Chapter 178: Kill the Treacherous Minister

Half an hour passed, back and forth.

The disputes in the court were still considerable.

And when Emperor Yongsheng and Gu Jin Nian returned, the court fell silent instantly.

Everyone was also curious about what Gu Jin Nian and Emperor Yongsheng had discussed.

And they were very curious how this matter should be dealt with—from the Dragon Throne.

Emperor Yongsheng spoke.

"Transmit my decree."

As Emperor Yongsheng opened his mouth, everyone turned to the emperor on the Dragon Throne, awaiting the imperial edict.

"This Da Xia calamity is a trial from Heaven; all Da Xia people, whether aristocratic officials or common merchants, must unite in resisting the disaster."

"I appoint Gu Jin Nian as the Grand Da Xia Disaster Commander, granting him all authority over Da Xia, the power to dismiss officials and decide life and death; to see Gu Jin Nian is to see me in person. I establish a Relief Office headed by the Minister of Rites and the Minister of Revenue, responsible for internal logistics, to fully cooperate with Gu Jin Nian."

"I establish a Disaster‑Resistance Office led by the Princess of the State, tasked with mobilizing troops from Da Xia's garrisons, to fully cooperate with Gu Jin Nian."

"Gu Jin Nian's orders require no approval, all are urgent; wherever his decree reaches, it may not be obstructed—those who defy shall be beheaded on the spot."

"The Six Ministers, the seven major garrisons, the Crown Prince and his entourage, the entire nation—must cooperate fully."

"Regardless of the outcome, I will not regret; but anyone with ulterior motives will be beheaded on the spot, and if the disaster stabilizes, I will settle accounts later—no leniency."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, announcing the edict that made Gu Jin Nian the chief commander of this relief effort, granting him supreme authority—essentially informing everyone that the heavy responsibility was entrusted to Gu Jin Nian.

When those words were spoken, the entire court of civil and military officials could not help but change their expressions.

Frankly, regarding Emperor Yongsheng's measure, the people did not find it excessive; they had already guessed that he would make Gu Jin Nian the chief commander.

But what everyone cared about was not that, but how Jiangzhong County should be dealt with.

That was the matter that truly concerned them.

Now, unexpectedly, Emperor Yongsheng directly granted Gu Jin Nian such terrifying authority—the power over life and death, the power to dismiss officials, the Six Ministries' full cooperation, and all garrisons under Gu Jin Nian's command.

Such authority cannot be called terrifying.

But the main issue remains how Jiangzhong County should be handled.

"Your Majesty."

"May I ask how the matter of Jiangzhong County should be handled?"

An official spoke up, questioning Emperor Yongsheng.

However, as soon as the words were spoken, Emperor Yongsheng's gaze turned slightly hostile.

"Did you not hear what I just said?"

"All authority rests with Gu Jin Nian."

Emperor Yongsheng responded.

Those words left the entire court of civil and military officials utterly shocked.

Although they did not know what Gu Jin Nian had done to earn Emperor Yongsheng's direct approval, the meaning of his words was that the emperor still chose Gu Jin Nian.

And did not choose Li Shan.

In an instant, several voices rose.

"Your Majesty."

"I trust Your Majesty's decision and the Lord's capability, but the matter of Jiangzhong County is too great; I hope Your Majesty can explain it to us."

"Otherwise our hearts cannot be at ease; this concerns the survival of the Da Xia Dynasty, and we ask Your Majesty to forgive our transgression."

Someone spoke up, an official from the Ministry of Personnel.

Soon, figures stepped forward, each hoping Emperor Yongsheng would clarify how to stabilize Jiangzhong County.

Their worries were unfounded.

And also reasonable.

"In this matter, I, the Lord, could issue a military decree; if I fail to pacify Jiangzhong County, I alone will bear all consequences. As for how to stabilize it, that concerns the very foundation of Da Xia, so I will not elaborate further."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, appearing supremely confident while also expressing his stance.

But when those words were spoken—

they did not receive the support of the ministers.

"Lord, the senior minister believes you, but this matter—spoken a thousand times, a million times—concerns the very foundation of Da Xia; we ask you to forgive our transgression."

Someone spoke; these words were somewhat acceptable, though they carried a hint of distrust.

But the rest of the words were not so pleasant.

"Lord, it is not that I do not trust you; please forgive me, Lord. What I am about to say may be harsh."

"On a small scale, Lord, you are guarding against the entire court; in your mind, among the officials there are foreign conspirators or those with ulterior motives, and I fully understand that."

