Chapter 179: River Middle Prefecture in crisis, court disaster relief, corrupt officials—do they think their lives are too long?

Da Xia Capital.

Flying Cloud Ancient Road.

An elite unit is rushing to River Middle Prefecture at top speed.

Several hundred iron cavalry lead, clearing the way; four hundred iron cavalry guard the flanks, and five hundred iron cavalry protect the rear.

At the center of the elite iron cavalry is a jade carriage, racing forward.

Inside the jade carriage.

Gu Jin Nian is reviewing urgent military reports one after another; these are military intelligence from Longxi Prefecture, East Forest Prefecture, and Southern Yue Prefecture.

Gu Ningya sat aside, also carefully reviewing related information; court matters are for him to review, after which he informs Gu Jin Nian.

Gu Jin Nian oversees the emergencies of the three prefectures.

After about half an hour, Gu Jin Nian finished reviewing the military intelligence, gave his opinions, placed them in an envelope, and handed it to Gu Ningya.

"Sixth Uncle, have these military reports urgently escorted right away."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, also letting out a long sigh.

For the past five days, he has been engraving formations, draining his essence and energy; now he has been sleepless, reviewing documents and memorials, and hasn't slept a wink.

A Martial King expert naturally needs no sleep, as the true qi within can keep one in a high-spirited state; but if the true qi is exhausted, the body cannot endure.

This also shows Gu Jin Nian's strong physique; if it were other Martial King experts, engraving a thousand formations would have them collapsing from exhaustion.

Gu Jin Nian engraving ten thousand formations is the extreme of extremes.

He can only hold on a bit longer before needing a full day's rest, otherwise his body won't endure.

"Good."

Gu Ningya took the document, walked straight out of the jade carriage, after a moment re-entered it.

"Jin Nian, I've already sent people to escort it urgently."

"What is the situation in Da Xia now?"

Gu Ningya plopped down in the jade carriage, also feeling curious, and asked Gu Jin Nian.

"Longxi Prefecture has suffered massive casualties from the earthquake, relief efforts are difficult; the Crown Prince leads 300,000 troops, with an additional 200,000 personnel."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, explaining the situation in Longxi Prefecture.

Ground movement means an earthquake.

Fortunately, ancient buildings are not too tall, so for most villagers and townspeople it's still fortunate; unfortunately, in the prefectural city, some inns and taverns suffered heavy losses, though the silver is still okay.

The key is whether people are buried; the Crown Prince has already ordered soldiers to begin rescue, but the disaster triggered by the earthquake, the most difficult part is rescue.

You don't know if there's anyone underneath, but you can't gamble; even if there's just one person, you must go rescue them, you cannot let slip any chance of survival.

The military intelligence sent by the Crown Prince is asking Gu Jin Nian whether to conduct targeted rescue or comprehensive rescue.

As for this targeted approach, it actually means using some martial artists to listen for breathing or heartbeat sounds; this method has some effect but cannot guarantee 100% accuracy.

Gu Jin Nian's opinion is to spare no effort in rescue, to conduct targeted rescue; the area is too vast, waiting for martial artists to hear a heartbeat means the rescued may already be cold by the time they're saved.

It would be better to carry out a carpet-style rescue, of course first handling the confirmed situations, then dealing with the uncertain ones.

In short, we must let the people see the methods of the Da Xia Dynasty.

"With 500,000 soldiers, manpower should be enough, right?"

Gu Ningya asked curiously.

"Not enough."

"Moreover, the real trouble is not manpower, but food supply, water supply, and various material relief."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; 500,000 troops sounds exaggerated, but for disaster relief it's really not many.

However, the Crown Prince has already begun mobilizing the populace to jointly resist disaster, which also counts as alleviating the urgent need.

But the food and supplies issue is even more important.

Where will the soldiers live? Where will the rescued people live? Where will the unharmed people live? Food, drink, medical resources, and refugee planning sites—all these matters need people to handle, and also require assistance from all sides.

These are the truly terrifying aspects.

Hearing this, Gu Ningya fell somewhat silent; usually he's frivolous and smiling, but now he truly doesn't know what to say.

"Jin Nian, the Ministry of Revenue reports that Da Xia's nationwide grain storage reaches 300,000,000 plus 3,800,000 shi of grain."

"With this much grain, it should be able to stabilize the food supply for the three major prefectures, right?"

When it comes to apprehending and interrogating, Gu Ningya ranks among the top three in Da Xia; but for this kind of economics, accounting and such, he's completely lost, having no idea what's right or wrong.

"Not necessarily enough."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; hearing this figure only slightly put his mind at ease—at least the frontline can hold out for now.

