Chapter 159: Exams Looming, the Ministry of Works' Divine Artifact Tarnishes My Name, the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor【Seek Monthly Tic

Inside the Hall of Mental Cultivation.

Emperor Yongsheng quietly looked at Gu Jin Nian.

He didn't know why, but he seemed unable to see through this nephew before him.

He is the sage of Confucianism and Daoism for posterity.

He can also obtain some divine objects, such as the Spirit-Gathering Ancient Formation.

His clever schemes and wisdom are already enough.

I never expected that even in politics, this nephew of mine would be so proficient.

The Order of Extended Grace.

This scheme unfolded endlessly in his mind, and he could think of countless things.

I fear that no one in the entire court, civil and military, could devise such a scheme.

So he was also curious about how Gu Jin Nian came up with it.

He really didn't know how to describe it.

However, Emperor Yongsheng did not intend to let Gu Jin Nian continue to be involved in this matter.

It involved Prince Ning and Gu Jin Nian's drowning incident; frankly, it should be handled by them.

「Jin Nian。」

「From now on, you are not to interfere. I have already issued an edict; barring any mishap, your grandfather will return to the capital in two months. 」

「I plan to join forces with your grandfather to handle this matter. As for how to deal with Prince Ning, I have it figured out; you must absolutely not get involved again. 」

「There are many things you don't know, so whether to kill or punish, and how to punish, I have my limits. You have already killed Li Lengqiu and Li Lengxin; your anger should have subsided. 」

「The Jixia Academy lies ahead; you should calm your mind and study. During this time you have done too much; although your intentions were good, you have indeed accumulated hostility, which you yourself cannot feel, but I have seen it. 」

Emperor Yongsheng spoke.

He reminded Gu Jin Nian of some things.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian fell slightly silent.

Upon reflection, everything my uncle said is correct; in just half a year, I have done too many things and killed too many people.

Although it was to redress the people's grievances, I must admit.

My hostility has grown strong.

As a result, now whenever I encounter anything, my first reaction is to kill.

Looking back, what the monk Luozhe said was also correct.

If back then I had not killed Li Lengxin but instead used some means to both control Li Lengxin and protect the populace, then maneuvered between them, would that have been better? Gu Jin Nian has considered this question.

There is an answer: there are more ways to deal with Li Lengxin while also protecting those people.

But my inner hostility interferes, causing my actions to be overly ruthless.

This is not a good thing.

「Jin Nian。」

「Uncle, you used to think just like me—that killing the enemy would solve the trouble. 」

「But later Uncle discovered that your enemies could never be completely killed; slaughter only makes them silent temporarily, whereas only by becoming strong yourself can you make them silent forever. 」

「Jian De was difficult, with 120,000 dead, yet the remnants of Jian De keep flowing endlessly, like a wildfire that cannot be extinguished. 」

「Sometimes Uncle can't help but wonder: if back then Uncle had not killed those people, but instead let them see the rivers and mountains of Da Xia, would they have accepted Uncle? 」

Emperor Yongsheng felt a sigh of emotion.

In his gaze lay a hint of doubt as he looked toward the horizon.

「It probably wouldn't. 」

「Old Uncle, you can never wake someone who is pretending to sleep. 」

「People only want to see what they want to see. 」

「Only then can the weak feel content inside. 」

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, giving the most direct answer.

The remnants of Jian De were not wrong to kill.

If the former dynasty's officials were not killed, the Da Xia Dynasty would certainly not be able to settle.

No matter what my uncle did, to the remnants of Jian De it was merely a performance.

This is just like the Pan Golden Lotus incident.

In the official histories, Wu Dalang and Pan Golden Lotus were a talented couple and beautiful woman, especially Wu Dalang, who was stalwart and held a county magistrate post; merely because he did not entertain a friend well, that friend fabricated a story about him.

The result became a curse for the ages.

Wu Dalang became a symbol of male shame, and Pan Golden Lotus became a byword.

Such rumors, when rationally analyzed, actually have many loopholes; the problem is that people only want to hear what they want to hear.

When an ugly man is paired with a beautiful woman, the first reaction is that the man is rich, the second that the woman will cheat.

This is the base of human nature, needing no refutation.

All of this stems from jealousy and hatred; after all, ask yourself honestly: would you rather accept an acquaintance with little connection to you making a fortune in business, or accept that same person losing everything in business?

