Chapter 138: The Court's Top Blaster

In the main hall.

Civil and military officials were all urging against this matter.

Gu Jin Nian demanded a thousand qing of land, and it was right on the northwest edge of the capital, to put it bluntly.

A thousand qing of land— even building a palace wouldn't require that much, would it? Moreover, they gave no explanation and just threw it at Gu Jin Nian.

This Da Xia Dynasty belongs to your Yongsheng Emperor, which needs no comment, but it is a massive institution and conglomerate, you can't just act recklessly, can you?

It breaks the rules.

Thus all officials unanimously opposed.

But at that moment, when Minister of Rites Yang Kai's voice rang out,

the crowd fell silent again.

It wasn't even silence.

It was puzzlement; they hadn't expected the usually upright and incorrupt Minister of Rites to suddenly berate them.

At that moment.

In the throne hall.

Yang Kai looked at the crowd, his gaze filled with contempt.

"Sir Yang, your words are a bit too harsh, aren't they?"

"Claiming a thousand qing of land is itself a major matter, and being on the capital's edge hinders future expansion."

"Such a vast tract, even building a new city wouldn't be excessive. Grant it to His Highness the Crown Prince; I truly cannot imagine what the Crown Prince would use it for."

At that moment, Minister of Revenue He Yan could no longer hold back and spoke up.

At first he really thought Yang Kai was rebuking the Yongsheng Emperor, but after hearing clearly, he couldn't help but immediately retort.

"Silence."

But what he didn't expect was that Yang Kai was not at all feeble.

A booming shout instantly forced He Yan to shut up.

He already had a grudge against He Yan; a few days earlier he demanded silver, and He Yan gave him neither. Now, seizing the chance, how could he let He Yan off?

"Did I speak wrongly?"

"What are you all, if not beasts?"

"Crown Prince Gu Jin Nian, avenging the Da Xia people, then Establishing Speech for Da Xia, later repeatedly achieving remarkable feats, at the Kong family banquet summoned Confucius, obtained a sacred vessel, and set forth immortal words for ten thousand generations."

"Have you all forgotten these merits?"

"It's only been a few days, yet you have again forgotten the Crown Prince's merits?"

"What must the Crown Prince do for you to clearly realize that he is the pillar of Da Xia?"

"What does a mere thousand qing of land amount to? His Majesty has consented; what are you shouting about here?"

"Did you take your land? Or are you jealous of the Crown Prince?"

Yang Kai ranted furiously, standing on the moral high ground, launching a tirade.

"Sir Yang, your words are excessive; is this why we object? Primarily, a thousand qing of land is terrifyingly excessive. We only find it inappropriate. Of course, if the Crown Prince explains its purpose, we would understand and perhaps would not oppose."

Minister of Personnel Hu Yong stepped forward, looked at Yang Kai, and explained earnestly.

"Explain its purpose?"

"With your wisdom alone, can you comprehend the Crown Prince's wisdom?"

"Don't try to amuse me here."

"Do you even deserve to know the Crown Prince's earnest intentions?"

"Moreover, even if the Crown Prince does nothing with the land, what can be done?"

"If you are dissatisfied, go achieve greatness yourselves; stop talking about anything else. Who now will recite an eternal poem for me? I will not utter a single word."

"Come then."

"Come quickly."

This time Yang Kai was elated; a few days earlier he had been squeezed and suppressed by the Ministries of Revenue, Justice, Personnel, and War, and now it was his turn to revel.

He smiled smugly, beaming.

Moreover, the main point is that previously in the throne hall, when you berated me and I berated you, it was all with political motives, or rather, personal agendas.

Just deemed it inappropriate.

But now it's different; this matter has personal benefit, or rather, benefits the Ministry of Rites.

It lets me vent, and also gain profit—how exhilarating, truly damn exhilarating.

"What does this have to do with ancient poetry?"

"Taking so much land, we as court officials have no right to even inquire?"

"Sir Yang, what's wrong with you today?"

The Minister of Justice spoke, looking at Yang Kai, genuinely baffled.

"Did you eat gunpowder today?"

"Do you all even have the right to inquire?"

"Whatever the Crown Prince does has its reasoning."

"You keep asking, the flood in Jiangning County—can you utter a single sentence? Offer a sound strategy?"

"Isn't it all thanks to the Crown Prince?"

"Ask, ask, ask—why ask so much? Do your own work properly."

Yang Kai ranted furiously.

Then he looked toward the Yongsheng Emperor and said.

"Your Majesty."

"I, He Yan, Minister of Revenue, in order to curry favor with Your Sacred Grace, have arbitrarily allocated funds."

