Chapter 154: The Ruins Incident, Gu Jin Nian

In the vast desert, solitary smoke rises straight; over the long river, the setting sun is round.

The borderlands are desolate and terrifying.

A jade carriage moves slowly.

Hundreds of elite soldiers escort the convoy, watching vigilantly, though they know hidden strongmen of the Wu King also protect Gu Jin Nian.

But normal vigilance must still be maintained.

It's impossible to let the Wu King handle everything; that would render them useless.

Inside the jade carriage.

Gu Jin Nian is also discussing Confucian principles with Kong Xuan.

I must admit, Kong Xuan, though his poetry is poor, does have some grasp of Confucian principles.

The so‑called Confucian principle is the central thought of scholars.

Simply put, it asks why you study, what the purpose of study is, and what you will do after studying.

The four verses of Hengqu constitute Establishing Speech, not an answer but a lofty goal.

But the essence of Confucian Dao is the "central thought".

"Brother Jin Nian."

"I think thought should not be bound; being in the Kong family, I did not feel this at the time, but when I traveled the world, I gradually discovered that many people are bound by thought."

"There is a feeling of clinging to old rules; studying the saints' meanings is not wrong, but when the saints' words become shackles, one can never reach new heights."

"Yet one cannot act purely idealistically; many matters in this world cannot be too straightforward, too blunt, as they are unsuitable in many contexts. If a gentleman is not straightforward, how can he be called a gentleman?"

"But I, the humble younger brother, seem to see an explanation from my elder brother; however, it is hard to outline it generally. If it can be successfully planned, I have a premonition that this will be a new Confucian principle, capable of founding a sect and completing the saint's Establishing Speech."

Kong Xuan speaks very earnestly.

Inside the jade carriage, Gu Jin Nian is indeed a bit surprised.

What Kong Xuan says, including his own deeds, is actually four characters.

Unity of knowledge and action.

This is a new saintly thought, a classic saying of Half Saint Wang Yangming, and Wang Yangming is called a Half Saint not because he lacks qualification.

It is a matter of time.

In a previous life, if another five hundred years passed, Wang Yangming would inevitably become a Confucian saint; it requires time to ferment.

However, the four simple words "unity of knowledge and action" are full of endless wisdom; a thorough explanation would take three days and three nights, yet a simple statement can convey it in a single sentence.

It mainly depends on the other's comprehension.

This is also the threshold of the School of the Mind; one must study carefully or have a sudden insight, otherwise one cannot enter.

Gu Jin Nian studied the School of the Mind in a past life and was an enthusiast, but he himself is unsure whether he ever truly entered it.

But looking back now, one must admit that many of his actions have been influenced by the School of the Mind.

How exactly, Gu Jin Nian does not know; he needs to set aside time to have a proper sudden insight.

"That idea is good, but you must not focus solely on me."

"There are many more people in this world worth observing and learning from—whether princes, ministers, or common folk; among three travelers, there must be a teacher. Understand?"

Gu Jin Nian speaks to advise; he is not afraid that the other keeps staring at him to trigger a sudden insight of unity of knowledge and action.

He speaks sincerely.

If anyone truly attains a sudden insight of unity of knowledge and action, regardless of who, as long as they are not his mortal enemy, it suffices.

If he attains such insight, or another new Confucian principle, that can set the heart for heaven and earth, give destiny to the people, inherit the lost teachings of past saints, and open peace for ten thousand generations, Gu Jin Nian would feel no envy or jealousy, only respect.

When the realm flourishes, the people suffer.

When it perishes, the people suffer.

Gu Jin Nian also wishes the people to live better; being a carefree marquis, and perhaps a carefree king if luck allows, makes him happy.

Why endure such hardship? "Brother's words, I the humble younger brother have understood, thank you for your instruction."

Kong Xuan rises and bows respectfully toward Gu Jin Nian, very earnestly.

Kong Xuan's character truly is good; honestly, he is both modest and courteous, a match for me.

Finally, I have met a proper scholar.

Give a like.

Seeing Kong Xuan like this, Gu Jin Nian tugged his sleeve, his expression serious, and said.

"Virtuous younger brother, I have a question for you; answer earnestly."

Gu Jin Nian pulls Kong Xuan, very seriously.

"Please speak plainly, brother."

The latter is somewhat curious, not knowing what Gu Jin Nian will ask.

"Tell the truth, have you ever been to Goulan?"

Gu Jin Nian's face is serious as he looks at Kong Xuan.

Upon hearing this, Kong Xuan is stunned on the spot.

