Chapter 119: The Kong Family Neglected, Gu Jin Nian Seeks Investment, the Yong Sheng Emperor's Disdain

As Wang Fu Gui's voice sounded outside.

Gu Jin Nian's brow furrowed slightly.

Mr. Wenjing had only said it a day ago, and the Kong Family already came? They're really impatient.

He got up, opened the door, hid these drawings in his sleeve, and then slowly spoke.

"Brother Wang, come with me."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, paying no attention to the Kong Family's matter, and instead led Wang Fu Gui away.

"Where are we going?"

"Brother Gu."

Wang Fu Gui was a little curious.

"First come with me, I have something to tell you."

Gu Jin Nian didn't answer directly, walking ahead before speaking.

At that moment, the two left the academy, and Wang Fu Gui continued speaking.

"Brother Gu, the Kong Family has come this time, bringing many gifts, and many people have come with them—all scholars from various places, gathered in the main hall. We've been guessing that the Kong Family surely has no good intentions."

"They're likely after the sacred instruments."

Wang Fu Gui also saw this clearly, and he told Gu Jin Nian about the Kong Family's purpose.

"I know."

Gu Jin Nian answered lightly, not worrying at all about the Kong Family demanding the sacred instruments—first, he wouldn't give them; second, many people don't want him to give them.

Just like his maternal uncle.

The Kong Family already has three sacred instruments; would his maternal uncle allow them to control a fourth?

Not to mention his maternal uncle; even the emperors of the Fuyu Dynasty and Great Jin Dynasty would surely not want the Kong Family to dominate.

What benefits have been taken? Of course, there's also a possibility: the Kong Family has offered a condition, one that would satisfy all the major dynasties.

Otherwise, the art of balance is something all major dynasties understand.

"Brother Gu, I think they've come with great force this time; we should retreat for a while. During this period, you return to the Duke's Manor, and they wouldn't dare go there to cause you trouble."

Wang Fu Gui continued speaking.

Gu Jin Nian shook his head.

"Brother Wang, you don't need to worry about this; I have a way to resolve it."

"I called you here this time to discuss something with you."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; besides finding Wang Fu Gui, there was another main matter, and the Kong Family's affair was nothing.

"What is it?"

Wang Fu Gui saw Gu Jin Nian looking serious, so he didn't beat around the bush and asked directly.

"I plan to start a business, needing startup funds; I have some on hand, but still lack much, intending to pull you in as a partner—are you interested?"

Gu Jin Nian said directly.

"Start a business?" Wang Fu Gui froze for a moment, then immediately spoke.

"Sure, but Brother Gu, if you're short on silver, just tell me; I'll ask my dad and get you a sum."

Wang Fu Gui was indeed a bit stunned, after all Gu Jin Nian's poetry and prose are invincible, and he is also a Great Summer Noble; saying Gu Jin Nian is extraordinarily talented, he has nothing to say, yet doing business still seems somewhat unconvincing to him.

He subconsciously thought Gu Jin Nian was short on silver.

Everyone actually knows that Gu Jin Nian is greedy for wealth.

"No, I'm really going into business."

"Take a look first."

Gu Jin Nian took out his business plan from his sleeve and handed it to Wang Fu Gui.

The two proceeded on their way.

After leaving the academy, what was once an open space now had houses built, heavily guarded.

No one knew what this was for; even the Great Scholars of the Da Xia Academy didn't know what was going on.

All that is known is that the Emperor, with a sweeping gesture, sealed off this land; over the past period, more than two thousand artisans, plus some civilians, came in succession to build the houses.

Now the houses have been built, and the Ministry of War has sent personnel to guard them—no one may leave without a special permit, and even exiting requires one, extremely strict.

The capital's nobles all know about this, but none know what it's for.

Arriving here, Gu Jin Nian handed over the token to the guards, who immediately let him through.

Upon entering.

The sounds of hammering iron were incessant.

Soon an official from the Ministry of Works arrived—a Vice Minister of Works, over fifty, in official robes, running up to Gu Jin Nian.

"Official Wu Zhou Fu pays his respects to the Crown Prince."

Wu Zhou Fu spoke, bowing deeply to Gu Jin Nian.

"Mr. Wu, you're too kind."

Gu Jin Nian smiled slightly, then surveyed the area.

It covers nearly a thousand mu, with many houses built for the artisans to live in.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, construction is nearly complete here; only the furnaces and workshops remain to be built, while everything else is basically finished."