"The Ministries of Personnel, Justice, and War have even joined together to demand silver, attempting to form cliques for personal gain; I request Your Majesty to investigate strictly."

Yang Kai stepped forward and directly joined them as one.

This time, the entire court of civil and military officials were stunned.

"Good fellow, Minister joining Minister? Haven't seen you in ten years! And you come up with forming cliques for personal gain? Must you act like this? 'Sir Yang, don't spew blood here.'"

"Sir Yang, you dare utter such words recklessly?"

"When have we ever formed cliques for personal gain? Sir Yang, just because the Ministry of Revenue didn't allocate funds to you, you frame us?"

This time, the four ministers directly called out.

Forming cliques for personal gain is no small matter.

Moreover, it was the Minister of Rites himself who said it; if it were a lower official, it would be a bit better.

Sure enough, Emperor Yong Sheng's expression changed slightly.

"Ahem."

At that moment, the voice of the Minister of Works rang out.

"Everyone."

"In the court, do not behave like this."

"Let me, an old man, speak a word of fairness."

With Wang Qixin's voice echoing.

The Ministers of Personnel, Justice, War, and Revenue breathed a sigh of relief.

At last, someone came forward to speak fairly.

The next moment, everyone turned their gaze to the Minister of Works.

Wang Qixin looked at Your Majesty and began to speak slowly.

"I think the Ministries of Personnel, Justice, War, and Revenue indeed have the possibility of forming cliques for personal gain."

"Sir Yang is not wrong."

Wang Qixin spoke.

With a confident expression, he said.

Hu Yong: "."

He Yan: "."

Soon, a verbal battle erupted.

The familiar court back‑and‑forth insults returned; since the flood in Jiangning County, it has usually been civil and military officials trading barbs, rarely seeing civil officials turn on each other.

This familiar feeling made everyone nostalgic.

After another hour of a long trash‑talk phase, Yang Kai unilaterally claimed victory.

"Enough."

On the dragon throne, Emperor Yong Sheng was in a good mood and did not blame the ministers for their court insults.

Only that after spouting for so long, it was almost time to conclude.

"This matter is settled as such."

"Today I am not consulting with you honored ministers, but informing you of this matter."

"However, I understand what Minister Yang said; recently in the capital, there truly have been rumors that someone is forming cliques for personal gain."

"The Censorate shall investigate, with Wei Xian and Liu Yan gathering evidence, to be submitted to the Censorate."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, lightly phrasing a sentence that silenced the entire court.

If cliques for personal gain are thoroughly investigated, everyone feels unsafe, and with the Censorate handling it, the eunuch investigators will be ruthless, accepting no bribes.

"We shall obey the decree."

The crowd spoke up.

"Minister Hu, the Spring Origin Festival approaches; how goes the capital inspection?"

Emperor Yong Sheng looked at Hu Yong and asked.

"Your Majesty, the capital inspection roster has been drafted; I will return today to revise it, and present it to you tomorrow."

Hu Yong immediately spoke.

"Very well, the people on this capital inspection roster shall all be summoned to the capital; those who do well, I will personally commend, and if they do poorly, I will personally adjudicate."

Emperor Yong Sheng said earnestly.

Counting, this year is a Grand Capital Inspection.

In the Da Xia Dynasty, every three years there is a minor capital inspection, which examines Da Xia Capital officials, essentially gathering reputations and investigating; the core issue is the aging of officials, who are about to retire, making way for younger ones.

That is fine.

The seven‑year Grand Capital Inspection is more thorough; it covers not only the capital but all officials in power throughout Da Xia, and every prefect and county magistrate must be fully investigated.

This capital inspection, spanning three months, is currently Da Xia's top priority.

"As you command."

Hu Yong spoke.

"By the way."

"One final matter."

"I have decided to admit Gu Jin Nian into the Ministry of Rites as a Langzhong; however, Jin Nian has not yet come of age, so after the Spring Origin Festival he will assume the post directly. In the meantime, Minister Yang will send someone to find Jin Nian to give instructions, so that his transition into the Ministry is smooth."

"Dismiss the court."

The Great Emperor Yongsheng finally said a line concerning Gu Jin Nian's position.

"I obey the decree; I will personally assist the Crown Prince."

Yang Kai spoke up and immediately agreed, without any complaint.

The other officials remained calm.

Rites Ministry Langzhong.

Regular fifth‑rank official.

The Rites Ministry is a modest office; although starting as a Langzhong is a bit high, given Gu Jin Nian's deeds, appointing him as Rites Ministry Langzhong is not excessive.

The main point is that they now have objections to the Rites Ministry.

The officials retired from court.

