Chapter 146: Could it be that tomorrow they will go to war, and Gu Jin Nian can summon a meteor to crush ten thousand cavalry?

Xiongnu royal court.

Set up a grand banquet.

This peace talk was a complete success; to everyone, it was a great joy.

What the envoys of the three dynasties did not expect was that Da Xia sent a letter unilaterally tearing up the peace treaty.

Although the letter clearly explained the situation.

Li Shan had no authority to negotiate peace.

Minister of Rites Yang Kai also had no authority to negotiate peace; the person who could truly decide on peace was Gu Jin Nian.

At the same time, the letter also made clear that Gu Jin Nian agreed to the peace talks' demands.

Compensate ten million taels of silver; all the main culprits from the Xiongnu state who participated in the border war years ago must commit suicide, and also demand that the Xiongnu ruler personally issue a self-blame edict, acknowledging his fault.

Only the Da Xia Dynasty would agree to peace talks; otherwise, there would be no talks.

"Bullying people too much!"

"Bullying people too much!"

"Really, bullying people too much!"

The Xiongnu king gripped the letter tightly in his hand, his eyes filled with killing intent and anger.

This is too much of a bully.

In this peace talk, are the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty lending strong support?

All of the Xiongnu state's demands are to be paid by the two great dynasties; isn't that already giving face to Da Xia?

As it turned out, no one expected the Da Xia Dynasty to be so overreaching.

"Both of you."

"Now it's not that my Xiongnu state is unreasonable and unforgiving; it's the Da Xia Dynasty that is overly shameless and despicable."

"If Da Xia wants war, then my Xiongnu state fears no battle."

"Convey the king's order: mobilize the great army and march out to meet the enemy."

The Xiongnu king is also a hot-blooded person; since Da Xia acts this way, he has no need to put a warm face on a cold backside.

Directly declare war.

But as soon as these words were spoken, the envoys of the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty couldn't help but frown.

Indeed.

Da Xia's demands are too excessive; even just sending troops directly is somewhat inappropriate.

But they do not wish for war to break out; it's not that they fear Da Xia, but rather they have matters to attend to.

Therefore, the envoy of the Great Jin Dynasty spoke up.

"Your Majesty, please calm your anger."

"This matter is indeed Da Xia's fault, but Minister of Rites Yang Kai explicitly stated in the letter that this matter was Gu Jin Nian's decision."

"I think it's because the Da Xia emperor doesn't trust Yang Kai and Li Shan, so he sent Gu Jin Nian to supervise; however, this Gu Jin Nian never considers consequences when acting, often acting on his own."

"So, this matter may not necessarily be the Da Xia emperor's intention."

"In that case, my Great Jin Dynasty will send an envoy to the Da Xia Capital to audience with the Da Xia emperor and inform him of this matter; thus we can clarify whether this is Da Xia's intention or merely Gu Jin Nian's personal opinion."

The Great Jin envoy spoke, and his words were reasonable, causing the Xiongnu king to nod.

"Right, this matter is not whatever Gu Jin Nian says goes."

"Your Majesty, we should ask the Da Xia emperor's intention."

The Fuyu envoy also spoke up.

Upon saying this, the Xiongnu king's anger somewhat subsided, though he still frowned.

"We can go ask, but Gu Jin Nian's actions are indeed provoking my Xiongnu state."

"If the Da Xia emperor is willing to negotiate peace from now on, regardless, we must add another ten million taels of silver."

"This silver must be paid by Da Xia."

The Xiongnu king spoke from his high position.

He also became angry.

This time the envoys of the two great dynasties said nothing, because Gu Jin Nian really went too far.

Chen Song also didn't waste words, immediately arranging people to go to the Da Xia Dynasty to ask the Da Xia emperor.

Chen Song also didn't waste words, immediately arranging for people to go to the Da Xia Dynasty to ask the Da Xia emperor.

In the military camp,

The news of the declaration of war also spread quickly.

Regarding the previous peace-seeking.

Within the military camp, there were various opinions; some naturally hoped to avoid war, preferring peace and quiet, but most actually were dissatisfied with this peace talk.

Especially some young soldiers, part of them wanted to achieve merit and establish themselves.

For soldiers, wanting to raise their status can only be done through war; in peacetime, it's basically just seniority, and even after ten or twenty years, at most they could rise one rank.

This is for low ranks; if one aims higher, there's basically no hope.

Meanwhile, another group, their forefathers, were buried in the border war.

They continue to serve in the military so that one day they can avenge their fathers, or their families.

Naturally, their thoughts of advocating war are strong.

