Chapter 190: Da Xia Heavenly Mandate Marquis Gu Jin Nian has come to borrow a rain‑summoning talisman

The thirteenth year of Yongsheng.

July 4.

For three consecutive days, all areas of the nineteen prefectures under Jiangzhong Commandery began a great harvest.

The first batch of Da Xia Dragon Rice that was planted also officially yielded returns.

Inside the prefectural city of Jiangzhong Commandery.

Zhou Man held a register, his voice loud as a bell.

"Huai Ping County, wheat harvest: 38,500 shi."

"Yongxiu County, wheat harvest: 49,200 shi."

"Chunyun County, wheat harvest: 39,985 shi."

As each announcement rang out, the gathered townspeople were already overjoyed.

Although this grain is from other prefectures and counties, no matter what, it means the grain crisis in Jiangzhong Commandery has been completely resolved.

Everyone thought it would take at least three months to harvest wheat, but who would have thought that after just one month they could already reap a bumper crop?

How could they not be delighted?

Finally, after announcing the harvest reports from all areas, Zhou Man turned to the last page and slowly spoke.

"This autumn harvest in Jiangzhong Commandery yielded a total of three hundred million plus forty-eight million six hundred fifty thousand, three thousand two hundred fifty-five shi of grain."

"Last year's total grain production in the commandery was three hundred million plus twenty-four million shi of grain."

Zhou Man spoke, comparing the commandery's total grain income for the whole of last year with this month's income.

"Originally, hearing it didn't feel like much, but now that we've heard this, doesn't it feel obvious? One month's harvest exceeds a year's, and that's even though we haven't fully planted yet—if we did, Jiangzhong Commandery could produce tens of millions of shi in a single month!"

"That's right, didn't the Marquis say that in the future everyone in the Da Xia Dynasty will eat the grain we grow?"

"If everyone eats it, won't the grain price have to be cheap? How could it possibly sell for fifty taels of silver per shi?"

People chattered excitedly, most in joy, but a few chased profit, knowing that rarity drives value—common folk all understand that.

So when hearing that future output would be exaggerated, it was natural to feel some disappointment.

"You're really something—our Jiangzhong Commandery has pulled off such a big feat, with the whole nation, all prefectures and commanderies helping us, we've produced this much grain; what's wrong with selling it cheap to everyone?"

"Yeah, output has already doubled, we've made a tidy profit—do we really have to go for huge profits?"

Most folks are still conscientious; although they were initially happy about Marquis Gu Jin Nian's earlier comment that the grain could sell for fifty taels per shi, they later came to understand.

Grain isn't something that can fetch astronomical prices; now the yield per mu has doubled, and with multiple harvests a year, it only needs to sell a bit above normal rice.

Ten taels of silver per shi already means a good profit—why chase more? Plus, seeing the aid from all regions, the people of Jiangzhong Commandery feel like one family; why act otherwise?

Indeed, once these words were spoken, the mood shifted instantly, and those profit‑seekers dared not speak further, fearing public censure.

"Elders and fellow villagers."

"Don't rush."

"I, the official, will say a few words."

Hearing the crowd's chatter, Zhou Man immediately spoke up, also fearing that they might indeed develop a misunderstanding.

"Elders and fellow villagers."

"The Marquis said he would make our Jiangzhong Commandery the wealthiest prefecture in the Da Xia Dynasty."

"The price of Da Xia Dragon Rice will indeed drop later, but at least the first batch to get rich will still be us; of course, we mustn't forget the aid from other prefectures."

"The Marquis's meaning is that we should first earnestly farm; for the first two years the court will buy our rice at a uniform price to help establish the brand of Jiangzhong Dragon Rice."

"Once other regions plant dragon rice, our Jiangzhong Dragon Rice will never drop in price and will gain fame far and wide; then we'll sell this rice to other dynasties."

"The Marquis said that by then it won't be as simple as selling for fifty taels—no less than a hundred taels per shi."

"Our first choice is our Jiangzhong Dragon Rice, and we'll only sell the inferior grade; the good rice that folks grow will be for their own consumption."

