Paper and brush?'

The latter, upon hearing this, couldn't help but be slightly taken aback.

But he immediately fetched paper and brush for Gu Jin Nian, understanding that Gu Jin Nian was about to compose a poem.

Paper and brush appeared.

The surrounding commoners couldn't help but look on curiously, and officials of all ranks cast their gazes.

Even these soldiers felt deeply curious.

Everyone knew Gu Jin Nian was extraordinarily talented, famed as a heavenly pride of the poetry world; having encountered such a thing today, perhaps he truly felt inspired and would write an immortal poem.

Paper and brush were delivered.

Gu Jin Nian gazed at the endless crowd of commoners, then slowly spoke.

"Fellow commoners."

"Gu is about to leave."

"Thank you all for seeing me off."

"But, upon this departure, I will never forget the affairs of Bai Lu Fu; today I compose a poem to commemorate this matter, etching it in my heart."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, informing the commoners.

At the same time, it was also to express his feelings about what happened in Bai Lu Fu and to make a summary.

With brush in hand.

Gu Jin Nian wielded brush and ink, then slowly laid down the characters.

【The west wind blows softly, filling the courtyard; the buds are cold, fragrance chill, butterflies hard to come】

【If in future I become the Green Emperor, I shall cause the peach blossoms to bloom together with me】

This is a poem on chrysanthemums.

This is the work of Huang Chao; compared to another poem, this one is somewhat more tranquil.

Chrysanthemums are for the commoners.

Not solitary, yet forever blooming in the cold winter.

Enduring bitter cold.

If one day I could become the God of Spring, I would make chrysanthemums bloom like peach blossoms, opening at the same moment.

To free the commoners from bitter cold.

The poem is written down.

In an instant, everyone fell silent.

Everyone knew Gu Jin Nian was a great talent in poetry, yet they did not expect his words to be so marvelous, that with a casual gesture he could produce such poetry.

Some scholars repeatedly pondered this poem, gradually grasped its meaning, and then felt deep admiration.

This poem not only writes of the commoners' suffering, but also expresses Gu Jin Nian's great righteousness in his heart.

It is also a kind of vow.

He does not wish such things to happen again; therefore, when he gains power, he will rescue the commoners from fire and water.

If in future I become the Green Emperor, I shall cause the peach blossoms to bloom together with me.

"The heir apparent possesses great talent."

An elderly scholar spoke, bowing deeply and respectfully to Gu Jin Nian.

And at this very moment, the paper fluttered, releasing strands of warmth that dispelled all cold.

The rustling west wind also ceased at this moment.

The golden sun shone, pouring down endless warmth; in an instant, the entire Bai Lu Fu transformed into a mortal paradise, spring warm and flowers blooming.

A figure appeared, radiant and brilliant—this is the God of Spring, arriving with spring.

Peach blossoms bloomed one after another, accompanying the chrysanthemums.

Waves of laughter and joyful voices also rose at this moment—the laughter of children, who, like peach blossoms, blossomed at this moment.

This was like a divine miracle.

The commoners were dumbfounded, as were all people.

This is an immortal poem.

Terrifying talent surged into Gu Jin Nian's body; within the Wen Mansion, another star appeared.

The poem was completed.

Gu Jin Nian entered the prison cart, sat cross-legged, and uttered no further words.

This poem expressed his inner aspirations and everything he wished to convey.

The commoners are like chrysanthemums, born from bitter cold.

If I were emperor, I would bloom together with the peach blossoms.

This is all that Gu Jin Nian wished to say; myriad words are contained in this poem.

"Return to the capital."

Soon, accompanied by the sound of the Ministry of Justice.

The prison cart moved forward.

The surrounding commoners watched this scene and all knelt down in bow.

Gu Jin Nian sought justice for the people, yet ended up as a prisoner; how could the commoners not feel guilty? How could they not offer this kneeling bow?

Yesterday, Bai Lu Fu was filled with weeping.

They wept due to a human tragedy.

Today, Bai Lu Fu again was filled with weeping.