After leaving the main hall, some curses rose again.

Yang Kai and Wang Qixin were bound together, walking side by side; whoever started shouting, the other followed suit.

In the end, the crowd dispersed unhappily.

They left the palace.

He Yan and three others gathered, walking side by side, their return path filled with doubts.

"How did Lord Yang suddenly act as if he'd taken the wrong medicine?"

Zhao Yiyang was curious; he had been following Minister of Revenue He Yan these days, unable to get silver from the Ministry of War, so he came along.

"What else could it be? It's just that they didn't allocate funds to him a few days ago."

"That old fool, claiming to be a pure literary stream? Pure stream, damn it—refusing silver, slandering us for forming cliques and personal gain."

He Yan spoke up, somewhat displeased.

"Not necessarily."

"Lord Yang is no ordinary man; although there was no allocation, this is not a one‑off incident."

"His Majesty has allotted a thousand qing of land to the Crown Prince; even if Lord Yang despises us, he could not obstruct this matter."

"This matter is definitely not simple."

"A thousand qing of land."

"Could it be that the Crown Prince intends to Establishing Speech opening a school?"

Hu Yong could not figure it out; what could a thousand qing of land be used for? After pondering, the only possibility was Establishing Speech opening a school.

Establish a new academy, thereby completing Establishing Speech, teaching and imparting knowledge.

"Possible."

"Indeed, don't deny it; this possibility is real."

Several Ministers spoke, their expressions somewhat serious.

"If this is truly the case, the Crown Prince is deeply blessed by the dragon's grandeur; a thousand qing of land for an academy would likely surpass Da Xia Academy in scale."

Hu Yong spoke, silently calculating something in his mind.

"Using a thousand qing of land to found an academy is fine; the Crown Prince deserves it. If he truly becomes a saint, it would be a tremendous boon for Da Xia."

Zhao Yiyang spoke; after all, he is from the Ministry of War and harbors goodwill toward Gu Jin Nian, so he felt nothing objectionable.

"Indeed."

"Yes, if the Crown Prince can become a saint, it would indeed be a rare good thing for Da Xia."

The group nodded.

In matters of Confucianism and Daoism, they still hoped Gu Jin Nian could become a saint.

"His Majesty assigned the Crown Prince the post of Rites Ministry Langzhong; starting as Langzhong, it shouldn't take many years before he can be called a Minister."

Hu Yong spoke, praising with a sigh, but there was hidden meaning in his words.

"Minister?"

"In a few years, he'll be called Gu Xiang."

He Yan spoke, believing even more that Gu Jin Nian will become Da Xia's prime minister.

With such achievements, as long as Gu Jin Nian doesn't act recklessly, he can simply go about his duties honestly—clock in, clock out, reap any merits when they come, and not force achievements when there are none.

Becoming prime minister at forty is not late.

"Let's set that aside for now; the current capital inspection matter is the priority."

Zhao Yiyang had little to add; even if Gu Jin Nian were to become prime minister, it would still take a dozen or twenty years—future matters can be discussed later.

First, take care of the present.

Thus, the four left, each returning to their own offices.

Inside Da Xia Academy.

Two figures faced each other and sat.

They were Fairy Yunrou and Fairy Yaoci.

"Yaoci."

"I've heard of this Qingqian before."

"She is a Holy Lady of Qingqiu, of the Qingqiu clan, born with alluring bones; moreover, the Qingqiu clan has long had interactions with saints."

"If the two of us were still locked in internal strife, we truly would have no chance."

Fairy Yunrou spoke, looking at Fairy Yaoci as she said.

"I believe the Crown Prince is not that shallow person."

Fairy Yaoci spoke, her expression calm, fully believing Gu Jin Nian is not an ordinary fellow.

Upon hearing this, Fairy Yunrou disagreed.

The Crown Prince truly is not an ordinary person, but he can't withstand others taking the initiative.

"Yaochi sister, you are inexperienced and don't understand many things."

Yunrou Fairy said so.

And the latter became even more silent.

Seeing the Yaochi Fairy silent, Yunrou Fairy continued speaking.

"Sister is not making you do things you don't want to, but urging you to act proactively."

"You must let Gu Jin Nian know that you can help him, rather than being passively idle."

Yunrou Fairy spoke, informing the Yaochi Fairy of these.

"What about you then?"

The Yaochi Fairy looked at Yao Yunrou, her eyes full of curiosity.

"I will go back."

"Taihao Fairyland is about to open; I intend to break into the Fifth Realm."

"When I have broken into the Fifth Realm, I will return, and then simply suppress you all with absolute force."

Yao Yunrou was straightforward, voicing her thoughts.

