Chapter 184: Eat! All of you eat! Why aren't you eating? The Disaster of Jiangzhong Commandery!

Outside the city of Jiangzhong Commandery.

Da Xia soldiers are gathering outside, as they do on ordinary days, lighting pots to cook rice.

It was supposed to start cooking at the Mao hour, but the rice cooked yesterday made the townsfolk overfull.

So today it was delayed by several hours.

Inside the main camp of the army.

Fang Jingcheng reports some matters.

"Lord Hou, the Governor of Zhou Commandery reports that the granary was burned, leaving less than thirty percent of the provisions remaining."

"That thirty percent of provisions is just enough for the Jiangzhong Commandery people to barely last half a month; currently Jiangzhong is raising funds to purchase food from elsewhere."

"Da Xia Dragon Rice is supplied to the Jiangzhong people, roughly one liang consumed per day, and the food stores of each prefecture are sufficient for several days."

"Scouts report that a contingent of soldiers is rushing toward Jiangzhong Commandery; it has been identified as Prince Ning's men, awaiting your orders, Lord Hou."

Fang Jingcheng informs Gu Jin Nian of each matter.

Inside the army's main camp.

When they hear that Prince Ning's troops have appeared, Gu Ningya and Li Ji cannot help but frown slightly.

"What are Prince Ning's men doing here?"

"At this critical moment, why is Prince Ning sending people?"

The two are very curious, not understanding why Prince Ning suddenly visits; "Report, Grandson, report to the commanding officer, sir."

"According to the scouts, Prince Ning has sent his chief strategist Lord Hou himself to Jiangzhong Commandery, with a total of one hundred thousand troops, and these troops bring a substantial amount of provisions, cattle, and sheep."

"If nothing goes awry, it should be that Prince Ning is coming to donate food; it is quite possible that Prince Ning misjudged, believing the Jiangzhong people are living a life worse than death, and hopes to win their favor."

Fang Jingcheng does not state it directly, but speaks in a speculative tone.

He currently holds no office, not even a staff position, so naturally he dares not defame Prince Ning, even before Gu Jin Nian.

"Winning popular support? Now that's truly a spectacle to watch."

"Prince Ning is indeed clever; seeing Jiangzhong's condition, he immediately sent people to donate provisions. Fortunately, Uncle Jin Nian handled it steadily; otherwise, if he had only given two liang of rice, Prince Ning might actually have still won the people's favor."

The crowd is not foolish; even Li Ji knows what Prince Ning's scheme is.

"Jin Nian, what do you think?"

Gu Ningya speaks, asking Gu Jin Nian for his opinion.

"Let their troops enter; our army doesn't carry many provisions, and Prince Ning is offering two meals—how could we refuse his kindness?"

"However, let them also host a feast, with the townsfolk choosing themselves."

Gu Jin Nian is quite pleased to see Prince Ning come to deliver goods; although what he brings may not affect Prince Ning, at least the wasted trip means the grain loss ultimately benefits Da Xia.

Likewise, consider the people's opinion of Da Xia Dragon Rice; the residents of Jiangzhong Commandery City have already eaten two meals of Da Xia Dragon Rice—might they be getting tired of it? That's also a test result.

Just let Prince Ning's men try it out.

"Instruct Zhou Man to place all the food on the city square and station heavy troops to guard it."

"After today's banquet ends, from each of the nineteen prefectures of Jiangzhong Commandery, select one thousand people to rush to Jiangzhong Commandery City."

"Among those one thousand, there must be three hundred elders from each town and county, respected elders, all to be summoned and escorted by carriage, without delay."

"Also, have Zhou Man contact the three great families of Jiangzhong Commandery; in this calamity, I will not let them donate silver or grain, but these families should have plenty of draft cattle and farming tools—hand them over as a token of goodwill from the three great families."

"Later, when the drought in Jiangzhong ends, everything will be returned one by one."

Gu Jin Nian speaks, issuing these three orders.

"Respectfully obey Lord Hou's command."

The latter does not chatter, agrees outright, then turns and leaves.

After Zhou Man departs, Gu Jin Nian also rises, stretches his limbs, and looks at Li Ji and Gu Ningya, saying.

"Let's go, we'll go see the excitement."

Having said that, the two immediately stand and follow Gu Jin Nian to watch the commotion.

At this moment.

Inside the city, all the townsfolk have already formed a line as long as a dragon.

Each holds their own bowl and chopsticks, waiting for the grain distribution.

And while queuing, the townsfolk discuss the merits of Da Xia Dragon Rice.

"Never thought that one day we could eat the emperor's rice—tsk tsk, truly a thrice‑blessed fortune."

"Indeed, indeed, thanks to Lord Hou; if he hadn't placed us common folk first, honestly could we have eaten such fine rice?"

"We definitely wouldn't have been able to, honestly—I heard this rice was personally bestowed by the emperor to Lord Hou; in this famine relief, Lord Hou gave us such fine rice, truly a saint."

"Not merely a saint; you don't know, this rice has a great pedigree, it's called something‑something Dragon Rice. All major dynasties need this rice; ordinary people who eat it gain longevity, and a great figure like Lord Hou can, after eating it, break through his martial cultivation. It's said Lord Hou usually eats only about two liang a day, now he's giving it all to us."