"Even this much isn't enough?"

"Ten million shi of grain—if these grains were used for war, without saying else, do you know how long a million-strong army could fight?"

"If eaten sparingly, it's enough to fight for several decades."

Gu Ningya really clicked his tongue.

Da Xia's nationwide grain reserves, and yet they're still not enough? If these reserves were used for war, having one million people eat for thirty to fifty years is not an exaggeration at all.

After all, a soldier's daily ration, counting sparingly as one jin of rice, one hundred million shi equals 120 billion jin of grain—more than enough for thirty years.

Now it's still not enough—how could this not leave Gu Ningya stunned?

"Longxi Prefecture has a population of 24 million; at least 10 million are disaster victims, and with some surplus grain plus silver purchases, at least 5 million people need to be supported by the court."

"Besides the 500,000 troops, and the Crown Prince mobilizing the populace to work without pay for salaries, they at least need two meals a day, right?"

"That works out to ten million mouths waiting to be fed, and it's definitely no less than that; Sixth Uncle, think about it—with such turmoil, most people are homeless and income-less, naturally willing to work for the court just to get a square meal."

"Each person gets half a jin of rations per day, so that's five million jin per day; for Longxi Prefecture to fully complete relief, even if everyone is united, it would take about three months, right?"

"That equals 450,000,000 jin of rations, or 3,700,000 shi of grain."

This is calculated based on the lowest possible scenario; disaster relief absolutely cannot be counted by cutting corners; there will definitely be various variables. Three months is the best-case scenario, six months is normal—meaning at least ten million shi of grain must be transported to Longxi Commandery to stabilize the situation.

Ten million shi of grain—what is the transportation cost again?

If it's nearby, that's still manageable; but if it's far, transporting ten thousand shi of grain to Longxi Commandery and having even a thousand shi left would be good.

And what about the labor cost required for this?

Once ten million shi of grain are delivered, the total cost will be at least thirty to fifty million shi of grain.

Gu Jin Nian came up with a simple conversion method.

Transportation cost, labor cost, time cost—just these three points, any one of them actually exceeds the ten million shi of grain needed for direct disaster relief.

If grain could be transported directly to Longxi Commandery without any cost, the difficulties of Longxi Commandery could be completely resolved.

As long as there is enough grain, Da Xia can send troops to maintain order, boost morale, mobilize the populace, everyone working together, with help from other regions, and the problem can be solved within half a year.

Would the imperial court still have a headache? It's because the costs from all sides are too great; Da Xia's grain reserves are only this much. If we transport grain to Longxi Commandery without counting the cost, what about the other disaster areas? 'Even if it were fifty million shi of grain, if it could resolve the difficulty, wouldn't that be good?'

Gu Ningya was shocked by these numbers, yet he couldn't help but speak up.

Only because one hundred million plus thirty-eight million shi of grain is an even larger number.

But inside the jade carriage, Gu Jin Nian sighed and looked at his sixth uncle.

"Uncle."

"Do you really not understand, or are you pretending to be stupid?"

Gu Jin Nian felt somewhat helpless.

Upon hearing this, Gu Ningya first frowned, but quickly he realized something, and then he involuntarily lowered his voice and said.

"You mean to say."

"Da Xia doesn't have that much stored grain?"

Gu Ningya roughly understood Gu Jin Nian's meaning.

"One hundred million plus thirty-eight million shi of grain is the Ministry of Revenue's ledger, not the actual situation; believe it or not, if you really let the Ministry of Revenue handle the transport, you'll surely find that some local granaries have not a single grain of rice."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, saying the so-called 'the heavens are high and the emperor far away'; places close to the capital are still manageable, but if they're a thousand li away, what's the point of leaving the grain in the granaries? Who would think there'd be a disaster out of the blue?

Take the Jiangnan region, for example—it's abundantly fertile; you say this place would encounter trouble? A severe drought? Just buy some rain‑prayer charms and it's settled.

Floods? Sorry, the good fields aren't by the river.

Who would think about this for no reason? And the grain in the granaries is valuable; why not take a tenth of it out to sell?

That's worth several million taels of silver, and it's all eaten by mid‑ and low‑level officials, because higher‑ranking officials wouldn't think of tampering with the grain stores.

If something really happens later, just use the silver to buy grain back and refill the stores; then, after three or five years, hey, nothing's wrong.

What do we do when we're short on silver again?

Just keep selling?

The timid starve to death; the bold overeat until they burst.

Anyway, selling a tenth is a capital offense, selling it all is also a capital offense—at least I've lived it up, been happy, been wealthy; in this life I've gotten my way.