But this time they wept because of Gu Jin Nian.

The commoners spontaneously saw him off.

The streets on both sides were filled with people.

They saw Gu Jin Nian off as he left.

At the same time, they knew in their hearts that Gu Jin Nian's return this time was likely to end in disaster.

The prison carriage moved slowly.

Not far away, Yaochi Fairy, Yunrou Fairy, Su Huaiyu, and Wang Fugui and others stood at the city gate waiting for Gu Jin Nian.

They were to return to the capital with Gu Jin Nian, but Wang Fugui and the others still needed a period of recuperation and had to reach the capital early.

For now they were only seeing Gu Jin Nian off.

Gu Jin Nian's fifth and sixth uncles were also waiting at the city gate.

Waiting for the prison carriage to arrive at the city gate.

The figure of the sixth uncle had already come forward.

"Jin Nian, I will stay here with your fifth uncle; after we return to the capital, you need not worry about anything—old master will take care of everything."

Gu Ningya spoke, and his single sentence reassured Gu Jin Nian.

"Jin Nian, you haven't brought shame upon our Gu Family."

"Go back with peace of mind; the fifth uncle will handle matters here properly."

Gu Leng spoke, reached into the prison carriage, patted Gu Jin Nian's shoulder, and steadied him.

"Alright."

Inside the carriage, Gu Jin Nian nodded at the two, then glanced at Yaochi Fairy and the others, offering a smile.

The few also smiled, returning Gu Jin Nian's smile.

And at that moment.

Not far away, a crowd of commoners gathered, led by an old woman who leaned on a cane, clutching a garment, and stepped before Gu Jin Nian's carriage to speak.

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"This garment was sewn for you from fragments of the children's clothes."

"We cannot repay today's kindness; even in the next life we will be oxen and horses, still repaying your grace, Crown Prince."

The old woman began speaking, and as she finished, people helped her kneel; many commoners knelt before the carriage.

The Ministry of Justice official leading the group, upon seeing this, immediately stepped down from his carriage, hurriedly helped the people up, then took the Hundred-Stitch Robe, his eyes filled with shock and admiration.

A piece of the children's former clothing was cut off and sewn into a new garment.

Although the garment was extremely ordinary, its significance was immense.

Inside the carriage, Gu Jin Nian rose and bowed to the crowd.

He also received the Hundred-Stitch Robe.

A simple piece of clothing, yet as heavy as a mountain—over six thousand fragments stitched together—its symbolism was profound.

Thus.

The prison carriage continued onward.

It slowly drove out of the city.

Then it raced toward the capital.

The carriage did not go fast, mainly for fear that Gu Jin Nian would be uncomfortable inside.

The others dared not increase the speed.

Along the way, when people saw the Ministry of Justice's prison carriage, they instinctively stepped aside, but upon learning who was inside, they could not help but feel solemn respect.

Even when passing some prefectural towns, the commoners, hearing the sound, came rushing.

Some commoners even prepared fine dishes and rice, sending them especially to Gu Jin Nian.

Officials from various regions also came to personally see Gu Jin Nian off.

Some wandering martial men, upon hearing the news, voluntarily appeared to guard Gu Jin Nian.

The matter of the White Heron Residence.

In these days, the story spread throughout Da Xia, and even reached the Xiongnu Nation, the Fuyu Dynasty, and the Great Jin Dynasty.

Although the nations tried to suppress the news, they could not silence the people's tongues.

Even foreigners, upon hearing of Gu Jin Nian's deeds, could not help but weep and praise him as a paragon.

Setting aside national identities, how could Gu Jin Nian's actions not move people? Yet the most intense reactions came from Da Xia.

The entire Da Xia knew of this, and officials admired Gu Jin Nian's devotion to the people, while despising the inaction of the White Heron Residence.

Some scholars even wrote poems praising Gu Jin Nian; not lacking elder scholars, many distinguished figures also commented, extolling his deeds.

Nevertheless.

One thing was clear to everyone.

Gu Jin Nian's service to the people indeed had no major flaw.