"Is that more than a saint?"

The townsfolk lavish praise on Gu Jin Nian, as if money were irrelevant, praising wildly.

But as they speak, some cannot help but sigh.

"Honestly, if we hadn't encountered this situation, we might never have had a chance to eat such premium rice."

"After this, we'll be in trouble."

Someone laments, feeling Da Xia Dragon Rice is incredibly delicious, and thinking they may never have another chance makes them uneasy.

"Yes, hearing you say that, I too feel inexplicably sad."

"This kind of rice is only for true elites; getting to eat it once is enough, we haven't lived in vain."

"The words are as they are, but after tasting such exquisite rice, being forced to eat other rice later, honestly, it's truly hard to swallow."

"Don't mention it, don't I still have a little leftover grain at home? Yesterday I cooked a bit, nothing else, just to taste it; before I didn't notice anything, now eating it feels like eating bran."

"Alas, if we have nothing left to eat in the future, won't we think of it day and night?"

The commoners were debating that eating good food isn't necessarily a good thing; at least previously they didn't think their household grain was lacking— even when they ate a bit of good rice, it was just so‑so, but Da Xia Dragon Rice is different.

After eating it, they felt revitalized; matters such as extending life and being immune to all illnesses were minor, the main point was that this feeling vanished.

In the end, it still felt a bit uncomfortable.

But on second thought, this is happening now; there's a disaster, surviving is already quite good, and they still want to eat this rice every day? It's completely pointless.

A queue as long as a dragon stretched ten ranks, while another spot remained empty.

At this very moment.

Hou Jun arrived with a hundred thousand troops; he did not act rashly, since Gu Jin Nian's forces were here, and without prior notice he might provoke disputes and trouble.

However, he did not go straight to Gu Jin Nian, but waited for some news.

Soon, several figures appeared.

"Greetings, sir."

"Sir, we have confirmed that the Heaven's Mandate Marquis's soldiers are still cooking plain rice, no pigs slaughtered or sheep butchered."

"Sir, there are two waterways nearby, and outside the city there is a vacant plot that can be used for a banquet."

As those voices rang out, Hou Jun was immensely satisfied, especially delighted to hear that Gu Jin Nian's soldiers were still cooking plain rice.

"All troops, obey the order: immediately start boiling water, slaughter cattle and sheep, and prepare a banquet."

Hou Jun spoke, and after finishing, he looked at the two assistant commanders beside him.

"You two, follow me."

He intended to meet Gu Jin Nian to explain his purpose; although he knew Gu Jin Nian would certainly be displeased, he had already prepared his argument, for he was here to provide disaster relief, and if Gu Jin Nian refused, the sufferers would be the common folk.

He thought Gu Jin Nian wouldn't attract such scorn.

So he ordered the soldiers to start boiling water in advance.

Thus, about half a quarter‑hour later, Hou Jun stood before Gu Jin Nian.

"I am Hou Jun, steward of Prince Ning's manor; I have met Lord Hou."

When he faced Gu Jin Nian, Hou Jun showed no arrogance, only respect; he was under Prince Ning, and broadly speaking, he could be considered a trusted confidant of Prince Ning.

In a narrower sense, he was merely a subordinate.

Gu Jin Nian is the Heaven's Mandate Marquis; to put it bluntly, if Gu Jin Nian were to defect now and claim to help Prince Ning conquer the world, his status would directly surpass his.

Moreover, he knows Gu Jin Nian's methods; if you confront Gu Jin Nian forcefully, Gu Jin Nian would dare to do things you couldn't imagine.

If you are conciliatory, Gu Jin Nian would also be willing to play along.

Therefore, he showed no overbearing attitude, but was extremely deferential.

"Hou Jun?"

"I have heard of your great name, the first strategist under Prince Ning."

"Bringing a hundred thousand troops here, for what purpose?"

Gu Jin Nian forced a smile that didn't reach his eyes and said.

He gave Hou Jun neither a smile nor coldness; it was a reasonable demeanor.

"Lord Hou, my prince learned that Jiangzhong Commandery is suffering a severe drought, that countless commoners are deeply afflicted, so he is taking the remaining scant grain from the manor to provide disaster relief and save the people; I ask for your consent."

Hou Jun spoke, stating his purpose.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian crossed his arms and stood, not looking at Hou Jun, but calmly said.

"Prince Ning's intention is truly commendable; if every prince of Da Xia could learn from Prince Ning, the hardship of Jiangzhong Commandery would be nothing."

"Very well, keep the grain and have me convey a word to Prince Ning; thank you."

Gu Jin Nian replied in line with Hou Jun's suggestion.

Such a response seemed normal to Hou Jun, so after hearing it, Hou Jun had already been prepared.

"Lord Hou."

"Prince Ning orders that, given the massive population of Jiangzhong Commandery, to prevent anyone from lining their pockets with corruption, the troops must personally prepare the meals so the people can enjoy them."

"I ask Lord Hou to pardon my offense."

Hou Jun spoke.

Gu Jin Nian gave no reply; he had already guessed Hou Jun's purpose for coming.