Of course, many people still have a conscience, hoping the other loses all their property but not to the point of utter ruin, leaving some spare change so they can live a frugal life like oneself.

Listening to Gu Jin Nian's voice.

Emperor Yongsheng nodded, acknowledging Gu Jin Nian's words.

However, Emperor Yongsheng's tone shifted, and he looked at Gu Jin Nian and said.

「Jin Nian, regarding the Order of Extended Grace, don't worry about it; I will handle it well. 」

「Come, let me tell you a few things. 」

Emperor Yongsheng doesn't want to discuss these matters; after all, he hopes Gu Jin Nian rests for a while, to be quiet and still, to settle himself, lest his excess hostility affects him and leads him down a crooked path.

"Uncle, what's up?"

Gu Jin Nian nodded in agreement; regarding the promotion decree, since he had already spoken, the specifics of how to implement it would be left to his uncle to handle.

To be honest, the method has been given; as the ruler of a nation, if Emperor Yongsheng wouldn't do this, no one else would.

Excuse me, in this world beggars can sit, treacherous officials can sit, household slaves can sit—why can't the maternal relatives take a turn?

"Three matters."

"First, the matter of conferring a marquisate. The conferral is on the Shangyuan Festival, which is the day after tomorrow. Come to the palace early tomorrow; the procedures are cumbersome, so don't be verbose—follow the rules."

This is the first matter: Gu Jin Nian's marquisate conferral the day after tomorrow.

"Alright, Uncle."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; the marquisate matter must be taken seriously, after all, the day of conferral also marks the coming‑of‑age ceremony, which the ancients especially valued.

After the coming‑of‑age ceremony, one is no longer a child; henceforth, whatever one does, one can no longer be said to be just a child.

"Second matter: the imperial examination is imminent; this year's test questions are to be set by you, and you will also be the chief examiner."

"Do you have any ideas for this?"

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, noting that this second matter was no trivial task.

"Uncle."

"You want me to set the questions? Isn't that child's play?"

Gu Jin Nian was surprised to hear this; setting the imperial examination questions is such a huge responsibility—having him do it? To be frank, this is no small matter; it decides the rise or fall of a dynasty.

On a smaller scale, it affects the results of ten years of students' hard studies and the court structure of Da Xia for the next thirty years.

On a larger scale, missing a great talent could affect a dynasty's destiny.

"You are now a saint of Confucianism and Daoism in later generations."

"You are fully qualified to set questions; moreover, as a Langzhong of the Ministry of Rites, what does setting a test even change?"

"Scholars across the land still dare to say you are not something?"

Emperor Yongsheng thought it was no big deal; having Gu Jin Nian set the questions fits perfectly.

"I shall still discuss the matter properly with Lord Yang; we cannot overstep authority because of one's status."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; he understood his uncle's meaning—it was merely to help him establish authority.

"Yang Kai is resigning from office."

However, the next words from Emperor Yongsheng surprised Gu Jin Nian.

"Lord Yang is resigning?"

For the esteemed Minister of Rites to resign is no trivial matter.

One should know that any official on the court, regardless of rank, is backed by a massive power base, and they are all outstanding individuals among the elite.

The position of Minister of Rites is not a petty street job; if he steps down, who will take it?

"He is old, it's time for him to retire."

Emperor Yongsheng said lightly.

This sentence can be interpreted in different ways.

By calculation, Yang Kai is sixty‑two this year; according to Da Xia court regulations, one may retire to the countryside at sixty.

Unless one's ability is exceptional or the emperor wishes him to stay, one must consider retirement at fifty‑eight.

Being able to retire peacefully is actually a good thing; throughout history, the higher the office, the less favorable the outcome tends to be.

Sometimes it's not a matter of lacking ability, but of many troubles.

To resign without incident.

That is a good thing.

"Then who will take it? Uncle, at my age, serving as Minister would be somewhat strenuous."

"But since Uncle trusts his nephew, the nephew will bite the bullet and take it,"

Gu Jin Nian asked curiously, and at the same time prepared himself for the role of Minister.

"Just forget it; at your age, if you become Minister, everyone will say I favor you."

"A seventeen‑year‑old marquis already raises many disputes; a seventeen‑year‑old Minister? Jin Nian, your thirst for office is truly great."

Emperor Yongsheng said somewhat irritably.

"I truly didn't expect Gu Jin Nian's nerve to be so thick, becoming Minister of Rites of Da Xia at seventeen? That's one of the Six Ministries!"