"The furnaces and workshops can be completed within fifteen days."

Wu Zhou Fu spoke, staying by Gu Jin Nian's side, reporting the situation.

The speed is quite fast, not too slow; this is acceptable.

"Mr. Wu, you've worked hard."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, then took out several drawings and handed them to Wu Zhou Pu.

"Lord Wu, these are the drawings made by this heir apparent; they record the refining process, including the quenching method."

"Once the furnace and workshop are ready, immediately get to work."

"As for these drawings, assign some young artisans to study and refine them."

"This heir apparent has also written the process in them."

"If there are any results, report them to this heir apparent immediately; do not delay in the slightest."

"Moreover, during this period, no one is allowed to leave, whoever they are, unless there is an earth-shattering matter."

"If anyone does go out, they must also be guarded by soldiers."

"For each drawing, let different people refine the process in batches; under no circumstances may the information be leaked."

"Of course, the monthly stipend will be tripled; when the time comes, request funds from the Ministry of Revenue."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up and issued the order.

The drawings he produced are very detailed; of course, to keep them secret, he concealed the final step himself. After they are perfected, it will likely take some time, and even if they were really leaked, the other party would not grasp the core technique.

One must not harbor harmful intent, but one must not lack defensive vigilance.

"I, the subordinate, will obey the order."

"Please rest assured, Your Highness the heir apparent."

Wu Zhou Pu spoke up; he had not yet seen Gu Jin Nian's drawings, but hearing that the artisans would receive triple the stipend put his mind at ease.

After all, gathering so many people here and not letting them leave is, frankly, somewhat undesirable.

But with the stipend tripled, it becomes much easier to say.

In the Da Xia Dynasty, artisans' stipends are not small: thirty taels of silver per month plus two dan of fine rice.

Tripling that gives ninety taels of silver plus six dan of fine rice—this is no small sum.

As long as the silver is in place, everything can be discussed.

"Good, Lord Wu, you have worked hard."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, said no more, casually entered a civilian house, and then had Wu Zhou Pu go notify the relevant parties.

Inside the civilian house.

Gu Jin Nian poured a bowl of tea, utterly calm.

About a quarter of an hour later.

Wang Fugui's voice sounded.

"This business looks good."

Gu Jin Nian had been waiting, waiting for Wang Fugui's reaction.

Since Gu Jin Nian handed the items to Wang Fugui, Wang Fugui has been intently examining them.

Gu Jin Nian's plan for the Da Xia sleepless city— the more he looked at it, the more he felt it had promise, the more he found it interesting.

After he had finished examining it thoroughly, Wang Fugui raised his head and looked at Gu Jin Nian.

"Brother Gu."

"How on earth did your head grow like this? I feel you can do anything—you can even think up so many interesting things for business."

Wang Fugui was full of excitement; as a merchant's son, his studies might be average, but he still has a keen sense for business.

If Gu Jin Nian's plan succeeds, he will surely make a huge profit.

"Brother Wang, tell me, what are the advantages and disadvantages of this plan?"

Gu Jin Nian brought Wang Fugui along, not only because Wang Fugui's family has money, but mainly because he wanted to see what insight Wang Fugui had—after all, being a merchant's son, he has picked up some knowledge through exposure.

I myself merely look at problems from a macro perspective, so many things inevitably give me a feeling of taking them for granted.

But Wang Fugui is different, having been in trade, he certainly has a different perspective.

"Give me a moment to think."

Wang Fugui thought seriously while examining the drawings; after nearly an hour, he finally spoke.

"Brother Gu, I have some clumsy opinions that might not be very good; I hope you won't be angry."

Wang Fugui spoke.

"Just speak plainly; am I the kind of person with a narrow mind?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at Wang Fugui and urged him to speak frankly.

"First."

"Brother Gu intends to gather goods together for the people to select; this is a good idea, but Yangzhou has seen it before—business boomed at first, then later it didn't work out."

"The reasons are simply two: transportation problems and too many petty thieves; these two issues, Your Highness the heir apparent must think through clearly—opening in the capital is still fine, as long as theft is strictly controlled."

"But this transportation problem is troublesome; I don't know how Brother Gu intends to solve it."

Wang Fugui spoke up, raising the first key issue.

"Transportation issue."

"Travel on the official roads, build broad roads."

Gu Jin Nian took a sip of tea and said calmly.

He also knows transportation is a major problem, but if they can use the official roads, it would be several times faster than normal transport.