"On a larger scale, you claim one person will bear it; if Jiangzhong County's disaster erupts, it would bring a massive trouble—how will you bear it? Must you commit suicide to atone?"

"If you truly commit suicide to atone, what then? Even your life cannot compare to the Da Xia Dynasty."

Indeed, when those words were spoken, many turned pale, for the criticism was too sharp—this is the reason, but such words should not be spoken.

It was clear that this person was acting on orders, which gave him the audacity to speak thus.

"Audacious."

On the Dragon Throne, Emperor Yongsheng pounded the seat, his fiery anger unmistakable.

In the nation's peril, Gu Jin Nian stepped forward; this alone made him far superior to the entire court.

The Jiangzhong County issue was indeed tricky; he understood that, yet regardless, Gu Jin Nian is the Heaven's Mandate Marquis of Da Xia, and he had just granted Gu Jin Nian supreme authority.

Moreover, after negotiating with Gu Jin Nian for so long, his willingness to agree proves the plan feasible; what right do these people have to speak further? To utter such words now is truly hateful.

"Please, Your Majesty, forgive me."

"I only speak on behalf of the Da Xia Dynasty; I know my words are impertinent, and I also know they are extremely harsh."

"But the Da Xia Dynasty today faces an unprecedented disaster, just as His Highness Prince Qin said; if I can use my life to quell this disaster, I am willing to die at once."

"Lord Hou is brave, and the whole world knows that; I also acknowledge it, but Lord Hou, having a good plan, keeps it hidden, essentially only to guard against the entire court."

"Your Majesty."

"Lord Hou."

"If the Da Xia must conceal everything from the entire court, then why should we? We might as well stay in the court, wave flags and shout, merely supporting Lord Hou—should Lord Hou decide this disaster on his own?"

The other party spoke, still appearing upright and uncompromising.

Moreover, every word he uttered was like pearls, each sentence logical.

The reasoning truly is that reasoning; it concerns the very foundation of Da Xia, and Gu Jin Nian kept it hidden, which is indeed a fault.

Precautions are permissible, but when the entire court is on guard, honestly everyone feels uneasy; his simple sentence truly made many ministers displeased.

Earlier they already harbored some grievances against Gu Jin Nian, believing the emperor was overly spoiling Gu Jin Nian.

Now, with such a huge matter, to not tell them at all naturally incites anger in their hearts.

"I agree."

"I endorse Lord Xu's words."

"Lord Xu's words are precisely what we intend."

In an instant, twenty to thirty people stepped forward, even some generals, and they also stepped forward, endorsing Lord Xu's statement.

"Though the words are harsh, honest counsel is hard to hear; Your Majesty, we also endorse Lord Xu's words."

At this moment, even some Confucian ministers could not help but step forward.

Because the reasoning is exactly that reasoning.

On the dragon throne, Emperor Yong Sheng's gaze was neither cold nor angry, but calm.

At this critical moment, he suddenly realized that something was amiss; the attitude of the entire court clearly had problems.

He had not sensed it before because everyone was discussing matters, and each side claimed to have reason; it all sounded quite logical and fine.

But after Gu Jin Nian stepped forward, stabilizing the situation and drafting a solution, logically everyone could just act, right? To put it bluntly, even if Gu Jin Nian's plan ultimately fails, so what?

It's certainly better than waiting to die, right? Clearly, someone has emerged, daring to cause trouble at this critical juncture, implying even larger hidden matters.

"Jin Nian."

"I have already granted you all authority; how to handle it, how to resolve it, is up to you."

Learning that the situation was off, Emperor Yong Sheng, in a calm tone, directly let Gu Jin Nian handle it himself.

Upon hearing this, the entire court was somewhat puzzled, not fully understanding what Emperor Yong Sheng meant.

But Gu Jin Nian understood the situation.

In an instant, Gu Jin Nian fixed his gaze on the other side, his expression calm, and said.

"Lord Xu, are your words not false?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

The latter replied with righteous vigor.

"Naturally not false."

He spoke, fierce beyond measure.

"Very well."

"Bring them."

In the next moment, Gu Jin Nian roared loudly.

Immediately, four Imperial Guard soldiers entered the great hall, their expressions solemn.

"Lord Xu said, if one can resolve the disaster, the lord would rather die."

"Then today, I, this Lord, will make use of the lord's severed head."

"Bring them, remove his black silk hat, push it outside the hall, behead him for the public, then inform the people that this man harbored treason, intending to interfere with the disaster relief."

