Chapter 174: The Battle for Public Opinion, Major Nation Trade, Unified Currency, Plans Ahead [Seeking Monthly Votes]

Da Xia Hall of Nurturing the Heart.

Heavenly Surveillance Department's Xu Taiyi saw the scene and fell silent.

Not to mention him, even the close eunuchs Wei Xian and Liu Yan were at a loss for words.

His Majesty wasn't like this before.

But after Emperor Yong Sheng laughed a few times, his gaze turned toward Xu Taiyi.

The latter felt the emperor's stare, instantly understood its meaning, and couldn't help speaking up.

"Lord Hou, His Majesty has summoned you to the palace today for an important discussion."

Xu Taiyi spoke, looking at Gu Jin Nian as he said.

"Is it about Heaven's Mandate?"

On the way here, Gu Jin Nian had guessed some things, and Xu Taiyi's appearance made him even more certain.

"Yes."

"Lord Hou, according to the Heavenly Surveillance Department's calculations, this change in Heaven's Mandate has a huge relation to the dynasty."

"Our joint calculations reveal that a dragon pearl has appeared in the heavens, called the National Fortune Dragon Pearl."

Xu Taiyi explained.

"National Fortune Dragon Pearl?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at him, slightly curious.

"Yes."

"Lord Hou, on the Shen Zhou Continent, if a nation is established, it possesses National Fortune; ordinary nations have National Fortune like clouds, gathering and dispersing as one, while great nations have National Fortune that becomes a dragon, bringing favorable winds and rain."

"And for a strong nation, its National Fortune condenses into a dragon, a hundred zhang in length, forming the National Fortune Dragon shape."

"A thousand zhang becomes the true National Fortune Dragon, its qi flow continuous, recognized by heaven and earth."

"This dragon pearl can enable Da Xia's true National Fortune Dragon to undergo transformation; more precisely, it can cause the National Fortune Golden Dragon to evolve into the Ancestral Dragon state."

Xu Taiyi spoke.

Explaining to Gu Jin Nian.

"Ancestral Dragon?"

Gu Jin Nian was genuinely curious this time.

"Yes."

"Ancestral Dragon."

"National Fortune like clouds, National Fortune Dragon shape, true National Fortune Dragon, National Fortune Golden Dragon, and finally the National Fortune Ancestral Dragon."

"If the Da Xia Dynasty's qi can transform into the National Fortune Ancestral Dragon, then all its people, officials, including His Majesty and Lord Hou, will reap enormous benefits."

"Then the emperor, as a divine ruler, will wield divine power, command the five thunders; within Da Xia, winds and rains will be favorable, with no more natural or human disasters."

"The populace will be prosperous, the dynasty strong, mountains will nurture spirits, clear water will be treasured; everything will change, allowing unification of the world."

Mentioning this, Xu Taiyi became very excited.

"Minister Xu, could you be more specific?"

Emperor Yong Sheng grew eager as well, unable to stop Xu Taiyi from elaborating in detail.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"Doesn't the Great Jin Dynasty have Dragon Rice?"

"The cultivation of this Dragon Rice is not only due to the lack of seeds; more importantly, Da Xia's soil is unsuitable for planting Great Jin Dragon Rice, which is why, although it can be purchased, it cannot be cultivated on a large scale."

"If our Da Xia Dynasty obtains this National Fortune Dragon Pearl, once the National Fortune transforms into Ancestral Dragon qi, even Da Xia's deserts could grow Dragon Rice, and the harvested rice would surpass that of the Great Jin Dynasty by several times."

"Also the warhorses: Da Xia's warhorses, even feeding on ordinary grass, will become thousand-mile horses, crushing Xiongnu warhorses."

"All things will change."

Xu Taiyi said with boundless excitement.

When he finished speaking, Emperor Yong Sheng's eyes betrayed his excitement, yet he was not foolish.

"Reaching this level will surely require time, won't it?"

"Moreover, this National Fortune Dragon Pearl will be hard to contest, since the Zhongzhou Dynasty's National Fortune is not only ten thousand zhang long but has also transformed into a Golden Dragon, which I did not anticipate."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, saying those two sentences.

Honestly, he knew the Zhongzhou Dynasty was strong, but hadn't expected it to be this powerful; Da Xia's National Fortune is three thousand zhang, the Great Jin Dynasty's is comparable, and they can each catch up, which is manageable.

Yet the Zhongzhou Dynasty possesses a full ten thousand zhang of Golden Dragon qi, unsettling the major dynasties within the Eastern Wilderness realm.

"Time is inevitable."

"As for difficulty in contesting, that is uncertain."