He had just arrived in Jiangzhong Commandery and immediately sealed off all passages of the manor city; neither commoners nor merchants could leave Jiangzhong Commandery.

In this way, any schemers inside, even if they knew some information, could not pass it on.

Meanwhile, those outside knew nothing of the interior.

Of course, even with a hundred thousand soldiers, it was impossible to precisely target those malicious insiders.

But Zhou Man is the governor of Jiangzhong Commandery; there are many things Gu Jin Nian does not know, yet it does not trouble this governor.

These seemingly innocuous details are actually being strictly monitored by Zhou Man's agents.

In other words, outsiders received false information, while some peripheral officials left Jiangzhong Commandery early, only to find they could not return, so they now watch from outside.

The spread of false news is a good thing; at this critical moment, it makes clear who wants trouble and who does not.

"Very well, do as you wish."

Thinking this, Gu Jin Nian calmly replied, agreeing to Hou Jun.

Upon hearing this, Hou Jun was somewhat surprised; he had many words to say, but ultimately held them back.

He had expected Gu Jin Nian to utter some remarks, since cooking water and food here would be an affront to Gu Jin Nian, so he had prepared many excuses, such as "for the sake of the people," and the like.

He didn't need any of them.

After a brief daze, Hou Jun quickly recovered and bowed to Gu Jin Nian.

"Lord Hou truly has the people's welfare at heart; if Da Xia had two more lords like you, the common folk would not suffer."

This sentence is half true.

"Everyone serves the people; everyone is me, Gu."

"Lord Hou, I have long heard of your unparalleled talent and wish to get to know you a bit. Here is my command token; in the future, should you have any thoughts, you may discuss them with me in detail."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, took out his own Hou token, and handed it to Hou Jun.

Faced with this situation, many people were slightly surprised; this Hou Jun is Prince Ning's chief strategist, loyal to Prince Ning, and they did not expect Gu Jin Nian to extend an olive branch to him.

This Hou Jun is truly exceptional, able to make even Gu Jin Nian look at him differently; indeed, not ordinary.

Looking at this Hou token, Hou Jun was a bit surprised, but quickly accepted it gladly; the reason is simple—he confirms himself as a naturally gifted talent, and Gu Jin Nian's words are correct: he is Prince Ning's chief strategist.

Thus, this Hou token means nothing to him; not to mention a Prince's token, he wouldn't care either.

Of course, Gu Jin Nian is not ordinary; he is currently the most prominent figure in the Da Xia Dynasty and a saint of Confucianism and Daoism for later generations. Gaining such a person's approval fills Hou Jun with overwhelming vanity.

"Lord Hou, you flatter me too much; they're all empty titles."

Hou Jun showed a slightly pretentious air.

Gu Jin Nian gave a faint smile and said to Fang Jingcheng.

"Mr. Fang, please escort Lord Hou."

Having said that, Gu Jin Nian did not linger, turned around, and continued to watch the soldiers cooking rice.

And received a promise.

Hou Jun simply bowed to Gu Jin Nian, then left immediately, while Fang Jingcheng followed.

Fang Jingcheng saw him off; perhaps because he received Gu Jin Nian's praise, Hou Jun was clearly delighted, opened the conversation, and chatted casually with Fang Jingcheng.

It would have been fine not to talk, but once they did, he found Fang Jingcheng's insight impressive—a talent indeed.

The two talked for nearly an hour about court affairs, Confucian and Daoist doctrines, the Shi family's aristocracy, and found Fang Jingcheng could speak fluently on all.

In that moment, he developed a fondness for talent; since Gu Jin Nian had just recruited him, Hou Jun also decided to recruit Fang Jingcheng, lest Prince Ning become suspicious.

Upon hearing Hou Jun's overture, Fang Jingcheng did not accept, but also did not refuse at once; he smiled and said that if an opportunity arose, he would like to pay a visit to Hou Jun, though he is unfamiliar with the world and fears that once Hou Jun rises to fame, he may not bother with him.

Thus he wishes to obtain a personal item from Hou Jun.

When this was said, Hou Jun seemed very casual; Gu Jin Nian gave him a Hou token, so courting Fang Jingcheng would naturally not be stingy.

"This jade pendant was originally bestowed by Prince Ning upon my humble brother; if you, dear junior, later change your mind, you may come to Prince Ning's mansion with this item to find me."

Hou Jun appeared very carefree.

At that moment, Fang Jingcheng was startled by the favor, and after receiving the token, he said he wanted a piece of Hou Jun's calligraphy; first to admire it, second so that he could later present it when seeking Hou Jun, essentially fearing that once Hou Jun becomes famous, he would ignore him.

Understanding Fang Jingcheng's intention, Hou Jun said it several times, but could not resist Fang Jingcheng's praise; ultimately, in a very good mood, he wrote a poem—mediocre but with proper rhymes—to commemorate their encounter.

Having obtained the calligraphy, Fang Jingcheng kept it safely and then took his leave.

After Fang Jingcheng left.

Hou Jun could not help but exclaim.

"Gu Jin Nian truly is lucky; he has such talent by his side. Tomorrow, when we return to the prince's mansion, I will recommend this person to the prince properly."