Using the official roads for transport is something other merchants cannot do.

Of course, even using official roads for transport is still troublesome, but Gu Jin Nian does not actually intend to turn this into a department store; the Da Xia Dynasty has everything.

We just need to select goods based on transportation and output standards, etc.; as long as we have more variety than all the shops currently on the market, the problem is not big.

"\"Official road transport? Your Highness the heir apparent, I fear the Emperor will not agree. \""

Wang Fugui couldn't help but wryly smile, feeling that Gu Jin Nian was somewhat daydreaming.

Official roads, aside from military emergencies and grain transport, are basically off‑limits; ordinary civilians may only walk along the sides of the road and may not set foot on the road itself.

"You don't need to worry about this; once I say it, it will happen."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, appearing very confident.

"If we can use the official road to transport goods, the problem isn't big."

Wang Fugui nodded, and a look of amazement appeared in his eyes.

"Second."

"His Highness the Crown Prince presumably wants to attract the populace through such department stores; that part is fine. If it opens, it may be swamped with crowds, but that can only be sustained for a while—once the novelty wears off, the business will likely dwindle."

"So His Highness the Crown Prince set up several subsequent ventures: a restaurant‑inn, and also some high‑end recreational venues."

"The problem is that the details aren't specified, so I, the junior brother, can't judge."

Wang Fugui spoke; his words were still restrained—he dared not point out the issue directly, but it was a reminder.

Gu Jin Nian understood; Wang Fugui's concern was that using a supermarket concept to draw customers is fine, but whatever the subsequent consumer center or restaurant may be, if it's done well and creates a closed loop, that would be perfect.

If the restaurant‑inn or high‑end consumer center isn't handled well, it will be half‑dead, and any loss may be negligible.

"But don't think you can make money by merely hanging on a breath."

"The Crown Prince already has an idea, but cannot articulate it at the moment."

"Brother Wang, as things stand, will you join this venture or not?"

"Honestly, don't join just because I, the junior brother, have a certain status and you think you can earn silver; if you think you won't earn silver, then let it be, otherwise it will damage our harmony."

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Join."

Wang Fugui said almost nothing else and joined outright.

Although this venture appears to have many problems, fundamentally it can earn silver.

Whether a small business can earn silver depends on the quality of its goods.

Whether a large business can earn silver depends on how solid its connections are.

Doing business with Gu Jin Nian guarantees no loss; to put it bluntly, who would dare trouble Gu Jin Nian?

This venture may not make a huge profit, but it will certainly be substantial.

Having received Wang Fugui's answer, Gu Jin Nian stopped being verbose.

"Alright, I've calculated this venture; roughly six hundred thousand taels of gold in total."

"I will invest two hundred thousand taels of gold, taking a fifty‑percent profit share and retaining decision‑making power; the remaining four hundred thousand taels will be divided into fifty 'chunks', each chunk equal to ten thousand taels, with a maximum of two chunks per person, ten chunks held in reserve for certain special individuals."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, took a sip of tea, and said.

One chunk equals ten thousand taels; Gu Jin Nian allocated fifty chunks, meaning twenty‑five to fifty people can join. Naturally, Gu Jin Nian hopes the number will keep growing, so the benefiting team becomes larger.

Then, even if we encounter enemies, it won't be just me bearing the burden.

"I'll take two chunks."

"However, the junior brother needs to draft a letter to send back; can you wait three days, Gu brother?"

Wang Fugui replied, without hesitation, and took two chunks.

Twenty thousand taels of gold isn't a huge sum for his family; he can simply write a letter back. If this venture succeeds, even a loss is acceptable, as it allows him to meet more friends through Gu Jin Nian.

The partners Gu Jin Nian brings in will likely be many; with this twenty thousand taels, it will only profit, not lose.

"Fine."

"Just give it to me within seven days; we're not short of anything right now."

"However, regarding this matter, I plan to start construction next month, and I need you, Brother Wang, to do me a favor during this period."

"Recruit a batch of workers and begin training; I've already prepared all the training methods, so you can oversee it."

"The training lasts three to six months; better to have fewer but quality than many. During training, wages are settled at market rates; after formal construction begins, salaries will be double the usual labor rate."

"Meals and lodging are fully provided; recruit another batch of elderly women to do laundry and cooking, and they only need to study wholeheartedly."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

The Da Xia Nevernight City project must be pushed forward quickly; the earlier it's completed, the sooner we earn silver.