"It's not that I can't let go; it's mainly that Gu Jin Nian is too young—if he were thirty, even twenty‑five, I could arrange it."

"Seventeen serving as Minister of Rites is indeed excessive."

"Uncle, nepotism shouldn't be avoided; you can't suppress me just because I'm your nephew. Moreover, a mere Minister of Rites is nothing; with my ability, I could easily be Prime Minister."

Gu Jin Nian said earnestly.

"Enough."

"I understand your talent, but the time hasn't come yet; after the imperial examination concludes, I will transfer you to another department."

"The Ministry of Rites has nothing else now; the peace negotiation is already a substantial achievement, and I will arrange it for you."

Emperor Yongsheng did not address Gu Jin Nian further, but instead announced the next arrangement.

Assigning Gu Jin Nian to the Ministry of Rites was entirely to let him earn some political merit.

According to his plan, Gu Jin Nian would stay in the Ministry of Rites for about a year, then be promoted to Yuanwai Lang, after which he would be arranged to another department to gain experience.

But he didn't expect Gu Jin Nian to handle the peace negotiation so splendidly, prompting him to think of promoting him directly to another department, since after the examination, the Ministry of Rites had little else to do.

"Alright, Uncle, just arrange it as you see fit."

Gu Jin Nian seemed casual; this matter was nothing more than Emperor Yongsheng's single word.

What could he say? "The third matter: the Ministry of Works has already forged a Dragon Boat, a Treasure Ship, and a Da Xia War Chariot. You should go see the Minister of Works, meet with him, and imprint the Ancient Array of Gathering Spirits onto them to see how they work."

"This matter is very important; I have been waiting for your good news."

Emperor Yong Sheng looked very agitated; this was the third matter, and also the one he cared about most at present.

The Ancient Array of Gathering Spirits can automatically absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, without requiring spirit crystals as a price, and it speeds up the Dragon Boat, Treasure Ship, and War Chariot.

These three items represent transportation and are beneficial to the Da Xia Dynasty.

"Alright, uncle, rest assured; I will definitely bring you good news."

"Uncle, is there anything else you need? If you have nothing, I have some matters."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; he already had a handle on the matter and would take care of it shortly.

"Nothing else."

"Go ahead."

Emperor Yong Sheng shook his head, then looked at Gu Jin Nian with curiosity, not knowing what Gu Jin Nian was planning.

"Uncle, my nephew's Da Xia Nightless City is about to start construction; the Ministry of Works needs to pull personnel over, and this is very important."

Gu Jin Nian explained his matter.

The Da Xia Nightless City project had been shelved for several months; now it must be rushed into construction. Honestly, given the Ministry of Works' building speed, it will take at least two to three months to complete the initial works.

Just the waterworks alone will require at least a month.

Considering the whole project, Gu Jin Nian estimated it would take roughly two to three years.

Three years is too long for Gu Jin Nian; starting immediately is the proper way.

At the very least, get the Da Xia Department City up first.

"Fine, how many personnel will you allocate there?"

Emperor Yong Sheng nodded and asked Gu Jin Nian.

"At least fifty thousand workers, we need to accelerate."

Gu Jin Nian thought for a moment and gave that figure.

By normal calculation, ten thousand people need three years; fifty thousand could finish within ten months.

But hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng was instantly stunned.

"Fifty thousand? The entire Ministry of Works only has about that many people; why do you need so many?"

"Can we afford twenty hundred thousand taels of gold?"

Emperor Yong Sheng clicked his tongue; fifty thousand could almost drain the Ministry of Works, to be frank, that's too many.

"Uncle, that's not fair. The Xiongnu peace treaty requires reparations of fifty million taels of silver; that silver is what I earned back. Putting aside other things, allocating a portion for my project shouldn't be difficult, right?"

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian felt somewhat displeased.

He wanted to keep the Xiongnu reparations silver for himself? However, when the reparations silver was mentioned, Emperor Yong Sheng's gaze flickered evasively.

"Uncle."

"You won't spend that silver, will you?"

"This is my hard‑earned money; would you even swallow that?"

This time Gu Jin Nian's expression changed; the fifty million taels of silver were intended for building the Da Xia Nightless City, and if it were swallowed, he would certainly cause a scene.

"Jin Nian."