"However, first observe the situation; if he can become my subordinate, it would be like adding wings to a tiger for me."

Hou Jun praised Fang Jingcheng.

At that moment, several figures approached.

"Sir, the banquet is set, but the dishes will need at least another hour; shall we let the common folk be seated first?"

A voice sounded, informing Hou Jun of the situation.

"Very well, seat the townsfolk quickly, but do not tell them what they will eat; once the dishes are served, let them experience it themselves."

"Do not make a fuss; give them a surprise."

Hou Jun said with a smile.

Meanwhile, elsewhere.

Having obtained Hou Jun's calligraphy, Fang Jingcheng also came before Gu Jin Nian.

"Lord Hou, the items have been secured."

Fang Jingcheng spoke, producing Hou Jun's personal jade pendant and the calligraphy.

"Good."

"Please, sir, imitate Hou Jun's script and draft a grain requisition letter, stating that the people of Jiangzhong Commandery have received the prince's great benevolence, are thrilled and ecstatic, each one grateful, eager to serve the prince as oxen and horses; Gu Jin Nian is so angry he is ashamed and furious."

"Please, Prince Ning, allocate another 200,000 shi of grain, 3,000 head of cattle, and one million taels of gold, to aid disaster relief and win the gratitude of the countless people of Jiangzhong Commandery."

"Remember, also cut a piece of tattered cloth from each commoner, have several women sew them into garments, and send them to Prince Ning."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; the moment he first saw Hou Jun, he conceived this scheme, which is why he deliberately sent Fang Jingcheng to deliver to Hou Jun—to obtain Hou Jun's token and his calligraphy.

To use this to swindle Prince Ning's supplies.

Although it does not affect Prince Ning's core, for Jiangzhong Commandery, any extra resources are beneficial.

Fortunately, after two days, it was found that the dragon rice the people eat is far less than imagined; the energy contained in dragon rice is abundant.

Daily consumption is about 70,000 shi of dragon rice; a hundred thousand shi of grain suffices for fifteen days.

This is the current grain stock; Gu Jin Nian has already replanted dragon rice within the Shanhe Jinxiu Tu, and used spiritual crystals to accelerate it; when he left the capital, he took a portion of spiritual crystals from Emperor Yongsheng.

According to the current progress, it can ensure Jiangzhong Commandery will not lack Da Xia dragon rice for the next one and a half months.

And with the court's grain transport plus the remaining thirty percent, as well as donations from various quarters, Jiangzhong Commandery can maintain two months without shortage.

For the world at large, Gu Jin Nian should now consider disaster relief, but in fact he is not thinking about relief.

Rather, he is contemplating how to restore agricultural production.

Tomorrow is the most critical moment.

If tomorrow the common folk can support him, the difficulty of Jiangzhong Commandery will be definitively settled.

"Lord Hou is truly wise."

"Just a few words of praise, and Hou Jun becomes lofty, unknowingly falling into a trap."

"Please, Lord Hou, rest assured; I, Fang, will definitely see to it that this matter is handled properly."

Fang Jingcheng praised Gu Jin Nian with a single exclamation, then went to copy Lord Hou's ink traces.

And at this very moment.

Inside the prefectural city.

All of a sudden, tables upon tables were set up, densely filling a previously empty area, and under Lord Hou's orders, several gates at the city entrance were opened.

Now, the swarming masses rushed out; the people who had been queuing all squeezed over, thinking a new queue entrance had been opened.

The first batch of people who grabbed seats were all elated, laughing with mouths wide open.

Those who didn't get seats didn't feel too bad; at least it was far better than the long queue.

It must be said, Lord Hou's move instantly eased the queue pressure considerably.

"Citizens, King Ning has decreed that everyone will eat well and be full; please rest assured and do not crowd."

"Everyone must remember, King Ning cares for the people and does not wish them to suffer; he specially ordered us to set up a feast to aid disaster relief and rescue the populace."

Voices rose in succession, the soldiers wildly praising King Ning.

The citizens didn't know what was happening, but hearing that there was food made them happy deep down, so praises rang out, and such praise made Lord Hou extremely delighted.

As he had thought, if this runs smoothly, it will surely earn King Ning great fame and endless popular support.

Thus, about half an hour later.

Gu Jin Nian's Da Xia dragon rice for the people was ready, but this is, after all, Da Xia soldiers' territory, so Lord Hou could not get too close nor send anyone close.

He could only watch from a distance.

There were no surprises; each person's bowl contained only about three to four liang of rice—perhaps not even four liang, just a bit over three liang, at most a little over one liang.

Honestly, hearing and seeing are completely different concepts; upon seeing this scene, Lord Hou couldn't help but feel moved.

"It seems the scout's words were not false."

"Gu Jin Nian, your approach is indeed correct; the food is scarce, one bite per person, as long as they don't starve to death, it's fine."

"Unfortunately, you have no idea what Jiangzhong Commandery means; if Jiangzhong Commandery falls into chaos, Da Xia will also be in chaos, and the world does not have only King Ning wanting Jiangzhong Commandery to erupt into disorder."