Xu Taiyi nodded, agreeing with the first point.

He was less convinced of the second point.

"Oh?"

"Why is that?"

Emperor Yong Sheng asked him.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"After the true National Fortune Dragon becomes the Ancestral Dragon, it will gradually improve Da Xia's mountains and rivers; the required time will indeed be about a hundred years."

"But the contest over this dragon pearl is not about National Fortune, but about public opinion."

Xu Taiyi answered.

"Public opinion?"

This time, in the great hall, both Emperor Yong Sheng and Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but look at Xu Taiyi.

Feeling their gazes, Xu Taiyi did not dare to hesitate and answered at once.

"Your Majesty, after the Supervisor of the Surveillance of Heaven's continual deductions these past days, we have finally learned that this contest for the National Destiny Dragon Pearl is a contest for public opinion."

"Moreover, according to our speculation, this public opinion is quite profound; it does not merely require territory, but also the soldiers' camps, possibly concerning two aspects."

Xu Taiyi spoke.

He expounded on the term "public opinion".

"What places?"

The Eternal Prosperous Emperor was extremely interested; if it relied on military force, to speak frankly, the Da Xia Dynasty's greatest current enemy is the Great Jin Dynasty.

Why not the Central Continent Dynasty? The reason is none other than this.

It is unworthy.

Da Xia is unworthy, Great Jin is unworthy, and even if the Eastern Wilderness joins forces, it is still unworthy to be an enemy of the Central Continent Dynasty.

If the Central Continent Dynasty were not already at war externally and also embroiled in internal strife, they would have already struck at the Eastern Wilderness.

"The people's happiness."

"The officials' spirit."

Xu Taiyi replied.

"Your Majesty, regarding the people's happiness, I dare say it simply means making the populace content; no matter how strong the nation, if the people are unhappy, even while safeguarding the big picture, several generations are sacrificed—there is public opinion, but not much of it."

"True public opinion arises when the people, from the bottom of their hearts, feel proud, arrogant, happy, and joyful about the dynasty they belong to; only such emotions‑born faith will be recognized by Heaven."

"For example, Lord Hou established Da Xia's founding pillar; his refusal to marry off relatives caused Da Xia's national fortune to soar, forging a proud backbone."

"Furthermore, recapturing the twelve border cities made the Da Xia people immensely proud, which also elevated the national destiny."

"But later, when Lord Hou destroyed Buddhism and undertook other actions, the effect was not as good, because balance could not be maintained."

"At present, the war has been fought and the lost lands reclaimed; more attention should now be given to the grand plan of people's livelihood."

"This is my opinion; the specifics remain for Your Majesty to decide, as I am not clear on state affairs."

Xu Taiyi stopped speaking at this point.

He left it at that.

He is the Supervisor of the Surveillance of Heaven, essentially an officially backed sect cultivator; whatever the court wishes, he receives, cultivates his Dao, and incidentally helps the state monitor atmospheric phenomena.

State affairs truly must not be meddled with blindly, lest one invites trouble upon oneself.

"What does the officials' spirit mean?"

The Eternal Prosperous Emperor could grasp the people's happiness, but still did not fully understand the officials' spirit.

"Answering Your Majesty, a dynasty needs a supreme ruler, but also some stalwart ministers and many Lords Hou."

He said.

The implication of these words left Gu Jin Nian and the Eternal Prosperous Emperor silent.

The two instantly understood what Xu Taiyi meant.

"Very well, you may go down."

The Eternal Prosperous Emperor spoke, allowing him to leave.

"Your Majesty, there is still one matter unsaid."

Xu Taiyi opened his mouth and continued.

"The Da Xia Heavenly Disaster matter."

"It is highly possible that this is a turning point in Da Xia Dynasty's fortune."

Xu Taiyi spoke, uttering this sentence.

"Turning point?"

"What do you mean by that?"

The Eternal Prosperous Emperor grew curious; during this period he had also been quite worried about the Da Xia Heavenly Disaster.

Did not expect there to be another hidden twist?

"Answering Your Majesty."

"After the National Destiny Dragon Pearl appeared, I have been searching relevant records, leafing through a hundred thousand ancient books, and finally uncovered this."

"Once the National Destiny Dragon Pearl appears, each great dynasty will suffer a heavenly disaster, though the nature of that disaster is uncertain."

"It may be a heavenly disaster, a human calamity, or perhaps someone intends to usurp the throne; in short, these are akin to a dynasty's tribulation. If the dynasty can resolve it perfectly, its fortune will soar."

"If it cannot be resolved, the opportunity will be lost, and the dynasty will be unable to seize the National Destiny Dragon Pearl."