"You heard uncle say, ahem, you know the Yong Sheng Grand Ceremony, right? Uncle has paid out the overdue salaries; honestly, you wouldn't want outsiders to say your uncle owes silver and doesn't give it, would you?"

Emperor Yong Sheng felt a bit embarrassed.

The fifty million taels of reparations had indeed arrived in the capital long ago, but everyone has already taken their share.

So there isn't much surplus silver left.

"Uncle, don't treat me like a child; how much silver can the Yong Sheng Grand Ceremony expense?"

"I have some idea how much silver the Yong Sheng Grand Ceremony will cost; what about the remainder?"

Gu Jin Nian could understand the Yong Sheng Grand Ceremony; after all, his uncle's greatest dream was to compile the first unparalleled classic of all ages to prove his achievements, wasn't it?

But to say he would swallow fifty million taels of silver is absolutely impossible.

He can't take that much silver.

"The Yong Sheng Grand Ceremony, counting the previously overdue silver, has spent 150 million taels of silver; the remaining 350 million taels, of which 200 million taels were taken by the Ministry of Personnel; Jin Nian, you know that in recent years the court has kept officials' salaries too low."

"Now that this is happening, the whole nation celebrates, and it's also time to ease officials' salaries a bit."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

"Uncle, you would give the silver I earned through blood and sweat to these corrupt officials?"

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian went numb.

Although he knew that officials' salaries in the Da Xia Dynasty were extremely low, he still kept the silver for his own use.

What a prodigal!

"Jin Nian, what you say…"

"What do you call corrupt officials? They are good officials of Da Xia; you can't be biased just because they took your silver."

"No, what do you mean 'your silver'? This is the court's silver; what does it have to do with you?"

Emperor Yong Sheng was initially a bit embarrassed, but suddenly, he thought of something.

Although the silver was earned by Gu Jin Nian, in the end it is Da Xia Dynasty's silver, the court's silver.

Since when did it become your silver, Gu Jin Nian? "Uncle, are you playing that trick?"

Emperor Yong Sheng's words were sound, but he himself is also a subject of the Da Xia Dynasty, all for the good of the Da Xia Dynasty.

How could it not be his own silver?

"Ah, Jin Nian, why make a fuss? I can allocate it to you, okay?"

"You really are."

Emperor Yong Sheng was indeed a bit embarrassed; he truly hadn't taken Gu Jin Nian into account for the fifty million taels of silver.

So he could only give a perfunctory response.

"And what about the remaining ten million taels of silver?"

Gu Jin Nian continued to ask.

"The remaining ten million taels of silver will be allocated as funds, and there are also fifty million taels of silver to repair the imperial palace, including several great halls. You know that after your uncle ascended the throne, he never repaired any palace buildings, and now, finally, some silver has arrived."

"Repairing the palace a bit is also a reasonable thing, right?"

Emperor Yong Sheng's voice grew softer with each word; he had spoken properly before, but now it was pure selfishness.

"Uncle."

"I finally understand why the treasury is so empty—it's because you all are recklessly spending silver here."

"No wonder the treasury is empty; this He Yan, who seems shrewd, turned out to be of no use at all."

Gu Jin Nian felt a bit depressed.

It's not that we can't spend silver, but it depends on the situation. In extraordinary times we must act accordingly; spending fifty million taels of silver frivolously is just wasteful.

"Jin Nian, this is pointless, aren't you? Can't you look at the state of the palace, your marquis residence, all those things? That place shouldn't be spending silver; you wouldn't know unless you were in charge."

"It took thirteen years to repair the imperial palace a bit; haven't I done enough?"

Emperor Yong Sheng couldn't help but make a little self‑justification.

But it is also reasonable; the external threat was resolved, and we received fifty million taels of silver in compensation, which nicely alleviated some internal pressure.

The issue of salaries for Ministry of Personnel officials is indeed troublesome; if Da Xia weren't about to declare war, the officials would inevitably cause unrest. Now putting out twenty million taels of silver as a subsidy can at least ease matters for three to four years.

As for the Yong Sheng Grand Ceremony, it is also something meaningful, at least for the country.

Only the repair of the imperial palace seems excessive.

But the palace is indeed old; the Da Xia Dynasty is now thriving, the nation's fortunes are flourishing, so a bit of repair is acceptable.

It can be accepted.

However, using one's own silver to repair the imperial palace is something Gu Jin Nian cannot accept.

