Chapter 128: Kong Family Banquet, a verbal battle among scholars—this thunderbolt-handed great scholar can handle it; if there's busi

Evening.

Inside the Royal Prince of Yu's mansion.

At this very moment, in the elegant chamber, the Royal Prince of Yu personally poured a cup of tea for Gu Jin Nian, and Zhang Shi was also present.

This shows how highly the Royal Prince of Yu values Gu Jin Nian.

However, calling Zhang Shi over was actually a roundabout way of telling Gu Jin Nian that he is one of our own and can be trusted completely.

"Jin Nian, have some tea; you drank so much alcohol outside earlier, have some tea to soothe your throat."

The Royal Prince of Yu chuckled and handed the tea cup to Gu Jin Nian.

"Uncle, how can I let you pour tea for me."

Gu Jin Nian quickly took it and said,

"Don't be polite."

"We're family; why all the fuss?"

The Royal Prince of Yu was a bit displeased and immediately looked at Zhang Shi, saying,

"You make the tea."

Towards his son-in-law, the Royal Prince of Yu was not polite, but Zhang Shi was well-behaved and dared not act recklessly in front of the Royal Prince of Yu.

Immediately afterwards, the Royal Prince of Yu sat in the grand master's chair, looked at Gu Jin Nian, and said,

"Jin Nian, my nephew, to be frank, you came this time because the Fourth Brother—oh, that is His Majesty—had already written me a letter asking me to look after you well."

"Everyone knows that I am closest to His Majesty; you can trust me completely."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke first, informing him of this matter.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian finally understood why the Royal Prince of Yu had been relatively courteous toward him all along.

After all, logically the Royal Prince of Yu's relationship with the Kong family should be close, yet he showed extra care for me; even if I caused a huge scene at the banquet, the Royal Prince of Yu said nothing.

It turns out my maternal uncle had already arranged everything.

"As I thought, His Majesty's plans are indeed marvelous."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, praising his maternal uncle at the same time, but upon saying that, the Royal Prince of Yu seemed rather nonchalant.

"His marvelous plans are nonsense; who doesn't know that the Kong family will move against you?"

"Jin Nian, this isn't the capital; why fear him? Say what you want."

Upon hearing Gu Jin Nian praise the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor, the Royal Prince of Yu became displeased.

Although his words were somewhat disrespectful, the Royal Prince of Yu's relationship with the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor was indeed extremely close; the two brothers, though not born of the same mother, lived and ate together, and before the Jian De Nan incident, the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor had actually been confined in the capital.

If it weren't for the Royal Prince of Yu stepping in to mediate, the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor could not possibly have left the capital.

When the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor finally decided to rebel, the Royal Prince of Yu was also the first to respond, contributing manpower and resources, almost sparing no effort in support.

After the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor became emperor, he granted the Royal Prince of Yu a first-rank princedom, which felt like giving away half the realm, but the Royal Prince of Yu declined; instead, he took the fief of Yu Chapter, which is not especially wealthy but renowned for its scholars.

There is a saying, 'Half of the officials in the court come from Yu Chapter'; during the era of the Grand Ancestor, half of the officials actually came from Yu Chapter Ancient Commandery.

Although it has declined somewhat nowadays, it still occupies one-fourth of the court, and the Royal Prince of Yu chose to take up residence here as a fief, relinquishing half the realm—not only for many political reasons, but also to help the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor oversee these scholars.

It can be said that the Royal Prince of Yu has done far too much for the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor.

Their relationship is ten times closer than that of brothers born of the same mother; therefore, in the Da Xia Dynasty, aside from the Royal Prince of Yu, no other prince would dare speak such words, let alone say them to Gu Jin Nian.

"Royal Prince Uncle, it doesn't matter what you say a few times; this nephew dares not speak recklessly."

Gu Jin Nian gave an embarrassed laugh; anyway, he wasn't one to talk much.

And the Royal Prince of Yu also nodded and said,

"That's right; after all, the Fourth Brother is narrow-minded and thick-skinned, so you'd be careful to note that."

The Royal Prince of Yu was bold, directly scolding the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor for being narrow-minded and thick-skinned.

However, having said that, the Royal Prince of Yu did not continue mocking his fourth brother, but instead turned to Gu Jin Nian and said,

"Jin Nian."

"Tomorrow at the Kong family banquet, you had better not go."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke up, bringing up the main matter.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but become curious.