Now, upon hearing that war would break out, the military camp was ablaze with enthusiasm; most people praised Gu Jin Nian as worthy of being the grandson of the Defender of the State.

A minority felt sentimental, but had no complaints.

A few people felt emotional, but they had no complaints.

It's simply that I think a negotiation is possible; it's best to resolve it through negotiation.

Inside the military camp.

Yang Kai looked at Gu Jin Nian, his mood somewhat heavy.

He had actually guessed that Gu Jin Nian would never negotiate, but he didn't expect that Gu Jin Nian would refuse to negotiate in this manner.

His Highness the Crown Prince.

The deeds you did today are not wrong, but you must not have slapped Prime Minister Li Xiang.

After all, he is the Da Xia Prime Minister; if this matter reaches the court, it will likely cause huge controversy.

In the court, many officials are disciples of Prime Minister Li, and across the lands there are also many merchants who are his disciples; one should not offend Prime Minister Li.

Yang Kai spoke.

He thought Gu Jin Nian was somewhat impulsive.

Who is Li Shan?

The Da Xia Prime Minister; the power behind him is terrifyingly immense, certainly not inferior to a Duke.

Offending Li Shan is not a wise choice.

I understand.

But we cannot avoid offending.

Li Shan advocates for peace talks, and there must be unspeakable secrets behind it.

Gu Jin Nian spoke lightly.

This.

Yang Kai didn't know what to say; regarding Li Shan's actions, his feeling was mixed.

If we say Li Shan has a problem, he's not sure, after all the terms offered by the Xiongnu Kingdom are indeed quite good.

If Gu Jin Nian were not present, he would also agree.

But to say Li Shan has no problem,

it seems overly eager.

It seems as if there was premeditation.

He is reluctant to take part in this matter.

In the court, nothing is trivial; every clash and game involves the participation of various forces.

If it has little to do with him, he does not wish to get involved.

It may appear that Gu Jin Nian is targeting Li Shan, but who can guarantee it is not the Grand Duke who intends to strike the current Prime Minister? In the court, there are no enemies or friends; when interests are involved, all sorts of means emerge, whether dirty or aboveboard.

One side's victory means the other's elimination.

None of the participants will have a good outcome.

If a war is truly declared, it would indeed be a considerable expense for the Da Xia Dynasty, and the people's taxes would have to increase significantly.

All we ask is to end this war quickly, using the smallest cost to obtain the best return.

Since Gu Jin Nian has made up his mind, he also has nothing left to dissuade.

Since Gu Jin Nian's mind is set, he has nothing to object to.

Only, he hopes this war will not be too brutal; winning is enough.

Gold and silver, no need to worry.

And I have a way to solve the tax issue.

However, just after Yang Kai said that, Gu Jin Nian's voice immediately rang out, his face full of confidence.

Solving the tax issue?

How to solve it?

This time, it was Yang Kai who was somewhat surprised.

The country needs to wage war, and although the treasury hasn't reached the point of being completely drained, in the end there is still no silver.

Therefore, taxes must inevitably be levied on the people.

How does Gu Jin Nian intend to solve this problem?

There is a good plan.

Even the common people not only need not pay taxes, but can actually have their taxes reduced.

Gu Jin Nian spoke lightly.

As soon as those words were spoken, Yang Kai could no longer sit still.

If it were someone else, Yang Kai would not even bother; war and taxation are a given—does any dynasty wage war without taxing? Only if the treasury is overflowing.

The court's greatest worry about war is actually the financial issue.

Da Xia indeed does not fear war.

But the problem is, fighting without silver, even if you win it's a loss; losing is even worse.

His Highness the Crown Prince.

"Can you speak plainly? This old man's heart has been stirred by you."

"If you don't say it, I fear I'll stay up all night."

Yang Kai was truly itching.

He was curious about what method Gu Jin Nian actually had to avoid this tax issue.

However, Gu Jin Nian shook his head and said.

"This matter is too vast; forgive this officer's rudeness, I cannot speak of it, nor can I say it."

Gu Jin Nian spoke seriously.

He indeed has a method, but this method cannot be spoken.

Gu Jin Nian's policy proposal is very simple; it does not increase taxes on ordinary commoners, nor is it aimed at the rich, but rather spreads the burden evenly.

That is, the well-known policy of integrating poll tax into land tax.

Moreover, the fire consumption is turned over to the public.

Integrating poll tax into land tax solves the tax problem of the vast poor commoners: the more land, the more tax; no land, no tax; this can promote population growth.

As for the fire consumption being turned over to the public, it is a huge sum of wealth.