"Fine, anyway the Da Xia Never‑Night City matter is of utmost importance."

"Uncle, you can't trap me with this any longer."

Gu Jin Nian stopped nagging; as long as construction can start, everything else doesn't matter.

"What kind of words are those? When did I ever trap you?"

"Jin Nian, have I been too indulgent toward you? You've become reckless?"

Emperor Yong Sheng sounded a bit irritated.

"Alright, Uncle, the nephew will leave first."

"If anything comes up, just come find me at the academy."

Gu Jin Nian didn't want to say more and left the Hall of Nurturing the Heart directly.

"Fine."

"Enter the palace early tomorrow; there are many matters for the investiture ceremony, don't delay."

Emperor Yong Sheng had nothing much to say to Gu Jin Nian; after all, he's his own nephew, nothing special to discuss.

"By the way, there's another matter."

In the next moment, Emperor Yong Sheng grabbed Gu Jin Nian; there was another issue he needed to discuss with him.

"Uncle, what's the matter this time?"

Gu Jin Nian was a little puzzled.

"On the Lantern Festival, when you confer the marquis title, I, whether I say it well or not, want to have some poetry to add to the occasion. I can't think of any; you should compose a poem for me to keep for the investiture day."

"Don't nag; this is an important task."

Emperor Yong Sheng said, emphasizing that he placed great importance on this matter and that Gu Jin Nian must handle it.

"Alright."

"The nephew will compose one for you right now; don't wait a few days."

Gu Jin Nian appeared casual, as if just wanting to mess around. "Fine, since you're my uncle, I'll do it now."

"Now?"

"Alright."

"I will fetch you a brush and ink."

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng got eager, but just as he was about to fetch the brush, he stopped immediately.

He looked at Gu Jin Nian and said,

"Don't write it down; just recite it aloud. Writing it will cause a strange phenomenon later."

"Just recite it."

"Later, make sure you don't claim you wrote it."

Emperor Yong Sheng felt a bit embarrassed.

If the world finds out this poem wasn't written by me, how meaningless it would be.

"Alright."

"Uncle, make a note of it."

Gu Jin Nian seemed indifferent; he had actually prepared a poem for his uncle earlier, which now happened to be useful.

"You speak, Uncle, and I'll note it."

Emperor Yong Sheng nodded.

"Great wind rises, clouds fly high."

"Might reaches the seas, returning to the homeland."

"How can we obtain fierce warriors to guard the four corners?" Gu Jin Nian spoke, relaying this Great Wind Song to Emperor Yong Sheng.

The latter, upon hearing it, couldn't help but be deeply fascinated.

"Great wind rises, clouds fly high."

"Might reaches the seas, returning to the homeland."

"How can we obtain fierce warriors to guard the four corners?"

"Truly domineering, huh? Anything else? What about the rest?"

Emperor Yong Sheng said with a face full of anticipation.

"That's all."

"Just these three lines."

Gu Jin Nian replied.

"Only three lines? Not adding more?"

Emperor Yong Sheng felt something was off.

"Uncle, think about it—how many years have you studied? If we really gave you a long poem, would these people believe it?"

"These three lines are neither too many nor too few, yet they have depth; they're mainly in the style you created, not seeking the best, only the most suitable."

"Right?"

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth, not because he was unwilling to give his uncle other verses, but because fitting is most important; if someone exposed that these poems were his own,

that would be a social death, wouldn't it?

The Da Xia Emperor would be socially dead?

Just imagining that scene, one knows how awkward it would be.

"Yes, yes, yes."

"Gu Jin Nian is still clever."

Emperor Yong Sheng also found it very reasonable.

Soon.

After seeing Gu Jin Nian off, Emperor Yong Sheng hurried to the jade desk, opened a booklet—this was the upgrade path he had planned for Gu Jin Nian.

"We cannot let this fellow go to the Ministry of Revenue; if he goes there, it will be hard for him to spend silver later."

"He Yan may be stingy, but at least I've spoken, and He Yan will still heed my words. If Gu Jin Nian becomes Minister of Revenue, I doubt he'll even approve a single silver for me."

Emperor Yong Sheng muttered to himself.

After saying this, Emperor Yong Sheng's gaze changed.

"Attendants, bring Gu Qianzhou and Gu Ningya into the palace," Emperor Yong Sheng ordered.

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

About half an hour later,

two figures appeared outside the Hall of Nurturing the Heart, accompanied by some sounds.