"This time, I seized the opportunity to harvest public opinion, which is also a help to you; after a few good days, once those days pass, you'll know what terror is."

Lord Hou spoke, thinking this in his heart.

However, the soldiers beside him noticed some clues.

"Sir, there seems to be a problem."

"Sir, look, after these people finish the rice, they're all elated, not a hint of discontent, it seems there's no resentment?"

Some soldiers have excellent eyesight; even four or five hundred meters away, they can still see clearly what is happening in the distance.

Hearing this, Lord Hou replied dismissively.

"That's your misunderstanding; are disaster victims still considered civilians? They're starving madmen; Gu Jin Nian may only give them rice, but it's still military rations, whose quality is far better than ordinary food."

"These disaster victims were on the brink of starvation yesterday; today they can have a mouthful of steaming rice, which is already a coveted thing, so how could there be any complaint?"

"Moreover, with a hundred thousand army here, what dare the people say? Who would cause trouble?"

Lord Hou opened his mouth and said thus.

The soldiers, upon hearing, truly found it very reasonable.

"Sir, since the people have no major grievances, perhaps we arrived too early?"

Another soldier continued to ask.

But Lord Hou couldn't help but laugh.

"Wrong. The reason the people have no resentment is because they have never tasted good food; look, what Gu Jin Nian prepared is what?"

"They only eat because they have nothing else; our dishes are delicious, with meat and vegetables, making mouths water; once these people have tasted good food, they'll realize how poor Gu Jin Nian's provisions are."

"Moreover, after the feast, inevitably many people won't get food; then they'll cause a stir, and if that happens, we can send people to spread rumors that the court actually donated a large amount of grain, but some individuals hoarded it."

"No need to slander Gu Jin Nian; just blame his sixth uncle Gu Ningya. Gu Jin Nian may be a saint, but his uncle is not; understand?"

Lord Hou said confidently.

"Understood, you truly are wise, sir."

The soldiers showed smiles.

"How much longer will our feast last?"

Lord Hou wasn't being lofty; he simply asked why his own banquet hadn't been served yet. "Sir, within half an hour it will be ready; the main delay is that we had to prepare it in secret, which caused some trouble. Since you said it should be delivered to the people in one go, it took a bit of time."

The latter spoke up.

"Yes, delivering it to the people in one breath is to create shock; shocking the people makes it worthwhile."

"By the way, dispatch an additional three thousand cavalry to the Sun Official Road to await the current Prime Minister; the court has also heard of this, sending Li Shan to investigate and assigning some men to protect the Prime Minister, which is more appropriate."

Lord Hou spoke, mentioning Li Shan's matter.

Thus.

Time passed bit by bit.

Originally there were ten queues at the prefectural city gate, but with King Ning's men arriving, the queues expanded to twenty, and after half an hour, grew to twenty‑five.

At the banquet, an unknown number of people were extremely lively, all eagerly awaiting the arrival of Da Xia dragon rice.

After waiting a while, these people felt a bit anxious, but then thought they were lucky to avoid the long queue's hardship.

So they said nothing further.

Finally, at this moment, the sound of gongs and drums rang out.

Clang clang clang! Clang clang clang! As the gongs and drums sounded throughout the camp, rows of soldiers quickly appeared, carrying steaming platters of dishes, marching forward.

King Ning's soldiers each wore smiles, their steps orderly, placing the delicious dishes on the tables.

Vinegar‑marinated pork knuckle, red‑braised fish, large bowls of fragrant meat, fried lamb chops, seasonal stir‑fries—numerous delicacies, a dazzling array.

Seeing these dishes, the common folk were actually fine; although it wasn't what they had hoped for, the food was at least a gesture of goodwill.

In the end, each table displayed twelve dishes, both meat and vegetarian, plus two soups. Honestly, such a table in a restaurant would cost at least ten taels of silver.

Especially, the delicacies emitted a strong aroma, and the soldiers themselves were already hungry.

Soon, more buckets of rice were brought over; when the common folk saw the rice buckets, they could no longer sit still, excited beyond measure.

They immediately swarmed around.

"Friends and elders, don't be impatient, don't be impatient. Prince Ning has prepared everything for you; rest assured, there will be more than enough. Eat as much as you can, as long as you don't waste it. Take as many bowls as you want."

The voice rang out. The common folk didn't care about that; each of them only took about three or four taels, fearing they'd eat too much.

However, after the rice was served and before anyone began to eat, many felt something was wrong.

"Something's off, why does this rice taste different?"

"Yeah, this rice is different; it's not even plump, and it lacks any fragrance."

"What kind of rice is this?"

"This isn't Lord Hou's rice."

"Ugh, what rice is this? It tastes bland."

Everyone was looking forward to the arrival of the rice.

But they didn't expect that after serving, not only did it look different, it also lacked fragrance, and most importantly, when it entered the mouth, it had no flavor at all.

In an instant, the previously jubilant crowd fell silent.

"What's going on?"

"It really isn't."

"Isn't there any royal‑supplied rice?"

"Why is it like this?"

Soon, the murmurs grew louder; from the previous crowding, the common folk all set down their bowls and chopsticks, debating something.

"It's over, we've been duped."