Although the So Title: Minister of Personnel constantly complains that officials' salaries are low and local officials bitterly complain, in fact Gu Jin Nian is perfectly clear.

Officials inside the capital are relatively better; under the emperor's feet, aside from some who have real power and gray income, things are relatively simple.

Aren't local officials rolling in wealth?

The people's fat and ointment, plus the integrity silver, plus this fire consumption—each is more wealthy than the last.

Just like the officials of Guiyang Commandery, in such a poor place, those officials can still embezzle huge amounts of silver.

So, there's really nothing bitter about it; they're just complaining for the sake of complaining.

Anyway, since it's the state's money, take as much as you can, while also showing off your own poverty and hardship.

Integrating poll tax into land tax, plus turning over fire consumption to the public, will surely let the Da Xia Dynasty quickly become prosperous.

But Gu Jin Nian is also very clear about this.

If this policy is rolled out.

I'm afraid it would offend too many people, and it's certainly not as simple as offending just the officials; it would offend the entire wealthy class and middle class of Da Xia.

Plus the local officials.

So, to carry out these two policies, one must prepare a foolproof plan, think things through clearly, and also have a certain say in the court before they can be implemented.

Otherwise, although the idea is good, Gu Jin Nian can guarantee that it cannot be carried out; localities will block it, and these people will even spread rumors everywhere, exaggerating them to intimidate the common folk.

Therefore, only after making thorough and stable preparations can one proceed with implementation.

"Alas."

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"Feelings have faded."

Yang Kai sighed, feeling somewhat helpless, yet there was nothing much to say.

Just then, a figure quickly approached and hurriedly spoke outside the main camp.

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"Prince Ning has arrived."

As this voice sounded, Yang Kai's expression involuntarily changed.

Before Gu Jin Nian arrived, he had already heard about Prince Ning's affairs.

However, since a Duke was involved, plus the peace talks, Yang Kai didn't say much.

Now that Prince Ning has come, Yang Kai still changed his expression somewhat.

"Prince Ning."

The king of the western borders, in terms of status and power, is not inferior to the State Protector Duke.

"And the Duke?"

Yang Kai spoke up, asking on behalf of Gu Jin Nian where the State Protector Duke was.

"Replying, Sir, the State Protector Duke has already gone to the city gate."

The latter responded, informing the two of them.

At that moment, Gu Jin Nian immediately rose and walked toward the outside of the main camp.

At this very moment.

On the city wall of Tongguan City.

The State Protector Duke stood up slowly, and Li Lengxin was also brought up, though he remains in a fainted state and has not yet awakened.

Below the city.

The scorching sun shone; Prince Ning led several hundred elite troops, seated on his horse, silently gazing at the State Protector Duke.

"Gu Yuan."

"State your terms."

"Prince Ning has arrived."

He hardly said any nonsense, did not enter the city, but instead looked at the State Protector Duke, urging him to state his terms.

On the city wall.

Hearing Prince Ning speak like this, the State Protector Duke was also very direct.

"Ten Martial King Treasure Pills, a hundred Human Dragon Treasure Pills, three thousand Divine Ability Treasure Pills, in exchange for the Black Water Iron Cavalry."

The State Protector Duke laid out his own terms.

The Black Water Iron Cavalry is Prince Ning's strongest iron cavalry under his command; he cannot retain them, which is the truth, so he simply exchanged them for pills.

Gu Jin Nian currently indeed needs pills to enhance his strength.

"Good."

Without any nonsense, Prince Ning directly agreed.

Although the price is terrifying, exchanging for the Black Water Iron Cavalry is not a loss.

"My son, what do you need?"

Prince Ning continued speaking.

The Black Water Iron Cavalry has been exchanged back; next is his son.

At that very moment, Gu Jin Nian appeared on the city wall.

Grandfather.

Seeing Gu Yuan, Grandfather Gu nodded, then turned his gaze to the Prince of Ning and said.

Your son assaulted and killed my grandson; no amount of elixirs can change that. Since he dared to commit murder, he is doomed to die.

Grandfather Gu spoke.

His voice calm, he told the Prince of Ning directly that Li Lengxin was certain to die.

Upon hearing that reply, the Prince of Ning's expression appeared calm.

Gu Yuan.

No matter what my son does, it's not up to you to handle; in any case, it should be left to the Emperor, to be dealt with by the Ministry of Punishment.

You, the Gu family, still don't have that authority.

The Prince of Ning spoke, since Gu Yuan had no intention of releasing the person, he could only resort to this method.

The Emperor has issued an edict: all matters in the northwest border are under my full responsibility, with the authority to strike first and report later.

If you disagree, you may go to the capital and present a complaint before the Emperor against me.