"Huh? Why did you ask this all of a sudden? 'This'"

Kong Xuan becomes a bit nervous, not knowing how to answer at that moment.

"What's this about? If I've been there, I've been there; if not, I haven't. What's there not to say?"

Gu Jin Nian's tone is somewhat harsh.

"I have indeed gone, just to look, truly just to look."

Kong Xuan does not dare to lie.

"Sure enough, not a single scholar doesn't love going to Goulan."

Gu Jin Nian muttered.

"Brother Jin Nian, I went in and came out in no time; I was tricked in by a few friends."

"At first I really didn't know it was Goulan."

"If I had known, how could I have dared to go there? If my uncle saw it, I'm afraid he'd beat me to death."

Hearing Gu Jin Nian say that, Kong Xuan immediately spoke up, trying to explain.

"I know."

"Do you want to go again?"

"Brother, I'll take you."

Gu Jin Nian smiled gently at the other and asked like that.

"Ah, that's not so good, right?"

"If my uncle found out, I'd be gone."

Kong Xuan was at a loss, and also a bit fearful.

"Who is your uncle?"

"Is it Kong Zheng?"

Gu Jin Nian asked, a little curious.

"No."

"My uncle, named Kong De, is a contemporary pure Confucian, upright and incorruptible, and he despises Goulan the most."

"If he learned that I had been to Goulan, he would truly beat me to death."

Kong Xuan, when mentioning his uncle, showed fear in his eyes.

"Seems he has a shadow."

"What are you afraid of?"

"Brother, you are now practically a Da Xia Lord; moreover, with your current identity as a Confucian‑Daoist scholar, you ought to at least address the later saint with a respectful title."

"I'll take you, no problem. If your uncle really finds out, at worst I can step in; would your uncle refuse to give me face?"

Gu Jin Nian said seriously.

"That really has no flaw."

Yet Kong Xuan was still a bit scared.

"Alright, I'll ask you one question: do you want to go?"

Gu Jin Nian didn't dawdle, directly asked the other whether they wanted to go.

"I want."

Kong Xuan was very honest; after saying that, his face flushed considerably, and he lowered his head slightly, unable to meet Gu Jin Nian's gaze.

"If you want to go, that's fine."

"When we return to the capital, I'll take you to the best place. Have you heard of Jiao Si Fang?"

"I've heard the women there are all stunningly beautiful."

Gu Jin Nian patted Kong Xuan's shoulder and said.

He indeed needed to go to a place like Jiao Si Fang, but with a purpose.

And at that moment.

Xu Jin's voice sounded outside the jade carriage.

"Lord."

"We've arrived at Longzhong County."

As Xu Jin's voice rang, Gu Jin Nian nodded.

"Good, head to Ruins Village."

Gu Jin Nian didn't dawdle either.

The official road would be faster by half a day, but we take this route solely to pass Ruins Village.

King Ning compensated me with pills, but the silver hasn't been repaid; I'm going over to discuss that compensation.

The person has already been executed; the remaining silver needs proper negotiation.

"As you command."

Xu Jin replied, then hurried toward Ruins Village.

Inside the jade carriage.

Gu Jin Nian was also weighing the compensation amount; having killed Li Lengxin, a hundred thousand taels of gold is unrealistic, but five hundred taels isn't little.

Two families died; one owes five hundred taels of gold.

That counts as a compensation.

Too much would instead bring misfortune to that family.

Thus, about half a watch.

The jade carriage stopped.

"Lord."

"Something happened."

When the jade carriage halted, Xu Jin's voice suddenly rose.

It drew a frown from Gu Jin Nian inside the carriage.

"Something happened? What happened?" Inside the carriage, Gu Jin Nian stepped out directly.

When he stepped out of the carriage.

All I see is desolation.

The whole ruined village has not a single person in sight, truly becoming a deserted village.

This is highly unreasonable.

Even if they were at the market or had business, it's impossible for there to be no one at all, not even a dog.

"Go check and see if there are any survivors."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, a bad premonition rising in his heart.

"Brother Jin Nian, what's wrong?"

Kong Xuan stepped out of the jade carriage, glanced around, felt a bit curious, and looked at Gu Jin Nian.

No one knew what had happened.

"It's hard to explain; I'll explain it to you later."

Gu Jin Nian gave a reply while waiting for news.

Xu Jin and the others were swift, searching the village, and even shouted that Gu Jin Nian had arrived.

Unfortunately, there was not a hint of movement.

They searched for a full two quarters of an hour, and Xu Jin hurried back.

"My lord."

"Not a single person in the entire village."