"Taihao Fairyland."

"So you have me balance the Qingqiu Holy Maiden?"

Yaochi was not stupid; she guessed Yao Yunrou's thought in an instant.

"Even if I don't say it, you wouldn't let the Qingqiu Holy Maiden succeed."

"Sister is only teaching you."

"Moreover, you must remember that now Confucianism and Daoism have been cut off, and all major forces in the world are stirring."

"The Crown Prince will inevitably face more challenges and threats; at that time you must step forward to help her."

"Relying only on appearance cannot retain his heart."

Yao Yunrou was straightforward.

She wants to leave, but indeed does not wish the Qingqiu Holy Maiden to succeed, so she lets the Yaochi Fairy balance the Qingqiu Holy Maiden.

"Fine, judge for yourself; I will go first."

Yunrou Fairy didn't chatter; she truly was about to leave.

Hearing this, the Yaochi Fairy grew even more silent.

In fact, regarding Gu Jin Nian, she initially came because of the celestial spirit root.

But later, as she interacted with Gu Jin Nian, she gradually realized he was different from others, especially when he defended the people's grievances, which moved her heart.

Yet she does not know what exactly she feels toward Gu Jin Nian.

It is hard to describe.

Meanwhile.

Inside the Da Xia Academy.

Dean's study.

Gu Jin Nian had just returned to the academy when Su Wenjing called him over.

"Mr. Wenjing."

Inside the academy, Gu Jin Nian entered the study, his face curious as he looked at Su Wenjing.

"Jin Nian."

"Jixia Academy sent an invitation, inviting you to go to Jixia Academy."

Su Wenjing took out a gold‑embossed invitation and handed it to Gu Jin Nian.

"Invite me to go?"

"Invite me to do what? I don't even know how to play chess."

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat curious, but he also took the invitation.

"Jixia Academy is the sacred place of Confucianism and Daoism in the world."

"Those who can be inside the academy are all Great Scholars from various regions."

"Moreover, the core of the academy is the scholarly dispute between Confucianism and Daoism; the Chess Dao is merely a branch."

Su Wenjing said slowly.

"Scholarly dispute?"

Gu Jin Nian frowned.

Since ancient times, the scholarly dispute has been the most terrifying thing for Confucianism and Daoism, easily leading to major incidents.

Simply put, wasn't the Kong family insulting themselves not long ago? Such insults have purpose and profit; in plain terms, they are targeting.

By leveraging Confucius's power, one can suppress the Kong family.

But the scholarly dispute is different.

If a huge conflict arises between scholars, the two will completely break apart, and thereafter we will not contend as our paths differ.

Of course, generally one does not destroy each other because of academic differences, but one will pick at your points based on your scholarship; that is normal.

And for scholars, without a clear goal, one must absolutely not involve oneself in the scholarly dispute.

At minimum, after having some achievements and abilities, one may involve oneself in the scholarly dispute.

The scholarly dispute is actually to pave the way for Establishing Speech.

All four saints participated in scholarly disputes in their early years, forming their own understandings through various arguments.

Then they founded their own sects.

But letting oneself get involved this early is a bit improper, right?

Seemed to have seen Gu Jin Nian's worry.

Su Wenjing couldn't help but speak.

"The trip to the Jixia Academy this time, you need not join the academic contest, but you must go ahead and take a look, to be prepared."

"You will eventually have to take part."

Su Wenjing's words gave Gu Jin Nian a slight sigh of relief.

"Alright then."

"The student will go with the teacher then."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

"Has His Majesty spoken to you about the official post?"

Soon, Su Wenjing brought up the matter again.

"He mentioned it."

"Rites Ministry Langzhong."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

"What do you think?"

Su Wenjing asked.

"It's acceptable, just that the rank is slightly too high; the student is rather lazy, a sixth‑rank position would suffice, the Langzhong rank is still not ideal, and moreover the student wishes to stay in the academy a while to settle down."

"However, the student went to the palace today and told His Majesty about this, so there is no need to go to the Ministry of Rites punctually like other officials."

Gu Jin Nian answered earnestly.

"Very well."

"Jin Nian, you have this thinking; I am deeply pleased."

"However, this appointment to the Ministry of Rites is my request; do you know why?"

Su Wenjing asked.

"Why?"

Gu Jin Nian looked somewhat curious.

"Jin Nian."

"You will eventually step onto the court, and in time become a powerful minister of Da Xia."

"Whether Prime Minister or Minister, it matters not."

"If you become an official at court, you will need to have your own connections."

"The ministers at court are all old; they are also cultivating their own people. I strongly request you to go to the Ministry of Rites for only two reasons."

