Chapter 135: The fruit of the All-Beings Tree, three divine objects, overturning the dynasty's fate

Gu Ningya left.

He left after being slapped twice.

What angered Gu Ningya was that the emperor gave him a slap; he accepted it, after all, he is the emperor, and he couldn't afford to offend him.

But what are you, Su Wenjing? You're trying to hit me, right?

Fine, don't let me catch your weakness; if I do, I'll make you wish you were dead.

Gu Ningya covered his face and walked out of the imperial palace; a lackey hurried over, smiling.

"Commander, why are you beaming with spring? Do you have some good news?"

The latter laughed.

Soon, another beaming person appeared in the capital.

Meanwhile, inside the palace.

Emperor Yong Sheng pressed Su Wenjing's xuan paper to one side, then slowly spoke.

"What do you think about the Kong family matter, Mr. Su Wenjing?"

Slapping Gu Ningya is no big deal; this guy is thick-skinned, but Su Wenjing still has to endure it.

"The Kong family?"

Su Wenjing fell silent for a moment, but after thinking a little, he couldn't help but speak.

"The emperor's wrath is like thunder, his grace vast."

Su Wenjing spoke, expressing his opinion.

The meaning is simple: just scare the Kong family; then give them some benefits now, which is like sending charcoal in the snow—first, it can win over the scholars of the world; second, it can establish the Da Xia Dynasty as a land of propriety.

For the state, it's beneficial.

Anyway, the Kong family has already lost its foundation; later we'll gradually weaken it, boiling a frog in warm water— the Kong family will have no recourse.

"Hmm."

"I feel the same, but I intend to have Jin Nian handle this task."

"What do you think, sir?"

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, asking the other party.

"I think it's fine."

Su Wenjing also understood that Emperor Yong Sheng obviously wanted Jin Nian to do good deeds.

After all, His Majesty is furious and wants to deal with the Kong family; for the common people, that's not a bad thing—other dynasties have come down hard on the Kong family, and the Kong family being punished by the sage is justified.

However, if Jin Nian steps in to smooth things over, that would be quite good.

First, it can further improve Jin Nian's virtue; second, it can somewhat ease the tension between Jin Nian and the Kong family.

That's a good thing.

"Mr. Su Wenjing, there's a matter I need to discuss with you."

Su Wenjing spoke, looking at Emperor Yong Sheng.

"Jin Nian is almost of age; upon completing the Confucian 'Establishing Speech,' he can undergo the capping ceremony."

"After the capping, he will be made a marquis, though the marquis title is just a rank; as for the official post, I've been wondering where to assign Jin Nian among the Six Ministries."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, discussing the matter of office.

Jin Nian being made a marquis is one thing.

The main thing is the office.

Being a marquis is an identity and a symbol; the office holds real power.

"Let's start with the Ministry of Rites."

After pondering, Su Wenjing said:

The Six Ministries.

Ministry of Personnel, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Works, Ministry of Revenue, Ministry of War, Ministry of Rites.

Each ministry is important, but depending on the political climate, a few may vary in significance.

For example, in the founding years, the Ministry of Personnel held the greatest power, since it could appoint and evaluate officials.

As the state stabilized, the Ministry of Revenue rose in prominence; a dynasty forever revolves around people's livelihood, and even in wartime the Ministry of Revenue's status is not poor—it merely has to fully cooperate with the Ministry of War.

Finally, the Ministry of Rites: in an age of peace and prosperity, it represents the nation's face, domestically overseeing Confucian education, internationally handling foreign affairs, and as scholars' status rises, so does the ministry's prestige.

As for the Ministry of Works, Ministry of Justice, and Ministry of War, it depends on the situation; mainly, if there is war, these three ministries' status rises greatly, with decision-making power in their hands.

If there is no war, things are much calmer.

In theory, the Ministry of Works should be the strongest, as it deals with the nation's livelihood and court operations; but the problem is, in feudal society the Ministry of Works has the lowest standing.

There's nothing to be done; in terms of status, the Ministry of Rites gives scholars prestige.

In terms of wealth, Ministry of Revenue officials have profit.

In terms of power, all officials must follow the Ministry of Personnel's arrangements; real power lies there.

"Ministry of Rites?"

Hearing Su Wenjing's answer, Emperor Yong Sheng became somewhat displeased.

The Ministry of Rites does have status, but ultimately it's not a power department; he shook his head slightly.

"The Ministry of Rites is somewhat unsuitable; I intend to assign Jin Nian to the Ministry of Justice or the Ministry of Personnel."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, this being his view.