Xu Jin spoke.

"Go check the back mountain, take some people, search everywhere, see if they're hiding."

Gu Jin Nian still held a sliver of hope, and he told Xu Jin to conduct a thorough search.

"As you command."

They wasted no time, mounted their horses, and began a more careful search.

Taking advantage of this opportunity, Gu Jin Nian also told Kong Xuan everything that had happened here.

After the matter was finished being told, Kong Xuan's brows furrowed even tighter.

"How can there be such a thing in this world?"

"This Li Leng Xin is truly a beast."

Kong Xuan clenched his fists, his heart filled with rage.

"Regardless of whether he's a beast or not, Li Leng Xin is dead; the elder brother's worry now is not about others, but about his older brother."

"Li Leng Qiu."

Gu Jin Nian stood with his hands behind his back, also frowning.

To be honest, he had worried about this before, but after thinking it over he felt the possibility was small, after all Li Leng Xin had died at his own hands, being his older brother.

Even if Li Leng Qiu were even more arrogant and overbearing, he'd at least have some sense, knowing not to provoke himself.

Wouldn't Prince Ning also not be so foolish as to let his own son make a mistake again?

Unless Prince Ning wanted his own son to die.

But that's impossible.

There's no logic to it.

So he leaned more toward believing that these commoners had all hidden themselves away.

Perhaps out of fear or worry, or for other reasons, even Gu Jin Nian wondered if these commoners had relocated.

But this possibility is even less likely.

Without money, how could they possibly relocate?

Those living in such a place, who aren't impoverished?

If they had money to move, they would have done so long ago.

An hour later.

Xu Jin and the others returned, their faces grim, as they came before Gu Jin Nian.

"My lord."

"We've finished searching the surrounding dozens of miles, and found not a single villager."

"Moreover, the neighboring village is completely empty, not even a chicken or duck left."

"My subordinate deliberately went to Longzhong Station and heard that these past days no one from here has been seen."

"Please, my lord, make the decision."

Xu Jin spoke, his face also not looking good; he roughly guessed what had happened.

"Not seen for several consecutive days?"

Gu Jin Nian stepped down from the jade carriage, walked back and forth a few steps, his eyes showing a contemplative look.

But just then, Kong Xuan's voice sounded.

"Brother Jin Nian."

"Use the Heavenly Dao Divine Ability."

"Revert the past."

Kong Xuan spoke, reminding Gu Jin Nian of this matter.

"Revert the past?"

Gu Jin Nian felt doubtful, not understanding what Kong Xuan meant.

"Elder brother, I give you my Heavenly Dao Mark, which contains the Heavenly Dao Divine Ability, called Time Reversal; it can reverse time to show what happened in the past."

"But it requires paying a certain price."

Kong Xuan spoke, giving the reason.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian suddenly understood, grasping the other's meaning.

At once.

Gu Jin Nian settled his mind and sensed the Heaven's Mandate seal bestowed by Kong Xuan.

As the Heaven's Mandate seal was triggered.

In an instant, strands of dark yellow Qi spread from his body downward, expanding outward.

It seemed slow, yet in the blink of an eye it enveloped the whole village.

At that moment, the sky turned instantly dim.

Gu Jin Nian spent Qi fortune to rewind to yesterday.

The entire village was utterly quiet, with no trace of people.

Thus, Gu Jin Nian increased his Qi fortune and rewound to the second day.

Still utterly quiet.

Until the third day.

Finally, the villagers' voices appeared.

It was night.

The whole ruined village was extremely silent.

Every household had blown out its oil lamp, making it exceedingly still.

Yet at that moment.

A sound rose, the clatter of horse hooves.

The crowd turned their gaze.

Soon, a Black Water Iron Cavalry appeared, and amid the riders, a lone figure emerged.

It was Li Lengqiu's silhouette.

With Li Lengqiu's arrival, Gu Jin Nian instantly realized that trouble was brewing.

Indeed.

As Gu Jin Nian had expected, after Li Lengqiu entered the inn, a scream of terror rose shortly thereafter.

Standing outside the inn, Gu Jin Nian saw the interior clearly.

A girl under ten had her brow pierced by a chopstick.

The innkeeper was beheaded outright.

The cook was also slashed to death.

Even the innkeeper's wife, awakened in the tavern, was seized and slain on the spot.

And it was not only the innkeeper's whole family.

With the Black Water Iron Cavalry's deployment, all the villagers were forcibly taken to outside the village entrance.

Li Lengqiu emerged wielding a blade, like a mad demon, cutting down over four hundred people on the spot.