"Royal Prince Uncle, why is that?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at the Royal Prince of Yu; he didn't understand the meaning of these words, mainly because who is the Royal Prince of Yu? He holds military command, and in the Yu Chapter region he has absolute authority; even if I cursed the Kong family's eighteen generations of ancestors, speaking something unpleasant would be fine.

As long as one does not insult the sage, the Royal Prince of Yu can keep himself safe; but his saying this is rather strange.

"As for this Kong family banquet, the bottom line is the Linglong Holy Ruler; Uncle has received some news—this time at the Kong family banquet, they are very likely to employ other holy artifacts to suppress you."

"Regarding the Confucian-Daoist contention, Uncle I cannot intervene; I can only say I will keep you safe, but if holy artifacts are used, Uncle is powerless."

"So, Uncle still hopes you will not attend this banquet; His Majesty has also arranged a way out for you—this is his imperial edict, summoning you for important business to enter the palace."

"Although it may cause some controversy, the best approach is to handle it coldly; the Kong family would not dare go too far, merely thinking of other ways."

"Jin Nian, you must think carefully before acting."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke up, informing Gu Jin Nian of what he knew, urging him to think carefully before acting.

"Use holy artifacts?"

Gu Jin Nian had actually guessed something like that, but he never imagined the other side would directly employ holy artifacts.

"Yes, and it is highly likely they will use holy artifacts."

"Of course, if the Kong family uses holy artifacts, they will also have to pay a price, and His Majesty will not let them off lightly."

"However, I and His Majesty both believe there's no need to go to the Kong family; since we know they will use holy artifacts, we should simply leave and let them come up empty-handed."

"Jin Nian, Uncle believes you can write a peerless piece tomorrow."

"But the Kong family's foundation is beyond your imagination, so Uncle also hopes you will leave Chu Fu."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke up, expressing his opinion.

In response to the Royal Prince of Yu, Gu Jin Nian almost without hesitation said.

"Royal Prince of Yu Uncle, I will definitely attend the banquet tomorrow."

"If I don't attend the banquet, it's not a good thing for me."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up; he actually understood clearly that if he truly did not attend the banquet, it would invite greater danger.

The Kong family will definitely ruin his reputation, and it's the kind that can't be washed clean.

Of course, Gu Jin Nian also understands the thoughts of the Yongsheng Great Emperor and the Royal Prince of Yu; they think that these curses, if one stays silent for a year or two, it's actually fine, even if the Kong family stares and curses at him.

But the cursing won't last long; after half a year or a year, everyone will calm down, and as long as he does his duty with peace of mind, redressing grievances for the people when he should, eventually the truth will come to light.

This idea is fine, but it suits the older generation, not Gu Jin Nian.

To have his mind open and unobstructed, he must do this: settle grudges openly, rather than hide behind schemes and plots.

Putting it directly, young people just need to be firm; it's okay to be wrong, just remember it.

Listening to Gu Jin Nian's answer, the Royal Prince of Yu nodded.

"Uncle acknowledges you and believes you; since you have this kind of thought, uncle won't say more."

"At tomorrow's family feast, uncle will protect you; but if there's any debate, uncle will speak according to the situation."

"Otherwise, being too partial to you will bring some trouble."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke up; he did not stop Gu Jin Nian, and in his view, youthful vigor is a good thing.

If he really is mistaken, suffering a loss is not a particularly big bad thing.

"At tomorrow's family feast, uncle need not be partial; everything, the nephew will settle himself."

Gu Jin Nian looked at the Royal Prince of Yu; he didn't need the prince to speak for him, and he understood that if the prince spoke up, it wouldn't be good; a few words of mediation are fine, but true partiality would surely draw criticism from those people.

"Alright."

"Uncle will decide based on the situation."

The Royal Prince of Yu nodded.

Having said that, there's actually nothing more to say; tomorrow he must attend the banquet, and the Royal Prince of Yu originally planned to let Gu Jin Nian rest here for a day.

But Gu Jin Nian took the initiative to speak.

"Uncle, there's a business—do you want to do it?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, mentioning his business.

"Business? What business?"

The Royal Prince of Yu became a bit curious; he didn't expect Gu Jin Nian to suddenly say such a thing.

At that moment, Gu Jin Nian began to explain his business to the Royal Prince of Yu in detail.

After he finished speaking, the Royal Prince of Yu nodded and said: "What you said is quite novel; to be honest, uncle is somewhat intrigued, but since this business is to be opened in the capital, I'm not really interested."

The Royal Prince of Yu also spoke frankly; he felt this business had promise, money wasn't an issue, but after all it's in the capital, he doesn't want to get involved.