"Your Majesty, you must not."

Su Wenjing simply shook his head at once, stopping Emperor Yong Sheng.

"Why?"

Emperor Yongsheng furrowed his brows slightly.

Reporting to Your Majesty, Jin Nian is about to be made a marquis, the whole realm celebrates together, and furthermore, Jin Nian's family background is prominent. If we were to assign him to the Ministry of Punishment or the Ministry of Personnel right away, let's not even mention whether it would stir up controversy.

Even if it wouldn't cause controversy, Jin Nian's temperament is still rather impulsive; although he wholeheartedly serves the people, state affairs cannot be solved merely by wholeheartedly serving the people.

In one's youth, one can act on hot-blooded zeal, but once one reaches adulthood and enters the court as an official, one cannot excuse oneself with youthful vigor.

Furthermore, Jin Nian has now completed his achievements; it would be appropriate to consider Establishing Speech. If he goes to the Ministry of Rites, he can establish prestige, and in the process of diligent study, it also counts as tempering his qualifications and smoothing his edges.

Su Wenjing also had a plan: the Ministry of Rites governs all scholars under heaven, and Jin Nian himself follows the Confucian Way; what he hopes more is that Jin Nian not become too entangled in court struggles.

So as not to have his mind clouded by power, he must constantly remember that he is a scholar.

Emperor Yongsheng saw through Su Wenjing's plan at a glance.

Tempering one's temperament is certainly good, but placing him in the Ministry of Rites, I feel it would be a grievance for Jin Nian.

As for his character, the Da Xia court really does need a bold and reckless person; Jin Nian's value lies precisely in this brave, forward‑charging nature.

Let's assign him to the Ministry of Personnel; that would also be good for managing the officials of the realm.

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, saying he wanted to place Jin Nian in the Ministry of Personnel.

Your Majesty, the Ministry of Personnel is somewhat inappropriate.

Right now the northwestern war situation is on the verge of eruption; internally we still need to stabilize, and this is not the time to excise a tumor.

Su Wenjing spoke.

He knew what Emperor Yongsheng was thinking; the officials of Da Xia actually have serious problems, needing someone to suppress them, and Jin Nian happens to be suitable.

Therefore Emperor Yongsheng wanted to have Jin Nian rectify the officialdom.

But Su Wenjing strongly opposed it, for no other reason than that Jin Nian currently still needs to establish his authority.

The Confucian Way is the Confucian Way.

Officialdom is officialdom; if one does not temper oneself a bit, it will invite some trouble.

What about the Ministry of Punishment?

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, saying the Ministry of Personnel is indeed not suitable, and Jin Nian also lacks any connections there.

The Ministry of Punishment also won't do.

Then let's go with the Ministry of Rites.

Let him temper his qualifications first, then rise gradually; after all, Jin Nian is only seventeen, Your Majesty.

Su Wenjing spoke, deliberately mentioning Jin Nian's age.

Alright then.

The Ministry of Rites is the Ministry of Rites.

But what position should be established?

Emperor Yongsheng pondered for a moment and finally gave an answer.

How about a Chief Clerk of the Ministry of Rites?

Su Wenjing thought it over and gave a position.

Chief Clerk?

Mr. Wenjing, are you jealous of Jin Nian?

I feel you are targeting Jin Nian.

Emperor Yongsheng this time was a bit displeased, "Grand Prince of Da Xia, Heir Apparent of Da Xia, future sage of the Confucian Way, you want to assign me a Chief Clerk? This isn't suppression, is it?" "Your Majesty, let me first serve as Chief Clerk for half a year to familiarize myself with the Ministry of Rites."

After half a year, promote to Assistant Director, after tempering for a year, then promote to Director.

That is excellent.

Su Wenjing's actual intention was not to target Jin Nian, but rather to fear that upon entering officialdom, Jin Nian would not be able to hold himself together.

After all, once one becomes an official, one will face many trials.

No.

Director of the Ministry of Rites.

Start directly at the fifth rank.

Chief Clerk? That's not absurd.

This matter, I have already decided; after half a year, promote to Vice Minister, and as for what comes later, we'll discuss it then.

Emperor Yongsheng spoke calmly, having made up his mind.

Your Majesty.

Su Wenjing still wanted to speak, but Emperor Yongsheng's expression changed.

Since I have decided, I will not change it.

Emperor Yongsheng spoke.

He originally wanted to assign him to the Ministry of Personnel or the Ministry of Punishment, but now assigning him to the Ministry of Rites and giving him a Chief Clerk position, he cannot bring himself to say it.