He ignored the villagers' cries for mercy.

He cared not for age.

The scene was exceedingly bloody.

Even Gu Jin Nian could not bear to stare at it.

Xu Jin and the others clenched their fists, their teeth grinding with hatred.

"Truly a beast."

"Beast."

Kong Xuan trembled all over; as a descendant of the Kong family, he had never witnessed such bloodshed, even though he had seen many folk hardships and the fickleness of the world.

Yet the current situation was sheer brutality—a madman, a devil.

In the end, someone spoke up, informing Li Lengqiu of something.

Soon, Li Lengqiu's expression changed; he then mounted a warhorse and fled quickly, and before departing, he did not forget to order the neighboring village to be eradicated as well.

The scene ends here.

Completely vanished.

The light retracted, returning to Gu Jin Nian's body.

It consumed a great deal of Qi fortune.

Rewinding three days equated to summoning half a Heavenly Fire Stone.

Yet it allowed Gu Jin Nian to see the truth.

"Prince Ning!"

"I fuck your mother."

"Li Lengqiu."

"I will slaughter your entire clan!"

When the vision vanished, Gu Jin Nian could barely restrain his roar.

He knew these nobles did not regard the lives of the common folk as life.

He also knew these nobles were lofty above.

Yet he never imagined Li Lengqiu could commit such utterly inhuman acts.

His younger brother defiled women, killed without blinking, treating lives as weeds.

That was one thing.

I never expected Li Leng Qiu to be a hundred times more ruthless than his brother.

He directly slaughtered the village.

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian could no longer bear it.

It's laughable that he was still wondering whether five thousand taels of gold would be enough compensation.

Now it seems, I was naive.

"Xu Jin."

A moment later.

Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath and shouted Xu Jin.

"Your subordinate is here."

Xu Jin responded, half-kneeling on the ground.

"Go to Tongguan City."

"Have my grandfather come personally."

"Bring three hundred thousand troops."

"Send someone urgently to the capital."

"Report this matter to His Majesty, and mobilize the entire Heavenly Feather Army."

"Encircle and suppress Prince Ning's Manor."

"Inform His Majesty, no matter how great the impact, I will make Prince Ning pay a bloody price."

Gu Jin Nian's voice was ice-cold.

He was truly furious.

Two villages, over seven hundred people.

Over seven hundred innocent lives.

Just like that, they were trampled, stepped on, and killed at a word.

His anger was not just about this.

But it was Li Leng Qiu's actions; his daring to do this proves that he had definitely not done fewer such things before.

In other words, the number of people killed by Li Leng Qiu's hands is certainly not just these seven hundred; it could be a thousand, or even several thousand.

The western borders are vast.

So vast that losing a few thousand people would not cause any controversy at all.

If I had not passed through the ruined village, I would not have known about this.

This is merely one Prince Ning.

Da Xia has more than just this one prince.

Perhaps the other heirs won't be as utterly devoid of conscience as Li Leng Qiu, but they likely also do such things, right? Am I not seeking a marquisate?

Then, before I become a marquis, I will do something that no one dares to do or even think of.

"Your subordinate will obey."

Xu Jin received the token.

Without a word, he directly led his men to Tongguan City, while another unit rushed to the Da Xia Capital.

"Worthy younger brother."

"Follow them back."

"Do not involve yourself in this matter."

"It has nothing to do with you."

After issuing the order, Gu Jin Nian looked at Kong Xuan, telling him not to get involved and to return to the capital.

"Elder brother, as a scholar, seeing the people in such a miserable state, if I cannot contribute even a little effort, I would be ashamed to be a scholar."

"I must participate in this matter; after it ends, my younger brother will surely have the Kong family spread the word, denounce Prince Ning, and condemn such nobles."

Kong Xuan shouted angrily.

He too is a person, a scholar; seeing such a thing, how could he remain unmoved? Seeing Kong Xuan like this, Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath, said nothing, merely nodded, and entered the jade palanquin.

At that moment, Kong Xuan followed him inside.

Soon, inside the palanquin, Gu Jin Nian's voice sounded.

"Go."

"To Prince Ning's Manor."

Gu Jin Nian's voice was utterly cold.

At the same time,

In the border region of Da Xia's northern territories,

inside Ata Temple,

hundreds of monks sat in the main hall; in the midst of the hall, Li Leng Qiu sat cross-legged, palms together.

"Li Leng Qiu."