However, before Gu Jin Nian could say anything, the Royal Prince of Yu continued to ask.

"How many shares has His Majesty taken?"

The Royal Prince of Yu asked.

"Not a single share; he thinks this business has no promise."

Gu Jin Nian also answered truthfully.

"Not a single share?"

"Alright, then I'll take two shares."

Upon hearing that the Yongsheng Great Emperor had not participated, the Royal Prince of Yu immediately became energized.

This made Gu Jin Nian a bit silent; he didn't know what grudge the Royal Prince of Yu had with the Yongsheng Great Emperor, why they were opposed to each other.

But the other party's willingness to invest is a good thing, adding a key member to his team.

"Alright, uncle, I'll count your two shares; once we open for business and really make money, I'll have my brother-in-law tell you."

Gu Jin Nian said with a smile.

"Alright, Shi'er, I'll leave this to you; as for the money, you can draw it from the storehouse and give it to Jin Nian."

"However, the money you earn, you can spend it yourself; just consider it as your father adding some color for you."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke up; it's obvious he also just thinks this business is not bad, but he still has no concept of how much money it could make.

The reason is simple: the Royal Prince of Yu has read a bit, but mainly he's a soldier; having him do business to make money, he really doesn't understand, and besides, one share is one percent, two shares are two percent.

Even if they earn ten thousand taels of gold per year, his share would be only two thousand taels of gold.

Is that a lot? Not really; stepping back, if they earn one million taels of gold per year, how much would his share be?

Twenty thousand taels of gold.

Oh, no, twenty thousand taels is a bit more, but is that possible? Annual net profit of two million taels of gold.

That's impossible.

So he doesn't care about anything; he hands it over to Zhang Shi, to be precise, giving it to Zhang Shi, giving it to his daughter.

Treat it as pocket money.

Even if it loses money, it doesn't matter; this business mainly serves to give Gu Jin Nian face, strengthen relations; if it really earns something, give it to the son-in-law; if it loses, it loses.

Faced with this, Gu Jin Nian also has nothing much to say.

Actually, regarding this matter, Gu Jin Nian is also holding back a breath, and this breath is not something else.

He just feels that these people are all short-sighted.

Once the Kong family matter is settled, Gu Jin Nian will wholeheartedly work on his Da Xia Sleepless City.

Once it's done well, damn it, let these people see what business acumen is.

Moreover, Gu Jin Nian also kept an extra notebook, recording everyone he had solicited for investment but who did not invest; later, if they wanted to put money in, sorry, the quota is full, we don't accept.

Or just raise the price: a hundred thousand taels of gold per share, no, two hundred thousand taels of gold per share—if you want to do it, do it; if not, we'll drag you in.

「I understand, child. 」

Zhang Shi, hearing this, got a bit excited; he had been listening nearby, and he was very interested in Gu Jin Nian's business plan, feeling there was great potential—if done well, they might make ten or eight thousand taels of gold in a year.

Over the year, several tens of thousands of taels of silver, over ten thousand per month, plus the subsidy from the Royal Prince of Yu—this is top-notch; in the capital they never lack money to spend, and outwardly they can claim self-sufficiency.

Very pleased.

「Uncle, it's getting late; I'll head back now, see you tomorrow. 」

After glancing at the sky, Gu Jin Nian didn't waste words, said something to the Royal Prince of Yu, and prepared to leave.

「Just stay at your uncle's mansion; going back to the place arranged by the Kong family would be inappropriate. 」

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke, wanting to keep Gu Jin Nian there.

「No need, nephew still has some matters; thank you for your kindness, uncle. 」

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; there were still seven or eight hours until tomorrow's family banquet; he planned to do something else, so he wouldn't linger.

「Okay. 」

「Be careful; if anything happens, just find your uncle; this is the token of your elder uncle, keep it safe. 」

The Royal Prince of Yu also didn't waste words, took out his own token and handed it to Gu Jin Nian.

「Thank you, uncle; nephew takes his leave. 」

Having received the token, Gu Jin Nian didn't waste words and left directly.

After Gu Jin Nian left.

The Royal Prince of Yu's voice also slowly sounded.

「Shi Er, what do you think of Jin Nian? 」

He spoke calmly, his voice slow.

「Replying to father, the heir is intelligent and talented, a great talent in Confucianism and Daoism, his future prospects are limitless. 」

Zhang Shi said almost without hesitation.

「Not just that. 」

However, the Royal Prince of Yu shook his head, gazing at the spot where Gu Jin Nian had just stood, his expression solemn.