"Brother, I'm not blaming you, but if it weren't for Jin Nian, you, as a marquis, would be completely useless. Let me take this marquis role instead."

Gu Ningya's voice rang out; the two brothers, unaware of what dispute had arisen, were hurling insults at each other.

"Let you? Do you even deserve it? A mere Commander, with the Eastern Depot and the Censorate, your Department of Suspended Lanterns has little power now. If you keep babbling, when we leave the palace, do you think I'll beat you?"

Gu Qianzhou's voice also rang out.

However, after the two entered the hall,

their expressions grew serious, and they bowed to Emperor Yong Sheng.

"Servant, I salute Your Majesty, may Your Majesty live ten thousand years, ten thousand years, ten ten thousand years."

Facing the emperor, the two remained very solemn, daring not to act rashly.

Only, inside the Hall of Nurturing the Heart.

Emperor Yong Sheng looked at the two, speaking frankly: Gu Qianzhou was at least somewhat decent; although he hadn't done anything wrong, as a marquis he indeed hadn't done anything right, being mediocre and idle.

As for Gu Ningya, he was simply a waste.

Oh, no, I mean, an iron waste.

Emperor Yong Sheng's gaze was a bit odd; Gu Qianzhou and Gu Ningya felt a shiver inside, yet dared not speak, only snickering.

"Two wasteful ones."

After a brief moment,

Emperor Yong Sheng's voice rang out, laced with sarcasm.

At that moment, the two fell silent.

Gu Qianzhou was fine, taking the insults in stride.

But Gu Ningya couldn't help speaking up.

"Your Majesty, I haven't caused any trouble recently; if you're unhappy, I can fetch some people for you, scold them as you wish."

Gu Ningya felt a bit indignant.

"You run over without saying anything, and start with 'waste'? Don't bully like that."

"Is it wrong to scold both of you?"

"Regarding Jin Nian's drowning incident, have you uncovered the cause yet?"

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke irritably.

Upon hearing that, the two fell silent; even Gu Ningya had nothing to reply, as indeed no cause had been found.

"Your Majesty, have you discovered it?"

But half a moment later, Gu Qianzhou suddenly understood what Emperor Yongsheng meant and couldn't help asking.

"Naturally."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke lightly.

Then, looking at the two of them, he said.

"It is the son of Marquis Sheyang, the work of Wu An. How exactly it was done, Gu Ningya, you shall thoroughly investigate for me."

"In the northwestern border, soldiers killed civilians and turned into bandits, which was discovered. To cover up the crime, they pointed the blame at Jin Nian, hoping his death would spark internal turmoil in Da Xia."

"I have some evidence, but not much. Marquis Lin Yang, you must investigate this thoroughly. I will grant you all authority; within two months, I want you to gather a report of intelligence, and every participant must be listed."

"One part shall be captured and brought back to the capital for slow‑slicing execution; the other part, your Gu Family will handle covertly, but make it look good for me."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke again.

He ordered the two to resolve the matter.

Gu Jin Nian's drowning incident is now considered fully settled; understanding its purpose suffices, and the court will handle the subsequent matters.

"Please rest assured, Your Majesty."

The two nodded upon hearing this.

"One more matter: if you uncover anyone in the court, submit a secret report; do not make it public."

Emperor Yongsheng added a reminder.

"Matters within the court, I will resolve; external affairs will be handled specially."

"Please rest assured, Your Majesty."

The two immediately agreed.

"Fine, get out."

The orders were given, and there was nothing more to discuss.

But as the two were about to rise and leave, Emperor Yongsheng's voice suddenly rang out.

"Wait a moment."

"I have composed a poem; you two, take a look and point out any flaws."

Emperor Yongsheng said, as such.

Upon hearing this, the two showed slight surprise.

Good heavens, Emperor Yongsheng writes poetry?

"Is this a joke? Emperor Yongsheng has studied for a few years, which is reasonable for political understanding, but when it comes to poetry and prose, he certainly isn't capable."

"Why would he suddenly write a poem?"

The two were curious but said nothing, waiting there.

"Great winds arise, clouds soar."

"Might spreads across the seas, returning home."

"How to obtain brave warriors to guard the four directions."

"What do you think?"

Emperor Yongsheng recited the poem Gu Jin Nian had composed for him.

At that moment,

Gu Qianzhou couldn't help but frown, then showed a look of shock.