This is just self‑comfort; when they're finally investigated, they'll be crying for their parents—but is it useful? The answer is no.

As for the imperial court, would killing them be useful? It's also useless.

Who ends up unlucky? The common folk.

That's the reasoning.

So, in Gu Jin Nian's eyes, one hundred million plus thirty‑eight million shi of grain—he's grateful for at least half of it.

"If this actually happens, I'm afraid quite a few heads will roll."

Gu Ningya swallowed, and as the Commander of the Suspended Lamp Bureau, having seen many corrupt officials, he knew Gu Jin Nian's worry was no idle fantasy—the likelihood was great, no, it was very great.

"Lose their heads?"

"Sixth uncle, do you believe it or not? Officials closer to the capital are still manageable, but those farther out simply fill the grain sacks with sand, lie to their superiors, and if they run into trouble en route, the grain is lost—or they encounter bandits who seize the grain."

Gu Jin Nian gave a cold snort.

"The higher-ups have policies, the lower-ups have countermeasures—this saying is no empty talk."

"Damn it, these damned bastards."

"I'm going to write a memorial right now and have the Emperor chop off all their heads."

"No, don't behead them—arrest them and send them to the Suspended Lamp Bureau; I'll make them wish for death but unable to die."

Gu Ningya shouted curses, his teeth itching with anger.

"Useless."

"Killing them won't solve the problem."

"Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures."

"Uncle, you need to take action on this."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; whether those corrupt officials live or die, he couldn't be bothered—right now we must gather the grain; other matters can be settled slowly after disaster relief ends.

"You speak, Uncle is listening."

Gu Ningya was curious—what method would Gu Jin Nian use to resolve this hidden danger?

"Immediately order the Ministry of Revenue to notify all regions to transport grain and fodder."

"Then arrest a bunch of people and kill a chicken to scare the monkeys."

"Have your people go inspect the granaries everywhere, but leak the news—tell them straight: once they go, these officials will surely be scared, so let your people take bribes, accepting whatever they give."

"All the silver received shall be turned over—half kept as the Suspended Lamp Bureau's operating funds, half given to the court to replenish the treasury."

"Then have your people tip them off, deliberately delaying so they rush to buy grain to make up the shortfall—buy as much as they can; even the greediest officials know their lives matter more."

"This way at least the grain can be delivered."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, saying he didn't care about right or wrong in all this—he only cared about one thing: getting the grain transported over; after that everything can be discussed, later we can settle accounts, confiscate property, dismiss officials, exile them to the frontier—as long as they haven't done anything too heinous, saving the lives of their whole family is still possible.

At least mend the pen after losing the sheep.

This idea is good.

This trick is truly marvelous; you say we only have one brain, so how could you come up with such a plan?

Good.

Leave this matter to Sixth Uncle; Sixth Uncle will handle it.

Gu Ning Ya's eyes lit up; Gu Jin Nian's plan is truly good.

Feigning a leak, it's actually just using another method to have these officials compete a little.

After all, when the court's people arrive, they have no way out; the law stands as is, and the court cannot issue an edict saying anything; if we replenish, it will be a minor punishment, major warning.

If that happens, it will stir up a bad practice; then officials will all rush to sell grain; in any case, if a real crisis arises, the worst is to buy it back, and they won't die.

When the cost of crime falls, the crime rate rises.

Furthermore, this only applies to major disasters; if it's an ordinary disaster—for example, if only Longxi Commandery is affected—then it absolutely won't give any opportunity.

Kill those who deserve to die.

Only this kind of major disaster is truly a special circumstance; we can secretly pull a trick.

Putting it bluntly, both advance and retreat are under Gu Jin Nian's control; whether to live or die, it's all up to his word.

This is a political means: resolving things while leaving leeway.

The trouble in Longxi Commandery is logistics; if we can really transport ten million shi of grain, we can stabilize the situation, and all costs can be kept within fifty million shi of grain.

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, saying he possesses true dragon rice stalks; even if he drains the Da Xia official granary's grain reserves, he isn't afraid.

Give himself two years, ensure the official granary's grain stores are abundant, and even expand the granaries further.

If the Censorate gives advance notice, I think it's not difficult; the Longxi Commandery crisis can then be considered stabilized.

Gu Ning Ya spoke up, voicing his opinion.

Mm, Longxi Commandery is ultimately a natural disaster; with united effort and aid from all sides, provisions stable, one can handle things with ease; the Crown Prince can also use this opportunity to consolidate his position as heir.

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, agreeing as well.