「Jin Nian is the most different person I have ever seen; born into nobility, yet he possesses a child's heart, his literary talent is extraordinary, and moreover he is deeply loved by my fourth brother. 」

「After going to the capital, you should follow your younger brother-in-law well; don't look down on him just because he's younger—he certainly knows more than you. 」

「You have studied hard for ten years, but in social dealings you lag behind him considerably; plus, after going to the capital you'll be unfamiliar with people and places—although you can rely on your father's empty reputation, the capital is after all the capital, not comparable to our Yu Zhang commandery. 」

「If there's anything, look for Jin Nian; if there's any problem, also go to Jin Nian; don't mind the trouble—the more you seek him, the closer your relationship will be; of course, you must also handle well whatever Jin Nian entrusts to you. 」

「Your younger brother-in-law will surely become the Grand Chancellor of Da Xia; follow him, plus with my help, the position of Minister will also be secure. 」

The Royal Prince of Yu's evaluation of Gu Jin Nian is extremely high.

He predicted that Gu Jin Nian will surely become the Grand Chancellor of Da Xia; Zhang Shi, hearing this, clicked his tongue and was deeply shocked.

That position of Grand Chancellor of Da Xia is indeed second only to the emperor and above ten thousand people; moreover, this position isn't something you can sit just because your family is prominent—it requires talent and the emperor's favor.

If you have talent but don't receive the emperor's favor, it's useless.

To be frank, even the grandson of a Duke who Guards the State may not necessarily become a chancellor, but the Royal Prince of Yu's words, Zhang Shi cannot help but believe.

But what truly shocked him inside was that, by following Gu Jin Nian, he himself could become a Minister in the future?

His career path, he understands clearly; although the Royal Prince of Yu's background is also extremely prominent, his father-in-law absolutely could not forcibly promote him upward; they had previously discussed his career path.

His position as Vice Minister of the Right has reached its limit, and is even somewhat unstable.

Now his father-in-law actually says that by following Gu Jin Nian, he could become a Minister in the future.

That is one of the six heavenly ministries!

If he truly becomes a Minister, he would be just half a step below his father-in-law.

Even a top scholar may not necessarily become a minister of one of the six ministries.

「I understand, child. 」

「Thank you, father, for your instruction. 」

At that moment, Zhang Shi felt somewhat excited and said thus.

「Just understanding is fine. 」

「Right, in a while you hold your father's token, secretly mobilize five thousand elite troops, and station them within Chu Fu. 」

「Tomorrow at the Kong family banquet, father truly cannot guarantee what will happen; it's best to be steady. 」

「I just hope the Kong family doesn't get too outrageous, otherwise we'll really see blood. 」

The Royal Prince of Yu took a deep breath, bringing up this matter.

「See blood? 」

「Father, are you going to take action against the Kong family? 」

Zhang Shi was somewhat startled.

His own father, for Gu Jin Nian's sake, taking action against the Kong family—this is not a good thing.

「Not father. 」

「It is the emperor. 」

「He also has an oral edict, but father just didn't mention it. 」

「If at the Kong family banquet the Kong family dares to use the sacred artifact to suppress Jin Nian, the emperor's secret order is to behead the leader, giving no chance. 」

The Royal Prince of Yu revealed a secret, a secret that left Zhang Shi's face utterly shocked.

He never imagined that Emperor Yong Sheng would be so ruthless, issuing such a secret order; the Kong family clearly intends to cause trouble for Jin Nian, and the likelihood of them using the sacred artifact is high.

After all, it is to seize the sacred artifact held by Gu Jin Nian.

In other words, at the critical moment, for Gu Jin Nian, would the Eternal Prosperous Emperor rather fall out with the Kong family? If the Kong family falls out with the Eternal Prosperous Emperor, that would not be a minor matter; something big would happen.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, truly you have boundless divine favor."

At this moment, Zhang Shi felt envy—genuine envy.

Born of the aristocracy and also a Crown Prince, beloved by Great Scholars of the literary world and favored by the emperor, how could one not be envied?

"It's not just about divine favor alone."

"Your Majesty, I'm afraid you intend to do that thing."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke, uttering a sentence that no one could understand; Zhang Shi was somewhat puzzled but asked nothing further.

"Child, go right now."

Zhang Shi spoke, rose to leave, but the Royal Prince of Yu stopped him, saying.