Facing this western border prince, the Duke Protector of the State showed neither the slightest fear nor any willingness to compromise.

Having said that, he extended his hand.

At that moment, Li Lengxin, who was bound to the wooden post, was awakened.

He opened his eyes, somewhat dazed; upon seeing his father appear, Li Lengxin forgot the pain and let out a heart-rending cry.

Father, save me, father, quickly save me.

Father, you must definitely save me.

I don't want to die.

Li Lengxin was practically shouting with a heart-rending cry, hoping his father could save him.

Hearing his son's voice, the Prince of Ning did not show particular anguish or distress, but instead gazed steadily at Gu Yuan.

Send my son out of the city.

As for all previous matters, let bygones be bygones; I will prepare generous gifts and send them to the Duke's residence.

I will also properly discipline my son.

The Prince of Ning spoke again, displaying the bearing of a prince; even when seeking favor from others, he showed not the slightest humility.

Kill.

Just that.

The Duke Protector of the State hesitated not at all; he waved his hand.

Immediately, a soldier drew his blade and slashed at Li Lengxin's neck.

Li Lengxin's pupils dilated, his eyes filled with fear.

He never expected, even in death, that he had only caused the deaths of two lowly commoners, yet he would have to pay with his life; he had committed far more heinous acts before and gotten away with them—why must he die over this? He felt resentful.

But it was already too late.

At that moment, a head hit the ground, falling straight from the city wall and shattering into pieces.

At this time.

Everyone erupted in an uproar; even the soldiers building the wall were stunned one after another.

This was the Prince of Ning's son!

The Prince of Ning came in person; to speak frankly, even if he didn't give face, it wouldn't come to an on-the-spot beheading, would it?

Even Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but click his tongue in disapproval.

His own grandfather was truly ruthless, decisive in his actions, leaving no room for maneuver.

Meanwhile, down below, the Prince of Ning saw this scene and his expression instantly darkened.

His own child died before his eyes; no one could remain calm, yet he lacked the expected fury—his expression changed, but without strong emotion.

This is rather strange.

According to rumor, the Prince of Ning dotes extremely on these two sons, yet his current behavior seems somewhat strange.

Thought-provoking.

Gu Yuan.

After the northwestern campaign, I will certainly personally go to the capital.

The Prince of Ning drew a deep breath, stared at Gu Yuan, and let out a roar.

And on the wall.

Grandfather Gu feared nothing; he stepped forward a pace, his voice booming.

Assassinating my grandson—this is the consequence.

Anyone in the world who dares to assassinate my grandson, as long as I live, to the ends of the earth I will see that he dies without a burial place.

Grandfather Gu spoke with overbearing authority.

He deliberately did not execute Li Lengxin on the spot, but waited until the Prince of Ning came to ransom him, then killed him in his presence.

It was not a matter of denying the Prince of Ning face.

Rather, he was telling the world that even the grand Prince of Ning of Da Xia would not be shown favor; whoever dared to move against Gu Jin Nian would find him fighting to the death. If he didn't kill this Li Lengxin, would any cat or dog then be able to offend Gu Jin Nian? Grandfather Gu understood that, should the struggle for Heaven's Mandate begin, Gu Jin Nian would be targeted by many, with open and covert schemes alike.

But he cared not for what comes after; at least now he needed to be clear on one thing: to cause trouble for Gu Jin Nian is to make an enemy of the Gu family, and to prepare for death.

Fear not death—come.

Listening to Gu Yuan's words.

Ning Wang didn't say anything, he turned and left, returning to the prince's mansion.

Such behavior is all the more thought‑provoking.

Gu Jin Nian quietly watched all of this.

To be honest, I thought Prince Ning's arrival would bring another dispute, but I never expected my own biological son to die before my eyes, and Prince Ning showed no change at all.

I don't know whether it's a matter of character, or Prince Ning simply doesn't care about this son of his.

But regardless, Prince Ning left.

And the Gu Family gained another enemy.

As Prince Ning departed, Grandfather Gu's expression remained calm, and then he looked at Gu Jin Nian and said.

"The envoy from Great Jin has already gone to the capital, intending to inform Your Majesty of this peace negotiation."

"The border is about to go to war, Jin Nian; you should return early."

Grandfather Gu spoke.

He had Gu Jin Nian leave early.

He knew the border war would inevitably break out.

So he hoped Gu Jin Nian would leave sooner, return to the capital and wait for news.

But, facing Grandfather Gu's words, Gu Jin Nian shook his head.

"Grandfather." "Grandson plans to leave after the war breaks out."

"I don't want people to say your grandson receives special treatment."