If construction starts next month, the infrastructure alone will take about half a year, and that half‑year can be used for training; otherwise, even after opening, last‑minute hiring will be chaotic.

Taking the blueprints, Wang Fugui examined them carefully; after a while, he couldn't help but frown and say.

"Gu brother."

"I can understand everything else, but what does 'essential‑oil back‑push' mean?"

Wang Fugui was somewhat curious.

"Later, follow the instructions above and have a woman help you; then you'll understand."

"Also, tell the people of Qilin Pavilion that, combined, their total assets likely amount to only one chunk; ask if they want it. If they decline, Qilin Pavilion will take two chunks and will receive a dividend each year from future profits."

"That's enough; I have other matters. You go back to the academy first; we'll discuss anything else when I return."

Gu Jin Nian stood up; with Wang Fugui settled here, everything else is easy.

He still has other business and must leave first.

"Fine."

Wang Fugui also didn't waste words, and left together with Gu Jin Nian.

As Wang Fugui left, Gu Jin Nian had only taken a few steps when a figure appeared behind him.

It was the figure of Su Huaiyu.

He materialized unnoticed beside him.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, the Kong family, accompanied by Great Scholars from across the lands, are waiting for you in the academy's main hall; Mr. Wen Jing asked me to inform you that, if there's no urgent matter, it would be best to meet."

Su Huaiyu's voice rang out, stating his purpose.

"Let them wait for now; I still have matters to attend to."

Gu Jin Nian paid no heed.

"The Kong family arrived; do you intend to go over yourself?"

"Why?"

"What do you think you are? Summoned at a breath, waved away at a breath?"

"Oh."

Su Huaiyu nodded, said nothing, and quietly followed Gu Jin Nian.

Soon.

Entered the capital city.

Gu Jin Nian headed straight for the Qin King Mansion.

Arriving at the Qin King Mansion required no notice; the staff, upon seeing Gu Jin Nian, immediately gave a respectful welcome.

However, the Qin King was temporarily absent, Da Xia was about to mobilize troops, Grandfather Gu would depart tomorrow, and Li Sui had been assisting the elder in the barracks these past few days.

Learning that the Qin King was away, Gu Jin Nian did not stay for tea.

He turned and left, heading straight into the Imperial Palace.

But he was not seeking the Emperor; he went to the Crown Prince's Residence.

Just upon arriving at the Crown Prince's Residence.

He heard Li Ji's shout.

"Father, I've been staying at home for half a month; can't you let me go out?"

Accompanied by Li Ji's wailing cries.

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat surprised.

Since the White Heron Mansion sent Li Ji back, he truly hadn't seen him.

"After the great‑grandson returned with news, he was placed under house arrest in the Crown Prince's Residence."

"It was the Crown Prince's order."

Su Huaiyu explained the reason.

"Oh."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; evidently the Crown Prince did not want Li Ji involved, which was understandable, since the Crown Prince had been stripped of regent authority, making it difficult for him to appear in many matters.

Whatever the involvement, it would stir controversy.

Inaction was the best choice.

He ignored Li Ji's wailing cries.

Gu Jin Nian entered the Crown Prince's Residence and instructed the internal eunuchs to report his arrival.

Before long, the Crown Prince briskly approached, his face beaming with an exceedingly simple and kind smile.

"Brother Jin Nian."

"Long time no see."

"What wind blew you over here?"

The Crown Prince was delighted, but when his gaze fell on Gu Jin Nian's empty hands and saw no gift, he seemed slightly disappointed.

"Your humble younger brother has seen the Crown Prince."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his face full of smiles.

"No need for courtesy; just call me elder brother. 'Crown Prince' sounds awkward, awkward."

"Jin Nian, younger brother, you came today—there's something, right?"

Crown Prince Li Gao smiled warmly at Gu Jin Nian, also guessing that Gu Jin Nian had come with some matter to discuss.

"Elder brother is clever."

"Actually it's not a big deal; there's a business I want to discuss with you, to see if you have any ideas."

Gu Jin Nian didn't dawdle and stated his intention directly.

"Oh? I'd like to hear the details."

The Crown Prince didn't waste words, leading Gu Jin Nian into the inner hall.

After entering the inner hall, Gu Jin Nian directly briefed the Crown Prince on the plan, speaking for about half an hour in total.

After finishing his explanation,

Li Gao pondered carefully, his eyes briefly flashing surprise before quickly regaining composure.