"First, don't rush. Write a letter to His Majesty. The content should be: Gu Jin Nian helped me write the foremost parallel prose of the ages; ask His Majesty to read it and decide if it's acceptable, then tell him that I, as father, find it fine, that it's written quite well. Also ask His Majesty whether Gu Jin Nian has ever written any poems or articles for him, so we can appraise them together. Yes, that's basically it—make it a bit better; this matter is more important."

The Royal Prince of Yu said with an arrogant expression.

Obviously he intended to disgust the Eternal Prosperous Emperor.

Hearing this, Zhang Shi was slightly startled, but he still took up the brush and wrote.

Meanwhile.

The Kong family.

Inside a secret chamber.

Several figures sat cross‑legged, their expressions not pleasant.

"Elder Kong Xin."

"Gu Jin Nian, within the tower, composed the foremost parallel prose of the ages. Some Great Scholars attending the banquet read it and praised it endlessly; some neutral Great Scholars have now directly taken Gu Jin Nian's side."

"Tomorrow's Kong family banquet, I'm afraid many will choose to speak up for Gu Jin Nian."

A voice sounded, its tone slightly displeased.

"Moreover, Le Ru and others were beaten today by Scholar Meng and his men. I went to see him; he said nothing, and many are saying Le Ru got what he deserved. This situation is not optimistic."

Someone else spoke up, recounting Le Ru's beating.

Hearing this, Kong Xin remained completely unperturbed, showing no sign of panic.

"It doesn't matter."

"I have also heard of this matter; these Great Scholars merely want Gu Jin Nian to write a poem for them."

"Tomorrow's banquet has three hurdles prepared; within these three, even if the Great Scholars choose to help Gu Jin Nian, it won't affect the final outcome."

Kong Xin appeared calm, not worried at all.

"Three hurdles? What do you mean?"

The others showed slight curiosity.

Sensing their curiosity, Kong Xin didn't hide it and said in a low voice.

"First, the death of Sun Ru; Gu Jin Nian must give an explanation."

"Second, the suppression of talent; Gu Jin Nian must also give an explanation."

"Third, the Kong family has secret means; at the critical moment, Gu Jin Nian can only comply." "Of course, the Kong family also hopes Gu Jin Nian will be somewhat self‑aware, so at that time each of you should judge the situation. If Gu Jin Nian adopts a hard stance, none of you may concede; the Kong family cannot speak out, at least for the first two hurdles, the Kong family cannot say anything."

"Moreover, the main forces rely on several Marquises within the Kong family, so there's no need to worry about Gu Jin Nian wielding the sacred artifact."

"If Gu Jin Nian yields, you need not press him aggressively. The purpose of this banquet is simply to make Gu Jin Nian hand over the sacred artifact. To achieve this, we don't want things to become too rigid."

Kong Xin spoke.

They were scheming, plotting how to target Gu Jin Nian tomorrow.

In fact, everything is being orchestrated behind the scenes by the Kong family, and the reason for all this is the contest for the sacred artifact.

As long as the sacred artifact is reclaimed, losing a little or Gu Jin Nian cursing the Kong family is irrelevant.

Let him curse; once the sacred artifact is in hand, and all scholars under heaven support the Kong family, it's up to him. After all, the one taking a loss is Gu Jin Nian, not us, the Kong family.

However, the Kong family cannot strike first; they must let others step forward, while the Kong family should simply act as a fair‑minded mediator.

Of course, at the most critical moment, if Gu Jin Nian still cannot be restrained, the Kong family will have to step in.

At that time, face or reputation becomes secondary; securing the sacred artifact is the core.

"Agreed."

"However, this time the difficulty is greater than imagined; forcibly targeting Gu Jin Nian will stir up controversy."

"Elder Kong Xin, His Majesty's request is simple: the Ancient Chronicles must contain three names."

A Marquis of the Fuyu Dynasty spoke, putting forward his own request.

Not only him, but everyone else also voiced their demands, each different: some wanted their names in the Ancient Chronicles, some sought a Saint Realm quota, and others desired a Saint Manual.

All are good things.

Facing everyone's demands, Kong Xin fell silent for a moment.

But soon, he nodded and said.

"All of these are fine; as long as the sacred artifact is in hand, the Kong family will fulfill everyone's requests."

Kong Xin nodded, saying thus.

In this world there are no eternal friends; only interests. The higher one's status or rank, or the smarter one is, the less they care about whether a saint is truly saintly.

They only consider profit; with profit, everything is easy to discuss. Without profit, regardless of who you are, what can a saint do afterward? A few kind words suffice; asking me to do the work? Pure wishful thinking.

After a quarter of an hour, the others gradually left the stage.