"Although he cannot take up arms and go to battle, his veins still flow with the Gu Family's blood."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

Before going to the mausoleum, Gu Jin Nian also intended to leave once the peace talks ended, regardless of the outcome.

But now he wants to stay, at least until the first battle ends before leaving.

Da Xia's soldiers fight bloody battles, yet I am being protected and withdrawn— isn't that a joke? It would disgrace the Gu Family's honor. Upon hearing these words.

Grandfather Gu felt greatly relieved.

"Good."

"Zhou Kui, during this time you follow the heir apparent, Jin Nian; if he has any needs, just go to him. Grandfather Gu has matters to attend to and cannot accompany you."

Grandfather Gu spoke, ordering a attendant to follow Gu Jin Nian to look after him.

"All right, Grandfather Gu, you go ahead with your affairs."

The war is about to break out; Grandfather Gu has many affairs, he knows this clearly, so naturally he will not disturb.

After Grandfather Gu left.

Zhou Kui immediately stepped forward; he looked about thirty, sturdy and broad, wearing armor, and even in the scorching heat he did not take off his armor.

"I pay my respects, Your Highness the Heir Apparent."

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, I have long heard of your deeds and admire you from the bottom of my heart."

Zhou Kui walked up, smiling broadly.

"General, you are too kind."

Gu Jin Nian returned the salute with clasped hands.

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, I will now arrange lodging for you."

Zhou Kui spoke up, saying he would arrange lodging for Gu Jin Nian.

"No need; just let me stay in the main camp like an ordinary person."

Gu Jin Nian specifically added, he didn't want things too complicated; normal would do.

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, this seems somewhat improper."

Zhou Kui spoke, his expression shifting slightly.

"There's nothing improper about it."

"Just arrange it like this."

"By the way, General Zhou, over the next two days please trouble yourself to tell me more about military matters; I need to understand all aspects."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, saying the soldiers are the Da Xia Dynasty's strongest spear and also its greatest source of confidence.

Naturally we must study well; we can't possibly be mere armchair strategists, can we?

Only by understanding the soldiers and knowing some military affairs can we better adjust and establish different rules.

"All right."

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, please."

Zhou Kui is not a pretentious person; Gu Jin Nian spoke, and he didn't waste words, immediately making arrangements.

Thus.

In the blink of an eye.

Two days passed.

Da Xia imperial palace.

At the imperial court.

Civil and military officials stood to left and right, while Emperor Yongsheng sat calmly upon the dragon throne.

"Summon the Great Jin envoy into the hall."

With Wei Xian's voice ringing out, a figure soon approached the hall.

It was the Great Jin envoy.

He bowed before Emperor Yongsheng, shouted 'Long live the Da Xia emperor,' then took out a memorial from his sleeve and said.

"Your Majesty, the three-state peace talks are imminent; your state's Chancellor Li Shan has already signed the peace treaty."

The Xiongnu state proposed silver compensation and mine compensation; the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty, in order to seek peace in the Eastern Wilderness, are willing to pay the silver on behalf of the Xia Dynasty; as for the mine compensation, my Great Jin Dynasty is willing to send ten thousand monks to build temples on the border.

To eliminate the people's resentful spirits and increase the fortune of both countries, the Xiongnu state's sole request is that the Xia Dynasty revise its historical records, thereby fostering friendship between the two nations.

This peace agreement satisfies all sides.

However, the Xia crown prince Gu Jin Nian unilaterally annulled the peace treaty, and it is even rumored that he slapped Minister Li out of personal anger, intending to secure peace in the Eastern Wilderness.

Demanding one million taels of silver compensation from the Xiongnu state, and furthermore requiring the Xiongnu state's chief culprit to commit suicide as apology, and also demanding that the Xiongnu ruler issue a self-incriminating edict.

By listing unacceptable conditions, they essentially had no intention of making peace; the Xiongnu ruler flew into a rage and wanted to declare war, but under the mediation of Fuyu and Great Jin, they sent an official to the Xia capital to meet His Majesty.

After inquiring about the outcome, one wonders whether Gu Jin Nian actually has the authority to intervene in this peace negotiation.

The Great Jin envoy explained everything clearly.

The full story, explained in meticulous detail.

And as his voice fell, the entire court of civil and military officials erupted in an uproar.

"Slapped Minister Li?"

"Revise the historical records, and then return the twelve cities?"

"One million taels of silver compensation? This,"

The civil and military officials never imagined that this peace negotiation would yield such a result.

Someone exclaimed, Minister Li had been slapped by Gu Jin Nian.