"Then have the Suspended Lantern Office thoroughly investigate this man; if any issue is found, pursue it to the end."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; he had indeed seen that someone was causing trouble, delaying time.

It wasn't just one person; it's just that this Lord Xu leapt most fiercely and joyfully.

The most detestable people in the world are those who exploit great righteousness to satisfy their own selfish desires.

Every sentence he said was logical, without flaw; one cannot find any fault.

In ordinary times, even if the words were ten times harsher, Gu Jin Nian wouldn't mind; political disagreements are reasonable.

But now, with great right and wrong at stake, a one‑second delay could mean countless deaths.

Then Gu Jin Nian would not tolerate it.

"Obey the order."

Immediately, the Imperial Guard stepped forward, directly detaining Lord Xu and removing his black silk hat.

But the latter did not panic; instead, he roared.

"Gu Jin Nian, you are too overbearing; I only voiced my opinion. Such a great matter cannot be decided by you alone, can it?"

"Your Majesty, please awaken; this matter concerns the very foundation of Da Xia, its roots. If only Gu Jin Nian handles it and any problem arises, it would be a cataclysm, and the Da Xia Dynasty would be doomed."

His voice rang out, he was extremely agitated, neither fearful nor panicked, only angry and excited.

However, on the dragon throne, Emperor Yong Sheng simply ignored the man.

He didn't even cast a proper glance.

Such a person deserves death even more.

"Your Majesty."

"Lord Xu is merely concerned and urgent; though his words are somewhat harsh, in the end he is still protecting the Da Xia Dynasty."

Someone spoke up, stepping forward to help with kind words.

But atop the Dragon Throne, Emperor Yongsheng's voice was utterly indifferent.

"Come, men."

"Take his black silk hat as well, and behead him for the public."

"I shall see who dares to exonerate them."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke; he said little, yet his attitude was the strongest endorsement.

"Your Majesty, I know my mistake, Your Majesty, I know my mistake."

The official who had spoken up was instantly dumbfounded; he never expected that a single helpful sentence would land him such a fate.

As Emperor Yongsheng finished speaking, no courtier dared to speak further.

Even Prime Minister Li Shan remained silent at that moment.

The emperor himself acted thus; what more could they dare say? Now anyone who dares to oppose Gu Jin Nian will surely meet misfortune, and even the Prime Minister's arrival is useless.

"Traitorous minister!"

"Gu Jin Nian, you are a traitor of Da Xia!"

"Foolish ruler, foolish ruler, Yongsheng, you foolish ruler, honest counsel falls on deaf ears, you favor traitorous ministers, royal in‑laws disrupt our court, ruin Da Xia; though I die today, I will still denounce both of you."

"Especially you, Gu Jin Nian, though talented, you do not walk the righteous path; you act cruelly, recklessly, create many enemies for our Da Xia Dynasty, support eunuchs, suppress officials—you are truly Da Xia's number one traitor."

"Today, with my Confucian vigor I will end my own life, to show the world's scholars that the Red Gate faction will avenge my injustice."

Dragged out of the main hall, Xu Jing roared repeatedly at that moment; seeing no way out, he cursed Gu Jin Nian and Emperor Yongsheng.

Having spoken, Xu Jing cut off his own heart meridian, and with lofty righteous qi, he killed himself outside.

Such a method cannot be prevented.

Xu Jing's words spread into the hall, causing everyone to fall silent.

Gu Jin Nian's expression remained calm; he gave no reaction to the insults.

Only on the Dragon Throne.

Emperor Yongsheng's voice rang out.

"Come, men, investigate Xu Jing thoroughly; if no irregularities are found, his three families shall be exiled to the frontier; if any irregularities are discovered, Xu Jing's three families shall be wiped out; should there be collusion with an enemy nation, the nine families shall be eradicated."

Emperor Yongsheng's voice sounded again.

He spoke very calmly, yet those words silenced the entire court's civil and military officials even further.

Exile to the frontier, wipe out three families, execute nine families.

These are almost the greatest powers of a ruler, and also the most tragic fate for a person.

Generally, few people in a dynasty are implicated to the nine families; even corruption and bribery would not merit such punishment—seizing a household and exile to the frontier are already severe crimes.

Yet whatever Xu Jing did was wrong; even on his deathbed, he still sought to ensnare the nine families.

He thought himself righteous, yet he did not know that such a person is the most foolish and hateful.

Entering the court is not a single person.

But a group behind them.

Upon hearing Emperor Yongsheng's decree, Gu Jin Nian felt a slight stir within, but that ripple eventually settled.