Director will do.

Fifth‑rank Director.

Yes.

Su Wenjing also didn't continue saying anything, after all, the emperor's indulgence leaves no recourse.

Your Majesty, the Jixia Academy has sent an invitation; in a few days, we may need to take Jin Nian there.

Su Wenjing continued speaking.

Emperor Yongsheng.

Jixia Academy?

Not bad.

Given Jinian's current fame, no one dares to pick a fight with him; at present Jinian truly must do something to secure his position.

By the way, the Dragon‑Tiger Dao Sect has already sent a letter, wanting to open the Water and Land Assembly; the court must send someone, so could we ask Mr. Su Wenjing to make the trip?

If possible, bring Jinian along; the Water and Land Assembly is no small matter, perhaps there will be Heaven's Mandate.

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, mentioning the Water and Land Assembly.

I understand.

Su Wenjing nodded.

Then I will take my leave.

Su Wenjing spoke, and then was about to depart.

Very well.

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, then turned his gaze toward Wei Xian.

Both of you, escort Mr. Su Wenjing out of the palace.

Hearing this, Su Wenjing was a bit curious—what does he mean by escorting me? I'm not legless, after all. Yet shortly after Su Wenjing stepped out of the hall, Emperor Yongsheng's voice rang out again.

By the way, Mr. Su Wenjing, Jinian's courtesy name, I have already decided.

Grant him the character "Ren".

The voice sounded.

Before Su Wenjing could turn around, the hall doors were shut.

Huh? Grant a name?

You cheeky fellow, you also want to take advantage?

Su Wenjing tried to turn and argue, but Wei Xian and Liu Yan immediately blocked him, smiling broadly as they escorted Su Wenjing away.

About a quarter of an hour later, Wei Xian and the others returned, and Emperor Yongsheng's voice slowly sounded again.

Send Prince Qin into the palace.

He spoke, his expression not particularly pleasant.

And at this very moment.

In the Da Xia Capital, within the Ministry of Revenue, a fierce argument broke out.

"War is imminent; the three armies' pay must be disbursed promptly, and this year's military budget must be secured early."

"Your matters can wait; if the Ministry of War lacks pay, isn't that a colossal joke?"

Minister of War Zhao Yiyang's voice kept echoing.

"How much silver has the Ministry of War already taken? My Ministry of Revenue has needed silver these years, does it matter?"

"Now grain prices have risen, the nation is gradually stabilizing, officials' salaries remain unchanged; if this continues, disaster will follow. Moreover, aren't we supposed to negotiate peace now? If we negotiate peace, why need so much silver?"

"In short, once this year's taxes arrive, they must first go to the Ministry of Revenue."

Hu Yong's voice rang out, equally unyielding.

"Minister Hu is absolutely right, but the Ministry of Justice's silver cannot be reduced either. In recent years, suppressing bandits and handling various cross‑province cases have left the Justice Ministry's petty expenses nearly exhausted, most of which it has had to cover itself."

"Raising officials' salaries is good, and the Justice Ministry also needs its silver allocation. His Majesty intends to improve national security; if implemented, less than fifteen million taels of silver is simply unacceptable."

The Minister of Justice also spoke.

"Since you have all spoken, I shall speak as well: the Ministry of Rites' silver cannot be reduced either. In recent years, the Da Xia Dynasty has required the Rites Ministry to spend a great deal of silver, especially for foreign delegations, academy subsidies, and so on."

"That cannot be cut either."

Yang Kai spoke.

He also demanded silver.

"None, none."

"What are you thinking? Everywhere has issues now, plus the war; where is silver to give you?"

"This year, no silver will be approved for anything."

"Moreover, His Majesty has completed the construction of the Heavenly Music Garden for the Empress Dowager, and the remaining balance still needs to be paid; is there any silver left for you?"

"Stop the endless chatter here; in short, either you persuade His Majesty, or stop pulling these strings here."

"However, I tell you now, even if you persuade His Majesty it will be useless; I will not give out silver unless there is a complete peace, which remains to be discussed."

Minister of Revenue He Yan did not babble; essentially it was one sentence: there is none, there is none.

"If this silver is given, it will be a total trouble."

"Moreover, these people demand a ruthless price."

"From mouth to mouth, they speak of tens of millions of taels of silver."

"Who will give it? Soon, a verbal battle erupted, and the entire Revenue Ministry hall was in a chaotic uproar."

Only one person remained quiet.

Minister of Works, Wang Qixin.

He wasn't unwilling to speak; everyone simply ignored him.