But what surprised even more people was that, in this peace negotiation, the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty actually seemed willing to pay compensation for the Xia Dynasty.

This is truly unbelievable.

To speak frankly, this already counts as benevolent and righteous to the utmost; the Xia Dynasty can certainly agree.

Even during this period, the entire court of civil and military officials weighed the peace negotiation, and ultimately everyone unanimously felt that compensation of three million taels of silver, plus revising the historical records, would be acceptable.

Now not even the three million taels of silver need to be given; only revising the historical records is required—this is practically a free gift.

At that moment, an official could not help but speak up.

"Your Majesty."

"This Gu Jin Nian is merely a Langzhong of the Ministry of Rites; how could he have the authority to annul the peace agreement?"

Furthermore, the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty show full sincerity, caring for the people of the Eastern Wilderness; this is a benevolent act of a great nation. Please, Your Majesty, issue an edict to recall Gu Jin Nian to the capital.

The Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel stood up, spoke immediately, and expressed his opinion.

Soon, officials came forward one after another.

Their meaning was largely the same.

Peace talks!

To them, it is a good thing: no war, the state stabilizes and develops, and there will not be too many problems.

At this moment, even the Minister of War Zhao Yiyang remained silent.

It's not that they don't want to help Gu Jin Nian, but the peace terms are too favorable.

It's practically giving away twelve cities to the Xia Dynasty for free.

From the standpoint of national interest, one cannot deny that it's quite good—far better than expected.

Half a moment passed.

When no one continued to speak, the Yongsheng Emperor's voice slowly sounded.

"Go tell the Xiongnu king."

"Gu Jin Nian's intention is also My intention."

The Yongsheng Emperor spoke lightly.

He sat upright on the dragon throne; a single sentence made the civil and military officials frown, and also made the Great Jin envoy frown.

In everyone's view, the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty stepping forward should exert some pressure on the Xia Dynasty, and moreover the two great dynasties are willing to help the Xia Dynasty pay all other compensation.

The Xia Dynasty has no reason to refuse.

Not only does it have no reason to refuse, but the Xia Dynasty ought to feel joy and delight.

Who would have thought that the Yongsheng Emperor would actually refuse?

"Your Majesty."

A court official spoke up, unable to hold back a few words.

However, under the Yongsheng Emperor's glance, the latter dared not speak further.

"The Holy Sovereign of Xia."

"This peace negotiation is for the peace of the Eastern Wilderness; in fact, the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty really do not need to meddle— the Xia Dynasty's bloody war with the Xiongnu is a good thing for our two dynasties."

"But for the people of the Eastern Wilderness, the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty have sacrificed minor gains for the greater good of the Eastern Wilderness, striving to mediate; as the emperor of the Xia Dynasty, emotionally he should avoid war, and rationally he should also guard the Eastern Wilderness territory."

"Please, Your Majesty, reconsider."

The Great Jin envoy spoke, gazing at the Yongsheng Emperor, hoping he would reconsider.

At the same time, he also could not understand why the Yongsheng Emperor refused the peace talks.

"I have said."

"Gu Jin Nian's intention is My intention."

"The Xia Dynasty does not need help from the two dynasties, nor does it need to rely on others' charity, to take back the cities that rightfully belong to My Xia."

"To retrieve them in this way would be a disgrace to the Xia Dynasty."

"Go tell the Xiongnu king, tell the Emperor of Great Jin, and also the Emperor of Fuyu."

"From the very beginning, I never intended to make peace."

"The blood debt from thirteen years ago, I will make the Xiongnu state pay in blood."

"The Xiongnu state's greatest opportunity is to accede to Gu Jin Nian's demand; this is their only chance of survival."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

At this moment, he stood up, gazed at the other party, his expression utterly cold.

Yes.

From beginning to end, he never considered peace; he wants the Xiongnu to repay their blood debt with blood.

As for the conditions Gu Jin Nian proposed, he can also accept: returning twelve cities, compensation, self‑punishment, and issuing a self‑accusation edict.

That is not unacceptable.

When those words were spoken, the entire court of civil and military officials fell silent.

Especially the officials who had spoken earlier, each lowered their heads, their faces grim.

They were clearly the pro‑peace faction, yet they did not expect His Majesty to have never considered peace at all.

"Your Majesty."

"If we truly declare war, it will only create more slaughter; then the Eastern Wilderness will descend into chaos again, and moreover, Da Xia may not be able to win."

"Your Majesty, you should calm your anger and think thrice before acting."

The Great Jin envoy spoke, and he did not expect Emperor Yong Sheng to hold such a view.