Then, with a smiling face, he said,

"This business looks good."

"Brother, I have an idea."

"However, one chou of ten thousand taels of gold is a bit pricey; some tasks could be handled by you, brother. Two chou of ten thousand taels of gold, plus your sister‑in‑law and nephew each taking two chou, makes a total of thirty thousand taels of gold—how does that sound?"

The Crown Prince truly lived up to his title; his accounting skill was sharp, instantly seeing the profit in this deal.

Moreover, he also recognized the technical equity, demanding two chou for ten thousand taels of gold.

He even factored in the Crown Princess and Li Ji.

That's really impressive.

"Since elder brother has spoken, your humble younger brother naturally agrees."

Gu Jin Nian didn't mind; a slightly smaller amount of silver was fine, since six hundred thousand taels of gold was the highest he had calculated.

To be truthful, it may not yield that much, but with the Crown Prince's backing, any profit is irrelevant.

"Indeed, we are family after all."

Fine, once this matter is settled, I'll send the bank notes over, brother.

The crown prince spoke.

"It's a small matter."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; since the business was settled, he didn't waste words.

He directly asked to take his leave.

As for Li Ji's miserable wailing, Gu Jin Nian ignored it; the crown prince's family affairs are none of my business.

There's no way to help, even if one wanted to.

But just before he left, the crown prince immediately spoke.

"Jin Nian, you'd better go see the Empress and the Dowager Empress; they might also be interested." The crown prince hastily said, reminding Gu Jin Nian that he could also find some people.

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian nodded; indeed, bringing those two on board wouldn't be bad.

After Gu Jin Nian left,

The crown prince quickly returned to his chambers, ignoring the crown princess who was dressing inside, took out an abacus, and began frantically calculating something.

After a moment,

The crown prince swallowed.

"What's wrong?"

The crown princess beside him grew even more curious, not understanding what the crown prince was doing.

"We're going to make a fortune; this time we'll really strike it rich."

The crown prince spoke, his hands trembling.

"What kind of wealth?"

"What are you saying now?"

The crown princess stared at him oddly.

"Jin Nian just came to see me, roping me into a business."

"The principal is ten thousand taels of gold; I count two shares, I've included you and Ji'er, so you can take six shares."

"I just figured; if nothing goes wrong, if this business works out, the yearly return will be one million taels of gold."

"Based on six shares, the annual net profit would be sixty thousand taels of gold; after the first year's costs, we could distribute silver in the second year."

"So, will we strike it rich or not?"

The crown prince exclaimed excitedly.

He had roughly calculated Gu Jin Nian's business; having listened carefully, he just worked it out and found that an annual million taels of gold is really not difficult.

If I take six shares, the principal would be only thirty thousand taels, and then each year we'd split sixty thousand taels.

The first year will be at his own risk, retaining some profit to maintain or expand; the second year will surely make money.

"Sixty thousand taels of gold per year?"

The crown princess was also startled, she immediately rose.

Don't think that being the crown princess, married to the crown prince, gives her any influence before he ascends the throne.

Each month the palace treasury supplies only three thousand taels of silver for expenses; to ordinary people that's a lot, but for them it's totally insufficient.

Their lodging is okay, but food is not; they always need special meals, plus jewelry and ornaments, some clothing and silk, plus bribing subordinates; even occasional outings require silver.

Three thousand taels is totally insufficient.

If it weren't for her natal family occasionally sending gifts, they could barely scrape by; otherwise they wouldn't even dare to go out.

It's really the old man who's too harsh; the family keeps them under tight control, especially the crown prince, with countless eyes watching, so they can't take any advantage.

Moreover, Crown Prince Li Gao himself doesn't want to get involved in such trouble; if anyone sends silver, he immediately returns it and gives a stern reprimand; one could say their life isn't bitter, but it's certainly not as wonderful as outsiders imagine.

The only hope is to ascend the throne.

But ascending the throne isn't something you can just do if you want to.

If they now had an annual income of sixty thousand taels of gold, their quality of life would be completely transformed.

Sixty thousand taels of gold equals six hundred thousand taels of silver, which is fifty thousand taels of silver per month, still a legitimate income.

Suddenly, the crown princess was dumbfounded.

"Is this reliable?"

The crown princess could hardly believe it.

"Have I miscalculated?"

Li Gao showed some contempt.

"That's true."

"With such profits, why take only that much?"

Seeing Li Gao's expression, the crown princess felt reassured, but then immediately thought it was too little.