"Therefore, I believe that the forthcoming Da Xia Heavenly Disaster, though it may bring great trouble to the Da Xia Dynasty, is also a rare opportunity."

"If seized, it may become the moment of soaring for our dynasty."

Xu Taiyi said earnestly.

This time, both the Eternal Prosperous Emperor and Gu Jin Nian were somewhat startled.

"I understand," the Emperor said.

The Eternal Prosperous Emperor nodded.

"Then I shall take my leave first."

Xu Taiyi, without further ado, rose and departed.

Soon, only Gu Jin Nian and the Eternal Prosperous Emperor remained in the great hall.

"Wei Xian."

"Regarding what Xu Taiyi just said, what is your view?"

At this moment, the Eternal Prosperous Emperor spoke, his gaze falling on Wei Xian.

He is his personal eunuch, but there are some matters that Wei Xian surely knows better than he does.

I reply, Your Majesty.

This servant.

Hearing Emperor Yong Sheng's question, Wei Xian truly didn't know how to respond, especially with Gu Jin Nian still present.

The purpose of Emperor Yong Sheng's question was exactly what Xu Taiyi had just said: the souls of the officials.

It sounds like there's no major issue, but this sentence carries another meaning.

"If you have something to say, speak up; I won't blame you."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, somewhat firmly.

"I reply, Your Majesty, I have indeed recently heard some rumors; the civil and military officials throughout the court now have some grievances."

Wei Xian spoke, his voice not loud, sounding a bit nervous.

"What grievances?"

Emperor Yong Sheng's expression turned slightly grim.

"The officials feel that Your Majesty is somewhat biased; nowadays many matters are handled by the Marquis, and you unconditionally support him, sending troops and exerting effort. Although the Marquis's actions are indeed effective, using the dynasty's power to do so, they think it's somewhat improper, and they also believe it's not only the Marquis who can accomplish these things."

Wei Xian spoke up, stating this matter.

Gu Jin Nian understood this meaning; it seems the civil and military officials are feeling resentful.

However, this is also reasonable, after all, everything I do is unconditionally supported by Emperor Yong Sheng.

Although these officials carry out the emperor's will, most of the time the emperor does not give full support, so when handling affairs, they must weigh many factors.

This is an unspoken rule everyone follows.

But Gu Jin Nian is different; whatever he wants to do, Emperor Yong Sheng gives unconditional support, then the task succeeds, the emperor bestows various rewards, and he can also gain fame afterward.

To be honest, who wouldn't be resentful?

Having grievances is also understandable and reasonable.

"Hmph."

"If you can't do it, why blame me for not giving support?"

"You don't even look at how you handle things; when I assign a task, they make excuses and obstruct, which I could overlook, but they collude up and down, trying to deceive me—do they really think I'm a fool?"

Emperor Yong Sheng flew into a thunderous rage.

This appears to be dissatisfaction from subordinates toward Gu Jin Nian, but in fact it's just dissatisfaction toward him.

Regardless of whether he is truly angry or not, since it involves Gu Jin Nian, Emperor Yong Sheng must act this way.

"Your Majesty, actually the officials aren't necessarily holding a grudge against you; they might just not understand for the moment."

Wei Xian spoke up; he couldn't add fuel to the fire, at least in this matter he must not act recklessly, otherwise he would be opposing the officials.

"Your Majesty."

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian's voice also sounded.

"How?"

Emperor Yong Sheng showed a hint of curiosity.

"I believe we should indeed leave some opportunities for others."

"During this time, I have indeed realized that many things cannot be solved by one person, especially the rise and fall of a dynasty, which absolutely cannot be achieved by me alone."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; this is not a compromise, but words from the heart.

I still have many things to do, especially the later great world struggle; speaking honestly, regarding the dynasty's rise and fall, I will help as much as I can, but a Da Xia Dynasty absolutely cannot prosper solely because of me.

Court affairs! Taxation! Military! Infrastructure! Education!

Just these five areas require a lot of time to ponder; it's like Da Xia having dragon boats that could be remodeled into fighter jets, but the problem is who will handle all this messy stuff? Let me do it?

Alright, relying solely on personal ability, Gu Jin Nian is confident he can settle it within three years, but after settling it, then what? Can the people below understand? Can they do it? What's the meaning of producing one or two? Put bluntly, what I can do is merely give the dynasty a broad direction, equivalent to feeling the stones while crossing the river.

To truly implement a matter or put a national policy into practice, it requires layer-by-layer implementation, making different adjustments according to different places and circumstances; as long as the final goal is not too different from the original idea, there's no problem.