However, upon mentioning the heir's position, Gu Ning Ya's expression inevitably changed slightly.

Jin Nian, have you already chosen the Crown Prince?

He looked at Gu Jin Nian.

The term 'heir'—when others bring it up, it's nothing; but when the Gu Family brings it up, there's inevitably some other factor involved.

After all, the Gu Family is too large, especially Gu Jin Nian; in the Emperor's eyes, the whole Gu Family is certainly inferior to Gu Jin Nian; naturally, the Gu Family can now decide on the Emperor.

Let nature take its course.

The Crown Prince's benevolent governance is a good thing; the Da Xia Dynasty has experienced the founding wars and encountered various conflicts; indeed it needs a benevolent ruler to govern, so the nation can cultivate and nurture itself.

But the contention over Heaven's Mandate has surfaced, also requiring struggle; the Qin Prince is not bad either; however, the seniority distinction is an ancient principle; the nephew intends not to involve himself in the heir's struggle, letting them handle it themselves.

If His Majesty selects the Crown Prince, the nephew will gladly assist the Crown Prince; if His Majesty selects the Qin Prince, the nephew will also gladly assist the Qin Prince; that's all.

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, expressing his thoughts on the heir.

Whether Crown Prince or Qin Prince, each has its own merits; only the seniority issue remains a principle acknowledged by all under heaven.

After all, both have advantages, but the Crown Prince's advantages are somewhat greater.

Of course, if the Crown Prince truly does some wrongdoing, or does some bad things, Gu Jin Nian will not support the Crown Prince.

Inside the jade carriage.

Gu Jin Nian more or less understood.

As long as the Crown Prince makes no mistake, his accession will be no major problem.

But what if His Majesty insists on asking you?

Jin Nian, the Qin Prince has a very good relationship with our Gu Family; since childhood he's followed the old master, and the old master also said the Qin Prince is like half a grandson to him.

What should you do now?

Gu Ning Ya continued to speak, asking.

For a moment, the atmosphere inside the jade carriage became somewhat solemn.

The Qin Prince indeed has a very good relationship with the Gu Family; from his usual conduct it's evident; the Qin Prince truly regards Gu Jin Nian as a brother; this affection is plain, to say it has no influence is impossible.

After all, Gu Ning Ya is actually more inclined toward the Qin Prince.

Let's talk about it later.

Let's continue talking about the disaster situation.

Gu Jin Nian doesn't want to discuss this topic; at least Emperor Yongsheng is still alive, vigorous in old age, likely no major issues within ten years; why bother about the future?

Mm.

Gu Ning Ya also did not continue discussing this sensitive topic, but instead continued speaking.

The Ministry of Revenue sent word: aside from preserving Da Xia's basic expenditures, the surplus silver can be used to purchase fifty million shi of grain.

Considering that large-scale grain purchases would raise grain prices, we therefore opt to buy ten million shi per month; is that acceptable?

Gu Ning Ya inquired.

Okay, then have the Ministry of Revenue coordinate with the Ministry of War and the Ministry of Punishment to inform the Da Xia populace: they may refrain from selling grain, but must not arbitrarily raise prices; grain price fluctuations within a reasonable range are acceptable; if anyone dares to profiteer from this situation, they shall be killed without pardon.

Gu Jin Nian nodded, agreeing to the Ministry of Revenue's demand; buying fifty million shi of grain at once will surely cause major market fluctuations, but buying ten million shi per month is relatively stable.

Then, with the Ministry of Revenue, Ministry of War, and Ministry of Punishment working together to suppress grain price increases, this also helps stabilize public sentiment; otherwise, if prices truly spike, the disaster areas might not be chaotic, but the interior of Da Xia would fall into disorder first.

Good.

Gu Ning Ya nodded, recorded it, and later it will all be sent back to the capital.

However, just then, a voice sounded from beside the jade carriage.

Marquis.

"Commander, sir."

"Rear cavalry reporting: the imperial grandson has arrived, he wants to see the Marquis."

"Shall we meet?"

As the attendant's voice rang out, within the jade carriage, Gu Ningya and Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but show curiosity.

Especially Gu Ningya, who muttered to himself.

"How did this little bastard get here?"

But as soon as the words left his mouth, Gu Ningya immediately fell silent.

Li Ji is the imperial grandson; calling him a little bastard is no different from calling the Crown Prince a big bastard, the emperor an old bastard, right?

Fortunately they're all our own; otherwise, if these words spread, they'd surely get a severe beating.

"Let him come."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up; although he didn't know why Li Ji could come, he didn't stop him.