Kong Xin also left, heading straight to find Elder Wuya.

Upon meeting Elder Wuya, Kong Xin fully disclosed the earlier conversation.

After a while, Elder Kong Wuya opened his eyes and said.

"As long as we obtain the holy artifact, their demands are irrelevant."

"But the clan has already activated the holy mirror; tomorrow's family banquet will reflect the Eastern Wilderness."

"You must still give notice: tomorrow deliberately provoke Gu Jin Nian, make him lose composure, just make him angry."

"Never let him be angered; if these scenes are seen by the world, any flaw will be magnified infinitely."

Kong Wuya calmly spoke, informing Kong Xin of the matter.

"Reflecting the Eastern Wilderness?"

"Understood."

Kong Xin was shocked; this was indeed decisive. Tomorrow everyone would blame Gu Jin Nian together, and given Gu Jin Nian's temper, he would surely rage and go mad.

If this scene were reflected in the Eastern Wilderness and everyone saw it, the label "arrogant" on Gu Jin Nian could never be washed away.

Once a person is deemed arrogant, an innate poor impression forms, and thereafter no matter what you do, you cannot escape the stigma of prejudice.

That's it.

Kong Xin stepped down.

And the whole Kong family, after the Hai hour, began making arrangements, setting up the venue, and also organizing various procedures.

At the lakeside of Chu Fu, a figure appeared.

It was Gu Jin Nian's figure.

He stood on a boat; there was no boatman, and it drifted entirely with the current.

Gu Jin Nian was performing his final enlightenment, perfecting his conclusion.

The small boat floated.

Everything seemed very quiet.

Time passed bit by bit.

Chou hour.

Yin hour.

Mao hour.

During the Yin hour, dawn was approaching; by the Mao hour the sky was bright, the common folk rose one after another, merchants did business, farmers farmed, smoke rose in curls, and each household was cooking.

On the riverbank.

Some people also cast their gaze; some women, with affectionate looks or shy glances, perhaps stealing a look.

There were also some commoners who cast curious glances, for Gu Jin Nian's appearance was extraordinary, and standing alone on the boat gave an indescribable aura and bearing, drawing attention.

Gu Jin Nian looked at all this, his face bearing a gentle smile, like a spring breeze.

"Father, why doesn't that big brother have to farm?"

A curious child pointed at Gu Jin Nian and asked.

"He is a scholar; scholars don't need to farm…"

"Son, you must study well, become an official later; once an official, our family will have silver, and with silver you can also avoid farming and eat candied hawthorn every day."

His father beside him spoke, pointing at Gu Jin Nian, saying.

Listening to these remarks, Gu Jin Nian remained silent.

His father was right.

This is also the current situation.

Whether in the Da Xia Dynasty or other dynasties, studying is essentially to become an official.

Earning a living is primary, then benefiting the people.

This is not wrong.

But many people place too much emphasis on earning a living, gradually losing themselves, so many scholars are merely book‑learners without the gentleman's way.

Gu Jin Nian said nothing, letting the small boat drift.

Thus.

Until the Wei hour.

Gu Jin Nian channeled his magical power, turning the boat around, then rowing upstream, and the speed increased considerably.

Such behavior attracted even more attention.

The Kong family banquet begins at the You hour.

Gu Jin Nian already had certain results in his heart.

Many matters he also understood.

Now he must attend the banquet.

Go to the Kong family for the banquet.

Speak out his thoughts, voice his ambition.

Use Establishing Speech to respond to all rumors.

Four quarters of the Shen hour.

Gu Jin Nian stepped off the boat, took a stride to the shore, then headed straight to the Kong family.

Another quarter hour later.

Rather than saying Kong family, it's more like the Kong Residence.

The entire Kong Residence covered at least a thousand mu, with thick walls, appearing grand and imposing.

And the main gate of the Kong family.

Was already overcrowded, with Great Scholars from various regions, figures from many countries entering, and carriages loaded with precious gifts filling the space.

This is the prestige of the Kong family, and also the Kong family's splendor.

Outside the Kong family's gate, there are also hundreds of people welcoming the guest.

When Gu Jin Nian arrived, the Kong family members immediately noticed.

At once, someone hurried over, looking at Gu Jin Nian with a smile.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, I am Kong Xin, quickly enter the residence, quickly enter the residence."

This is Kong Xin; he is deliberately waiting outside the gate for Gu Jin Nian.

He leads a dozen or so people to receive Gu Jin Nian with great ceremony, whereas some foreign princes or other distinguished guests receive no such grand reception.