"Although you have committed mistakes, at this critical moment you have grasped the Dharma and wish to return to my Buddhist gate, to enter my supreme Buddhist gate; I, as the abbot of Ata Temple, seeing you lay down your butcher's knife, today will ferry you to Buddhahood and accept you as my disciple—are you willing?"

An elderly monk spoke, holding a razor in his hand, silently gazing at Li Leng Qiu.

"Master, this disciple is willing."

Li Leng Qiu spoke, giving his answer.

"Good."

"From this moment on, you are my disciple, formally returning to the Buddhist fold; I bestow upon you the Buddhist name Zhi Hui. From now on, you will recite scriptures daily, cleanse your heart, reflect and repent for your past deeds; someday, the resentful spirits will find peace, and you will truly attain sudden enlightenment and become a Buddha."

The abbot of Ata Temple spoke, and after saying this, directly cut off Li Lengqiu's long hair.

After the tonsure ceremony is finished.

The monks all rose together, each touching Li Lengqiu's head, completing the final rite.

"The tonsure is complete; from now on, this world has lost Li Lengqiu and gained a repentant monk. Amitabha."

Master Luo Ze spoke, and after saying this, the other monks bowed one after another and then departed.

After the monks left, Li Lengqiu's gaze instantly darkened; he wiped his forehead, the monks' earlier touching of his crown having disgusted him greatly.

Had he not needed their help, Li Lengqiu would have killed them all long ago.

However, after wiping his forehead, Li Lengqiu lifted his head, looked at Abbot Luo Ze, and spoke directly.

"Abbot."

"Is it really safe now?"

Li Lengqiu still felt some worry inside and couldn't help asking.

"You have taken refuge in the Buddha's teachings; worldly matters no longer concern you."

Abbot Luo Ze opened his mouth, speaking calmly.

The meaning of this sentence was straightforward: this matter no longer concerned him.

"Abbot."

"If Gu Jin Nian gets angry, he will readily dispatch a massive army to suppress."

"If such a thing occurs, what should the disciple do?"

Li Lengqiu spoke, asking thus.

He knew what methods Gu Jin Nian would use against him.

So he asked in advance; if trouble arose, he would flee first—at most he could head to the Fuyu Dynasty; could Gu Jin Nian even dare to trouble him there?

"No problem."

"Dust returns to dust, earth to earth; you are no longer Li Lengqiu, but a repentant one."

"Even if he sends a million‑strong army, it would be of no help."

"Ata Temple is not under Da Xia's control; behind it lies the Fuyu Dynasty. I, your master, am also a Buddhist master; even if King Wu himself arrives, I can handle him with ease."

"As for a massive army's assault, I can keep you safe; if the conflict truly cannot be resolved, with the Fuyu Dynasty present, Da Xia's soldiers would not dare cross the border."

"Unless Gu Jin Nian can bring a Seventh Realm strongman, otherwise I can ensure your safety."

"Otherwise, why did your father send you to find me?"

Abbot Luo Ze spoke lightly, his confidence unmatched; in short, whoever comes is useless, as long as he wishes to protect.

Of course, if Gu Jin Nian summons a Seventh Realm strongman, that would be different.

However, across the world there are no Seventh Realm strongmen; even if there are one or two, they are deeply hidden and will not appear until a critical moment.

They survive by using special means; should they dare to emerge, heaven and earth would sense them and they would surely die.

"Thank you, Master."

"I will certainly recite the Buddha devoutly, repent and reflect."

He received such a reply.

Li Lengqiu couldn't help but wear a joyful expression.

Abbot Luo Ze then rose and left, his back to Li Lengqiu, his gaze full of disgust—if not for the greater Buddhist cause.

He does not regard such a person.

So.

Two hours later.

Inside Tongguan City.

Xu Jin reported the whole chain of events to the Marquis.

Within the camp.

A chorus of shocked gasps sounded.

All the generals showed incredulous looks.

"This Li Lengqiu really dares to do this?"

"Is he truly unafraid of death?"

"Across the world, there is such a person?"

Voices rang out.

The generals in the camp could not believe Li Lengqiu would commit such inhumane cruelty.

And on the seat of authority.

The Marquis appeared exceedingly calm.

He said nothing, but rose directly and walked straight to the outside of the camp tents.

Then his voice, like thunder, suppressed an unnamed fury.

"Relay my command."

"Assemble a three‑hundred‑thousand‑strong army."

"Suppress Prince Ning's Residence."

A thunderous voice rang out, rendering the whole Tongguan City utterly silent.

All the soldiers did not know what had happened.

But once the order was issued, in an instant figures gathered swiftly; in less than half an hour, the three‑hundred‑thousand army was assembled.