The intention was certainly good.

But ultimately he trampled the state foundation, and for days the court has been embroiled in endless debate over the matter.

Some also stepped forward, believing Gu Jin Nian acted for the people, thus hoping the Ministry of Justice would show clemency—punishment permissible, but not too severe.

But most officials still thought the case was too far‑reaching, its impact too deep.

A nation without law has no foundation.

Although Gu Jin Nian acted for a region's people, he violated state law and overstepped ancient conventions; this is a capital crime.

Moreover, Da Xia, all the feudal princes and countless officials were watching.

At that moment, the Ministry of Justice faced the greatest pressure.

The choice before them was simply life or death.

Not killing would shake the foundations of the state; feudal lords and princes, officials big and small of the Da Xia Dynasty—could they later follow suit? If such a thing really happened, would there be no need to report to the court, as long as one is doing something for the people, doing whatever one wants? Even if the court later issued an imperial edict, could you simply ignore it?

There is a saying: "When the general is away, the sovereign's orders may not be obeyed."

But this refers to special circumstances, critical moments, and although the saying goes that way, throughout history, aside from generals who want to rebel, which general would truly dare to do so?

If one really did so, even if they achieved monumental merit, upon returning their fate would likely be quite ugly.

But if one were to kill...

Wouldn't that chill the hearts of the people? And who stands behind Gu Jin Nian—how could the Ministry of Justice not know? Because of this matter, the Minister of Justice has been worried for a long time; in the end he really had no choice but to go seek an audience with His Majesty, hoping to obtain an answer.

But after the audience, the Minister of Justice left the palace with a heavy expression.

His Majesty only said one sentence.

Handle the case according to law.

His Majesty had spoken; the Minister of Justice naturally had no other thoughts, yet whether to kill or not, this matter greatly affects Da Xia.

Returning to the Minister's office.

The Minister of Justice looked at the case file before him and remained silent for a long time.

Finally he took a deep breath, picked up his brush, dipped it in cinnabar ink, and left several characters on the case file.

【Summary Execution】

This is his comment.

Summary Execution.

He could only do this; it was a helpless solution.

After the case file was approved, Xu Ping let out a long sigh.

He then handed the case file to his subordinates to be sent to the palace, awaiting His Majesty's final approval.

He walked out of the Minister's office.

Xu Ping gazed at the chrysanthemums in the courtyard, somewhat silent, and finally spoke slowly.

"In the future, if I become the Blue Emperor, I shall bloom together with the peach blossoms."

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, truly peerless under heaven."

"I, an old man, feel ashamed."

Xu Ping felt moved; he admired Gu Jin Nian from the bottom of his heart, although standing in his position, he too had judged Gu Jin Nian to await execution after autumn.

But Gu Jin Nian's actions evoked his sincere admiration.

Marquis of Linyang, truly he has raised a fine son.

Duke of Zhen Guo, truly he also has a fine grandson.

The case file was sent off.

And at this very moment.

In the Prime Minister's residence.

Li Shan stood in the study, slowly put brush to paper, and wrote down the poem Gu Jin Nian composed at White Egret Manor.

In the end, his brush slowly fell.

His eyes were utterly calm.

"Do you intend to win the people's hearts thereby?"

"Impossible."

He muttered to himself, his eyes filled with various thoughts.

And at the same time.

Western Border Prefecture.

In a huge palace, King Qilin held a jade pendant, looking at the poem presented by a servant.

His gaze showed utter coldness.

And from within the palace, a voice slowly sounded.

"Your Lordship."

"Gu Jin Nian has once again ruined our plans; if we have no countermeasure now, I fear it will be difficult to accomplish our great undertaking."

The voice rang out—it was a man in black standing in the palace, who said:

"You've gone too far."

King Qilin looked at the man in black and said coldly:

Feeling King Qilin's gaze, the latter showed no fear whatsoever, and instead spoke slowly.

"Your Lordship, it is not that we have been excessive, but rather that a man must be ruthless."

"If we do not do this, the Da Xia Dynasty will surely soar to great heights, and the ruler's position will also become as stable as a mountain."