However, he was neither angry nor annoyed; he still urged Emperor Yong Sheng to think thrice, hoping the emperor would calm his anger.

"Go back and let the Xiongnu king think thrice."

"Also, the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty should refrain from meddling in this matter."

"If I discover that the two dynasties dare to get involved and secretly aid the Xiongnu nation,"

"In the northwest, a million‑strong army is stationed; when the time comes, we will break the Xiongnu royal court and then trample the ancient capital of Fuyu."

"Remember, I did not attain this position by studying."

"Attendants, escort the envoy out of the capital."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

Especially the last sentence, it was utterly overbearing.

He did not ascend the throne through scholarship, but by stepping on one corpse after another.

For a moment, the Great Jin envoy fell completely silent.

He did not know what to say.

Finally, he bowed his head respectfully, made a salute, and then withdrew.

After the Great Jin envoy left, Emperor Yong Sheng turned his gaze toward the entire court of civil and military officials.

Especially those who had just rebuked Gu Jin Nian.

"You all should reflect deeply."

"Losing Da Xia's face is fine, but do not lose Da Xia's bones."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

After saying this, he turned and left, showing no anger, yet this lack of anger made people even more fearful.

Thus.

The next day.

Da Xia Tongguan City.

Inside the camp.

These past few days the entire camp has been bustling.

All because the Da Xia Crown Prince, Gu Jin Nian, arrived.

Not only did he arrive, but he ate and lived together with the soldiers, and in his free time helped transport supplies or write letters for them.

At first, everyone thought Gu Jin Nian was putting on an act, but after two or three days of contact, everyone realized he was not pretentious at all.

When eating, he devoured food ravenously, without any disdain.

When sleeping, he covered himself with a blanket without any oddity.

Gu Jin Nian even made some very odd things: he took some weeds, soaked them in water, sealed them for a day, and the drink tasted sour‑sweet, a bit like wine but without the wine flavor and without getting drunk.

This was the main point: the camp strictly forbade alcohol, yet most soldiers were fond of it, and with war looming they still missed it to some extent.

Gu Jin Nian's antics earned unanimous praise from the whole camp.

At this moment.

In the stables, Zhou Kui, accompanied by several soldiers, was explaining something to Gu Jin Nian.

"Your Highness, Crown Prince."

"Our Da Xia warhorses are strong and powerful; though they cannot match the Xiongnu or Great Jin warhorses, they far surpass the Fuyu warhorses."

"The art of horse‑breeding is something Da Xia has been researching for years; the main factors are bloodlines and diet."

"The Xiongnu's warhorses are an extremely special breed with powerful bloodlines; this cannot be compared to the Great Jin Dynasty's warhorses, which eat dragon‑rice, a commodity Da Xia finds hard to obtain."

"If Da Xia also had dragon‑rice, I'm not bragging; one‑on‑one we could kill Xiongnu as easily as slaying chickens."

Zhou Kui spoke, pointing at the Da Xia warhorses.

Gu Jin Nian also observed the horses closely; in ancient warfare, weapons and armor had little further improvement, and cavalry represented the strongest combat force.

Putting aside the unenhanceable aspects, the warhorse is the most crucial.

Gu Jin Nian came specifically to learn, hoping that one day he could breed a batch of powerful warhorses, thereby strengthening Da Xia's national power.

And just as Gu Jin Nian was studying attentively, a figure rushed over, seeing Zhou Kui and speaking with utmost seriousness.

"General Zhou, the Duke has issued an order: proceed swiftly to the main camp of the army."

He spoke, bowing toward Zhou Kui.

Upon hearing the news, Zhou Kui slightly frowned but did not chatter, and looked at Gu Jin Nian, saying.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, I have an urgent matter and must leave now."

Zhou Kui spoke.

"No problem, General, go ahead."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, but he roughly guessed what the matter was.

Considering the travel time, the Great Jin envoy should have already returned; I'm afraid war is imminent.

As Zhou Kui left, Gu Jin Nian carefully observed the warhorses.

Soon, Zhou Kui arrived at the main military camp.

At that moment, all the senior generals gathered, and Lord Zhen Guo was rehearsing battle plans with the commanders inside the camp.

About an hour later.

Lord Zhen Guo's voice rang out.

"Send the orders down."

"Tomorrow we march out of the city to meet the enemy; be ready to charge at any moment, and we must not lose the first battle."

Lord Zhen Guo declared publicly.

Tomorrow the real battle begins.

With the order issued, the entire camp became bustling in an instant; everyone began preparations, moving supplies, leading in warhorses, and some soldiers immediately started drilling formations.

It looked like a scene of great activity.