In the end, Yang Kai became angry and flung his sleeves, leaving.

"Minister Wang, come, let's go find the Crown Prince together; I can't believe there are still matters where the Rites Ministry doesn't receive funding in this world?"

Yang Kai, a Great Scholar with profound cultivation, was nonetheless incensed by this matter.

He Yan offered not even a shred of face, refusing to allocate a single tael of silver, yet spent silver on places that didn't need it at all.

"Such as the Great Yongsheng Ceremony."

"Or the construction of palaces."

"Frankly, isn't it just trying to please the Emperor? And this is the Minister of Revenue?"

Yang Kai left, taking Wang Qixin with him.

Wang Qixin also didn't want to stay here; after all, there was no benefit to be gained, so he thought it better to leave.

Meanwhile, within the Ministry of Revenue, the argument continued.

About half an hour later.

The two saw the Crown Prince.

At that moment, the Crown Prince was leisurely eating tribute grapes; when he saw the two ministers approach, he politely smiled.

Upon entering the Crown Prince's residence, Yang Kai could not stop berating Minister of Revenue He Yan.

He spoke for a little over a minute, and in the end the Crown Prince understood what it meant.

When he asked the Ministry of Revenue for silver, they refused.

"Lord Yang, calm down."

"Seeking help from others is not as good as relying on oneself."

"Lord He actually also has difficulties: he must prepare the Eternal Grand Ceremony, the Ministry of War is waging war, and the country still needs disaster relief; lacking silver is quite normal."

"Here, eat some grapes to calm down."

The Crown Prince said with a cheerful smile.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince."

"What do you mean by that?"

"Then should the Ministry of Rites not receive silver? This palace, inside and out, plus all foreign diplomacy—should that place not get silver?"

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, you cannot become lazy just because you no longer have the regency duties."

Yang Kai felt somewhat angry; his greatest support was the Crown Prince, yet he hadn't expected the Crown Prince to say such a thing today.

"What does this have to do with being a regent or not?"

"Lord Yang, calm down first."

"It's just silver, after all."

Li Gao spoke, soothing the other's emotions.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, what do you mean?"

"Do you have silver?"

Hearing that, Yang Kai perked up.

"I don't have silver, but I have a way to make you earn silver."

Li Gao smiled, looking very mysterious.

"I would never engage in buying or selling official positions."

The Minister of Rites frowned, having already agreed to this.

"Who told you to buy or sell offices?"

"Brother, has Jinian ever approached you?"

Li Gao spoke, looking at the Minister of Rites.

"Jinian?"

"His Highness the Crown Prince?"

"Are you talking about doing business?"

Yang Kai frowned, but soon thought of something.

"Yes."

Li Gao said, looking at Yang Kai.

"This business is a ten‑thousand‑fold profit, Lord Yang; this is an honest proposal from me to you. If nothing goes wrong, invest twenty‑thousand taels of gold, and you'll earn at least ten‑thousand taels of gold per month, possibly more."

"But you must not tell anyone else about this."

Li Gao spoke up, then glanced at Wang Qixin and continued.

"Lord Wang, I suppose the Ministry of Works also lacks silver; if you and they cooperate, each contributes twenty‑thousand taels of gold into the fund."

"After that, there will be no shortage of silver."

Li Gao said, swearing solemnly.

"Twenty‑thousand taels of gold into the fund, at least ten‑thousand taels of gold per month?"

This time, when the topic reached Yang Kai, he became agitated.

Ten thousand taels of gold equals one hundred thousand taels of silver.

That means the capital is recovered in two months, and then each month distributes one hundred thousand taels of silver.

A year amounts to twelve hundred thousand taels, which isn't much, considering the Ministry of Rites serves the Da Xia Dynasty.

But at least the entire Ministry of Rites would be especially well‑off.

Other places must rely on the national treasury, but as a minister, ignoring external matters, one must take good care of one's own department.

Officials of the Ministry of Rites receive low salaries and their work is hard; some reception expenses require spending silver—these are small amounts, while large sums go to the academy side.

There are also various interpersonal relationships and so on.

But even these small sums the Ministry of Rites lacks, barely scraping together; if a month brings in one hundred thousand taels of silver.

At the very least, the Ministry of Rites' days would improve greatly, not having to face a daily barrage of money‑requiring matters.

One would also be considerably more relaxed.

No, not just considerably relaxed.

Yang Kai calculated carefully: one hundred thousand taels of silver per month, twelve hundred thousand taels per year, twelve million taels over ten years.