"Your Majesty, the poem is fine."

Gu Qianzhou couldn't help boasting; after all, he had studied for a few years, and at least within the Gu Family, he ranks above Gu Jin Nian.

Otherwise he couldn't have become a marquis.

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yongsheng was greatly pleased.

"Gu Qianzhou has indeed studied for a few years and has some appreciation ability."

"He will be of some use in the future."

Emperor Yongsheng was very satisfied.

"Your Majesty, the poem is fine, but I feel something is missing. Shall I add two lines for you?"

Gu Ningya spoke up, saying it sounded okay, but it felt too short and should have a few more lines.

But as soon as he said that,

Emperor Yongsheng's eyes showed contempt.

"Add a few more lines?"

"You? You think you're worthy? Even if it's not Gu Jin Nian's work, even if you wrote it yourself, you think you can add a few lines? Damn, do you think I'm giving you any respect?"

"Enough, go back."

"Marquis Lin Yang, some petitions have been submitted recently to impeach the Town Government Office and the Lantern Department; I have already sent people to investigate the Town Government Office."

"Also investigate the Lantern Department to see if they have violated any regulations. Examine it thoroughly; if I find even a hint of your collusion, I will not be lenient."

Emperor Yongsheng said lightly.

He was clearly setting a trap.

"Your Majesty, rest assured, I will investigate thoroughly; should I find any breach, I will sacrifice even my own relatives for righteousness."

Upon hearing this, Gu Qianzhou felt invigorated.

Since Gu Ningya became a commander, his arrogance knows no bounds; not only is he overbearing, but he constantly seeks trouble, and now he has power.

He will make Gu Ningya suffer.

"Your Majesty, the poem is well written, wonderfully so, Your Majesty, you could not possibly…"

Gu Ningya complained incessantly.

But before he could say anything, he was forcibly dragged away.

After those two left.

Emperor Yong Sheng the Great continued admiring his own poem.

He then thought, "Tomorrow I'll post this poem on the Main Hall; anyone who dares to criticize it will have a problem—just pure jealousy of me."

Debating its authenticity.

Meanwhile.

Inside the Prince's Residence.

Gu Jin Nian hadn't even stepped out of the palace when people from the Prince's Residence pulled him here.

The Crown Prince wanted to see him.

"Honorable junior."

"I, the palace, preemptively wish you a marquisate here; a seventeen‑year‑old marquis—Da Xia truly has none, nor does the entire Eastern Wilderness have anyone like you."

"Honorable junior, you truly are Da Xia's number one."

The Crown Prince spoke, his face full of smile.

Leaving Gu Jin Nian a little puzzled.

The Crown Prince, this way, is either treacherous or a thief.

"Brother Crown Prince, just say what you want, don't play this game."

Gu Jin Nian was at a loss, curiously looking at the other side.

"Nothing major."

"Just that business we discussed earlier—when will construction start?"

The Crown Prince spoke, having tea served, and looked at Gu Jin Nian with a cheerful smile.

"Oh, that matter—I told the Emperor; barring any mishap, we'll start right after the Shangyuan Festival."

Gu Jin Nian instantly understood.

It seemed the Crown Prince was in a hurry.

"Starting after the Shangyuan Festival, that's quite good."

Hearing this, the Crown Prince felt some joy, but he summoned Gu Jin Nian not for this matter.

It was another matter.

"Honorable junior, there's another matter."

"Li Ji's age is also growing; he should find a teacher. I think, why not have you take that role directly?"

"My elder brother has already raised this with the Emperor, and the Emperor agreed; it now depends on your opinion, honorable brother."

The Crown Prince spoke.

Mentioning the most crucial matter.

That is the matter of becoming the Grandson Grand Tutor.

This is no small matter.

The 'grandson,' though exaggerated to describe the future heir, is essentially the same, provided this Crown Prince eventually ascends the throne.

In the future, Li Ji will be Da Xia's emperor.

Moreover, Li Ji is still young; honestly, his reign will be very long.

Previously, the Kong Family kept trying to send someone to be Li Ji's teacher, but the Crown Prince politely declined.

Now the Crown Prince takes the initiative, with several layers of meaning.

Grandson Grand Tutor.

It carries immense political weight; whoever can become the Grandson Grand Tutor will have an infinitely bright future.

Yet likewise, such a huge benefit must be exchanged for commensurate gains.