"First, the Ministry of Rites oversees all scholars; you can select talent from there. The imperial examinations are imminent, and as a Rites Ministry Langzhong you have the authority to review exam papers, thus you can observe talent at the first moment."

"Second, you are ultimately a scholar; you need to settle in the Ministry of Rites for a while, lest your mindset change after gaining power."

"You must not err now; a single misstep would lead to irreversible disaster."

Su Wenjing explained the reasons.

It made Gu Jin Nian suddenly realize.

Indeed, the Ministry of Rites governs all scholars; the most direct matter is the imperial examination, and through it one can immediately gauge others' abilities, thereby building one's own network of influence.

Su Wenjing is still higher. The idea is good, but Gu Jin Nian is reluctant to do so.

He does not wish to build influence.

The phrase "forming cliques for personal gain" alone can destroy any power.

The Gu Family is already a colossal presence.

There is no need to form cliques for personal gain again.

Of course, Gu Jin Nian understands Mr. Su Wenjing's words; it is not to have him form cliques, but to select talents, some who can obey him.

Otherwise, even if one walks the path of a solitary minister, if subordinates do not obey, it is no longer the path of a solitary minister but a path of loneliness.

"The student has taken the lesson."

Gu Jin Nian bowed once toward Su Wenjing.

"Very well, as long as you understand."

"Alright, spend the next few days resting in the academy, to replenish your vital essence."

Su Wenjing spoke.

There is nothing more to say.

"Very well, the student will now take his leave."

Gu Jin Nian bowed once and then left the study.

He left the study.

He hadn't had time to return and rest when Wang Fugui and several others pulled him away.

Xu Changge and the others were about to leave.

Wang Fugui acted as host, treating everyone to wine—first to celebrate Gu Jin Nian's return, and second to see off Xu Changge and the others.

Gu Jin Nian originally didn't want to drink, but upon hearing that Xu Changge was leaving, he decided to see him off.

In the dining hall.

Wang Fugui laid out a grand feast, and Xu Changge and his companions sat at the main seats.

As Gu Jin Nian arrived, everyone couldn't help but rise.

"Brother Xu."

Gu Jin Nian first bowed to the crowd, then approached Xu Changge and the others, and opened his mouth slightly.

"Your Highness, Crown Prince, long time no see."

Xu Changge nodded; although still aloof, he was much better than before.

The two exchanged greetings, then each took a seat and the banquet began.

But after only three cups, a figure appeared—the figure of the Pure Clear Saintess.

Wang Fugui, being very considerate, gave up his seat.

With the Pure Clear Saintess's arrival, Gu Jin Nian felt a bit helpless, but had nothing to say.

Xu Changge and the others glanced at the Pure Clear Saintess, looking slightly odd, yet since she could appear inside the academy, they said nothing.

Soon the banquet started; the Pure Clear Saintess behaved demurely, deliberately pouring wine for Gu Jin Nian, making everyone envious.

About half an hour later.

Everyone's spirits rose higher, but halfway through, the Yaochi Fairy also arrived.

This made the scene a little awkward, after all no one had summoned her.

Yet after the Yaochi Fairy arrived, she said nothing.

Jiang Yezhou also politely gave up his seat.

Thus, on Gu Jin Nian's left and right sat two mortal beauties.

Unlike the Pure Clear Saintess, who poured wine for Gu Jin Nian, the Yaochi Fairy served dishes to him.

This behavior made everyone utterly envious.

Yet Gu Jin Nian did not feel happy; on the contrary, he felt a headache.

Another half an hour later.

The banquet ended completely; Gu Jin Nian drank a lot, lest any disputes arise later.

After the banquet dispersed.

It was Su Huaiyu who escorted Gu Jin Nian back; to ensure Gu Jin Nian's safety, Su Huaiyu deliberately stayed outside the room door.

So that nothing would happen.

Regarding this, Gu Jin Nian actually understood it in his heart—it was just sourness.

But it was also quite good.

Lying on the bed once more, Gu Jin Nian let out a long sigh.

Not long after.

He gradually slipped into the realm of dreams.

Thus.

For several consecutive days, the entire Da Xia Dynasty seemed to have completely calmed down.

These days, Gu Jin Nian stayed in the academy, immersing himself in study, and also tidying up his Confucian thoughts.

Perhaps because he had a sudden insight, the Yaochi Fairy and the Pure Clear Saintess did not come to disturb him.

And on the third day after returning to the academy.

Yang Kai once again came to Da Xia Academy.

However, this time Yang Kai brought official uniforms, seals, and such items.

At the hour of the Dragon.