And this silver would come from the Ministry of Rites' private treasury, entirely usable for its officials; thereafter, the Ministry could purchase better supplies.

Hiss.

If this business succeeds, the Ministry of Rites really won't lack silver; at least the urgent monthly expenses won't be missing, and the rest is just to slowly request allocations from the Ministry of Revenue.

"His Highness the Crown Prince? Can you really earn ten thousand taels of gold per month?"

Yang Kai said excitedly.

"No."

The Crown Prince shook his head.

For a moment Yang Kai felt a bit disappointed, but the Crown Prince's next words made Yang Kai even more excited.

"Conservatively ten thousand taels of gold."

"I've calculated carefully; twenty thousand taels of gold is also possible, and even thirty thousand taels is not impossible."

"If it expands later, spreading across the Da Xia Dynasty, the upper limit would be fifty thousand taels of gold."

When the Crown Prince spoke, he usually wouldn't say such things casually; mainly because Yang Kai was indeed his supporter, there was no need to hide it.

Fifty thousand taels of gold was his detailed estimate for this period; of course, since he had invested, he thought optimistically.

In the end he calculated fifty thousand taels of gold. He and the Crown Princess together had four stakes, plus his two behind‑the‑scenes stakes, making six stakes.

That works out to one hundred fifty thousand taels of gold per month, or one million eight hundred thousand taels of gold per year.

However, reaching that point is estimated to take ten or twenty years.

But it doesn't matter.

As long as the money is ample, there's no problem.

One million eight hundred thousand taels of gold!

That's eighteen million taels of silver; at that time, being emperor, I could design gardens however I liked, buy whatever I wanted, and live carefree and joyful.

So refreshing.

"Fifty thousand taels of gold?"

Yang Kai stood up immediately, and Wang Qixin also rose with him.

Fifty thousand taels of gold per month.

Over a year that's six hundred thousand taels of gold, six million taels of silver.

The Ministry of Rites receives an annual allocation of ten million taels of silver, which is half of the total; with that silver, wouldn't the Ministry of Rites be able to run rampant? Buy the finest tea, go to the best teaching halls, host gatherings at my house on days 1,3,5 for drinking, attend others' houses on days 2,4,6 for drinking, rest on Sundays because the kidneys also need a break.

Hiss.

Yang Kai widened his eyes and looked at the Crown Prince.

If someone else said that, he would certainly ignore it, but when the Crown Prince says it, he believes it.

He believes it completely.

"It's over, I refused the Crown Prince back then, and now it's over, it's really over."

At this moment, Wang Qixin spoke, his face tearful and full of regret.

At that time Gu Jin Nian approached him, knowing it was a business venture, and Wang Qixin outright refused; the reason was simple: the Ministry of Works had no silver.

Even if there were, it couldn't be used for business; it would be improper, after all he was an official, and using the Ministry of Works' silver for business would cause trouble.

But he didn't expect such huge profits.

If he had known the profit was this large, he would definitely have invested.

Even if reported.

He wasn't afraid, because the silver the Ministry of Works invested, the profit would also be taken by the Ministry, then distributed throughout the ministry, with silver incentives, encouraging more inventions; this benefits the state and the people.

Of course, a slight increase in benefits isn't excessive, right? I haven't been corrupt.

"I, too, did not agree."

"His Highness the Crown Prince, what should we do?"

This time Yang Kai became urgent.

He was truly anxious: "No problem, when Gu Jin Nian returns, you just go find him proactively."

"His business needs more participants to grow large."

"Now you can invest, twenty thousand taels of gold is enough; if you wait until later, even a hundred thousand taels might still be unattainable."

"Both of you must never disclose this; if other ministers find out and all go to Gu Jin Nian, he might raise the price on the spot, and you'd be in trouble."

Li Gao gave them advice, urging caution.

"No, no, no, I won't speak recklessly."

"I will immediately start gathering silver."

"Twenty thousand taels of gold, we can still scrape together with grit."

Yang Kai said with extreme excitement.

As long as we can earn silver, twenty thousand taels of gold is nothing.

And if we invest, we should invest fully, without cooperating with the Ministry of Works.

"I, too, will immediately start preparing."

Wang Qixin was also thrilled; he didn't want to cooperate either, preferring to take it all for himself—if he could eat a bit more, he would, and at worst endure a tough start, as long as he profited later.

"Alright."

"Both gentlemen, remember this."

"This business, Gu Jin Nian has already explained clearly; when put into practice, there may be some complications, which is why he is rallying everyone."

"Therefore, if you want to earn silver, you must work together; when Gu Jin Nian reaches the court, if he needs to raise anything, you cannot refuse to help."