Then they set out toward Prince Ning's Residence.

Such.

All the way until the next day.

With whipped horses all the way, Gu Jin Nian's retinue of soldiers also hurriedly rushed to the Da Xia Capital.

The entire Da Xia Capital had already been decked with lanterns and banners.

All of this was prepared to welcome Gu Jin Nian's ennoblement ceremony.

These retinue members headed straight to the Ministry of Rites; their status made it impossible to see the emperor, so they had to go through Minister of Rites Yang Kai.

Carrying Gu Jin Nian's command arrow.

After a few people arrived at the Ministry of Rites, they informed Minister of Rites Yang Kai of the matter.

He too stood frozen in place for a long while.

After a quarter of an hour.

Yang Kai rushed toward the palace.

In his view, the killing of over seven hundred innocent civilians was important, but more important was that Gu Jin Nian was going to cause a great disturbance at the Ning Prince's mansion.

That is the most crucial.

Ning Prince!

Cannot be touched!

This is no ordinary person; the Ning Prince's power is terrifying. Over these thirteen years, the court has devised countless methods and held who-knows-how-many meetings.

All they wanted was to move against the Ning Prince.

But no matter what method they used, they found they could not move against the Ning Prince.

Not only does the Ning Prince command hundreds of thousands of elite troops, but more importantly, he is a symbol, a symbol similar to the Yongsheng Emperor.

He is also a prince, the legitimate lineage of the imperial house.

During the Jian De era, the Ning Prince did nothing wrong; although the Jian De Emperor wanted to act against him, he dared not for a long time, so in other words, the Ning Prince is not a rebel.

Later, the Yongsheng Emperor launched the Jian De Rebellion, and the Ning Prince also aided the Yongsheng Emperor, thus becoming a follower of the dragon; moreover, through various factors, the Ning Prince is the foremost follower of the dragon.

After all, if at that time the Ning Prince had not chosen to aid the Yongsheng Emperor but instead chosen to help the court attack the Yongsheng Emperor.

This Jian De Rebellion might not necessarily succeed.

Therefore, the Ning Prince is a meritorious subject, a great meritorious subject.

If we now act against the Ning Prince, it would mean killing a meritorious subject; to other princes, would this not be retreading the old path of the Jian De Rebellion?

Reduce the fief?

Then would a new Jian De Rebellion emerge? Or perhaps renamed the Yongsheng Rebellion? During the Yongsheng era, to stabilize court politics and also to enrich the people, the Yongsheng Emperor issued many state orders, openly and covertly targeting these princes.

However, the Yongsheng Emperor was smarter than the Jian De Emperor; he did not act directly but handled things gradually, bit by bit.

It made people fearful, yet they dared not rebel; however, the various princes actually harbored deep dissatisfaction.

If at this moment the Ning Prince were to raise his arm and call, the response would certainly not be small.

This is not the main point.

Over these years, the Ning Prince has had extensive private ties with the Buddhist and Daoist sects, and even has certain connections with the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty.

If the Ning Prince were to rebel, would these two great dynasties not secretly support him? No need to even think about it.

But these are not the true core.

The true core is.

Through the Da Xia dynasty's investigations over these years, the court discovered that many remnants of the Jian De regime have countless ties to the Ning Prince.

In other words, the Ning Prince knows where the Jian De Emperor is, and even secretly protects him.

When a ripe opportunity arises, they will reinstall the Jian De Emperor under the banner of restoring Jian De, to purge the court.

Only then would it be the most terrifying thing.

With proper justification.

Seizing all favorable timing, geography, and human harmony, the Da Xia dynasty will inevitably fall into internal turmoil.

Precisely because of all these reasons, the court dares not move against the Ning Prince; even though they clearly know the Ning Prince has done some things he shouldn't have, the court still dares not stop him.

They merely think of wearing down the Ning Prince.

They think of the Ning Prince dying early; as long as the Ning Prince dies, everything can be said, and dealing with the next generation wouldn't be easy? Besides, the Ning Prince's two sons are both wastrels.

This is something everyone under heaven knows.

But unexpectedly, at this critical juncture, the Ning Prince's two sons actually provoked Gu Jin Nian.

Moreover, given Gu Jin Nian's temperament, he does what he says.

At this moment, Yang Kai is truly afraid.

Not long after.

Yang Kai arrived at the palace and had someone relay the message.

Approximately a quarter of an hour later, Yang Kai entered the palace.

He rushed anxiously toward the Hall of Nurturing the Heart.