How things are tossed about is done together by everyone, not by one person alone.

Back when I was a screenwriter, I once pondered: if I traveled to ancient times and relied on one person's power, could I change the world? I discussed this question with many people, and the final result was: yes, but limited.

Speeding up a few decades is no problem, but wanting to change the world by one's own power is impossible.

One person ultimately is not really possible.

Listening to Gu Jin Nian speak like this, Emperor Yong Sheng became somewhat silent.

After a moment, Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

"Jin Nian, regarding this matter, I have my own opinion; don't pay attention to these people, they're nothing but jealous of you."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

Comforting Gu Jin Nian.

"Your Majesty, I actually have no other meaning; my idea is that the Da Xia Dynasty should support a batch of new people."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, expressing his own idea.

The officials envy him; Gu Jin Nian can understand, but he will not choose to stay low-key and silent because of their envy.

However, the Da Xia Dynasty indeed needs to leave the stage to the young people.

Replacing with a new batch of people, only then can the handover be completed; to be frank, one reason is Emperor Yong Sheng's nostalgia, the other is the Immortal Martial World.

Otherwise, under normal circumstances, the Six Ministries should have been replaced long ago; it's not a matter of ability lacking, but rather not giving the young people any chance, and once they actually take office, they'd likely be overwhelmed.

"The Ministry of Personnel will handle this matter well; there will be officials taking office each year."

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

"Your Majesty."

"My meaning is, a completely new batch of people."

Gu Jin Nian spoke lightly.

Upon saying this, the Yongsheng Emperor immediately understood.

Among the officials in the court, who doesn't have someone behind them?

To put it bluntly, although it seems the emperor's realm, it is actually the aristocrats' realm.

The scourge of aristocratic clans is hard to eradicate through the ages.

Therefore, the newcomers Gu Jin Nian spoke of refer to the poor families.

People without any background.

The Yongsheng Emperor fell silent; as an emperor, how could he not know the benefits of the poor families?

But the problem is, he cannot resolve this matter, and it is also difficult for the emperor to do.

Gu Jin Nian said there is no problem.

But among all civil and military officials, who has not contributed to the dragon's merit? If we dismiss them and replace them with newcomers, it will cause public unease.

The Da Xia Dynasty has not yet reached complete stability.

He himself cannot do that either.

Of course, the Yongsheng Emperor did not say these words; instead, he looked at Gu Jin Nian and said.

"Jin Nian, what do you think?"

He inquired.

"In this imperial examination, I have reviewed the papers and found some answer sheets exceptionally good; if they are further honed, they will surely become pillars of the Da Xia state."

"That is why I have this idea."

Gu Jin Nian replied.

He still had an impression of the imperial examination, so he voluntarily recommended talents.

Upon hearing about the imperial examination, the Yongsheng Emperor involuntarily thought of something, then returned to the jade case and took out two answer sheets.

"You mean these two, right?"

The Yongsheng Emperor gave the answer sheets to Gu Jin Nian and asked.

After receiving the answer sheets and glancing at them, Gu Jin Nian nodded.

"Yes."

The Yongsheng Emperor then praised.

These two are indeed not bad, especially this article—the land tax method conforms to My wishes, though there are many problems; I think the idea is sound, but putting it into practice reveals too many flaws, it's rather idealistic.

I thought for two days, but couldn't come up with a better solution.

Yu Yi and He Zhai both truly have outstanding talent, and their views are also quite good.

The article written by the other person is also not bad, focusing on promoting trade and emphasizing commercial taxes, like the first one, it's too idealistic; it sounds good, but implementation would be difficult.

However, if they are properly trained, they will indeed be malleable talent in the future.

The Yongsheng Emperor said this, praising the two.

Listening to the Yongsheng Emperor's praise, Gu Jin Nian actually understood that what the Yongsheng Emperor wanted was the policy of merging the poll tax into the land tax, while what Yu Yi wrote could only be said to be in the same direction, but many points were not mentioned, so the Yongsheng Emperor would only think the article was well-written and had ideas.

He would not show much surprise; one must clarify the policy of merging the poll tax into the land tax, otherwise the Yongsheng Emperor would not have this expression.

However, Gu Jin Nian plans to delay mentioning this for now, as the timing is not ripe.

At the same time, Gu Jin Nian was also somewhat curious; he hadn't expected that these two articles were actually written by those two people.

After thinking about it, he felt it was reasonable; after all, when he previously saw this group of scholars, these two had the most formidable aura.

"Emphasizing commercial taxes, this method is actually feasible, but implementation is indeed difficult."