Zhou Man spoke up, also giving everyone a clear path and some hope.

Upon hearing this, the townspeople clapped and cheered; selling to our own people, a high price still feels uncomfortable deep down—we're all common folk, who doesn't know whom? But selling to other dynasties, we don't care if they live or die; if they like it they'll eat, if not they'll pass, and there's no shortage of buyers.

Thus, when this idea was voiced, the people of Jiangzhong Commandery indeed burst into loud laughter.

"Well said—selling to the Xiongnu State, two hundred taels per shi."

"Everyone says the Great Jin Dynasty's rice is good, folks—let's earnestly farm and study our grain, then compare it with the Great Jin's rice to see whose is best."

"Yes, comparing with the Great Jin Dynasty, I refuse to believe that the rice our Da Xia Dynasty produces can't measure up to theirs."

The townspeople spoke while smiling, full of hope for the future.

"Folks, having such thoughts makes the Marquis very happy."

"However, there are a few matters I need to tell you."

"First, from this harvest each household keeps three months' worth for themselves; the rest is all sold to the government, part stored by the authorities and part given to poor households without land."

"As for the price, it's five taels of silver per shi—let's first get past this initial hurdle; this is the Marquis's meaning, and everyone should understand it fully."

"Moreover, this harvest is tax‑free; the folks keep whatever they harvest."

"The second matter is that the Marquis hopes everyone will keep striving; in four months, when it's time to collect the autumn grain tax, the government will still take all the grain directly, but taxes will then be due—the new policy notice has already been posted inside the city gate, and folks can go look for themselves."

"The Marquis's meaning is that after eight months, once we've stockpiled two batches of grain, we can head to the capital—first to make the Jiangzhong Dragon Rice brand resound, second to give our Jiangzhong Commandery a chance to shine."

"To make a stunning debut that shocks the civil and military officials of the court, and also shocks the whole world—that is the Marquis's meaning."

"So, everyone must hold their breath; if we hold it well, in eight months, not to mention Da Xia—won't the states of the Eastern Wilderness be shocked by our Jiangzhong Commandery?"

"The third matter is that the Marquis has already set aside a plot of land to be harvested once a month; the dragon rice from it is suitable for children, the elderly, and pregnant women, while elsewhere, harvesting before four months is strictly forbidden."

"This is an ironclad rule—folks, you must not, for a moment's pleasure, harvest wheat early; do you all understand?"

Zhou Man announced these three matters.

All this is arranged by Marquis Gu Jin Nian.

The first tax‑free harvest is entirely to give the people of Jiangzhong Commandery a sense of security; most now have surplus grain, so they no longer fear what comes after.

However, we also need to take care of some poor households.

The people understand this very well, after all they have suffered disaster, and their sympathy is strong.

And this second matter is what the people of River Middle Commandery care about.

The new tax policy, now that it has been conveyed by all the clan elders, everyone understands, knowing it's a good thing—paying tax according to land area, with nothing wrong; more land means more tax, less land means less tax, which is extremely friendly to many ordinary people.

Everyone also supports it, and it's not hard at all.

Now, with Zhou Man saying this, everyone is truly looking forward to it.

Think about it: if we really wait eight months later, how much grain will River Middle Commandery have stored? If this is turned over as tax, the whole country will be in an uproar.

In the future, whoever sees the people of River Middle Commandery will not fail to shout 'Mighty!' Paying tax, as long as it's not heavy, the people are willing, after all it's also great national strength; if after paying the grain tax we can still put on a show, that would be even more satisfying.

Thinking of this, the people can't help but smile foolishly, really wanting to see the expression of the entire civil and military court when they hear that River Middle Commandery has paid tens of millions of bushels of grain in one go.

It will surely be very abundant.

As for the last matter, the people are even less opposed; harvesting every four months is already not bad, previously it was every five months, half a month farming, half a month replanting.

Now harvesting every four months is quite good; everyone knows that after the dragon rice truly matures in four months, it can prolong life; most importantly, the mature grain can strengthen virility.

This is the core of the core.

So for these three requests, the people are all very willing and directly agreed.