After a brief brightening of the sky, Yang Kai walked to the academy, handing the Langzhong of the Ministry of Rites's official uniform, seal, and decree to Gu Jin Nian, and also brought two people along.

The two were just over forty, wearing sixth‑rank official uniforms; they were the chief clerks of the Ministry of Rites of Da Xia.

"Your Highness, Crown Prince."

"They are Zhou Hua and Li Anzhi, the chief clerks of the Ministry of Rites; from now on, matters of the Ministry will be handled by the two of them for you."

Yang Kai spoke, explaining the two men's identities to Gu Jin Nian.

"We have met, Your Highness, Crown Prince."

The two immediately spoke, bowing respectfully to Gu Jin Nian.

"You are both too kind."

"In the future, I hope you will continue to support us."

Gu Jin Nian did not overstate; although these two were merely chief clerks, officials in the capital have always been exceptional, even if only sixth‑rank.

Their administrative ability is certainly not lacking.

"Your words are heavy, Crown Prince."

The two instantly smiled.

And Yang Kai's voice rang out again.

"Your Highness, Crown Prince."

"If there is nothing else, I shall take my leave now; should any matter arise, you may directly ask the two of them, and if they are indecisive, you may come to me directly."

Yang Kai said with a smile.

He is now bound to Gu Jin Nian: first, out of guilt toward Gu Jin Nian; second, the Ministry of Rites has now placed its hopes on Gu Jin Nian; third, everything Gu Jin Nian has done also merits such respect.

"Very well, thank you, Minister."

Gu Jin Nian said nothing more.

After seeing Yang Kai off, Gu Jin Nian invited Zhou Hua and Li Anzhi into his room to inquire about some matters.

"Gentlemen."

"Are there any important assignments from the Ministry of Rites lately?"

Entering the room, Gu Jin Nian poured each a cup of tea; the two were instantly startled by the favor.

"Sir, the Ministry of Rites usually has few assignments; most matters are handled by someone. At present, the Ministry's biggest issue is the four‑dynasty peace talks."

Zhou Hua spoke, informing Gu Jin Nian of the Ministry's current major affair.

"Four‑dynasty peace talks?"

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat curious; he had not heard of this matter.

"The Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty intend to persuade the Xiongnu State to return the twelve border cities; Da Xia's Ministry of Rites is currently working on this."

"The Ministry's Left Vice Minister has already rushed to the border, and, barring any mishap, negotiations are underway now."

Zhou Hua said with a smile.

"Return the twelve border cities?"

"Do they really have such goodwill?"

Gu Jin Nian poured himself a cup of tea, his eyes full of suspicion.

"That part is unclear."

"However, given the characters of the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty, this matter is certainly not as simple as imagined."

"Returning the twelve cities will inevitably come with many conditions; what those conditions are, we will only know after the negotiations conclude."

Li An Zhi nodded.

Returning the twelve cities is a major affair; need not even think about it, the Xiongnu State could never easily hand the twelve cities back to Da Xia.

They will certainly demand various concessions.

"Keep an eye on this matter and inform me at the first sign of news."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

"Very well, sir, rest assured."

Zhou Hua nodded.

"Is there anything else?"

"For example, documents—if there are any, send someone daily; I can review them at the academy."

Gu Jin Nian said.

Since he has been appointed as a Ministry of Rites Langzhong, he should at least do something, settle his duties, and have a clear conscience.

"Understood. Starting tomorrow, I will promptly deliver the documents."

Li An Zhi replied.

"Sir, at present the Ministry has another matter, and I'm not sure whether you will handle it."

Zhou Hua, standing nearby, seemed to understand what Gu Jin Nian was thinking, and thus asked.

"What is it?"

Gu Jin Nian asked curiously.

"Sir, three months ago His Majesty initiated an early capital inspection; over the past three months the inspection has concluded. I hear the Ministry of Personnel has completed the registers of all officials, and officials from across the realm have been streaming into the capital."

"If you are free lately, you could go meet these officials, perhaps give them a little guidance."

Zhou Hua spoke.

In his view, Gu Jin Nian, as a newly appointed official, is eager to achieve some political merit; even if he doesn't achieve merit, he should at least make an appearance and do something.

So as not to be the subject of idle gossip.

"Oh, the Ministry also handles reception of officials from other regions?"

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat curious.

In his impression, the Ministry primarily oversees examinations, foreign affairs, sacrifices, banquets, and protocol.

Capital inspections are the work of the Ministry of Personnel; he hadn't expected any connection to the Ministry of Rites.

"Sir."

"This inspection is a nationwide assessment; officials from all regions are entering the capital, and the Ministry has the authority to receive them."

"It so happens that you are a Langzhong, within your jurisdiction and authority."