Soon after, the one who spoke for Xu Jing was also beheaded for the public.

Inside the hall, there was absolutely no sound.

Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures.

Gu Jin Nian knew that executing Xu Jing would inevitably spark controversy; if Jiangzhong County were not settled, there would likely be some slanders.

But those were not the matters Gu Jin Nian needed to address now; alleviating the disaster was the proper way.

"All officials, hear the command."

After the deterrent measures concluded, Gu Jin Nian did not waste any more time.

"Lord Hou, please give your orders."

In the next moment, all officials clasped their hands and bowed toward Gu Jin Nian.

"The Da Xia disaster, set the Six Nations strategy."

"The Ministry of War shall immediately mobilize troops to stabilize the realm; the Da Xia Dynasty enters the war phase, a nationwide curfew is imposed, and anyone not transporting essential supplies such as grain, firewood, oil, or salt may not leave the city."

"All dukes and marquises, lead troops to guard the borders; the four major frontiers must be strictly defended, constantly monitor the Xiongnu Nation's movements; if any irregularities are found, issue a strong warning, and should the Xiongnu Nation act obstinately, the defending duke shall decide to engage in battle."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; this was the first order.

If Da Xia fell into civil war, Prince Ning would be a crisis, and the Xiongnu Nation would also be a huge hidden threat; three hundred thousand Xiongnu troops died a wrongful death, and the Xiongnu Nation would certainly not forget.

The Fuyu Dynasty should not dare to offend, as it has not yet the capital to declare war on Da Xia.

As for the Great Jin Dynasty, with the Zhongzhou Dynasty present, the Great Jin Dynasty indeed needs to weigh matters; after all, if Da Xia truly descends into civil war, even a three‑way alliance of the Great Jin Dynasty, Fuyu Dynasty, and Xiongnu Nation would be considered.

Yet they might still not be able to crush the Da Xia Dynasty; at worst they would refuse aid and drag things out, and aiming to occupy the entire Da Xia Dynasty is undoubtedly a pipe dream.

Moreover, in such a great disaster, the people are united; even if one says something harsh, at worst they all die together like fish caught in a net.

The Great Jin Dynasty naturally does not wish to be hampered; if they dare to go to war they must be ready for a fish‑in‑the‑net scenario—killing a thousand enemies while losing eight hundred themselves—while the Zhongzhou Dynasty enjoys the fisherman's profit.

Thus the greatest hidden threat is the Xiongnu Nation; it may not be at the behest of the Fuyu or Great Jin Dynasties, and could very well invade on its own.

When the twelve border towns were first established, it was the Xiongnu Nation that acted unilaterally; after the Great Jin and Fuyu Dynasties discovered this, they chose silence.

After the Xiongnu Nation seized the twelve towns, it began to play the good guy, emerging to advocate peace.

What happened once will surely happen again.

"Respectfully obey Lord Hou's command."

The Minister of War spoke, accepting the order.

"The Ministry of Punishments shall strictly control all illegal activities within Da Xia, manage public opinion, post notices; those who spread false rumors about the disaster shall be arrested and imprisoned; those who incite panic shall be deemed a serious crime, investigated to the end, and if any irregularities are found, beheaded for the public."

Gu Jin Nian issued the second disaster‑relief policy. In these extraordinary times, controlling speech is inevitable—not that people are forbidden to speak, but out of fear that malicious individuals will spread rumors and cause trouble.

Spreading rumors is as easy as opening one's mouth, while debunking them can break one's legs; moreover, in ancient times the common people could only obtain information through official documents, like court bulletins. Such documents exist, but Da Xia's illiteracy rate reaches sixty percent.

Even though Da Xia venerates Confucianism and Daoism, the Xiongnu state's illiteracy rate is as high as ninety percent, the Great Jin Dynasty's is about seventy‑five percent, and the Fuyu Dynasty is a bit better at roughly fifty percent, since the Fuyu Dynasty has a smaller population.

"Respectfully obey the Marquis's command."

The Minister of Justice also received the order.

"Issue the Ministry of Personnel to strictly punish officials' laziness, establish twelve inspectors to rush to disaster sites, conduct covert investigations, gather officials' conduct; if any official is found negligent or idle, skin them, fill with straw, cut them to pieces, and dismember them among five horses."

"Then the Ministry of Personnel shall disseminate: any official who can stabilize the disaster shall have all achievements recorded as a scroll; as long as they save the people and resolve the disaster, they may enter the capital to receive rewards; meritorious officials will be ennobled and promoted, regardless of rank, and even officials from non‑disaster regions may launch fundraising for relief, which will also be rewarded."