Thus, after half a quarter hour, the jade carriage halted, and a smiling Li Ji quickly walked in.

"Uncle Jin Nian."

"Uncle Ning Ya." Entering the jade carriage, Li Ji appeared a bit disheveled; he exhaled, then casually sat on a soft pillow, smiling at the two.

Not long after he settled, the jade carriage set off again without any pause.

"Li Ji, why did you come?"

"It can't be that the Crown Prince left; you must have slipped out yourself, right?"

Looking at Li Ji, Gu Ningya grew curious and was also nervous about whether Li Ji had run out on his own; if he truly slipped out secretly, that would be troublesome.

"Uncle, why do you look down on people so much?"

"Am I that kind of person? After all, I'm also an imperial grandson."

Li Ji felt a bit depressed; after all, he's already fifteen, right? In a few months he'll be sixteen, and normally at sixteen one can be crowned, becoming an adult.

Why does he speak as if he's a child? "So what if you're an imperial grandson? Aren't you still going to pull the bell?"

Gu Ningya seemed casual; if it were the Crown Prince, he might not be like this. The imperial grandson can be more relaxed, waiting until he becomes emperor, perhaps in thirty or fifty years.

"Uncle, can we not bring this up?"

"I heard my father and uncle went to disaster relief. As an imperial grandson, not going would look so unambitious, so I told my grandfather, and he allowed me to come here."

Li Ji spoke up, giving the explanation.

Hearing this, Gu Ningya nodded and pondered a bit, contemplating the emperor's intent.

Gu Jin Nian seemed to understand.

He wanted Li Ji to stay by his side to learn something and also see the people's suffering.

That is a good thing.

Not fearing the emperor's harshness, but fearing his softness, spoiling the next generation, fearing they won't endure hardship.

People like Li Ji should be sent out to take some societal beating, otherwise they won't become talented.

"Alright."

"Since this is His Majesty's wish, for this period you stay by my side. Remember not to wander off; disaster zones are extremely dangerous. Even as an imperial grandson, don't act recklessly. If something happens, I may not be able to protect you."

Since it's the emperor's will, Gu Jin Nian didn't nag further, but he still explained the necessary details clearly.

"Rest assured, Uncle Jin Nian, I'm very honest."

Li Ji grinned, baring his teeth.

For him, this trip is first to see the world, second to leave the palace; his childlike playfulness is stronger. As for disaster relief, he probably won't see any trace of it among such nobles.

After all, they don't think the people's suffering can go any further.

"Sixth Uncle, let's continue."

Gu Jin Nian ignored Li Ji and continued discussing disaster relief with Gu Ningya.

"The great fire in Donglin Commandery: half relies on Da Xia soldiers, half on the Immortal Sect. Have the Ministry of Rites' Yang Kai personally intervene, request rain talismans from the Immortal Sect—borrow as many as possible—and then ask the Immortal Sect to act, bringing rain to resolve the issue."

"If the Immortal Sect can act, the trouble in Donglin Commandery isn't too great; just transport five million shi of grain there."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up; this was his solution for Donglin Commandery.

Seek the Immortal Sect to intervene, solving the fire.

In the mountainous forest fire, soldiers can only work in the outer zone, cutting trees to create firebreaks, but the flames are like a tiger; if they fail to cut firebreaks in time, serious problems arise.

If the Immortal Sect acts, suppressing the fire, Da Xia soldiers' high-intensity cooperation can effectively contain it.

"Good."

Gu Ningya continued taking notes.

The Donglin Commandery matter also counts as providing a solution.

"As for Nanyue Commandery, have King Wei evacuate the people immediately, and have the Ministry of Works swiftly construct treasure ships to transport to Nanyue Commandery; snow disasters aren't scary, the melt is."

"Also have King Wei investigate thoroughly; sudden heavy snow in Nanyue Commandery is abnormal, possibly caused by demonic creatures, so be cautious and prioritize protecting the people."

"All soldiers, prepare for flood control."

"Also transport five million shi of grain to Nanyue Commandery."

Putting aside Jiangzhong Commandery's political issues, Gu Jin Nian considered Nanyue Commandery the most terrifying disaster area.

The heavy snow freezes, seemingly only affecting people's livelihood, but the truly frightening part is the melt.

Once the icy snow melts, the snow piles into rivers, easily causing floods.

If a flood occurs, it's a massive trouble; Nanyue Commandery lies on the main course of Da Xia's Pengjiang. Should a flood happen there, the downstream trouble would be no less severe than Jiangzhong Commandery's danger.

Therefore, preemptive flood control and preventive measures are essential; floods may be allowed, but they must not affect too many people.