"Six shares are enough."

"This business, Jin Nian alone can't handle it, nor can we; we need a group of people to make it big."

"If we have more people, there will be more affairs; with thirty or forty joining in, as long as it's not too major, it won't cause trouble."

"Don't bother with your makeup; hurry and take a side path to see the Empress Dowager, tell her about this, and get her involved."

"If the Empress Dowager isn't willing, we'll take it ourselves; whoever gets in profits; hurry, go quickly."

The crown prince is really somewhat anxious.

With such a profitable business, he certainly couldn't not do it.

"Alright."

"Then I'll go right now."

"But how do we raise this principal?"

The Crown Princess instantly stood up, looking curious, and said.

Earning money is fine, but the principal is a bit too big.

"You go to your mother's family and get some support, shift twenty thousand taels of gold; I'll borrow a bit more, our household also has plenty of good items, we can pawn them later, and we should be able to cobble together about twenty thousand taels of gold."

"If that still fails, I'll go find Second Brother to arrange something."

"Anyway, just agree for now; we can't miss this."

Li Gao spoke up, already having a plan.

"Fine."

Soon, the Crown Princess stopped the idle talk, hurriedly rose, and took a side path to look for the Empress.

About half an hour later.

Gu Jin Nian emerged from the Fengluan Hall.

The Empress was very agreeable, directly put in two chous.

Then went again to the Empress Dowager.

The Empress Dowager was even more agreeable than the Empress, immediately agreed, but Gu Jin Nian could see that she was purely supporting him and didn't even listen to him finish his business plan.

She even took him out for a meal.

After finishing the meal, Gu Jin Nian left the palace.

Just after exiting the palace, men of the King of Qin approached, telling Gu Jin Nian that the King of Qin, upon hearing of his arrival, had promptly returned to his manor and was now waiting there for Gu Jin Nian.

Without any idle talk, Gu Jin Nian went straight to find his King of Qin older brother.

Upon meeting, the King of Qin older brother was as warmly enthusiastic as ever, insisting that Gu Jin Nian stay for a drink.

To win over the King of Qin, Gu Jin Nian stayed for a dinner.

He also relayed the business matter to the King of Qin.

The King of Qin's financial skill couldn't compare to the Crown Prince's; after listening for a while he didn't grasp it, yet he was still magnanimous, and with a sweeping gesture contributed two chous.

If Gu Jin Nian spoke up, the King of Qin could add more, but Gu Jin Nian stayed silent; the principal isn't the core, the core is the people.

Evening.

The King of Qin and Gu Jin Nian raised their cups in merriment, calling in several singing maidens who danced lightly.

They discussed matters concerning the northern campaign.

Gu Jin Nian offered no commentary, merely uttered a few brief sentences.

"What a pity—if I, older brother, could personally accompany the old master, that would be great, but now I'm the regent and can't go."

"Otherwise, we must be at the frontier, slay them all, eradicate those Xiongnu dogs entirely."

The King of Qin took a sip, and said with high spirits.

It was evident the King of Qin was showing off, flaunting his role as regent.

Gu Jin Nian's response the whole time was essentially a single sentence.

"Older brother is awesome."

It's not really a perfunctory reply; anyway the King of Qin seemed pleased.

Until deep night, the King of Qin grew increasingly animated, insisting Gu Jin Nian stay here for a day, and Su Huaiyu's voice suddenly rang out.

"Crown Prince, it's getting too late; you should go back. The Kong family has been waiting for a long time; if we keep them waiting they'll likely complain, and it's not suitable to stay overnight."

Su Huaiyu spoke softly.

Before Gu Jin Nian could respond, the King of Qin's voice sounded.

"Let them wait."

"What kind of bunch?"

"Jin Nian, just wait here; if you have the guts, bring the Kong family over to look for me."

"Damn it, giving them face? What kind of bunch are they? Jin Nian, drink—our brothers finally got together; no one should try to spoil our mood."

"When we return, brother, I'll arrange a beautiful maid for each of you to serve you."

"But Jin Nian, don't tell your family, otherwise the old master will cause trouble for me."

The King of Qin was already tipsy, berating the Kong family, and also intended to find a singing maiden for Gu Jin Nian.

But he wasn't drunk yet; otherwise he wouldn't have uttered the final line.

"This one, forget it."

"Staying over is fine, and I'm just too lazy to go back."