"Please, Your Lordship, understand."

The latter spoke up, feeling no guilt whatsoever about what happened at White Egret Manor, and instead believed that a man must be ruthless.

"Hmph."

King Qilin gave a cold snort, obviously displeased.

But after a while, his voice sounded again.

"No matter what, you must cease your actions."

"The court will certainly take this seriously; later, they will follow the vine to melon, and your schemes will all come to naught."

"What must be done now is to mobilize all forces and order the death of Gu Jin Nian."

"He is about to win the people's hearts."

"If he gains the people's hearts, thereafter no one will be able to contend with him; we cannot let him grow."

「The things this prince ought to do have also been finished; let your people behind also exert their full effort; if Gu Jin Nian does not die this time, our cooperation, this prince will have to reconsider. 」

Qi Lin Wang spoke.

Regarding the Bai Lu Fu matter, he participated, but he indeed does not know the specific situation; he merely sheltered many people.

If he had known it was such a situation, he would not have participated.

This is the last trace of conscience in the heart.

But matters have come to this point; letting him give up is naturally impossible; only the final step remains; if there is an opportunity, he still wants to try and struggle.

「Please, Prince, rest assured. 」

The latter nodded, then turned and left.

After he left, a hint of hesitation also appeared in Qi Lin Wang's eyes.

Until the next day.

Da Xia Capital.

The sky had not yet brightened.

Many commoners had already risen early.

Today, they knew that a person called Gu Jin Nian was to be escorted back to the capital.

The commoners waited along the route they must pass.

They wanted to see Gu Jin Nian.

These past days, the Bai Lu Fu matter has been hotly discussed in the capital, with everyone feeling indignant about Gu Jin Nian's plight.

They believed that Gu Jin Nian wholeheartedly served the people, yet he unfortunately ended up imprisoned.

But the people are insignificant and their words carry little weight, so they can effect no change.

Thus, at the Yin hour, the prison wagon slowly appeared, entering the commoners' sight.

The prison wagon arrived.

The commoners all looked over.

Inside the prison wagon.

Gu Jin Nian sat cross-legged calmly; these days he has appeared calm and spoken little.

He was also contemplating many principles in his heart.

The matter of Jiang Ling Commandery.

The matter of Bai Lu Fu.

Too many things, causing him to involuntarily reflect.

For some unknown reason, Gu Jin Nian gradually came to understand some principles; he was pondering whether he should Establishing Speech.

But in the end he shook his head.

Although he had endured hardship.

But he had not yet fully comprehended the truth; he still needed some supplementation, and also some inner acceptance.

Otherwise, not following his heart, he could not truly Establishing Speech.

Establish the words of life.

「His Highness the Crown Prince, we have arrived at the capital. 」

The voice of the Ministry of Punishments clerk sounded, reminding Gu Jin Nian.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian gradually came to his senses, his gaze upon the capital's commoners.

The commoners came in groups, among whom were many scholars.

These scholars, looking at Gu Jin Nian, were as if gazing upon a sage; their eyes filled with admiration.

「May the Crown Prince live ten thousand years. 」

In the crowd, it was unknown who shouted a cry.

The next moment, a deafening sound followed.

「May the Crown Prince live ten thousand years. 」

Voices rose one after another, this sound gathering like a sea, shaking the heavens.

Whether commoners or scholars, they had long heard of Gu Jin Nian's deeds.

Today they merely expressed it from the heart, uttering a cry of 'May the Crown Prince live ten thousand years.'

Faced with such praise, Gu Jin Nian's heart was extremely calm; what he did was not merely to gain acclaim.

The prison wagon proceeded slowly, Gu Jin Nian utterly calm.

But just at this moment.

A procession appeared.

The leader was Liu Yan, who brought some palace guards and blocked the prison wagon.

Then he slowly unfurled the imperial edict and spoke.