"These are small matters; farming is something we are good at."

"Yes, small matters, small matters."

"I think, not to mention eight months later, Prefect Zhou, you should record the granaries that the prefecture has given us as relief grain; after eight months, each of us will take out a portion and return it to those prefectures."

"And double it, otherwise others might really think our River Middle Commandery is very poor."

Someone laughed and said, proposing that after eight months, each person take out a portion of grain to return to these brother prefectures.

Having become prosperous ourselves, we do not forget our poor brothers.

This proposal, once spoken, received unanimous approval; most people are simple and honest, eating more themselves, they will keep others in mind, without so many ulterior motives; everyone being good is truly good.

"This is good."

"When I return, I will properly record this; then we will select some people to deliver it prefecture by prefecture; this drop of gratitude should be repaid with a spring, everyone, do you agree?"

Upon hearing this, Zhou Man felt especially good; showing off is minor, the main thing is repaying the favor, and also letting the people of Da Xia know that the people of River Middle Commandery each have backbone and remember kindness.

"Whoever helped us, we will help them back."

However, just then, someone suddenly spoke.

"Prefect Zhou, why hasn't the Marquis come?"

As one person spoke, many voices sounded at once, asking why Marquis Gu Jin Nian hasn't come.

Hearing this, Zhou Man gave a bitter laugh and said.

"The Marquis left early this morning."

Zhou Man spoke, explaining thus.

But as soon as he said that, the people fell silent instantly.

However, soon some voices sounded.

"Has the Marquis left?"

"Why did the Marquis suddenly leave without saying goodbye?"

"Yes, Prefect Zhou, why didn't you persuade him? We, the people of River Middle Commandery, haven't properly thanked the Marquis yet, how could you let him leave?"

"Oh dear, Prefect Zhou, how could you let the Marquis leave? We haven't properly thanked the Marquis yet, how could he just leave?"

Voices rose one after another; many people felt uneasy, for in the hearts of the River Middle Commandery people, Marquis Gu Jin Nian is almost a god-like existence; saying he is a contemporary sage is not an exaggeration.

Upon learning that Marquis Gu Jin Nian left without saying goodbye, everyone's mood was still very low.

After all, they really wanted to properly thank Marquis Gu Jin Nian.

Looking at the disappointment in the people's eyes.

Zhou Man's voice involuntarily sounded.

"Fellow villagers."

"The Marquis is not an ordinary person; he differs from other officials, he has a heart for the people."

"The Marquis solved the difficulties of River Middle Commandery, but there are still many matters that need the Marquis to resolve; he did not leave without saying goodbye, but left behind this Da Xia dragon ear."

"The fire in East Forest Commandery caused countless casualties; many places throughout Da Xia need the Marquis."

"Just now I heard someone say that we haven't yet properly thanked the Marquis."

"I have a few words from the bottom of my heart; you may think I am being insincere."

"But these words are indeed my sincere intention; if the people of River Middle Commandery can farm well and feed all the people of the Da Xia Dynasty, solving the fundamental problems of the Da Xia Dynasty,"

"that would be the greatest repayment to the Marquis, and also the greatest thanks."

"Everyone!"

These words, Zhou Man truly spoke from the bottom of his heart, from deep within.

He was completely convinced by Marquis Gu Jin Nian's spirit; in fact, Da Xia has suffered many natural disasters, which cannot be solved by one person alone.

Marquis Gu Jin Nian solved the difficulties of River Middle Commandery; logically, any official would choose to stay here, this tremendous merit—who wouldn't want to monopolize it? Not saying others won't come to seize it, as long as you leave, anything could happen.

However, Marquis Gu Jin Nian had no hesitation; he left cleanly, even himself only realized it later.

He cares nothing for fame; as long as the people live well, everything is not a problem.

The difficulties of River Middle Commandery.

There was no great fanfare, nor the imagined conflict.

Everything Marquis Gu Jin Nian did revolved around the fundamentals.

He appeared during the most turbulent times in River Middle Commandery, stood up when countless people looked bad, and now he has stabilized the situation without any fanfare or embellishment.