This is the third national policy.

He must raise officials' initiative; within the court there is no fear—since the Crown Prince and others are involved, these officials will inevitably become diligent in the power struggle.

Yet officials in various regions differ; the emperor is distant, and in disaster zones, merely not harming the victims is already commendable—how many can wholeheartedly rescue the area? Therefore, Gu Jin Nian employed the most direct and simple method: great rewards will surely inspire brave men.

One can speak lofty principles—that officials should serve the people and not care for rewards—but those are merely ideals; people inevitably have desires, and desires must be satisfied.

Still the same maxim: prioritize solving the disaster; other matters can be discussed later.

This is also one of the core tenets of the School of the Heart.

Unity of knowledge and action—once you know what to do, act around the core without worrying about side effects; solve problems, achieve merit and virtue, and set other matters aside.

Simply put, act decisively; a true man should not be constrained by trivialities.

"Understood."

The Minister of Personnel hesitated briefly, yet still accepted the order; his pause stemmed less from other issues than from concern that the promises Gu Jin Nian is making now may later be beyond the court's capacity to fulfill.

However, he also understood that without boosting officials' initiative, Da Xia would perish; future matters can be dealt with later—once stability is restored, a delay of ten or twenty years is tolerable.

"Order the Ministry of Works to construct dragon‑boat treasure vessels, recruit craftsmen, spare no expense, mobilize all of Da Xia's stored spirit crystals, and send them to the disaster zone."

This is the fourth national policy, but Gu Jin Nian stated it simply and casually. After hearing it, no one objected; the Ministry of Works' construction of dragon‑boat treasure vessels was not the focus—the focus was the use of all Da Xia spirit crystals, which seemed inappropriate, yet recalling Xu Jing's fate, no one dared to raise it.

In fact, the Minister of Works, Wang Qixin, and the Great Emperor Yong Sheng understood Gu Jin Nian's intention.

By seizing this opportunity to build dragon‑boat treasure vessels, they would no longer worry about other nations' suspicion.

Previously, the Ministry of Works had produced few treasure dragon‑boats; it was not a technical or craftsmanship issue, nor was cost the main obstacle—the greatest hindrance was suspicion from other countries.

After all, why would you suddenly produce so many treasure dragon‑boats? Others would send spies to investigate.

Such matters cannot stay hidden forever; they will eventually be discovered and cause new trouble.

But now it is different; using this disaster, they can frantically build treasure dragon‑boats, and to other nations the Da Xia Dynasty appears desperate, consuming all stored spirit crystals.

Moreover, it seems reasonable—if the nation is on the brink of collapse, why hoard spirit crystals? During the disaster they can also announce that Da Xia has unexpectedly discovered several spirit‑crystal mines; while the world watches the disaster, no one will notice the extra mines, and under normal circumstances such news would cause a stir, but now it will not attract attention.

In this way, the treasure dragon‑boats can be deployed without arousing suspicion; no one knows how many spirit crystals Da Xia has stored, but a great nation certainly holds a substantial amount.

About half a year should suffice.

Adding the discovery of several spirit‑crystal mines, a year is not excessive, right? Once the disaster ends, the court will issue an edict stating that, to swiftly revive trade and the economy, the dragon‑boat treasure vessels will be employed. Other nations will instinctively think Da Xia is throwing away its last resort, abandoning the vessels as strategic assets.

It is essentially removing the firewood from under the pot.

After a year, when it is observed that Da Xia's treasure dragon‑boats are still operating, they will publicly claim that Da Xia has discovered even more spirit‑crystal mines.

Isn't this national‑fortune dragon pearl just the perfect excuse for Da Xia? After the disaster is over, receiving heaven's reward seems reasonable, right?

As long as they endure two years, other nations will finally sense something amiss and rush to investigate; the investigation will likely take another half a year to a year.

Once problems are discovered and confirmed, they will come to discuss—whether sanctions or sharing—does the negotiation need time? Yet another year passes.

In three years, leveraging Da Xia's dragon‑boats and treasure vessels, the economy will surpass the Great Jin Dynasty by several folds.

It may even reach the level of the Central Continent Dynasty.

At that point, even if the Central Continent Dynasty seeks trouble, can Da Xia simply sell second‑rate treasure dragon‑boats to other nations? If you refuse, then I will sell them to the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty—they are all brothers of the Eastern Wilderness—sell to them, and together resist the Central Continent Dynasty, okay?