If Gu Jin Nian were made this Grandson Grand Tutor, it would mean the Gu Family is fully bound to the Crown Prince; otherwise, if the Crown Prince never becomes emperor, your role as Grandson Grand Tutor would be meaningless.

So this is a political exchange.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian fell silent.

How could he not understand? The old master had mentioned this before.

The heir‑apparent seat seems distant; Emperor Yong Sheng the Great is still young, yet in a blink the dynasty will change.

The Gu Family can remain silent.

Before the situation becomes clear, it's permissible; but after it does, the Gu Family cannot do nothing.

"Brother Crown Prince."

"Let me think about this; after all, I'm still young and uneducated, taking this position would be a bit heavy."

Gu Jin Nian politely declined.

For now I still don't want to get involved.

Yet he knows clearly that the more prosperous the era, the more secure the Crown Prince's position.

This involves far too many things.

Gu Jin Nian does not want to make a hasty choice.

"Fine, how about this: after the marquisate ceremony concludes, I'll have Ji Er stay by your side to learn first; after a while, you can give me an answer, how about that?"

Crown Prince Li Gao also understood Gu Jin Nian's reservations, so he didn't press, but phrased it like that.

It could be considered a pre‑emptive collaboration.

"Okay."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, agreeing. It had been like this before; only now politics is mixed in.

"By the way, Li Ji?"

After agreeing, Gu Jin Nian felt a bit curious; he hadn't seen that unlucky kid for a long time.

"Oh, he's in the courtyard tree, just got beaten by the Crown Prince's Consort."

Li Gao said casually.

"Beaten? What happened?"

Gu Jin Nian grew curious.

"He sneaked out of the manor and went to a brothel."

Li Gao spoke aloud, seeming very casual.

"To a brothel?"

"Prince, although Ji Er is mischievous, he's of age now; actually we could arrange a marriage for him—after all, he's sixteen, and in a year or two he'll need to settle down."

"No need for such harsh punishment."

Regarding Li Ji's brothel visit, Gu Jin Nian didn't think much; it wasn't the first time he'd heard of it.

He'd known about it before.

"Going to a brothel isn't a big deal; it's that he used your name to go, got discovered, and the scandal reached the Prince's residence."

Li Gao said lightly.

This time Gu Jin Nian stood up.

Good fellow.

Using his own name to stroll a brothel? That deserves a beating, right? "Brother, shouldn't that be a harsh beating?"

Gu Jin Nian stood and said, his face showing anger.

"We've already beaten him."

"Don't worry, the Crown Prince's Consort is harsher than you."

Li Gao rose and pacified Gu Jin Nian.

"That kid, learns nothing good, only learns these things. How did he get caught?"

Gu Jin Nian said irritably.

"Stupid."

"He gives girls money at the brothel; now the whole capital knows, you never spend money when you go to a brothel."

"He gave money, got suspected, then reported."

Li Gao answered aloud.

"Being reported for spending money?"

"Wait, who says I go to a brothel without giving money?"

"Besides, I never go to a brothel."

Gu Jin Nian felt a bit numb.

Apart from the first time with Wu An's gang going to a brothel, he never went again.

So who's spreading rumors?

"Huh?"

"Your habit of going to brothels is known all over the capital, and you never spend money each time."

"You don't know this?"

This time the Prince became curious.

"Someone impersonating me?"

Gu Jin Nian stood again, his face looking terrible.

Isn't that ruining someone's purity?

"Probably true."

"I'll have someone investigate; it could be someone close to you."

"Think about it—do you have anyone close to you who can change their appearance?"

"And hasn't much money."

The Prince spoke, continuing to soothe Gu Jin Nian's emotions.

Close relationship.

Ability to disguise.

Not much money? In an instant, a familiar silhouette appeared in his mind.

"Mader, Su Huaiyu!"

Gu Jin Nian instantly guessed who it was.

"Prince, my junior still has other matters, I'll leave for now."

"After the ennoblement ceremony, let Ji Er stay by my side."

Gu Jin Nian stood, not to find Su Huaiyu, but to go to the Ministry of Works to see Wang Qixin about the matter.

This matter is quite important.

"Alright."

"Jin Nian, younger brother, if anything, just come to the residence and find me."

The Prince smiled and spoke.

Soon.

Half an hour later.

Gu Jin Nian arrived at the Ministry of Works.

(End of chapter)