"But the land reform written in Yu Yi's article, I believe it is feasible, though it needs slight modifications." Gu Jin Nian spoke, echoing.

"Yes, this land reform is not bad; I have an idea, let's improve it a bit, Gu Jin Nian, you also think about it, see if it can be improved well, it might become a new policy."

The Yongsheng Emperor spoke, his greatest excitement being this land reform; if this plan were implemented, the Da Xia Dynasty's national tax revenue could at least double or triple.

Of course he also clearly understands that this matter will surely be obstructed by countless people, after all, involving land is no small matter for the powerful, and it easily intensifies class conflicts.

Therefore, if the court truly wants to push new policies, it must first thoroughly suppress internal unrest before acting.

If the new policy were promulgated directly now, without any mishap, the Prince of Ning would certainly rebel, and all the nobles would unconditionally support the Prince of Ning.

"Your Majesty, regarding the taxation of Jiangnan, it would be better to let these two go on a trip, following my father's side; first to observe the situation in Jiangnan, and second to serve as tempering."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, earlier my sixth uncle had mentioned the matter of Jiangnan taxation; currently these two indeed have some research in this area, but all of their research is merely theoretical.

The idea is not wrong, but it does not consider actual circumstances; high emotional intelligence brings ideas, low emotional intelligence is too rash.

It would be just right to let my father take them on a tour of Jiangnan, to let them suffer a bit, endure a couple of beatings, and then they'd be much better.

"This idea is not bad."

The Yongsheng Emperor's eyes lit up; he thought this method was not bad, Yu Yi and He Zhai indeed have ideas, it's just right to let them go on a trip to the Jiangnan region to walk around, which can serve as tempering.

"Your Majesty, is there anything else? If not, I will take my leave; I've been a bit fatigued these days and would like to rest early."

Inside the hall, Gu Jin Nian spoke.

"Mm, during this period you should stay well at the academy; the Jixia Academy is about to open, so spare some time to prepare well."

The Yongsheng Emperor nodded, he also did not want to delay Gu Jin Nian's time too much.

"Then I will take my leave."

Gu Jin Nian smiled, then left the Hall of Nourishing the Heart.

After walking out of the Hall of Nourishing the Heart, two figures appeared before him.

His own father, Gu Qianzhou, and the Minister of Revenue, He Yan.

"Father, why are you here?"

Having walked out of the Hall of Nourishing the Heart, Gu Jin Nian hurriedly greeted his father.

"The Emperor has an edict."

"Gu Jin Nian, if you have time in the next two days, go home for a visit; your mother has been worrying all day, so hurry back and make her happy."

Seeing his son arrive, Gu Qianzhou's face was full of smiles; after all, such an outstanding son, who wouldn't be pleased upon seeing him.

"Alright."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, then bowed toward Lord He.

The latter smiled and replied, "Lord Hou."

Immediately after, Gu Jin Nian left the imperial palace.

After leaving the palace, Sixth Uncle had been waiting at the gate; upon seeing him, he hurried over and, after a round of talk, only asked whether Gu Jin Nian had mentioned him.

To please Sixth Uncle, Gu Jin Nian, against his conscience, nodded, gave a vague reassurance, and then headed toward the Da Xia Academy.

Along the way, Gu Jin Nian also pondered the matter of the National Fortune Dragon Pearl.

"It seems this Heaven's Mandate Struggle is not only a personal contest, but also a clash for the dynasty."

"If, as Xu Taiyi said, the dynasty that obtains the National Fortune Dragon Pearl is indeed... it won't be long before it unifies the world."

"Then it is destined to become another mortal war, affecting the entire great world."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

When he reached this thought, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but look up at the high sky; above the heavens, the National Fortune Dragon Pearl clearly leaned toward the Central Continent Dynasty.

This is not a good thing, yet it is also a good thing.

Great unification, for the common people, is a good thing; at least the nation is stable, no more foreign invaders, and even internal coups cannot harm civilians—it is merely a power struggle among the elite, with losers simply dying.

The common folk are the foundation of a dynasty; unless it's an invasion war, it is almost impossible to trouble the ordinary people.

"Public opinion?"

Gu Jin Nian mulled over those two words in his mind.

He somewhat understood that the will of the people could influence the final choice of the National Fortune Dragon Pearl.

Now the Da Xia Dynasty has reclaimed lost territories, and militarily there are no major issues.

At present, the focus is on the people's livelihood.

"We must truly begin development; the national policy indeed needs improvement, and Da Xia trade must be developed in all aspects."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

Calculating the time, Gu Jin Nian glanced at the Da Xia Nightless City under construction in the distance; he estimated another two months before it would be completed.