After arriving at the Hall of Nurturing the Heart, Yang Kai spoke extremely fast, not wanting to waste a single minute or second, and informed the Yongsheng Emperor of the matter.

"What?"

"How could such a thing happen?"

"Inside the Hall of Nurturing the Heart."

The Yongsheng Emperor also did not expect such a thing to happen.

"Your Majesty."

"Marquis, he is now going alone to the Ning Prince's mansion; what should we do?"

Yang Kai was somewhat anxious, inquiring of the Eternal Prosperity Emperor.

At this moment.

The Eternal Prosperity Emperor also didn't know what to say.

He sat on the dragon throne, pondering for a long time.

Regarding Prince Ning.

He wanted to kill him.

This is undeniable; Prince Ning is the biggest hidden danger within the Da Xia Dynasty, and killing him would certainly be a good thing.

But it's hard to kill Prince Ning, and the consequences of killing him would also be terrifying.

Prince Qi Lin and Prince Ning share a secret that cannot be disclosed; if Prince Ning is killed, Prince Qi Lin will surely rise in revolt.

He will call on other princes and nobles to rebel.

Even if it were possible to kill Prince Ning, if we fail to kill him and instead openly break with him, the trouble would be greater.

But Prince Ning's heir has gone too far this time, especially by offending Gu Jin Nian.

The Eternal Prosperity Emperor clearly understands that if he remains neutral on this matter, neither side will be pleased.

It would chill Gu Jin Nian's heart.

"Send troops!"

"Assemble the Heavenly Feather Army!"

"Use dragon boats, send them to Prince Ning's mansion."

"I, believe in Jin Nian!"

The Eternal Prosperity Emperor spoke, his voice trembling somewhat, but he made his own choice.

Believe in Gu Jin Nian.

Support Gu Jin Nian.

No matter what happens, and regardless of what I do, Prince Ning will certainly be my enemy.

But Gu Jin Nian is not.

Gu Jin Nian is a pillar of the Da Xia state.

He is my nephew.

There's no reason to help the enemy and not one's own people.

But after the Eternal Prosperity Emperor said this, Yang Kai couldn't help but change his expression.

"Your Majesty."

"This is absolutely not permissible."

"Otherwise, I will personally go to Prince Ning's mansion to see if we can reconcile."

"If we reinforce with an additional 300,000 troops, I fear it will provoke Prince Ning's rebellious intent, for he already harbors such thoughts."

"Please, Your Majesty, prioritize the greater good and think thrice before acting."

Yang Kai advised against it.

"The greater good is bullshit."

"I have tolerated Prince Ning for a long time."

"Do you really think I'm afraid of him?"

"In the Northwest War, not a single soldier was spent; if we really fight, do I fear him? Moreover, would Prince Ning dare to actually fight?"

"Even if he truly dares."

"At worst, I will personally lead the campaign to quell the internal rebellion."

"I once raised an army of fifty thousand and took this throne."

"Now I command a million elite troops; why should I fear a mere Prince Ning?"

"If there truly is any impact, whoever dares to step forward, I will kill them; taking this opportunity, I will thoroughly quell the internal rebellion and ensure peace for future generations."

"Go!"

"Carry out the order."

The Eternal Prosperity Emperor spoke directly.

"Prioritize the greater good?"

"Think thrice before acting?"

"Damn the 'think thrice'; if it weren't for sitting in this position and having to consider the Da Xia populace, frankly, with his temperament, he would have clashed with Prince Ning ten years ago."

"An emperor on horseback, how could he be a cowardly, fearful person?"

"Once one becomes emperor, having responsibilities leads to caution."

"Truly casting aside these concerns, damn it, if one has the ability, just go ahead and act; I myself dare to rebel against my own nephew, so why fear killing a few brothers?"

"Your Majesty."

Yang Kai still wanted to continue speaking to persuade, but upon raising his head, he saw the Eternal Prosperity Emperor's icy gaze.

For a moment, Yang Kai fell silent.

The emperor's resolve is set; as a subject, having advised what should be advised, there's nothing more to say.

"Your servant will immediately set to work."

Yang Kai, without further ado, turned and left.

After leaving the Hall of Nurturing Heart,

Yang Kai glanced at the heavens, which were as clear as a washed blue.

"Prince Ning, Prince Ning, you say you're full and have nothing to do, why go offend Gu Jin Nian?"

Isn't this courting death?

Yang Kai sighed.

Others may not know, but Yang Kai is aware: those who offend Gu Jin Nian hardly ever meet a good end.

These people, do they really not have a long memory?

Soon.

Less than an hour.

Three hundred thousand troops set out.