Your Central Continent Dynasty is dissatisfied? Want to declare war? The three great Eastern Wilderness dynasties unite, you may not win.

Gu Jin Nian's seemingly insignificant choice hides unparalleled political maneuvering; this time the Great Emperor Yong Sheng truly believes his nephew is extraordinary.

Being proficient in both civil and military affairs is one thing, but his political tactics are so formidable—damn, truly worthy of the Li family bloodline, fierce.

"Order the Ministry of Works to purchase large quantities of spirit crystals abroad, offering heavy money, sparing no expense, to ensure that after the disaster ends and trade recovers, the procurement approvals will be handled by me."

The Great Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, inserting a remark.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but mutter silently, "What clever tactics, uncle."

Purchasing spirit crystals abroad further stabilizes the later operation of Da Xia's dragon‑boat treasure vessels, ensuring others won't suspect.

Moreover, even though they speak of heavy purchases, whether to buy or not is still just a matter of a single word from the Great Emperor Yong Sheng.

Buying a small amount initially is merely a façade, making other nations truly think Da Xia has gone rogue, while they cannot ascertain how many spirit crystals Da Xia actually bought.

This tactic is indeed clever.

"I accept the decree."

Minister of Works Wang Qixin is very straightforward; his speech does not seem odd.

And Gu Jin Nian's voice continued to resonate.

"Order the Ministry of Revenue to pool funds for relief, budget the necessary grain and provisions, calculate costs, first draw from the treasury; if insufficient, borrow silver from major merchants at low interest, and pre‑collect half a year's grain tax to ensure treasury stability."

This is the fifth policy; the treasury still has silver coins, but they certainly aren't enough for relief.

Even just purchasing food cannot be sustained.

Moreover, various regions require silver expenditures, especially the Ministry of Works' construction of dragon‑boat treasure vessels, which is a terrifying expense.

Hence Gu Jin Nian's plan is to borrow silver from merchants, offer low interest, pre‑collect half a year's grain tax, and solicit various donations; otherwise, all this talk is useless—without silver, no one feels secure.

"Respectfully obey the Marquis's command."

He Yan replied, yet in his heart thought Gu Jin Nian was being somewhat idealistic.

All of this is a drop in the bucket; Jiangzhong County hasn't settled, and trying to borrow a large amount of silver from merchants is almost impossible.

This is the fifth national policy.

"Draft the Ministry of Rites' decree, proclaim it to the world, uplift the people's morale, and raise the nation's prestige."

"Report the disaster conditions from each region every seven days, make them public, including the number of dead, the number of injured, and the rescue situation, and convey each report throughout Da Xia, exchanging the people's will with sincerity."

This is the final national policy.

The disaster information must be made public without any hint of falsification; it is exactly as it is.

Although this approach may be exploited by some schemers and may cause panic among the people, only by doing so can the populace truly see Da Xia exerting its utmost effort to combat the disaster.

Some matters, the more they are concealed, the more they backfire; presenting them openly also tells the major powers the resolve of the Da Xia Dynasty.

Anyone who dares to act recklessly will undoubtedly die.

"I respectfully obey the Marquis's command."

Yang Kai spoke up and immediately agreed.

The five national policies have been finalized.

Gu Jin Nian looked toward the Crown Prince and the others.

"Crown Prince, princes, if there is nothing of great importance, when the hour of Mao arrives, please swiftly lead your troops to the disaster zone; any situation may be handled by you, but if a serious matter of great magnitude arises, submit a military report, and I, the Marquis, will decide."

Gu Jin Nian watched the Crown Prince and the others, urging them to depart early.

If they go early, they can begin handling matters early.

"I respectfully obey the Marquis's command."

At that moment, the Crown Prince spoke, bowed toward Gu Jin Nian, and then turned his gaze to Emperor Yongsheng.

"Father Emperor."

"Your son will now take leave to prepare the luggage."

The Crown Prince spoke, displaying great generosity, without any hesitation.

"Very well."

"Listen to me, do not embarrass me."

Emperor Yongsheng inhaled deeply; his own son rushing to the disaster zone could not possibly face no danger at all.

As a father, how could he not feel any pain for his offspring?

Yet in the nation's peril, he must act thus.

"Your son takes leave."

The Crown Prince departed, followed by King Qin, King Wei, King Jin and others, each speaking in turn and leaving the Great Hall with unwavering resolve.

They said no further words and left in that manner.

Meanwhile, within the Great Hall

Emperor Yongsheng's voice sounded again.

"Da Xia disaster relief, commence immediately."