And this is only the first step.

"Jixia Academy, Buddhist Debate—once these two matters are concluded, we must act against Prince Ning."

"If he does not die, all new policies cannot be launched."

"This trip back to the academy also needs a proper accounting."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

However, at that moment, a voice sounded from behind.

"Lord Hou."

"Lord Hou."

The voice was familiar; turning around, it was Minister of Rites Yang Kai.

"Minister Yang."

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat curious; he hadn't expected to meet Yang Kai here.

"I have seen you before, Lord Hou."

He hurried to Gu Jin Nian's side, Yang Kai exhaled twice, then clasped his hands in greeting.

"Minister, you are too kind; is there something you need me for?"

Gu Jin Nian, slightly curious, looked at Yang Kai and asked thus.

"Yes, there are two matters."

"Last night, the Xiongnu Nation, the Fuyu Dynasty, and the Great Jin Dynasty sent envoys with a secret letter, seeking to join forces for peace and promote commercial trade among the nations."

"I have been pondering this matter for a long time, just as I was about to enter the palace to inform His Majesty, I happened to meet Lord Hou."

"So I came to ask you, Lord Hou, what is your view on this?"

Yang Kai's tone was calm, though his eyes still showed some nervousness.

Who doesn't know that Gu Jin Nian is the current emperor's most favored person? Aside from that, if this matter were reported upward, as long as Gu Jin Nian disagrees, it would certainly be blocked.

It's not that the emperor lacks wisdom; rather, Gu Jin Nian has made the best choice each time, so when matters involve inter-dynastic affairs, especially those touching national interests, Yang Kai thought for a long while and still decided to come find Gu Jin Nian.

If Gu Jin Nian were to completely oppose it, then we could set this matter aside for now.

"Joint peace talks to promote commercial trade among the nations?"

"That is acceptable."

"Very good."

Gu Jin Nian nodded outright; this was a good thing.

Da Xia, Great Jin, Fuyu, Xiongnu, and several other minor states are all in a blockade stage with each other; most trade is conducted by official merchants, with a few daring private traders participating, but the problem is that these merchants are still backed by officials.

Official commerce's biggest flaw is procedural, riddled with hidden tricks and lacking transparency; consequently, the major dynasties enforce strict crackdowns, allowing only a small fraction of trade while rigorously inspecting the rest.

The Xiongnu Nation also fears its merchants selling warhorses to the Da Xia Dynasty; the Great Jin Dynasty does not wish to sell dragon rice; the Fuyu Dynasty is losing iron ore; as for the Da Xia Dynasty, it possesses tea, salt, artifacts, and some medicines.

These items may seem useless, but to the great dynasties they are highly prized commodities.

For example, the Xiongnu Nation is very interested in many Da Xia medicines; living on the steppe, they suffer frostbite on their hands in cold weather—soldiers at least have some martial vigor, but ordinary civilians cannot endure it.

The Da Xia Dynasty has a medicinal oil; applying a little can effectively prevent such frostbite, and it is very cheap, so it sells extremely well in the Xiongnu Nation.

The Xiongnu are even willing to trade a warhorse for a barrel of this oil.

The Great Jin Dynasty is extremely interested in Da Xia tea, considering it a luxury for the aristocracy; since Great Jin's lands are unsuitable for tea cultivation, a pound of Da Xia tea can fetch nearly ten times its price there.

Of course this is the best variety; this tea is also relatively scarce in the Da Xia Dynasty.

On top of that, official suppression makes the price soar.

Within the Eastern Wilderness, each dynasty has its own goods and its own convenient abacus.

In short, no one wants to be at a loss.

Everyone thinks their own goods are the best.

Thus mutual markets won't work, and the Silk Road won't work either.

Right now, because of this National Fortune Dragon Pearl, the Great Jin Dynasty, the Fuyu Dynasty, and the Xiongnu Nation all feel a sense of crisis.

The Central Continent Dynasty has already achieved unification; aside from some unresolved internal affairs, everything else is completely settled.

Now the National Fortune Dragon Pearl has reappeared; can the great dynasties of the Eastern Wilderness stay calm?

Naturally, instead of continuing to scheme against each other, it's better to join forces and develop together; if internal strife continues, everyone will be doomed.

Hearing Gu Jin Nian say that, Yang Kai breathed a sigh of relief; he had been worried Gu Jin Nian might refuse.

"Since that's the case, I will report directly to His Majesty."

Yang Kai nodded, a smile appearing on his face.

"Very well."

"However, the mutual market among nations cannot be rushed; it must be negotiated slowly to ensure no one is at a loss."