Zhou Hua smiled.

"Alright, tomorrow we'll set a feast; I'll go take a look."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

Seeing officials from various regions is beneficial; becoming familiar now means that when I later go to other prefectures, I won't be completely unknown to anyone.

"I understand, sir."

Both nodded.

Finally, Gu Jin Nian looked at the two and said.

"Don't say it's because I'm coming; hold the feast in both of your names."

Gu Jin Nian said.

"Rest assured, sir."

The two said nothing more and simply proceeded with the task.

"Very well, thank you for your effort."

Gu Jin Nian gave a slight smile, then produced a silver note worth five hundred taels and handed it to the two.

The silver was his own, with no dubious source, so he wasn't afraid of anything.

"Thank you, sir."

"You are truly being courteous, sir."

Both wore joyful faces; after Zhou Hua received the silver, he thanked repeatedly.

They are officials of the Ministry; aside from food, their monthly salary is fifty taels of silver.

The salaries of Da Xia officials are very low; Gu Jin Nian's casual expense here amounts to ten months' pay.

This is a big sum, indeed.

Although they have some off‑the‑books income, capital officials are under great pressure and dare not collect money arbitrarily; moreover, the Ministry of Rites is a clean‑handed office, so even though some places can earn silver, it doesn't fall to them.

"Never mind."

"If there's nothing else later, just send over some documents."

Five hundred taels of silver is nothing.

He just used the Haoran Qi‑Gazing technique on these two; they are perfectly normal and hold no ill will toward him.

Giving them a bit of silver is also a small favor; when the subordinates are fed, they work more efficiently.

Otherwise, whether or not he's the Crown Prince, making the subordinates unhappy only leads them to slack off; as long as they fulfill their duties, that's enough.

The two left.

Gu Jin Nian also appeared calm.

Half an hour later.

Zhou Hua delivered a batch of official document files.

Almost a hundred in total.

Gu Jin Nian took them very seriously.

After all, he now counts as a proper official; what's placed before him is not merely a piece of paper but a matter where each of his decisions will have huge repercussions.

His entry into the academy, as well as the Zhang Ming case, made Gu Jin Nian understand deeply.

This simple sheet represents a responsibility.

He opened the file.

Gu Jin Nian read it carefully, daring not to be negligent at all.

However, the Ministry of Rites' document files are messy, containing matters of all sizes.

The majority are sacrificial affairs; today either this place or that place must hold a ceremony.

Offerings to Heaven, Earth, river deities, and so on.

There are few diplomatic matters; they may not fall to his responsibility.

But there are many academy matters, mostly school‑administration issues and some Confucian appointments, akin to teacher titles.

Matters, big or small, alike.

Gu Jin Nian was indeed diligent, working until night.

He finished processing most of the documents.

Only a few documents made Gu Jin Nian frown.

They involved the Buddhist sect.

Thirteen in total, all from Guiyang County.

The Buddhist sect wants to establish temples in the nine prefectures of Guiyang, setting up thirteen temples.

Guiyang County lies in the southern region of Da Xia, perpetually arid, economically underdeveloped, with no notable sites.

Yet Guiyang County has a huge population, with many impoverished peasants.

Building thirteen temples in one go is rather odd.

Gu Jin Nian examined the document files meticulously.

The files bore Zhou Hua's annotations: seven approved, six rejected; the rejections cite that temples were already built locally last year, so no more can be erected.

The Da Xia Dynasty does not oppose the Buddhist sect, but unlike other dynasties, the sect is overseen by Da Xia's Ministry of Rites.

Temple construction anywhere must be approved by the Ministry of Rites; if approved, they may be built, otherwise not.

Throughout the Da Xia Dynasty, Buddhist temples are not few, but most cluster in impoverished areas.

Gu Jin Nian is not opposed to the Buddhist sect.

Even concerning Jiangling County, he still harbors no strong aversion to the sect.

The old saying still holds: don't condemn an entire group with one blow; every faction has good and bad people.

From the dynasty's perspective, however, the Buddhist sect does indeed hinder its development.

The reason is simple.

The sect can be tax‑exempt.

Buddhist disciples survive on alms from worshippers, lacking other income, so they can farm self‑sufficiently, yet the Da Xia Dynasty places certain restrictions on their land holdings.

However, whether that can be truly enforced is another matter.

After all, even if you cultivate a few extra acres, you have little to argue about.

He thought for a moment.

Gu Jin Nian directly marked "Reject" on the documents.

The reason was straightforward: no need for so many temples.

"After a few days, when the Ministry of Rites meets, we'll need to bring this up again."