"I told you everyone kept lining up here; turns out they're serving this stuff. No good, I'll go back and line up elsewhere."

"Damn it, you really can't be clever; this time re‑queuing will take at least an hour, right?"

"One hour? At least an hour and a half."

"Then what do we do? Should we just make do with a meal here?"

"Fine, you can make do. I won't. Ever since I ate this rice, I can't eat any other rice; it's like chewing wax. It's not just the taste—think about it: even though it's big fish and meat, can big fish and meat boost virility? Can it grant a hundred‑year lifespan?"

"If you put it that way, I'll re‑queue too."

"Come on, come on, I'm not eating, I'm not eating."

In less than a moment, the once bustling venue became rather empty; the common folk swarmed in and then swarmed out.

This left the soldiers maintaining order dumbfounded.

Especially after hearing what they said, they were even more stunned.

Good fellows, even if these aren't rare mountain delicacies, they're still a plentiful feast, right?

As soldiers of Prince Ning, they can only say they eat such a meal once in a while; having big fish and meat every day is unrealistic.

Logically, when these common folk saw the feast, they should have been ecstatic to the point of wailing.

But unexpectedly, each one showed a disdainful look. Brother, you are refugees.

No, you are disaster victims.

"We gave you food to eat, you already have incense burning high; we prepared an entire table of such dishes for you, and you actually despise it? What happened? Why are the common folk leaving? Who is spreading rumors? Who is angering these people?"

"Citizens, what happened? Tell me, and I will give you justice."

At this moment, far away, Hou Jun had already sprinted over; at first he saw the crowd packed together and was extremely excited.

But before he could be happy for even a quarter‑hour, all the common folk stood up; aside from a few who moved their bowls and chopsticks at first, the rest stayed completely still. This made Hou Jun realize something was wrong, and he hurried over, initially thinking it was because some soldier's attitude had angered the crowd.

Hou Jun walked over and blocked the civilians' path.

Seeing someone block the way, the civilians of Jiangzhong Commandery each felt a bit depressed.

But the other party was after all an official, and had also done quite a bit for everyone, so it wasn't appropriate to say anything.

"Sir, we are ordinary civilians; we can't afford such good food, it would be fine to just eat some rice."

"Yes, sir, we lowly folk just need some rice; we can't eat such good stuff, let the military commanders have it."

The civilians still spoke rather politely; after all, the other side had worked hard all day, so it wasn't good to say anything.

Upon hearing this, Hou Jun immediately relaxed, and then spoke up.

"Honored elders, it's fine; the prince just wants you all to eat your fill and eat well, don't be afraid, with us here, no one will cause you trouble."

"If you want to eat, go ahead and eat; we're not like others who only give two or three taels of rice—hurry up and eat."

Hou Jun wore a full smile, still thinking the civilians were afraid.

But it would have been better not to say that; once said, many civilians frowned—they were just being polite to you, never expecting you to be so outright rude, directly mocking Gu Jin Nian?

Gu Jin Nian took the imperial specially supplied rice to feed everyone; although you have big fish and meat, who couldn't afford such things before? Even if you can't eat it every day, having it once every half a month is still possible, right?

Can the imperial specially supplied rice be had even once every half a month?

Not to mention half a month—you can't even get it once a year.

Is there any comparability?

Not saying it out loud is already giving you face, you good-for-nothing; putting on airs is bad enough, but you're also being snide?

Who are you being snide at?

In that moment, the civilians all snorted coldly, then left directly; they would rather wait in a long line than stay here.

Mainly it's because this guy is an official; if he weren't an official, the civilians would probably have already rolled up their sleeves and gotten to work.

The commoners left.

Hou Jun was completely dumbfounded.

Eat!

You all, eat for me!

Why aren't you eating?

Hou Jun really didn't know what to say.

But soon, another large group of commoners arrived, unaware of the truth.

Seeing that commoners had come.

Hou Jun still managed to calm himself a little.

But not long after, the same thing happened a second time.

Again, a large crowd of commoners rushed over to grab things, and their initial target was the rice in the food containers.

Then they left one by one, their faces not looking good.

Few were swearing, after all, the Prince Ning's Iron Cavalry was here, and they didn't dare to curse.

After this situation occurred three times, there were no more commoners behind; they all went to line up, preferring to eat ordinary rice rather than the delicacies they had prepared.

"What on earth is going on?"

"Why won't you eat my family's rice?"

Hou Jun was anxious this time.

"What is the purpose of coming to deliver grain? Isn't it just to gain popular support?"

"But if the commoners don't take it, what popular support can be gained?"

"Sir, what should we do?"

Someone spoke up, asking Hou Jun.

"Go bring a group of people over, give them silver; the commoners probably wouldn't dare to eat, after all there are so many soldiers, it's very likely."

"Tell these commoners that Prince Ning protects them, so no one will cause them trouble."

Hou Jun thought it over and finally believed the commoners were still afraid, so he ordered his subordinates to spend silver to bring people in.

"Yes, sir."

The latter didn't waste words and hurried off to fetch people.

About two quarters of an hour later, those soldiers came over, each with an unsightly expression.

"Sir, these commoners simply won't come, no matter what."