"The Great Jin Dynasty raised this issue proactively, likely keeping a fallback; if I'm not mistaken, they intend to use Dragon Rice as the standard, replacing silver of all nations, right?"

Gu Jin Nian strongly supports the mutual market, though he isn't especially knowledgeable about international trade, he understands the basics.

The biggest issue in international trade is the 'unified currency'—what to use to gauge currency value is the core point.

If silver is used, the Da Xia Dynasty would definitely suffer; its silver reserves are low, internal use is modest, but using silver as the 'unified currency' would cause massive losses.

The Great Jin Dynasty's advantage is also limited, so since it raised the proposal, it will certainly choose a suitable substitute.

Great Jin Dragon Rice is the best choice.

Hearing Gu Jin Nian's words, Yang Kai's eyes showed surprise as he looked at Gu Jin Nian and said,

"Lord Marquis, you truly are prophetic; the Great Jin Dynasty indeed intends to use Great Jin Dragon Rice as the standard. Scouts reported that the Great Jin Dynasty plans to mint Great Jin Treasure Notes, which can be exchanged for Great Jin Dragon Rice at equal value."

Yang Kai spoke up, immensely surprised by Gu Jin Nian's foresight.

"That's impossible, at least not now."

"But don't reject outright yet; negotiate slowly. This cannot be settled in a day—let's revisit it after two months."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his tone resolute.

Great Jin Treasure Notes aren't forbidden, but the unified currency must not be Great Jin Dragon Rice; if it were, the Great Jin Dynasty's hegemonic position in the Eastern Wilderness would be cemented.

Economic harvesting: when short of money, print Treasure Notes—the cost is just a sheet of paper, yet every kingdom in the Eastern Wilderness must foot the bill; Gu Jin Nian isn't foolish.

Nevertheless, this mutual market is of great significance; it can't be outright rejected, but can be negotiated slowly until a mutually satisfactory arrangement is reached.

"Understood."

"Then, Lord Marquis, take care; I'll return to think further."

Yang Kai also grasped the gist, nodded, bowed to Gu Jin Nian, and then left.

After Yang Kai departed, Gu Jin Nian continued toward the academy.

"If we open a great‑nation mutual market."

"The Da Xia Nightless City project must be brought up, and not just within the capital; we need to accelerate, at least lay out the groundwork in advance."

"Otherwise, missing this chance—aside from losing potential silver—once the other nations notice, they will inevitably react, and that will be the biggest trouble."

"Fortunately, the Great Jin Dynasty is greedy enough to want Dragon Rice as the unified currency; the Fuyu Dynasty and the Xiongnu Nation should be forced to agree."

"As long as the Da Xia Dynasty refuses, the Fuyu Dynasty and the Xiongnu Nation can use that as an excuse to stall, giving the other minor states a breather."

"The Da Xia Nightless City must be completed before the Eastern Wilderness mutual market is fully opened, and it must showcase its money‑drawing power; otherwise future negotiations will be difficult."

"That's a bit tricky."

Gu Jin Nian knows that after the National Fortune Dragon Pearl appears, it will inevitably affect the Eastern Wilderness, but he didn't expect the impact to be this great.

It will also affect the mutual markets of the various nations.

According to Gu Jin Nian's original plan, he would build the Da Xia Nightless City himself; barring mishaps, it would instantly become famous throughout the Da Xia Dynasty.

Then rally a second wave of capital, open branches everywhere; after a year or a year and a half, the first spark will have been lit.

With the emergence of the Da Xia Dragon Boat and the Da Xia Treasure Ship, economic trade will inevitably flourish.

During this period, the True Dragon Treasure Rice I have developed, together with the Ministry of Works' invented agricultural tools, can enable the Da Xia Dynasty to undergo a massive transformation within two or three years.

Semi‑industrial planting capacity is absolutely revolutionary.

Rice yields can easily increase tenfold.

As long as the people have grain, they have money; with money, economic trade can develop.

In ancient times, aside from lacking roads and court oppression, the biggest factor was that common folk had no money.

Why are jewelry and silk only affordable to the rich? Because most commoners can't even afford a meal, let alone buy jewelry or silk.

And why are salt, tea, oil, and rice strictly regulated? Because they are the most profitable and most essential items; even those living in deep mountains need them.

"Indeed, we shouldn't agree to the Buddhist Debate."

Gu Jin Nian feels a bit regretful; he indeed regrets that attending the Buddhist Debate would certainly waste time.

He doesn't even want to go to the Jixia Academy.

A little less than half an hour later.

After repeated hesitation, Gu Jin Nian has decided not to attend the Jixia Academy nor the Buddhist Debate.