"Understood."

Gu Ningya recorded all of this; the affairs of the three major commanderies, Gu Jin Nian also had a certain handling.

At that moment, Gu Jin Nian also breathed a sigh of relief.

"Come here first, the rest wait for news."

After saying that, he leaned on the soft pillow, slightly narrowed his eyes, and rested for a moment before speaking again.

"Li Ji."

However, with his eyes closed, Gu Jin Nian spoke slowly.

"Here."

"Uncle Jin Nian."

Li Ji immediately spoke, giving a response.

"Anything happening in the capital?"

"Any news about me?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his eyes narrowed, his tone calm.

"Ah"

Hearing that, Li Ji was somewhat at a loss for words, not knowing how to answer.

"Speak."

Gu Jin Nian spoke lightly, yet carried an irresistible aura.

"Um, there is, actually."

"But I only heard about it; I don't know what the situation is."

"It seems some feudal princes sent memorials to the capital, impeaching you for cruelty and inhumanity, slaughtering the loyal and good; furthermore, regarding the Jiangzhong Commandery disaster, they think Uncle Jin Nian you treat it as child's play, for personal greed, seeking to monopolize power, aiming to achieve merit."

"Moreover, the Censorate also impeached."

"The Da Xia Zhu School also jointly submitted a memorial, saying some unpleasant words."

Li Ji spoke, while continuously observing Gu Jin Nian's expression; if Gu Jin Nian was unhappy, he would not speak.

However, he discovered that Gu Jin Nian appeared very calm, with no ripple at all; although his eyes were closed, his face showed no change.

"What face do these dogs have to blame my great-nephew?"

"Damn it, they all know how to sing opposite; when asked for ideas, they all fear causing trouble."

"In such a disaster in Da Xia, Jin Nian stepping forward, just this sense of responsibility, is a hundred times stronger than those bastards."

"Heir Apparent, when you ascend the throne in the future, you must remember: these scholars are all old sly and crafty, their minds are wicked; with your wisdom, it's probably hard to contend with them, so you might as well just be a tyrant."

"Those who don't submit, kill."

"Anyway, once the Crown Prince ascends the throne, he will surely govern the country well; you can just enjoy the fruits, killing a few officials, and still enjoy blessings in peace."

Gu Ningya spoke, not treating Li Ji as an outsider at all, his words were very direct.

"Sixth Uncle."

"Don't act rashly."

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian spoke, reminding his sixth uncle.

Whether Li Ji can become emperor in the future is one matter, but these words must not be taught.

If he really becomes a tyrant, whose fault would it be?

"Uncle, I think what you said is correct."

"Some scholars have wicked hearts; I know everything that happened these past few days. You stood up against opposition, for Da Xia you set state policy, boosted army morale, stabilized public sentiment—what else could such people do besides pouring cold water?"

"Armchair strategists, each more formidable than the last; when real trouble comes, they fear being blamed."

"If I really become emperor in the future, I will definitely kill ruthlessly, a bunch of good-for-nothings."

Li Ji spoke, these words somewhat carried a tone of flattery; it seems this kid truly understands, knowing that maintaining good relations with Gu Jin Nian brings benefits.

Of course, part of this is indeed Li Ji's own thinking; after all, he is still young, doesn't understand many things, and likes to solve conflicts with the simplest methods.

"Nonsense."

Gu Jin Nian opened his eyes and lightly rebuked.

"Li Ji, remember well."

"An emperor must understand the art of balance, balancing civil and military; although these officials have complex minds, at least they consider the overall situation. If we let these generals govern the country, when trouble arises they just fight—what dynasty could withstand such ruin?"

"Using others' strengths to offset their weaknesses, yin and yang working together—this is the way of an emperor. Do you understand?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke, earnestly instructing the other party.

"Oh."

After hearing, Li Ji merely replied with an "oh", while Gu Ningya then said somewhat helplessly.

"Jin Nian, what you're saying is too mystical; I'm also puzzled. Our Gu family are still just a bunch of brawny fellows; your father at most is just a scholar, right?"

"How could you have produced this qilin child? Frankly, those words you just spoke are exactly like the officials in the court, both in tone and manner."

"Can't we just be direct? Damn it."

Gu Ningya is just a crude martial man, his three sentences never leave mention of his mother, leaving people silent.

He has no cultivation at all.

"Right, correct, damn it."

Li Ji very much liked Gu Ningya's way, followed with a shout, elated.

"Li Ji, when you become emperor in the future, could you grant me a dukedom? I'll help you suppress those officials; if you're unhappy with anyone, tell me and I'll settle it directly."