It appears to be giving Gu Jin Nian face, but in fact it is courting trouble for him.

After all, in terms of seniority, Gu Jin Nian is merely a junior.

In terms of scholarly Daoist realms, Gu Jin Nian has not yet reached that level.

This is not a matter of bias, but many eyes are already fixed on him, their gazes carrying an inexplicable hostility.

Facing Kong Xin's enthusiasm, before Gu Jin Nian could speak, dozens of figures rushed here.

"Little friend Jin Nian."

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"Holy Son, Holy Son."

Dozens of figures appear, pushing Kong Xin aside; they are Yan Gong, Scholar Meng, the Qingzhou Thunderhand Great Scholar, and—General Wang has also arrived.

They give Kong Xin no respect at all, directly surrounding Gu Jin Nian, their faces full of smiles.

"Greetings, gentlemen."

Seeing them, Gu Jin Nian's face breaks into a smile.

"Please, please, let's go, His Highness the Crown Prince, we didn't drink to our heart's content yesterday; today we shall drink."

"Holy Son, we must not abstain later; though my drinking capacity is average, I can still join His Highness the Crown Prince for a few hearty drinks."

"Little friend Jin Nian really knows how to pick the moment; just happened to meet you, hahahaha."

These Great Scholars each laugh heartily, their smiles sincere, yet they were not merely coincidentally present; they have been waiting here for a long time.

Seeing Gu Jin Nian arrive, they hurried over; first, to mingle faces, second, to prevent Gu Jin Nian from feeling awkward.

"Everyone, please quickly enter the residence."

"His Highness the Crown Prince, may I first take you to see the Kong Family's Main Residence?"

Kong Xin forces a smile; though inwardly displeased, he dares not speak rashly before so many Great Scholars.

"Go, go, go; we'll just stay with His Highness the Crown Prince, you hurry and attend to your duties."

"Indeed, with so many people, aren't you all busy? Hurry and get to work."

"The banquet is about to start; why look at scenery? Let's go, let's go, we'll drink first."

The crowd speaks, especially General Wang, who directly grabs Gu Jin Nian and walks away, ignoring Kong Xin.

Facing the crowd's behavior, Kong Xin frowns slightly but dares not erupt.

He can only watch helplessly as Gu Jin Nian is taken away.

At the doorway, Xu Dongmu and others are also present; Gu Jin Nian steps forward and directly leads them into the Kong family banquet.

Entering the residence and passing the vestibule, the Kong family's grandeur comes into view: there are nine stacked halls, the main banquet area is in the fifth hall, called the Great Achievement Hall.

The Kong family truly lives up to its name, having built palatial halls.

Although its splendor falls short of the imperial palace, in materials and other aspects it is comparable to the palace.

Following the Kong family members along the way.

After arriving at the Great Achievement Hall.

Rows of jade tables are arranged inside, a total of one hundred and eight tables.

Each table seats notable figures: marquises from the Fuyu Dynasty, marquises from the Great Jin Dynasty, but there are no marquises from the Da Xia Dynasty.

On the left are Great Scholars from various regions of the Da Xia Dynasty; on the right are some invited dignitaries.

Here, Xu Dongmu and the others are assigned to the sixth hall, as per protocol; Gu Jin Nian does not press them, and they likely dare not speak out of turn.

Yan Gong, Scholar Meng, the Qingzhou Thunderhand, and General Wang are entitled to enter the Great Achievement Hall; the other Great Scholars who came are not, and are placed in the sixth hall.

Entering the Great Achievement Hall.

Immediately, many gazes turn toward Gu Jin Nian, all focusing on him.

Feeling these stares, Gu Jin Nian remains very calm, and under the Kong family's guidance, proceeds to his seat.

Yan Gong, Scholar Meng, the Thunderhand Great Scholar, and General Wang are placed at the front, but a few refuse, insisting on sitting beside Gu Jin Nian; the Kong family, unable to argue, arranges it accordingly.

After taking their seats.

The Thunderhand Great Scholar speaks first.

"When I arrived earlier, I saw a group entering through the side door in mourning attire; I suspect trouble is about to arise."

His name is Lu Yuan.

But Gu Jin Nian prefers to call him the Thunderhand Great Scholar.

Because that scene is unforgettable.

"Mourning attire?"

The few immediately frown, realizing something may happen.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, later leave it to us; speak less, I fear they intend to embarrass you on purpose."

"Right, His Highness the Crown Prince, just leave it to us later; you need not say much."