He knows the Buddhist faction will certainly launch a round of criticism, but for the greater picture, the Buddhist faction will eventually be destroyed.

For now, he remains in the Da Xia Dynasty.

First, always be prepared for a Da Xia disaster.

Second, speed up Da Xia's city that never sleeps.

Third, think carefully of a method to deal with the upcoming changes.

From now on we truly cannot act recklessly; the National Destiny Dragon Pearl has already emerged.

The struggle among great nations must inevitably begin.

Fortunately, this struggle is not a military one; if it were, the Da Xia Dynasty truly could not say it could afford it.

As for public opinion, at this point in time Gu Jin Nian has roughly understood what it means.

In a nutshell, it is to let the people eat their fill, keep warm, have money in their pockets, and feel happy and joyful.

No need to wear gold and silver; as long as life is comfortable, without excessive pressure.

Work diligently in the daytime, and in the evening find a place to drink, cool off, eat a bit; work when work is needed, rest when rest is needed.

Living is not bitter.

That is enough.

But Gu Jin Nian also understands that although it sounds like nothing much, the process will certainly be difficult and exhausting.

The enemies encountered along the way from now on will become more cunning and more hateful.

No comment on the others.

The aristocracy.

Noble families.

These two great mountains stand here.

And scholars.

Yes, scholars.

All major dynasties, to elevate scholars' status, have spent huge sums; as long as one holds the rank of xiucai, one is exempt from labor service and grain tax.

Gu Jin Nian has nothing to say about exempting labor, but exemption from grain tax is not a good thing.

Of course this also relates to many aspects; after all, scholars study in hardship for ten years—without privileges, who would want to study? Anyway, there are many matters; take it step by step.

Put the people first.

Value the people.

Prioritize the people.

From now on, anyone who dares to leech off the common folk is Gu Jin Nian's enemy.

No matter who it is.

Thus.

While Gu Jin Nian was pondering, he arrived at the Da Xia Academy.

But before Gu Jin Nian could go to the dean's study to find Su Wenjing, he saw Su Wenjing waiting not far away.

"Student has seen the teacher."

Seeing Su Wenjing, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but bow.

"Jin Nian."

"In another half month, the Jixia Academy will begin; spend this period at the academy, and I happen to want to discuss some matters with you."

"Regarding the matter of the school of thought."

Su Wenjing spoke; he has been waiting here for Gu Jin Nian.

"Sir, the student may not go to the Jixia Academy anymore."

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian also slowly spoke.

"Why?"

For a moment, Su Wenjing couldn't help but frown slightly.

Gu Jin Nian, in a calm tone, conveyed his thoughts to Su Wenjing, including the matter of the National Destiny Dragon Pearl, which involves public opinion.

"These days are a tumultuous autumn; the student cannot find the time. Moreover, the Jixia Academy discusses academic disputes, which the student has never been involved in and has little insight, so may not gain anything."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; he knows the Jixia Academy has a Heaven's Mandate seal, but to be honest, he truly has little insight into 'academics'.

Although there is an academic concept in his mind, the problem is he does not yet understand it enough; even if he truly goes to the Jixia Academy, what can be said about the New Learning?

When others ask him, how can he reply?

In fact, it is not very meaningful.

It would be better to devote time to this; moreover, it's not certain that anyone can take the Heaven's Mandate seal at this Jixia Academy.

Having heard Gu Jin Nian's words.

Su Wenjing nodded.

"I understand," the elder said.

"Your idea is good, considering the people; this pleases the elder greatly."

"However, the Jixia Academy must still be attended."

"How much time do you need?"

"I will find a way to postpone the Jixia Academy's date."

Su Wenjing highly approves of Gu Jin Nian, yet still asks him to attend.

"Um, at least three months, I suppose."

"Sir, will the Jixia Academy give you any concession?"

If it can grant me three months, that would be fine; half a month is rather rushed.

"No, but I have many friends; I will write a letter asking them not to attend, and the academy's people will back off and change the date."

Su Wenjing nodded, looking very confident.

"Understood."

"But, sir, what if some people insist on going?"

Gu Jin Nian nodded; the Half Saint's reputation was still great, but he still couldn't help speaking up with another question.

Upon hearing this, Su Wenjing became even calmer.

"Do you still remember that Thunderclap Hand?"

Su Wenjing asked.

"Remembered, Mr. Lu Yuan."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; he had a strong impression of this Thunderclap Hand Great Scholar.

"Hmm."

"You've been hit by me."

Su Wenjing spoke lightly.

With that single sentence, Gu Jin Nian fully understood.

(End of chapter)