"They won't come even for silver."

The soldiers were also completely baffled: in this famine year, delivering grain and no one wants it? Isn't this just a joke? Not even for silver do they come?

Hearing this, Hou Jun was utterly numb.

However, at that moment, a dozen or so figures walked over, dressed plainly; after arriving they said nothing and directly lowered their heads to eat their meals.

Seeing these dozens of people, Hou Jun was instantly delighted.

"Fellow villagers, elders, look quickly—someone has come to eat! Rest assured, it's fine; these dishes are Prince Ning's token of goodwill, fellow elders, please don't be afraid."

Hou Jun energetically promoted his own food.

"Sir, stop shouting; they won't come."

At the table, the man who was eating spoke up, lowering his voice.

"Why?"

"Then why did you come?"

Hou Jun was completely bewildered.

"Sir, I am one of our own."

"This Gu Jin Nian, Lord Hou, somehow obtained some imperial tribute rice—only two or three taels; after eating it, one is not only not hungry but also full of energy; just this rice is very fragrant, not much inferior to those delicacies."

"Moreover, it can prolong life and increase longevity, enabling a long life; now in Jiangzhong Commandery, who doesn't know about it? More importantly, it can enhance virility."

"These commoners aren't afraid to eat your food; they simply don't want to."

The man spoke, straining to keep his voice low, fearing exposure of his identity.

"Imperial tribute?"

"Impossible."

"The Da Xia imperial household has no such thing; I've served in the Prince Ning's residence for decades and have never heard of anything like this."

Hou Jun looked a bit dazed; he had never heard of any imperial tribute, and if you say this Great Golden Dragon Rice exists...

But Great Golden Dragon Rice absolutely cannot be given to the commoners to eat; eating it will surely cause trouble.

"Then it's unclear."

"Sir, stop shouting; it's useless. Rather than waste this food, let the soldiers eat it together."

The latter seemed to have let go of everything, urging Hou Jun not to struggle.

"Nonsense."

"Da Xia fundamentally lacks such a thing; this must be Gu Jin Nian's trick—claiming longevity and virility, likely just adding something to the food."

"As for satiety and the like, it's probably just a placebo effect."

"I didn't expect Gu Jin Nian to use this tactic; truly hateful."

"Alright, Gu Jin Nian, since you've used this trick, don't blame me for resorting to this measure."

Hou Jun's expression was not good; he roughly guessed something, and thus turned to the soldier beside him and said.

"Quickly have someone inform the commoners that our food here can also prolong life and increase longevity, and also enhance virility."

If you keep spreading rumors, just say that the rice Gu Jin Nian prepared for everyone has some medicine mixed in; after eating it, one's spirit and energy will indeed be full, but it's all an illusion.

Hou Jun spoke up, ordering someone to spread rumors.

By now, he can only do this.

"Useless sir, this rice really works wonders; you wouldn't know."

That person still wanted to continue speaking.

But under Hou Jun's icy gaze, he instantly fell silent and spoke no more.

Soon, those soldiers got to work.

Indeed, better not say it.

As those soldiers went about spreading rumors, quite a few civilians actually came back, most of them having been deceived; as for the claim that Da Xia's dragon rice had problems, nobody believed that.

Whether there's a problem or not, everyone still isn't clear? However, to pull off this deception, at the very least you need something genuine.

Many civilians who had been tricked into coming tried a few bites and each discovered it was no different from ordinary food.

Then, one by one, they got up and left.

No matter how Hou Jun persuaded them, they simply refused to eat.

They not only left, but also secretly told others to stay on guard.

In the end.

Gu Jin Nian's relief team simply couldn't stop.

At the banquet they set up, aside from a few soldiers, there were hardly any civilians.

After a short while, quite a few had gathered.

They were just here because they'd gotten in line.

Hou Jun was truly suffering; he had someone fetch a bowl of rice to see what use it had.

The result was that the Da Xia soldiers directly refused, explaining that these things were for the civilians.

After being refused.

Hou Jun was a bit light‑headed; in the end he simply sat down, picked up a bowl of rice, had all the soldiers sit, and ate in front of those civilians.

He just wouldn't believe it.

With all these delicacies, how could they not compare to a bowl of rice? Thus an extravagant scene unfolded: the Prince Ning's soldiers picked up dish after dish—braised pork, meatballs, mutton chops—making exaggerated motions, smacking their lips.

Taking a bite, they shouted, "Delicious, delicious, truly delicious!"

They were trying to use this method to attract the civilians' attention.

Indeed.

The attention was indeed drawn over.

But most of the civilians' gazes were rather strange.

It was as if they were looking at a bunch of idiots.

"These mutton chops, my goodness, they're so fragrant when eaten, the bones are tender, really fragrant, truly fragrant."

"Oh dear, I took a bite and my mouth is full of oil—how can it be this fragrant?"

"It's really fragrant."

"Fragrant."

"Do you want to eat? If you do, hurry over and eat."

"Hahahahaha."

"Hahahaha."

"This fragrant meat is even more fragrant—people say that rolling fragrant meat makes even immortals unable to top it."

"Top it, it's really great."

"Hahaha, it's really good to eat, hahaha."