"We also have our people inside; if a quarrel erupts later, we won't be at a disadvantage. However, yesterday we were too enthusiastic, causing the Kong family to take some of our people away."

Scholar Meng and Yan Gong both speak up, realizing what may happen later, and thus advise Gu Jin Nian to speak less and leave it to them.

Gentlemen, no problem, the student union will handle it later.

Gu Jin Nian nodded, feeling somewhat grateful in his heart, but he could not escape this matter; he still had to face the problem directly.

It's fine; I contacted many friends yesterday through Old Meng, although they were all arranged to leave, but if a quarrel really breaks out later, they will rush over immediately; you can leave the arguing to us, we guarantee no problem.

Besides, with Lu Yuan here, you can be completely at ease; back then he debated the scholars, he is our model.

Yan Gong spoke up, even patting Gu Jin Nian on the shoulder, appearing confident.

And General Wang also spoke up from the side.

"Jin Nian, rest assured, no matter what happens, I can keep you safe; if someone truly reckless appears, just leave it to me."

General Wang took a sip of wine and spoke calmly.

Obviously, they had been discussing today's matter all night yesterday.

Everyone knows the Kong family is coming to cause trouble for Gu Jin Nian; having received his kindness, they certainly won't act like scared turtles.

They won't let Gu Jin Nian fight alone.

Faced with the help of several people, Gu Jin Nian smiled slightly and said nothing.

Thus.

Time passed bit by bit.

About two quarters of an hour passed.

At the first quarter of the You hour, a wave.

Accompanied by a wave of bell and drum sounds, meaning the banquet begins.

The drum sounds came in waves.

They kept beating for a full quarter of an hour.

Soon after, various music sounded, the bells, the war drums, making the atmosphere grand and mighty.

Soon, the Holy Ruler entered the main hall, followed by Kong Yu and others, the three direct generations of the Kong family, wearing ceremonial robes, solemn expressions.

Everyone also rose to their feet.

As the Holy Ruler walked to the main seat, everyone spoke in unison.

"We greet the Holy Ruler."

Everyone spoke, but Gu Jin Nian remained calm, silent, yet also stood up, considered a courtesy.

"The family banquet begins."

The next moment, a loud voice sounded, signifying the formal start of the family banquet.

And all the music stopped at that moment.

However, before everyone could sit down.

A voice rang out at the critical moment.

"I beg the Holy Ruler to redress the grievance of my master."

With a choking voice, it sounded.

The next moment.

Outside the hall, twelve people carried a coffin, kneeling outside the hall.

"Bang."

The coffin landed, the twelve people knelt together, kowtowing to the Holy Ruler.

"Bold."

"Arrogant."

"Today is the Kong family banquet; what are you doing?"

"Who are you, daring to disturb my Kong family banquet?"

In an instant, angry shouts rose, all from the Kong family.

But everyone knows this is just the Kong family staging a show themselves.

Otherwise, for such a grand family banquet, would they let people bring in a coffin? Ridiculous, right?

Are all these servants fools? "Holy Ruler, above."

"My teacher Sun Zhengnan was forced to death by Gu Jin Nian last month; we are his disciples, this grudge is no less than a father-killing feud."

"Today we present our lives in remonstration, hoping the Holy Ruler will uphold justice for us, bring Gu Jin Nian to law, and restore the bright heavens and earth, and restore a bright world for the literary circle of Da Xia."

The leader shouted loudly, speaking and then directly burst into tears, then kowtowed madly on the ground.

Appearing to suffer great injustice.

Upon these words, the hall erupted in an uproar, everyone feigning ignorance while knowing the truth.

Soon, everyone's eyes involuntarily turned to Gu Jin Nian, even the Holy Ruler and others directed their gazes toward him.

Feeling the gazes, Gu Jin Nian lightly took a sip of wine.

Immediately after setting down the cup, just as he was about to speak.

Lu Yuan, that is the Thunderclap Hand Great Scholar, however, grabbed Gu Jin Nian, then moved closer to him, subsequently coughed lightly twice, as if clearing his throat.

Then he slowly spoke.

"You look at your father?"

He spoke, his eyes full of contempt.

It was disdain, extreme contempt.

And just this sentence.

Made everyone present, except a small few, stunned.

Even Gu Jin Nian was stunned.

No, they're stupid.

Good fellow.

Is this what they call debating a crowd of scholars? As soon as they show up, they unleash a big move?

Indeed worthy of being the Thunderbolt Hand.

This Lu Yuan, the Great Scholar, is reliable; when something comes up, he really steps up.

(End of chapter)