Li Gao spoke up; he knew what kind of business Gu Jin Nian was doing, and this venture required acquiring land.

Acquiring land would be a huge expense, but given Gu Jin Nian's character, he would likely ask the emperor for it for free; at that time, the Ministry of Revenue and the Ministry of Personnel would certainly refuse.

Thus it requires everyone's help, and that's why Gu Jin Nian is recruiting participants.

Otherwise, if we can make money, why give it to everyone? Can't I eat it myself? "Understood."

"The Crown Prince's words are absolutely correct."

Both of them spoke up in turn, understanding the Crown Prince's meaning.

Not long after.

The two Ministers walked out of the Crown Prince's residence.

When they reached the capital's streets, Yang Kai's voice sounded.

"Indeed."

"This business can earn silver."

Yang Kai spoke up; now, as he carefully thought about the business Gu Jin Nian mentioned, although he was absent‑minded at the time, he had heard some of it, and on reflection realized it truly had great potential.

"Sir Yang, what exactly is the business? I didn't hear His Highness the Crown Prince finish speaking at the time."

Wang Qixin spoke, feeling a bit uneasy.

He regretted not having listened to the end.

"It's complicated to explain; I'll go back and sort it out first, but the business does indeed profit."

"Fifty thousand taels might be a bit exaggerated, but twenty to thirty thousand taels is not exaggerated at all."

"Lord Wang, you must remember this favor; had I not brought you here to meet the Crown Prince, you would have missed a golden opportunity, hahahaha."

Yang Kai was extremely delighted.

Upon hearing this, Wang Qixin also became excited; although he didn't know the specifics, the Crown Prince is such a shrewd person, everyone says it is a sure profit, and Yang Kai also says it is a sure profit, how could he not be thrilled.

Soon, the two walked side by side, muttering various remarks.

What, once we have silver, we can buy tea leaves from Yu Long Xuan; once we have silver, we can buy some Dragon Saliva Incense; or once we have silver, we can buy some pills from Tian Bao Pavilion.

In short, just buy and that's it.

That's all.

In the blink of an eye, ten days passed.

The Kong Family's affairs gradually quieted down, at least within the Da Xia Dynasty; the Ministry of Rites did intervene in some matters, but the controversy it caused was not very large.

And when the distance to Da Xia Capital was less than a thousand li.

Gu Jin Nian's figure slowly appeared.

On a hill.

Gu Jin Nian let out a long sigh.

During the past half‑month, he had been digesting his insights to solidify his realm.

Now, half a month has completely stabilized his Confucian‑Daoist realm.

Realm of Knowledge, Sage, and Establishing Speech.

After stabilizing his realm, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but contemplate something.

The matter of the Da Xia Nightless City.

This matter is now Gu Jin Nian's top priority; with the Kong Family's issue resolved, he must now begin preparing for it.

One is the conflict among scholars.

The other is the development of the dynasty.

The scholars' conflict could entirely be postponed; if the Kong Family hadn't been so aggressive, Gu Jin Nian truly wouldn't have let it reach this extent.

He doesn't want his future actions to be constantly targeted, so he decided to settle all disputes completely at a family banquet.

Now that the matter is resolved, he must consider the Da Xia Nightless City issue.

Now it's time to earn silver.

During this period, Gu Jin Nian also clarified where to start.

However, now there is something Gu Jin Nian must handle first.

That is.

Tree of All Beings.

Yes.

The Tree of All Beings in his mind condensed into three fruits.

The four verses of the transverse channel exchanged back.

These three fruits should be hundreds of times stronger than the previous fruits.

Gu Jin Nian had never activated it, not because he feared a black hand, but mainly due to lack of time; now everything is clear to him.

He intends to start a round of rewards.

He found a place.

Gu Jin Nian sat cross‑legged, then his mind sank inward, entering his thoughts.

The immensely grand Tree of All Beings manifested.

Each branch rippled with endless divine splendor, appearing extraordinarily radiant.

Three golden, radiant fruits hung above.

With a single thought from Gu Jin Nian,

one golden fruit slowly fell to the ground and then burst into brilliant light.

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian was extremely excited.

No, it's not merely extreme anticipation.

It is boundless anticipation.

He is very curious what the evolved Tree of All Beings can obtain.

Haoran Qi-Viewing Technique

As the golden fruit fell to the ground, a scripture appeared.

In the next instant, Gu Jin Nian's mind acquired a new divine technique.

Haoran Qi-Viewing Technique.