「By the Mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: 」

「Crown Prince Gu Jin Nian, eliminating harm for the people, rescuing the commoners of Bai Lu Fu from water and fire, this is an immortal merit, serving as a model for scholars worldwide. 」

「However, Crown Prince Gu Jin Nian, defying the edict, disrespectful, overstepping the foundations of the state, acting recklessly, although understandable, state law cannot be chaotic, merit and fault cannot offset each other; therefore, the Ministry of Punishments shall file the case, sentencing Crown Prince Gu Jin Nian to be beheaded in seven days at the western gate vegetable market. 」

「Not to be altered, not to be pardoned, so ordered. 」

The voice sounded.

Liu Yan lowered the imperial edict.

Yet the surrounding commoners could not help but erupt in an uproar.

A death sentence?

Who could have imagined that Gu Jin Nian would actually be ordered to die?

They knew that although Gu Jin Nian had saved the common people this time, he had also caused a great disaster.

They understood that the court would surely punish Gu Jin Nian severely, but they never expected that he would be ordered to die—and that the execution would be carried out in just seven days.

This timing is too fast, isn't it?

"Why so swift? The actions of His Highness the Crown Prince need to be weighed; how can a decision be made this quickly? Is this how the court handles cases?"

Some scholars could not hold back and spoke up, questioning Liu Yan.

"Is this the Ministry of Justice? Officials of White Egret Prefecture committed heinous crimes yet are slowly interrogated, while His Highness the Crown Prince, who eliminated harm for the people, merely overstepped regulations and is directly sentenced to death—where is the justice?"

"We cannot accept this; His Highness the Crown Prince is blameless and must not be executed."

"Yes, must not be executed."

Voices rose one after another; they were some scholars who, upon hearing of the seven-day interrogation and execution, could no longer bear it.

They spoke up, wanting to voice their support for Gu Jin Nian.

Not only them, but even these commoners could not help but speak out, voicing their grievance for Gu Jin Nian.

Facing the crowd's clamor, Liu Yan said nothing, but quickly stepped forward and handed the imperial edict to Gu Jin Nian.

"The student receives the edict."

Inside the prison cart, Gu Jin Nian received the edict, and upon hearing the decree, his heart remained calm.

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"The prison may be somewhat bitter and cold; please endure it a bit, for someone is watching over you, and some hardships must be endured."

Liu Yan spoke, reminding Gu Jin Nian with a sentence.

"Thank you."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

He also didn't say anything more.

Thus, amidst the controversy of countless commoners.

The prison cart headed toward the capital's great prison, which is located in the northern city.

The prison cells were stern and strict.

After Gu Jin Nian got off the prison cart, the warder personally came forward to greet him.

He dared not be the slightest bit negligent.

Although he knew the emperor's decree, he still dared not be the slightest bit negligent.

He is the grandson of a Duke who Defends the State, and one cannot afford to provoke him.

Entering the great prison.

Dim.

An indescribable smell permeated the air.

A stench, sweat, and some strange odors.

The great prison was extremely dim.

At the same time, it was extremely stern, with jailers constantly patrolling; each cell held serious criminals—some were officials, some were jianghu ruffians, and some were bandit chiefs.

Upon Gu Jin Nian's appearance, these people couldn't help but look over curiously, but it seemed they had been previously warned, so upon seeing Gu Jin Nian they said nothing.

Otherwise, following their usual behavior, they would probably have already started shouting.

Soon, he followed the jailer onward.

He arrived outside the prison door.

Inside, the cell was only eight chi wide and four xun deep; the room was short and narrow, but compared to other cells it was at least somewhat better, slightly clean, and obviously had been fixed up, not appearing too oppressive.

Moreover, there is a small window that lets in some light.

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"The conditions in the prison are poor; this is what we have prepared for you with our utmost ability, and we hope Your Highness will not disdain it."

The warder spoke, showing utmost respect.

"Thank you."

Gu Jin Nian walked into the cell, only said a word of thanks, then sat cross-legged.

A faint light shone down, and Gu Jin Nian closed his eyes to cultivate his spirit.

Although this place is dirty and chaotic, it nevertheless gave Gu Jin Nian sufficient quiet.