Regarding the war, some fear it, others look forward to it, and at the same time—

Inside the Xiongnu King's court.

The atmosphere was extremely oppressive.

"Da Xia Dynasty, truly domineering,"

"Returning the twelve cities unconditionally is one thing, but now you demand that I compensate ten million taels of silver?"

"Ridiculous, truly laughable."

"Is it thirteen years of cultivation that makes Da Xia think my Xiongnu iron cavalry cannot defeat their Da Xia Dynasty?"

The Xiongnu King roared.

In the court, he clenched his fists, truly angry.

After hearing the Great Jin envoy's report again, his anger made him question his very existence.

At that moment, no one spoke further.

Even the envoys of the Great Jin Dynasty or the Fuyu Dynasty did not know what to say.

"Transmit the King's command."

"Tomorrow we dispatch two hundred thousand troops; I want to see what confidence the Da Xia Dynasty has."

"On what grounds do you dare demand I pay ten million taels of silver?"

The Xiongnu King spoke; since the Da Xia Dynasty wants war, the Xiongnu Nation is not afraid.

"Your Majesty."

"This war seems somewhat improper."

At that moment, Ha Lumu spoke, urging the Xiongnu King to reconsider.

"Improper?"

"We've already come this far; what else could be improper?"

"Do you really intend the Xiongnu Nation to compensate ten million taels of silver to them?"

The Xiongnu King stared at Ha Lumu, anger in his eyes.

"No."

"Your Majesty, our Xiongnu national fortune has been diminished, and Gu Jin Nian is still on the Da Xia border without leaving; if Gu Jin Nian writes poetry again and weakens our fortune, I'm afraid it will be detrimental to this war."

Ha Lumu voiced his concerns.

In fact, it still relates to national fortune.

Negotiating peace is a good thing.

Whether for the Da Xia Dynasty or the Xiongnu Nation.

The Xiongnu Nation's combat power is invincible, but the problem is that its fortune has been diminished three times; who knows what mishap might occur.

"Ridiculous."

"What can one Gu Jin Nian do? He does diminish the Xiongnu's fortune, but the fortune remains, not harming its foundation; if we win this battle, the lost fortune will return."

"With a hundred thousand iron cavalry, the first battle can be a great victory; are we to be forced to swallow our pride because of one Gu Jin Nian?"

"Moreover, even if the fortune is further diminished, what then? In a death battle, a partial impact on fortune cannot change the situation."

"Are you saying Gu Jin Nian could summon fire stones and crush our hundred thousand iron cavalry?"

The Xiongnu King grew angry.

His urging can be understood.

But using Gu Jin Nian to persuade himself is a sheer insult.

The Xiongnu Nation fears not even the Da Xia Dynasty, yet worries about a single Gu Jin Nian?

He truly refuses to accept it.

When those words were spoken, Ha Lumu fell silent, for the Xiongnu King was not wrong.

"Your Majesty."

"We believe the Xiongnu can fight."

"The Da Xia Dynasty merely thinks your nation's fortune is weakened and seeks a probing battle."

So we must give Da Xia a lesson, so they know the strength of your state.

Then the Da Xia Dynasty will become obedient.

The envoy of the Fuyu Dynasty spoke up; he now supports going to war.

Mm.

Indeed we can give Da Xia a lesson; the Xiongnu cavalry is indeed invincible under heaven. With a hundred thousand cavalry sweeping forward tomorrow, the first battle will slaughter a hundred thousand Da Xia soldiers, and then the Da Xia Dynasty will become obedient.

Afterward, the Da Xia Emperor will surely seek peace; even if he does not want peace, the entire court will not agree.

At that point, let the Da Xia Dynasty pay reparations; then the terms will be as we set.

The envoy of the Great Jin Dynasty also spoke up.

They have now changed their approach.

Originally they hoped to complete their interest exchange through peace, but they did not expect the Da Xia Dynasty to be immovable.

Then they could only renegotiate through war.

Between dynasties, it is also impossible to keep yielding.

If it's time to fight, we must fight.

Good, then I hope you two will give more assistance.

Having received the approval of the two great dynasties, the Xiongnu King also nodded in satisfaction.

At that moment.

The Xiongnu King slowly spoke.

Convey the king's military order.

Strike the drums!

Tomorrow at noon, declare war on Da Xia.

He spoke, his aura overwhelming.

Soon, at the Xiongnu state's border, war drums thundered like rumbling thunder.

And inside Tongguan City, the war drums had already been sounded.

The two states, after an hour, formally declared war, each sending their war letters, completing the final step.

Tomorrow at noon.

Decide the outcome.

(End of chapter)