Gu Jin Nian muttered to himself.

At that moment, a gust of fragrant wind swept in, and a supple figure appeared behind him.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, you're still handling official business this late; shall my humble self give you a shoulder massage?"

The voice sounded.

No need to think—it's the saintess Qing Qian.

"Miss Qing Qian."

"Gu is busy with official duties; I ask you, miss, to be modest and not disturb."

Gu Jin Nian's expression was calm.

It's one thing to cause a little trouble on ordinary days, but I'm on official business and truly dislike being disturbed.

"Don't worry."

"I won't disturb His Highness the Crown Prince."

"However, whether you handle this official business or not seems meaningless."

Saintess Qing Qian spoke, looking at the official document before Gu Jin Nian.

"Oh?"

"What do you have to say, Miss Qing Qian?"

Gu Jin Nian caught the subtext in her words and couldn't help being curious.

"Qingqiu Mountain is a thousand li from Guiyang County; when I came looking for you, I passed through Guiyang County."

"Every prefecture has been building temples on a grand scale."

"These temples were already completed before this document was submitted."

"Some temples were even erected privately without reporting to superiors."

Saintess Qing Qian continued, saying so.

"Is there such a thing?"

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat surprised.

Although privately building temples carries no severe punishment, at most they are demolished and the monks dispersed.

But constructing so many temples makes no sense. If it's for tax evasion, putting them under a scholar's name works fine; a few extra acres yield little profit, and if they truly owned thousands of acres, lower officials would deal with it immediately.

Those officials aren't stupid; they're scholars and have no need to collude with monks for such profit.

So Gu Jin Nian was very curious.

"It's not just Guiyang County; many places are building temples en masse, and distributing porridge and rice, yet no one knows where the silver comes from."

"For example, within Guiyang County there's a place called Changqiu Prefecture where half the populace have gone to chant Buddha and keep a vegetarian diet."

Qing Qian spoke up, revealing this secret.

"Half the people have gone to chant Buddha and keep a vegetarian diet?"

"Miss Qing Qian, this is no trivial matter; if it's hearsay, you must not speak recklessly."

Gu Jin Nian furrowed his brows and said.

"I have seen it with my own eyes."

Saintess Qing Qian spoke lightly, exhaling fragrance.

"Why is this so?"

"Where does the silver come from?"

This time, Gu Jin Nian was thoroughly curious.

"You say occasional porridge distribution is acceptable, but dragging half a prefectural city's populace to chant Buddha and keep a vegetarian diet is rather exaggerated, right?"

"I am not clear on that."

"However, His Highness the Crown Prince, even if this document is approved, they will still go ahead and build."

"In my opinion, it's better to let the lower officials handle it, not meddle in such matters; we should just live our own lives."

Saintess Qing Qian said with a smile in her eyes.

As she spoke, she waved her hand, and the room door shut automatically.

The next moment, a force bound Gu Jin Nian and forced him to lie on the bed.

Saintess Qing Qian smiled and looked at herself.

Facing this scene,

Gu Jin Nian was completely unafraid.

"Brother Su, save me."

He spoke, his voice low.

But from under the bed, a figure darted out quickly.

It stood at the foot of the bed, staring at Saintess Qing Qian.

Its gaze was filled with cold emptiness.

"His Highness the Crown Prince is indeed cautious."

Saintess Qing Qian smiled, said nothing, and pushed the door open to leave.

Watching Saintess Qing Qian depart,

Su Huaiyu said nothing either and slipped back under the bed.

"Brother Su, what are you doing hiding here?"

Gu Jin Nian hadn't expected Su Huaiyu to be hidden under the bed; his earlier shout was only a tentative cry for help.

"Nothing."

"I've already opened a passage underground; beneath the Crown Prince's bed leads to Su's residence."

"His Highness the Crown Prince, if you have something, just speak."

Su Huaiyu spoke.

For a moment, it left Gu Jin Nian speechless.

The next day.

Zhou Hua came to Da Xia Academy once again.

The banquet had already been set, the officials were waiting, and he was there to deliver the notice.

Received Zhou Hua's notice.

Gu Jin Nian also didn't waste words, directly followed Zhou Hua away and went to attend the banquet.

Talk about female characters.

Impossible to have none.

Actually over a million words, the appearance rate of female characters is less than five percent.

Occasionally will definitely write a bit, which serves as an adjustment.

The romance plot has always been July's weakest point, so they will also play to strengths and avoid weaknesses.

——Then the recent chapters are laying groundwork.

Lay a new climax.

Take the Capital Inspection as the main focus.

Brothers, be patient and watch for two days; the groundwork is set, it's super awesome! (End of chapter)