"If this fellow has great power, I'll settle him covertly, vanishing without a trace; if his power is small, we'll settle him openly, just casually list some charges against him—I don't believe he's a saint, what do you think?"

Gu Ningya looked at Li Ji with a face full of smiles.

"Fine, Uncle, when I ascend the throne, I'll first grant you a marquessate, and after two years, I'll grant you a dukedom."

If I'm not pleased with anyone, I'll tell you straight: just copy his house.

Don't bother listing any evidence; just frame him and pin the crime on him. I'll pick some treasure from the palace for you, have the Suspended Lantern Office hide it in his house, and that day I'll issue an edict to have a thorough investigation.

The thing was thrown in the day, the person caught at noon, the head cut off at night—how do you explain that?

Li Ji also got interested, and followed Gu Ningya, chatting idly with relish.

This works, Tai Sun is truly wise; if the two of us team up, we can surely settle all disputes.

The two of them went back and forth, each saying a line, talking merrily.

Gu Jin Nian was too lazy to say anything; those two guys have something wrong with their heads. Li Ji was okay—young and ignorant, a couple of hot‑mouth remarks were harmless.

My own sixth uncle is beyond saving.

But Gu Jin Nian finally understood why his sixth uncle kept getting beaten—he brought it on himself, not at all unjust.

Thus.

In the blink of an eye, two more hours passed.

Inside the jade carriage, Gu Jin Nian had rested for a while, but those two guys were still chatting.

And their conversation ranged from being ennobled as Marquis to being made a Duke, then to the Heaven's Mandate Struggle, to unifying the Eastern Wilderness, and finally to conquering the Central Continent.

As they talked, the two even began to argue.

No way, Tai Sun. If I help you conquer the Central Continent, you make me a non‑lineage king and give me the Xiongnu Nation? What would I do with that? At least you should give me the Fuyu Dynasty, right? You're really stingy.

The Xiongnu Nation isn't lacking, is it? Fine, fine, I'll give you the Fuyu Dynasty—what title then? "Fuyu King" sounds a bit off.

No problem, later I'll have Jin Nian come up with a title for me. Anyway, the Fuyu Dynasty must be given to me; I don't care about the Great Jin Dynasty. The Fuyu Dynasty will definitely be mine.

Alright, but you must tribute each year—no less than fifty percent; anything below fifty percent is out of the question.

Seventy percent then; I'm generous. I don't need that much—I'll give you seventy percent and keep thirty percent for my own splurging.

Fine, then from now on you'll be the non‑lineage king of the Fuyu Dynasty, and Uncle Jin Nian will be the non‑lineage king of the Great Jin Dynasty.

Li Ji kept talking until his face broke into a crooked smile.

It could be called a live debate.

Ugh! *sigh*—but just as the two were about to discuss how to effectively control the Central Continent's territories and assimilate its people...

The jade carriage suddenly stopped.

In an instant, the sound of swords being drawn rang out, accompanied by a few shouts.

"Heaven's Mandate Marquis of Da Xia, jade carriage, is here. Are you all ahead?"

A booming shout followed.

Gu Ningya and Li Ji instantly fell silent.

Gu Jin Nian frowned and stepped directly out of the jade carriage.

He pulled back the curtain, stepped out of the jade carriage, and at once a desolate, ancient feeling washed over him; the surroundings were all yellow‑soil highlands, brown the dominant hue, cracked earth, rolling sand, scorching sun overhead with not a breeze, making people's hearts restless.

Not far away, countless crowds—nearly ten thousand—each dragging families, shouldering luggage, faces bitter, approached.

"Sir."

"We are officials from Jiangzhong Commandery, heading to Guchuan Commandery to visit relatives. We have disturbed you, sir; please forgive us."

Some villagers bowed and saluted the iron‑cavalry soldiers.

Their skin was dark, eyes squinting, faces coated with a thin layer of oil, necks slick with sweat, trudging under the blazing sun.

"Marquis."

"Ahead there are many refugees, probably fleeing famine."

A attendant came forward, stood beneath the jade carriage, and informed Gu Jin Nian of the situation.

"Understood."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, then stepped down from the jade carriage, moving quickly to the group of refugees.

Seeing Gu Jin Nian appear, all the refugees' eyes showed surprise.

After all, Gu Jin Nian wore a Marquis robe, and his extraordinary looks and imposing bearing made him seem like a god among these rural folk.

"Elder, why are so many people rushing to visit relatives?"

"Jiangzhong Commandery is suffering a drought, hasn't the court already started allocating grain?"