As the name suggests, using vast righteous qi one can observe a person's fortune; the more vast righteous qi employed, the clearer the observation.

Sss.

This thing is great.

It can see a person's future fortune; it's a good thing.

Moreover, as information kept flooding in, Gu Jin Nian realized that this Haoran Qi-Viewing Technique can discern right from wrong and judge a person's virtue.

Now Gu Jin Nian couldn't sit still.

Observing whether a person's fortune is good or bad is a fine divine art.

But the other person's good or bad fortune doesn't mean you can curry favor; after all, if you say something unpleasant, they will dislike you—what will you do? Moreover, seeing someone's good fortune and then trying to win over them, isn't that being a sycophant? This ability to discern right from wrong and judge virtue is somewhat unique.

Later, whether someone harbors ill intent can be known at a glance.

Good stuff.

It truly is a good thing, especially when I later enter officialdom; it's really hard to judge whether people are good or bad.

It can, it can.

No wonder it's the upgraded version; finally it doesn't cheat.

After the first fruit was awarded.

Gu Jin Nian looked forward even more to the second fruit.

As the second fruit fell to the ground.

A blueprint appeared.

Ancient Spirit-Gathering Array Diagram

Array diagram?

Gu Jin Nian furrowed his brows. What does he need this thing for? He's heard of a spirit-gathering array: you bring some heavenly materials and earthly treasures, then absorb these spirit crystals to draw out spiritual energy.

It's a very ordinary thing; cultivators can do it.

But soon, as the array diagram's information flooded his mind, Gu Jin Nian was stunned on the spot.

This Ancient Spirit-Gathering Array Diagram.

Its function is as he imagined: it can gather spirits.

But the terrifying part is that this ancient spirit-gathering array doesn't require spirit crystals.

Yes, no spirit crystals needed.

It can automatically absorb the essence of heaven and earth, and can be inscribed anywhere.

Isn't this just solar power, plus a driver?

Take Da Xia dragon boats, for example; they are fast, but the biggest problem is they need massive spirit crystals. If you inscribe the ancient spirit-gathering array onto them, they can rely on absorbing heaven‑and‑earth essence without consuming spirit crystals.

Wouldn't that explode?

Later, if that place faces disaster, ten thousand dragon boats can speed away; would we still fear food problems?

It's not just dragon boats.

Including some tools—what's most lacking for plowing? It's plowing oxen.

I'll just make a wooden ox, inscribe the ancient spirit-gathering array onto it, let it work twelve hours back and forth plowing; isn't that incredibly efficient?

To put it bluntly, most peasants stop after two or three hours of plowing.

Not because they're tired, but because they're afraid the ox will die of exhaustion.

So they stop.

If it can work twelve hours nonstop, a family of five, three people rotating, could earn more—why not earn more? Da Xia law exempts taxes for the first three years of land reclamation.

With this device, Da Xia's agriculture would reach its peak.

With food, prosperity follows.

Good fellow, this thing is a divine artifact, a true divine artifact.

Gu Jin Nian swallowed a mouthful of saliva.

My golden finger finally seems reliable.

But I still need to go back and study it.

The last fruit filled Gu Jin Nian with anticipation.

As the final fruit fell.

A bag of seeds appeared.

'True Dragon Rice Ear'

Rice ear?

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat curious, and as the information emerged, he was completely stunned.

True Dragon Rice Ear.

As the name suggests, it's a rice ear seed, but Gu Jin Nian knew this True Dragon Rice Ear was extremely terrifying.

It can withstand high temperature, resist water, and grow vigorously; a single rice ear yields three hundred sixty grains, maturing every four months.

But that's already enough.

Heat‑resistant, water‑resistant, with massive vitality—a single ear with three hundred sixty grains, growing every four months? In the Da Xia Dynasty, a rice ear normally yields one hundred forty‑five to one hundred fifty heads, so this is double, plus it's a double‑season rice, early and late rice, harvested twice a year.

This one harvests three times a year.

The most outstanding thing is that it is heat‑resistant and highly adaptable; many areas of the Da Xia Dynasty are wastelands—not because they aren't cultivated, but because they can't be worked, making them unsuitable for growing food.

If this thing can be cultivated, it would be a total breakthrough.

As for its nutrition, I don't know.

But being named after the True Dragon, how could it be any worse? Even if its nutrition is average, it doesn't matter—honestly, these days just being able to fill one's stomach is enough.

The Da Xia Dynasty has such a huge population that at least thirty percent of the common folk eat one meal a day.

Ancient agriculture was that miserable.