"Except for Jin Nian, all beloved ministers may retire from court."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, and after finishing, the ministers shouted "Long live, long live, ten thousand years!"

Then each began to proceed with their duties in order.

Soon, within the Great Hall, only Emperor Yongsheng and Gu Jin Nian remained.

"Jin Nian, when do you intend to set out?"

After the Great Hall was left with only Gu Jin Nian, Emperor Yongsheng asked directly.

"Let the Ministry of Revenue first transport the grain; the nephew plans to depart in five days."

"The matter of the Dragon Boat Treasure Ship must be dealt with first."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; he actually wished to head to Jiangzhong County immediately, but the Dragon Boat Treasure Ship was more important.

An indispensable element for disaster relief.

He must first engrave the ancient formation before departing.

"You will have to endure hardship during this period."

Emperor Yongsheng stepped down from the Dragon Throne and patted Gu Jin Nian's shoulder.

"Officials should put the people first."

Gu Jin Nian replied calmly, not feeling any hardship.

"Alas, if all Da Xia officials were like you, how wonderful that would be."

Emperor Yongsheng opened his mouth and said that sentence.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian instantly understood.

"Uncle, some people on today's court are truly problematic."

"Please excuse my nephew's frankness; Li Shan's problem is severe."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, voicing his concerns.

"I have long known that Li Shan has issues."

"He is a minister of virtue, and I have always known this."

"Jin Nian, remember, such people are not frightening; the enemies that surface are never frightening; the frightening ones are the enemies hidden beneath the water. This Da Xia disaster also allows me to catch them all in one net."

"Once the disaster is settled, if Prince Ning dares to rebel, I will personally campaign against Prince Ning, execute him, then reorganize the court; after completing my duties, I can peacefully meet the Great Ancestor."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke; he had long known that Li Shan was problematic, but as the esteemed Prime Minister of Da Xia, moving against him would have far‑reaching implications; moreover, knowing Li Shan's issues is not frightening.

He simply wanted to see whether those people were aligned with Li Shan.

For an emperor, killing one prime minister versus exterminating a whole batch of officials, the latter is naturally preferable.

One effort, everlasting ease.

"Since uncle understands, I, the nephew, will say no more."

Gu Jin Nian nodded. Li Shan, that fellow, had already shown his hand in the peace talks before; now, amid Da Xia's disaster, Li Shan still dares to make such a leap.

Clearly Li Shan has laid his cards on the table; the internal power struggle of Da Xia will now begin.

This is a good thing.

Go and assess the disaster yourself.

The interior will be controlled by Emperor Yongsheng, a ruler and a minister, stabilizing both inside and out; once the disaster is set and the internal turmoil fixed, the Da Xia Dynasty will sweep away all obstacles with this opportunity.

Soon, Gu Jin Nian walked out of the Great Hall.

"Jin Nian."

At that moment, Emperor Yongsheng spoke, looking at Gu Jin Nian.

Gu Jin Nian turned his head.

And Emperor Yongsheng's gaze carried gentleness.

"Your journey has been arduous."

Emperor Yongsheng said this.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian gave no reply, but bowed once to Emperor Yongsheng and then left.

Inside the Imperial Palace.

Gu Jin Nian's figure appeared solitary, and at that moment the Golden Sun rose slowly.

Stretching Gu Jin Nian's silhouette.

Outside the Imperial Palace, the officials were urgently handling state affairs.

This Da Xia disaster.

Is not solvable by one person; it requires all of the Da Xia Dynasty to resist the disaster.

Gu Jin Nian went to the Ministry of Works, took some items, and left.

Then he arrived at the back mountain of Da Xia Academy and began carving a formation.

At this moment.

Inside the Prime Minister's Residence.

Li Shan sat alone in the courtyard, brewed a pot of tea for himself, his gaze calm.

In this Da Xia disaster relief, as the current prime minister he had nothing to do, thus he realized he had been exposed.

But Li Shan showed no panic, because he had long known Emperor Yongsheng doubted him.

He understood why Emperor Yongsheng appointed him prime minister.

The exposed enemy has one advantage: it can serve as bait, and the ruler and minister have been constantly playing off each other.

Unfortunately, Gu Jin Nian appeared.

Li Shan knew clearly his future fate, because of Gu Jin Nian.

If Da Xia had no Gu Jin Nian, Emperor Yongsheng would not kill him, but with Gu Jin Nian's arrival, Emperor Yongsheng has already formed murderous intent toward him.

Thinking this, Li Shan drank a cup of tea and then spoke slowly.

"Send the message out."