Gu Jin Nian smiled; it was already night, staying here made no difference.

Whether the maid is beautiful or not is irrelevant; the main point is she enjoys listening to the King of Qin's conversation.

Thus, it lasted until the Chou hour.

The King of Qin became drunk, truly let loose, and didn't hold back the wine, so he fell asleep on the spot.

Gu Jin Nian and Su Huaiyu were assigned a guest room to rest.

Both were in good moods.

Upon reaching the lodging, Su Huaiyu said to the steward.

"Please arrange my room farther away."

Su Huaiyu's remark piqued the steward's curiosity.

"I make a lot of noise when I sleep, fearing I'd disturb the Crown Prince."

Su Huaiyu spoke softly, the steward nodded, and Gu Jin Nian felt somewhat helpless.

"This guy."

Indeed, a fellow practitioner.

The two entered the guest room.

Meanwhile.

Da Xia Imperial Palace.

Inside the Yang Xin Hall.

Emperor Yong Sheng's voice rose slowly.

"Has the Kong family already arrived at Da Xia Academy?"

He spoke, asking the person below.

"Your Majesty, they arrived yesterday at the hour of Yin, but did not see the Crown Prince; the Crown Prince has come to the palace."

Wei Xian gave a reply.

"Hmph."

"Truly impatient."

"Do you intend to seize Gu Jin Nian's sacred artifact?"

"A foolish fantasy."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke coldly, then continued.

"Dispatch an additional two thousand elite soldiers to Da Xia Academy; if anyone asks, say it is to protect the safety of the Kong family."

"Also inform Gu Jin Nian that as long as no lives are lost, he may do whatever he wishes."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, issuing the decree.

"Your servant obeys the command."

Wei Xian nodded.

"Gu Jin Nian came to the palace today; for what purpose? Where is he now?"

Emperor Yong Sheng continued to ask.

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince came to the palace today; it seems to be discussing a business matter."

Wei Xian replied.

"Discussing business? What business?"

Emperor Yong Sheng was somewhat curious.

"It is what was mentioned before to Your Majesty, something about a restaurant business, I think."

"It involves the Crown Prince, the Empress, the Grand Empress Dowager, and also the Qin King as investors."

Wei Xian gave a reply.

"Restaurant business?"

"So many people invested?"

"Even the Grand Empress Dowager?"

"How much silver per investment?"

Emperor Yong Sheng asked curiously.

"Your Majesty, the news says it is ten thousand taels of gold per investment."

Wei Xian thought for a moment and conveyed the figure.

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng couldn't help but frown slightly.

"My nephew loves to act recklessly, relying on his favor to do as he pleases."

"The Crown Prince, the Empress, and the Grand Empress Dowager all agreed because they saw his favor; they fear he may not produce the silver later."

Emperor Yong Sheng was indeed somewhat depressed.

Ten thousand taels of gold per investment? That's too expensive.

A bit reckless.

"Your Majesty, it seems not; I heard the Crown Prince is very happy today, the Empress as well, and the Grand Empress Dowager's mood also seems fine, perhaps because she saw the Crown Prince."

Wei Xian thought for a moment, then answered truthfully.

"Very happy?"

"Alas, these people have all been deceived by Gu Jin Nian one by one."

"It is likely that the capital lost will be unrecoverable."

"But that's fine, it spares me from having to collect silver from me."

"Wei Xian, keep an eye on the news; if the business incurs losses, tell me immediately. If someone like the Crown Prince has to produce ten thousand taels of gold, a loss would be more painful than cutting his flesh."

"Then I will go comfort them later."

"One by one, they'll regret it."

"Especially the Crown Prince; if he had any semblance of my authority, he wouldn't be fooled by Gu Jin Nian."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

It's not that I'm dissatisfied; I just think these people are too presumptuous.

Just Gu Jin Nian, and he even makes them do business for profit?

It's clearly a trap for them.

But he wouldn't speak of it; firstly, everything Gu Jin Nian does is to gather intelligence.

Secondly, after all, he's not the one losing silver.

Thirdly, it's also to give them a harsh lesson, to open their eyes.

Suffer a small loss to learn a lasting lesson.

"Your Majesty, should we say something to the Crown Prince, give him a heads-up? I heard the Crown Prince hasn't paid the silver yet."

Wei Xian raised his head, looking at the Yongsheng Emperor and asked thus.

"No."

"Let him suffer a bit."

Yongsheng Emperor shook his head.