"You guys eat."

"All of you, eat for me."

"Why aren't any of you eating?"

"Eat!!!"

Hou Jun gradually lost composure, his movements exaggerated, his voice loud; as he ate and shouted, he eventually lost it completely, bellowing and yelling, wishing he could rush straight into the troops and grab people to eat.

This action made the surrounding soldiers extremely embarrassed, their toes twitching uncontrollably; it was really unpleasant.

"Sir, sir."

"Sir, are you all right?"

"Quick, quickly help the sir back to camp."

Some soldiers seeing this scene immediately stopped Hou Jun, took him away, fearing he had truly gone mad.

"Please, just take a bite."

"Try a bite, please."

"Take a bite, I guarantee you'll think it's a heavenly delicacy."

"Don't stop me, I'm not crazy."

"What are you trying to do? Are you planning to rebel?"

In the end, Hou Jun flew into a rage and was lifted away by three soldiers.

Meanwhile, in the distance.

Inside the army's main camp, Gu Jin Nian watched all this with interest.

However, Hou Jun's collapse was merely an appetizer.

He was even more looking forward to what expression the next group of people would have when the time came.

At this very moment.

Five hundred li away.

A contingent of men and horses was marching toward Jiangzhong County.

The Twelve Scholars of the Censorate.

Li Shan.

And several hundred scholars were seated inside a few wagons.

Inside the leading wagon.

Li Shan's voice rang out.

"After we reach Jiangzhong County, I will keep Gu Jin Nian in check. You will disguise yourselves, infiltrate the county, and interview the common folk about Gu Jin Nian's deeds."

"Remember, question the poorer peasants, and most of them likely won't speak the truth on the first try."

"Ask multiple times, and not just one person—question several people. As long as you find evidence of Gu Jin Nian's crimes in Jiangzhong County, that will be enough."

Li Shan spoke, informing the hundreds of scholars of their mission to Jiangzhong County.

"Understood."

"But Minister, what if we cannot find any evidence against Gu Jin Nian?"

A scholar asked, addressing Li Shan.

"If there is none, shall we forcibly assign a charge?"

"Li Xiang, you have tasked us with searching for Gu Jin Nian's evidence. We will go, but if Gu Jin Nian has done nothing wrong, this Great Scholar will be factual, and you all should be as well."

"If this Great Scholar discovers any bias in this matter, who would dare? Don't blame the Great Scholar for turning hostile."

A voice sounded; it was a Great Scholar. He came not to seek evidence against Gu Jin Nian—he believes Gu Jin Nian—but also to reassure the world.

Some questioned whether this was reasonable.

Investigation suffices.

Be factual.

"That is absolutely correct."

Li Shan spoke, then said nothing further.

He believed this trip to Jiangzhong County would certainly bear fruit.

So it was.

Half an hour later.

They met with King Ning's soldiers.

Someone approached Li Shan directly and reported the matters of Jiangzhong County to him.

"Minister."

"This time we went to Jiangzhong County ourselves and found the scout's report to be accurate. Lord Hou has instructed us to wait here for you, Minister."

Hearing the soldiers' words, Li Shan's lingering anxiety finally settled.

"Very well, the entire army should hasten toward Jiangzhong County."

The next moment, Li Shan issued the order to speed up and head for Jiangzhong County.

At the same time.

Outside the capital of Jiangzhong County.

Zhou Man appeared.

He brought three pieces of information.

First, the initial batch of donated grain from across the lands arrived, a bit more than expected, enough to extend the rations of all Jiangzhong County's people by five days.

Second, the three great families expressed sympathy for the peasants; lacking enough cattle, sheep, and farming tools themselves, they pooled five thousand taels of silver as a donation.

Third, officials have already been dispatched to each region, each prefect gathering a thousand people; barring mishaps, they will arrive at Jiangzhong County by tomorrow noon.

Having received these three reports,

Gu Jin Nian's expression remained calm.

"Send the notice: tomorrow at noon."

"All nineteen prefectures' people, gather within the prefectural city and bring every commoner."

"Tell them that tomorrow I will announce three great joys, claiming to relieve Jiangzhong County's severe drought."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

After saying this, he ordered Zhou Man to leave.

Only after Zhou Man departed did Gu Jin Nian's eyes flash with coldness.

The three great families really gave him a face.

"Five thousand taels of silver? Fine! Since they won't cooperate, don't blame me for not giving them a chance."

"Sixth Uncle."

"Draft a memorial."

"Inform His Majesty that after tomorrow the troubles of Jiangzhong County will be completely settled."

"But I will execute a batch of people to see what the Emperor means."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his tone calm.

Yet Gu Ningya was astonished.

Good fellow.

"You've only been here a few days, and you already claim to have resolved Jiangzhong County's troubles? You haven't done anything."

Aside from treating guests to meals.

Gu Ningya was a bit confused, but he still didn't say a word; he completely trusted Gu Jin Nian.

Only because he's my nephew.

He can create miracles.

Within the large camp.

Gu Jin Nian quietly stared ahead.

He had prepared all the groundwork.

Tomorrow, the win or loss will be decided.

This time's hold.

Ten out of ten.

(End of chapter)