"Counting the days, grain should have already arrived in Jiangzhong Commandery; unless something goes wrong, the distribution should be underway."

"The journey from this official house to Guchuan Commandery is nine hundred fifty li, through barren wasteland with wolves, tigers, leopards—aren't you worried about trouble?"

Gu Jin Nian bowed his hand toward them, without any airs, speaking gently.

Five days earlier, Gu Jin Nian had ordered the Ministry of Revenue to urgently transport grain—using dragon‑boats.

Though it was a drop in the bucket, at least the grain could reach them, giving the people a reassurance.

Jiangzhong Commandery only suffers a severe drought, not flood or fire; households still have some surplus grain. When the court's grain arrives, everyone gets a little—even if it's just half a day's ration.

It's not worth taking such a huge risk, walking over nine hundred li on foot to escape, right? "Reply, sir."

"Commoner."

The latter was hesitant to speak, for they didn't know Gu Jin Nian's background; many things were hard to say.

"Elder, this is the Heaven's Mandate Marquis of Da Xia, Gu Jin Nian, Marquis Gu, the emperor‑appointed Marquis sent to Jiangzhong Commandery for disaster relief."

"If you have any hidden grievances, you may tell the Marquis directly."

"The Marquis will certainly uphold justice for everyone."

The attendant spoke, soothing the crowd.

And when the crowd heard the name Gu Jin Nian, they were even more astonished.

They didn't recognize the Heaven's Mandate Marquis.

But the name Gu Jin Nian, they had indeed heard of.

Are you Gu Jinian? The Saint Gu?

Are you Gu Jin Nian? Saint Gu?

Is he Saint Gu?

Is he Saint Gu?

What? Gu Jinian, Saint Gu has arrived?

What? Gu Jin Nian, Saint Gu has arrived?

In an instant, various voices rose, and the people hailed Gu Jinian as a saint—a great honor.

In a moment, various sounds rose up, and the people called Gu Jin Nian a saint, which is an extremely high honor.

But Gu Jinian didn't grow proud from these titles; instead, his tone became even gentler.

But Gu Jin Nian did not become conceited because of these titles; instead, his tone grew even gentler.

Uncle, fellow villagers, the court has already allocated disaster relief funds; the grain should have arrived by now.

Uncle, elders and villagers, the imperial court has already allocated funds for disaster relief; the grain should have arrived long ago.

If you have any grievances, speak freely; I will certainly see that justice is done for all.

If you have any hidden difficulties, speak freely; I will certainly uphold justice for everyone.

Gu Jinian spoke, his expression firm.

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his expression resolute.

That's where the conversation ended.

That's all I have to say.

The people could no longer sit still; they knelt one by one, their faces filled with grief.

The people could no longer sit still; they knelt one by one, faces filled with grief, and said:

Oh saint.

Saint!

You must see justice done for us commoners.

You must uphold justice for us common folk.

Where have the officials of Jiangzhong Commandery distributed the grain?

Which of these officials in Jiangzhong Commandery distributed the grain?

They not only failed to distribute grain, but they even seized the grain meant for us poor folk.

They not only failed to distribute grain, but also seized the grain of us poor commoners.

They claim it's about centralizing grain and distributing it uniformly.

They claimed it was centralized grain collection and uniform distribution.

This great drought just arrived; every household had some surplus grain, but now the grain has been requisitioned, and people are already starving to death.

This great drought just arrived; every household originally had some surplus grain, but now the grain has been requisitioned, and already some have starved to death.

We too are forced into this; Saint, if we had any other choice, who would leave their homes?

We too are left with no choice; Saint, if not driven to desperation, who would leave their homes?

My young son went missing while fleeing; his fate is unknown. Please, sir, uphold justice for us commoners.

My young son went missing on the road fleeing disaster, his fate unknown; please, sir, uphold justice for us villagers.

The old man, having said this, burst into tears, kneeling on the ground and kowtowing repeatedly.

The old man, having said this, suddenly burst into tears, knelt on the ground, and kept kowtowing.

Upon hearing this, the other villagers also spoke of their own plights, and wailing filled the air.

Upon hearing this, the other villagers also spoke of their own plights, and wailing filled the air at once.

At this moment.

At this moment.

Gu Jinian also fell silent.

Gu Jin Nian also fell silent.

He never imagined that even at this critical juncture, the court would act this way.

He never expected that, at this critical juncture, the imperial court would act this way.

And yet there are officials who dare to do such a thing.

And yet there are officials who dare to do this.

Is this really a case of having a death wish? (End of chapter)

Could it really be that they are tired of living? (End of chapter)