The latter fell silent for a moment, then said nothing more.

Basically, right?

He had met the Crown Prince today; he didn't know if the Crown Prince had a head for business, but he was definitely not stupid, and he knew in his heart whether he could make money.

If he couldn't make money, could the Crown Prince be happy like that? But he couldn't possibly go against the Emperor's words, nor could he oppose the Emperor.

Anyway, it's none of his business; better to say less.

At the same time.

Da Xia Academy.

Inside the main hall.

Forty or fifty people in the main hall had faces that grew grimmer and grimmer.

Among these forty or fifty people, some were from the Kong family, while the rest were great scholars from various places.

They had been waiting since yesterday's yin hour until now, yet they still hadn't seen Gu Jin Nian appear.

However, these great scholars had some cultivation, so they didn't say anything.

But a few younger ones couldn't help muttering.

"We've been waiting almost a day, and the heir apparent still hasn't shown himself."

"Even if you look down on us, it shouldn't be this bad, right?"

The voice rang out, drawing some looks their way.

The latter immediately shut his mouth, lowered his head and remained silent.

"Everyone, it seems the heir apparent must be busy with something."

"We should just wait patiently."

The Kong family's great scholar spoke, his expression gentle, without the slightest displeasure.

As soon as he spoke, everyone nodded and said no more.

Until the mao hour.

Some great scholars couldn't hold out and went straight to the guest rooms to rest.

But the Kong family people kept waiting here.

At the same time, they had someone help by informing Gu Jin Nian again.

Until the si hour.

Inside the Qin Prince's mansion.

Gu Jin Nian and Su Huaiyu walked out of the prince's residence.

Both were in a bad mood.

They waited all night, but Mei Ji never showed up.

But they felt embarrassed to speak up, so they could only leave in a huff.

Especially Gu Jin Nian, he had planned what to say as an opening line, but after sitting the whole night, nothing happened at all.

From now on, whoever says such things, Gu Jin Nian will smash their dog's head.

After leaving the Qin Prince's mansion.

Gu Jin Nian still didn't go to the academy; he went straight to see the Wei Prince, since whether it was familiar or not didn't matter for seeking investment.

Compared to the Qin Prince's enthusiasm, the Wei Prince was also okay; after hearing about the business, he thought for a while and finally refused.

The reason was simple.

He felt it wasn't worth it.

The Wei Prince refused, and Gu Jin Nian didn't waste words, leaving directly.

He didn't feel anything special.

Business is like that; you can't dare say you'll definitely make money.

After Gu Jin Nian left, he went to the Gu family again, talked with his father, whose stance was simple: he would support whatever business Gu Jin Nian undertook.

But the money isn't in my hands; go ask your mother.

Afterward, after staying at the Gu residence for a little over an hour, Mother Li agreed, but the money would have to wait a while before being given.

Then he went to the mansion of a duke and general who were on good terms with his grandfather, talked for a while, and recruited another four or five people into the venture.

By midnight, he found an inn and checked in casually.

The next day, Gu Jin Nian made the rounds of the six ministries, and also visited a few of his uncles.

His fifth uncle's stance was simple: not interested.

His sixth uncle was more direct: very interested, but lacking funds, he could count on getting a free ride.

As for the six ministries, it was even more straightforward.

So Title: Minister of Personnel did not see him.

The Minister of Revenue saw him, said a few words at first, then Character: He Yan excused himself on the grounds of official duties.

The Minister of Justice did not see him.

The Minister of War was busy with military affairs, sent a low-ranking official to handle things briefly and then left.

The Minister of Works warmly received Gu Jin Nian, but after sitting a while, Gu Jin Nian left.

The reason is simple: the Ministry of Works is poor, but other departments at least serve good tea.

The Ministry of Works directly takes tea leaves that outside cost a few taels of silver for ten-odd catties, pours boiling water over them, and drinks it straight.

With such conditions, what business is there to talk about?

It must be said, Da Xia's finances are truly insufficient; this gang of aristocrats is also poor.

Of course, it's also possible that these people are hiding it.

However, no matter what, this trip's harvest is still not small.

Thus.

Three days have already passed.

At this moment, Da Xia Academy appears very gloomy.

Gu Jin Nian just walked out of the inn.

Jiang Yezhou quickly came over.

"Brother Gu."

"The academy is already in an uproar."

Jiang Yezhou's face showed some anxiety; upon seeing Gu Jin Nian from the inn, he stepped forward and spoke.