Saying they'd go, they just went, truly manifesting the sage's bearing.

Thinking of this, Zhou Man took a deep breath, looked at all the people, clenched his fists, and said.

"Farm well!"

"In eight months, give Da Xia a miracle, give the marquis a miracle; this time, we not only want to bring glory for ourselves, but also for the marquis."

"Let everyone under heaven know that without the marquis, the troubles in Jiangzhong cannot be settled; also let the marquis know that we have not let him down."

Zhou Man spoke, imbuing his words with the strongest emotion.

These words, without stirring emotion or any embellishment, are merely an attitude.

In that moment, all the people present clenched their fists.

Yes.

Eight months later.

Give the Da Xia Dynasty a miracle.

Give the marquis a miracle.

Let everyone under heaven see these countless youths of Jiangzhong.

No one would have thought that Gu Jin Nian's sudden departure would bring what surprise to the Da Xia Dynasty, no one could predict the outcome, but one thing is certain: the united will of the people can move mountains.

Meanwhile, within Flood Water County.

Before a level grave.

Several figures appeared here.

They were the figures of Gu Jin Nian, Li Ji, and Fang Jingcheng.

This is before Wang Wei's grave.

Gu Jin Nian personally offered three sticks of incense; he said nothing, because no matter what he said, it could not express his guilt toward Wang Wei.

This matter, no matter what, was done by Gu Ningya, my own sixth uncle; moreover, if it weren't for me, Wang Wei would not have died; regarding this, Gu Jin Nian keeps it in mind.

"Brother Wang."

"If I become a sage, I will personally write a merit stele for you, so that future generations will know this matter; having thoroughly settled Jiangzhong Commandery, Gu Mou will have the Ministry of Personnel sculpt a merit statue for you."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, saying that he could not repay Wang Wei, and could only do it this way, which also counts as not letting Wang Wei's sacrifice be in vain.

"Brother Wang, the people of Jiangzhong Commandery will no longer worry about going hungry."

"Your wish has been fulfilled; from now on, I will come here every year to see you, so you won't be lonely; your whole family, the marquis has already arranged proper care for them; your descendants will henceforth be my descendants; when they grow up a bit, I will take them in and educate them well."

Fang Jingcheng also spoke; after saying this, he lifted a bowl of wine and poured it onto the ground.

Meanwhile, Li Ji stood silently watching all this, saying nothing.

After half an hour, Gu Jin Nian led the two away from this place.

He was going to East Forest Commandery.

The Qin King has issued nine military reports in a row these past few days, highlighting the urgency of East Forest Commandery.

If it weren't for the unfinished aftermath in Jiangzhong Commandery, Gu Jin Nian would have already gone.

In the imperial carriage, this time Gu Jin Nian did not bring many people, just two hundred imperial guards.

With few people, speed must be greater; two hundred light cavalry raced all the way to East Forest Commandery.

The distance from Jiangzhong Commandery to East Forest Commandery is about 3,400 li; if traveling day and night at this speed, they could arrive the next day.

Meanwhile, inside the imperial carriage.

Fang Jingcheng was also carefully examining some military intelligence, which Gu Jin Nian had given him to read.

This also helps him analyze the situation; otherwise, relying on one person's wisdom would inevitably lead to many oversights.

Wang Wei's lesson is enough for Gu Jin Nian to swallow once; he absolutely does not want to experience it a second time.

All the way until late at night.

After finishing looking at all this period's military intelligence, Fang Jingcheng let out a long sigh.

"Marquis."

"The disaster of Da Xia is far more troublesome than imagined."

Fang Jingcheng spoke, his expression appearing very solemn.

"Jiangzhong Commandery has already been settled by Uncle Jin Nian; what other disaster is there?"

"My father has also stabilized Longxi Commandery, currently handling post-disaster affairs in an orderly manner; although the forest fire in East Forest Commandery has not yet been extinguished, even if we suppose, even if the fire in East Forest Commandery spreads,"

"It's nothing more than losing some mountains and forests, not affecting the court; as for Nan Yue Commandery, at least some people have successfully evacuated; why do I feel that the trouble is greater?"