Gu Jin Nian's heart also gradually calmed.

He indeed also needed some time to settle his mind.

However, compared to the tranquility of the prison cell,

the outside world had already fallen into chaos.

The news that Gu Jin Nian had been sentenced to immediate execution spread instantly; within the capital, both commoners and scholars alike felt deeply aggrieved.

First, for the flood disaster in Jiangning Prefecture, he redressed the grievances of the people.

Second, for establishing speech in the Da Xia Dynasty, refusing marriage alliances and tribute.

Third, for the people of Jiangling Prefecture, he executed officials, already pacifying popular resentment.

These three matters were fresh in the people's minds, yet they ultimately resulted in a sentence of immediate execution.

How could this be convincing? The discussion was huge.

It also aroused tremendous popular resentment.

Within the Da Xia Academy, all students hastily wrote articles, leveraging their families' influence to petition for Gu Jin Nian.

Scholars in the capital also felt moved, jointly signing a petition, hoping the emperor would show mercy beyond the law and pardon Gu Jin Nian's fault.

And the Prince Zhen Guo's residence.

It also became a huge uproar; Gu Jin Nian's mother, Princess Ningyue, wailed and cried to heaven, wanting to go see her own son.

Inside the Da Xia Imperial Palace.

Upon hearing this, the Empress Dowager flew into a rage and personally went to find Emperor Yongsheng.

It became a huge commotion.

It can be said that almost everyone who knew Gu Jin Nian tried to help him, hoping the emperor would show mercy.

But these were not enough.

Whether it was Prince Zhen Guo, the Empress Dowager, or these scholars jointly petitioning, this was insufficient for an extraordinary pardon outside the law.

Inside the Yangxin Hall.

Emperor Yongsheng also ran into trouble.

More precisely, he faced pressure.

In the Da Xia Dynasty, the eight princes personally submitted memorials, requesting to come to the capital to oversee Gu Jin Nian's execution.

They were ready to set out at any moment; the official documents for their journey to the capital had already been handed over to the Ministry of Rites, and now it was just a matter of whether he would approve—once approved, the eight princes would immediately enter the capital.

Their purpose in entering the capital is simple.

Namely, to suppress public opinion and force the court to give an explanation.

An explanation that would convince everyone.

This matter is far more serious than imagined.

Emperor Yongsheng understood.

Someone.

Really wanted Gu Jin Nian dead.

To that end, he immediately had someone fetch Su Wenjing.

Facing the matter of the eight princes entering the capital, Emperor Yongsheng also truly felt an unprecedented pressure.

Su Wenjing entered the palace again.

Upon hearing the news of the eight princes' entry into the capital, Su Wenjing was also somewhat surprised.

"Your Majesty."

"This is an unprecedented challenge."

"Regarding imperial authority."

"Regarding popular sentiment."

"Regarding the Confucian Way."

"If we survive this calamity, unimaginable things will happen."

Su Wenjing spoke.

This is his view.

He believes Gu Jin Nian can survive this calamity.

But Emperor Yongsheng could understand what this entailed; Su Wenjing's belief in Gu Jin Nian is not mistaken, yet he cannot continue like this, otherwise it would invite enormous trouble and ultimately end unresolved.

Therefore, Emperor Yongsheng immediately sent someone to summon Prince Zhen Guo.

But Prince Zhen Guo did not come.

In a moment, Emperor Yongsheng understood Prince Zhen Guo's meaning.

This calamity.

I fear only Gu Jin Nian himself can pull through.

Or perhaps.

One must face a choice.

A tremendous choice.

At the critical moment, the only person in the Da Xia Dynasty who can help Gu Jin Nian is him alone.

Whether Prince Zhen Guo comes or not, it truly makes no difference.

Thinking this, Emperor Yongsheng took a deep breath.

"Mr. Wenjing."

"Go to the capital prison."

"Tell Jin Nian."

"Have him strive for a chance for me."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke.

His words end here.

Afterwards, he approved the memorial for the eight princes' entry into the capital.

Approved.