"Gu Jin Nian has a plan to resolve the Jiangzhong Commandery crisis."

"Although we do not know what scheme Gu Jin Nian has, this matter must be taken seriously; inform the Great Jin Dynasty that to use Great Golden Dragon Rice as a benchmark, Gu Jin Nian must be stopped."

"Furthermore, have King Ning prepare to act quickly; do not be indecisive."

Li Shan spoke, conveying this message outward.

"Does the elder mean to eliminate Gu Jin Nian?"

In the shadows, a voice sounded, asking thus.

"Foolish."

"Gu Jin Nian's current power is unfathomable, he also carries Buddhist fortune, Heaven's Mandate is upon him; trying to kill him is nothing but a fool's dream."

"All that is needed is to interfere with his disaster relief."

"The Jiangzhong Commandery disaster is the root of everything; if Gu Jin Nian resolves the Jiangzhong Commandery crisis, the disadvantage lies with us."

"If Gu Jin Nian cannot control the Jiangzhong Commandery crisis, the advantage is ours."

"Understood?"

Li Shan's voice rang out.

Jiangzhong Commandery is the most critical place.

The future changes of Da Xia will all undergo massive shifts because of Jiangzhong Commandery.

It is chaos.

Or not chaos.

It depends on how Gu Jin Nian handles the Jiangzhong Commandery crisis.

"Obey the order."

The latter spoke, then vanished into the shadows.

So.

In the blink of an eye, it was the next day.

This day.

An imperial edict was proclaimed from the palace.

In an instant, the whole nation boiled.

Most common folk did not expect that, for no reason, the Da Xia Dynasty would encounter such a heavenly disaster.

Drought, earthquakes, snow disaster, fires.

As for the fire stones, the Da Xia Dynasty chose to conceal the matter—there was no other reason; after all, the seventeen fire stones had not yet fallen, so naturally there was no need to speak of it.

When the matter got out, the whole nation was in an uproar.

However, the Ministry of Rites drafted edicts, issuing five imperial decrees in succession, announcing them to the world and settling the people's minds.

The five imperial decrees were promulgated.

It indeed stabilized some of the people's hearts, but as the court had anticipated, rumors sprang up instantly, causing considerable panic in various places, and grain prices consequently rose somewhat.

By rights, the court could first hold its forces, store up grain, and then make an announcement to the world.

But Gu Jin Nian insisted on his own way, insisting on announcing the situation, which left the entire court's civil and military officials extremely doubtful.

But no matter what, Gu Jin Nian is the commander-in-chief for this disaster.

Whatever he says, everyone must do.

Noon.

The Crown Prince, Prince Qin, Prince Wei, and Prince Jin all arrived at the disaster area together.

They rushed there as quickly as possible.

Soon, various urgent military reports were sent to the Da Xia Dynasty at the fastest speed.

At midnight on the second day.

Several military reports were delivered to Gu Jin Nian.

He received the military reports.

Gu Jin Nian stopped inscribing the formation.

After reading them all.

Gu Jin Nian's brows furrowed instantly.

These four military reports all conveyed the same message in a single sentence.

The disaster was far more severe than imagined.

Furthermore, it was escalating.

In Longxi Commandery, the earth moved, casualties were heavy, the people's hearts were terrified; the Crown Prince led three hundred thousand troops, which was far from enough, requiring an additional two hundred thousand troops, together with various medicines.

In Donglin Commandery, the blaze was even more horrifying, the flames nearly impossible to stop; the most terrifying thing was not the fire itself but the volcanic ash, affecting an area of five hundred li around, requiring a large number of rain-summoning talismans to wash away the ash with rainwater.

Nanyue Commandery was relatively better; the only trouble was that movement was extremely difficult, rescue operations were especially troublesome, and moreover a large amount of food was needed.

But the most troublesome was Jiangzhong Commandery.

Already the common people have risen up.

Gu Jin Nian dealt with them one by one.

Thereafter, he accelerated inscribing the formations.

Thus.

All the way until the fifth day.

During these five days, Gu Jin Nian went without rest, inscribing ten thousand formations, his appearance becoming utterly exhausted.

The engraving of ten thousand Gathering Spirit Ancient Formations was completed.

Gu Jin Nian did not rest, but directly sent these engraved formation jade discs secretly to the palace, completing the handover with Emperor Yongsheng.

He mounted the jade carriage.

He led a force of one hundred thousand troops.

He brought along his sixth uncle, Gu Ningya, and headed straight for Jiangzhong Commandery.

(End of chapter)