With a formation diagram plus this True Dragon Rice Ear, it's hard not to become prosperous.

"The Great Jin Dynasty has dragon rice; it's said the finest dragon rice yields about four hundred grains per stalk, and warriors who eat it can boost their cultivation."

"But there's a bit of bragging involved, since the Great Jin Dynasty strictly controls top‑grade dragon rice."

"My True Dragon Rice Ear shouldn't be that far off, right?"

"Even if it differs, it's only a small portion, but for the Da Xia Dynasty that makes a big difference."

"The Ministry of Revenue allocates twenty‑million taels of silver each year to purchase dragon rice; with this thing, that silver could be saved."

"Uncle, uncle, after I bring this out, if you don't make me a king, you'd really be out of line."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

However, Gu Jin Nian already knew that of the three items, aside from the Vast Righteous Qi‑Viewing Technique, the other two cannot be taken out directly, first because they need testing.

The second reason is to seal off the information.

It must achieve top‑level secrecy, absolutely no leaks, and the planting site must be heavily guarded.

The True Dragon Rice Ear seed is the most crucial element.

I must never take it out lightly.

Nevertheless, regardless…

This time the ancient tree didn't trap me.

Finally, it feels like I have a bit of a golden finger.

"Ah, that feels great."

Gu Jin Nian let out a long sigh.

He now inexplicably wanted to see his uncle's reaction to the True Dragon Rice Ear, imagining Emperor Yongsheng's shocked face, and Gu Jin Nian felt a secret satisfaction.

But just as Gu Jin Nian regained his composure,

he opened his eyes again.

He then activated the Vast Righteous Qi‑Viewing Technique and looked up at his own qi flow.

He saw a white pillar shooting skyward, nine zhang tall, the qi flow almost forming a dragon shape.

However, surrounding that white qi, why was there a pinkish hue? What does that mean? Is it a sign of peach‑blossom luck?

Gu Jin Nian was a bit curious.

But the next moment,

a faint voice sounded.

"Is anyone there? Who will save me?"

The soft, delicate voice rang out.

Just hearing it was music to the ears.

Well, that's something.

So it really is peach‑blossom luck?

Following his gaze,

not far away, a figure sat on the ground.

The person wore a pale‑red robe, had ethereal hairpins, features exquisitely beautiful, fox‑like eyes, and was irresistibly seductive.

Especially a pair of white legs exposed to the sun, which made the upright Gu Jin Nian stare wide‑eyed.

Not that—it's unwatchable.

As for her figure, it was delicate and curvy, full and round, and combined with a coquettish voice, it made people feel almost melt.

This is a mortal beauty.

Gu Jin Nian only…

Compared with the Yaochi Fairy's youthful innocence, the woman before him was far more eye‑catching.

Even when compared with the uninhibited wildness of the Yunrou Fairy, the woman before him still had a slight edge.

After all, the Yunrou Fairy is too straightforward, which makes one a bit uneasy; after all, if she were just playing, wouldn't I look foolish?

An extraordinary treasure.

Truly a beauty.

However, when Gu Jin Nian used the Vast Righteous Qi‑Viewing Technique,

a seven‑zhang‑tall purple qi flow appeared.

"Monster?"

Gu Jin Nian snapped awake.

This guy turned out to be a monster? Hiss.

Shouldn't that earn an extra ten points? Gu Jin Nian isn't into beauty, but he likes little creatures.

"Miss, don't move; I'll move."

In an instant, Gu Jin Nian rose.

He walked toward her.

Of course, speaking up proactively isn't really like that; mainly I just want to see what the other party intends to do.

In such a desolate, uninhabited place, the other party's sudden appearance obviously means they've set their sights on me.

Running definitely won't get me away.

Then I might as well take the initiative.

Gu Mou doesn't like being passive.

"Young master."

"Come quickly and help me."

"I can't take it anymore."

Not far away.

The peerless beauty speaks, and her words are even more heart-wrenching.

"What's going on?"

"Let this gentleman take a look."

Gu Jin Nian quickly strides over to the other party, and as soon as he arrives he starts showing concern.

There's no helping it; after all, I'm a member of the Animal Protection Association, so I definitely have to show some concern.

"No, young master, young master."

"Young master, can you hear what I have to say?"

"Young master."

"."

Seeing Gu Jin Nian approach, the beauty felt a bit pleased, but his immediate fussing over her left her a little dazed.

Isn't he a sage of later generations?

Isn't he a Confucian-Daoist holy son? Young master, why are you so reckless? — Please vote for monthly tickets.

(End of chapter)