And at this very moment.

The western border of Da Xia.

Changning Prefecture.

This is where Prince Ning resides.

Outside Changning Prefecture, a jade carriage appeared, almost ignoring the gate guards, and rushed straight into the mansion.

"Halt! Who dares to charge the city?"

"Who dares to act recklessly?"

Seeing the jade carriage appear, these guards shouted one after another; the soldiers of Changning Prefecture are no ordinary folk—even the city gate guards belong to Prince Ning.

Even when seeing court officials, they still act high and mighty.

"You blind dogs, the Heaven's Mandate Marquis has arrived—all of you, get out of the way!"

The attendants roared angrily, glaring at these guards, killing intent plainly visible in their eyes.

"Heaven's Mandate Marquis?"

"Gu Jin Nian? His Highness the Crown Prince?"

Upon hearing the three words 'Heaven's Mandate Marquis,' this group of guards indeed dared not move rashly.

Just joking—only yesterday was it announced to the world that Da Xia's first marquis was granted the title Heaven's Mandate.

They're not stupid; how could they not know Gu Jin Nian's reputation?

Who would dare offend this person? Tired of living? The jade carriage entered.

No one dared to block it.

Inside Changning Prefecture, someone had already arrived early to ascertain the direction of the prince's mansion.

Thus the two coordinated and headed straight for Ning Prince's Mansion.

Two hours later.

Ning Prince's Mansion then appeared before everyone's eyes.

White jade paved the ground; an entire street was spotless, the bricks and stones all made of white jade, extraordinarily splendid.

This is Ning Prince's Mansion.

Imposing beyond compare.

At the gate stood two enormous kirin lions, symbolizing the mansion's nobility.

Outside the mansion gate, nearly fifty men stood guard—all Black Water Iron Cavalry—as the jade carriage drove in.

These soldiers drew their swords, faces icy cold.

"Halt."

"This is Ning Prince's Mansion—dismount!"

A cold, stern voice rang out, arrogantly.

"Get lost!"

The next moment, a terrifying sound emanated from within the jade carriage.

Just that sound alone sent forty people flying, seriously injured and collapsing on the spot.

Gu Jin Nian is now a divine-power expert, having cultivated the Panwu Supreme Martial Art, equivalent to a Martial King.

What are forty Black Water Iron Cavalry? Nevertheless, the commotion instantly alerted the mansion; in a moment, figures rushed out from within the mansion.

Outside the mansion.

The jade carriage already stood sideways, blocking the mansion gate.

"Li Leng Qiu."

"Get out here, Marquis!"

The next moment.

An ear-splitting sound rang out.

Inside the jade carriage.

Gu Jin Nian hardly wasted words, nor beat around the bush, directly ordering Li Leng Qiu to get out.

That sound made the mansion tremble slightly.

Although not a Martial King, his strength has reached that of a Martial King, enabling him to do this.

"May I ask if the Heaven's Mandate Marquis has arrived?"

"The Prince has an invitation."

Just then, a figure emerged from the mansion—likely the steward of Ning Prince's Mansion—who stepped forward, respectfully gazing at the jade carriage, wishing to invite Gu Jin Nian out.

"Have Li Leng Qiu get out."

"Don't waste words here."

"I only want Li Leng Qiu."

"Hand him over now."

This marquis will leave immediately; otherwise, don't blame this marquis for not showing sentiment.

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He now wants this person, Li Lengqiu.

Prince Ning says it easily.

Although I don't know whether Prince Ning has done something utterly heinous, I have no evidence; I'll deal with Li Lengqiu first.

Listening to Gu Jin Nian's voice.

The steward of Prince Ning's manor didn't know what to say.

But just then, a gentle voice sounded.

"Jin Nian's nephew, Prince Ning invites."

"We're all family; why do this? Let outsiders see the joke, it's bad for everyone."

"You say, right?"

The voice sounded.

A beautiful woman walked out; she is Prince Ning's consort.

Her stepping out at this time also counts as easing the embarrassment.

Just that.

Inside the jade carriage.

Gu Jin Nian's voice remained cold and sharp.

"Who says we're one family?"

"To be able to produce a beast like Li Lengqiu, you lot still deserve to be called human?"

"Don't dirty this marquis's reputation here."

"Hand over Li Lengqiu."

"This is the marquis's final notice."

Gu Jin Nian is very direct.

Doesn't give any face at all.

At this point, what face is there to give? If it weren't for the fact that the great army hasn't arrived, he would have already ordered the flattening of Prince Ning's manor.

(End of chapter)