Li Ji spoke, not meaning anything else; Gu Jin Nian has painstakingly stabilized Jiangzhong Commandery; logically, half of Da Xia's heavenly disasters have already been quelled.

But Fang Jingcheng is still here singing a different tune; how can people accept that?

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, I am not intentionally singing a different tune; it's just that these matters are not as simple as they appear on the surface."

Fang Jingcheng said gently.

"Sir, speak plainly."

Gu Jin Nian looked at Fang Jingcheng, asking him to answer.

"Marquis."

"Longxi Commandery, East Forest Commandery, Nan Yue Commandery, plus Jiangzhong Commandery—four places stricken by disaster, seemingly unrelated, but now it appears they are connected."

"First, let's talk about Longxi Commandery: the earthquake there, houses collapsing is not a big deal; the real trouble is the main road being blocked. Longxi Commandery has a government road that directly connects to East Forest Commandery and Nan Yue Commandery, including Jiangzhong Commandery."

"If Longxi Commandery encounters problems, logistics become hard to guarantee; even if the whole country raises donations and transports grain and supplies, the first batch must go to Longxi Commandery's people, leaving very little for others."

"The most affected is Jiangzhong Commandery; fortunately, His Majesty used the dragon boats and treasure ships, which also counts as solving the urgent need."

"But Gu Mou believes that the reason Longxi Commandery had an earthquake is that someone wanted to force the Da Xia Dynasty to use spirit crystals, which once used are truly gone."

"Of course, this is merely my humble speculation; after all, whether it is a natural disaster or man-made calamity, I dare not recklessly speculate."

Fang Jingcheng spoke up, explaining clearly the influence of Longxi Commandery.

"Mister, continue."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; this point he had also thought of before, and now Fang Jingcheng raised it, which also matched his idea.

"The fire in Donglin Commandery appears to affect Donglin Commandery's people, but actually the impact is on Nanyue Commandery and Jiangzhong Commandery."

"The fire burns, trees turn to ash, these ashes float in the firmament; if there is a strong southeasterly wind, as expected, they will all be blown to Nanyue Commandery and Jiangzhong Commandery."

"The trees of Donglin Commandery, which are often hundreds or thousands of years old, the ash produced by such trees gathers heat; if it all fell on Nanyue Commandery, Heir Apparent's Heir, Marquis, you should know what consequences would arise, right?"

Fang Jingcheng said up to this point and then said no more.

The two almost instantly understood the meaning. If this dust gathered heat and fell on Nanyue Commandery, it would be a boundless calamity—Nanyue Commandery would suddenly be frozen for a thousand li.

It seems like a minor impact, but actually it is the greatest impact; once the glaciers melt and floods spread, that is a huge matter.

Fire, at least once it burns, it's gone.

But flood is terrifying beyond compare, destroying crops, inundating the people, very troublesome.

"What if we extinguish this great fire?"

Li Ji frowned and asked in this manner.

"Extinguishing the fire would naturally be much better, but if this calamity is truly man-made, Nanyue Commandery actually has over a hundred volcanoes."

"If the volcano erupts, it will still cause a flood."

"However, this possibility is not great, after all, making the volcano spew is not something an ordinary person can do."

"But if Nanyue Commandery truly triggers a flood, the affected area will certainly be Jiangzhong Commandery."

Fang Jingcheng said solemnly.

This time Li Ji really didn't understand.

"If Nanyue Commandery suffers a flood, this water doesn't seem to flow toward Jiangzhong Commandery, right?"

"Mister Fang, you can't just forcefully drag up issues like that!"

Li Ji still had a bit of sense and directly pointed out the problem.

But this time, before Fang Jingcheng could answer, Gu Jin Nian's voice sounded.

"Li Ji."

"If Nanyue Commandery has a flood, it affects the Two Rivers' water; when the time comes, the flood will be discharged all the way; even after finally stabilizing the disaster, the Two Rivers' water will be affected, and next year the water flow will surely be scarce."

"Seventy percent of the rice fields south of Jiangzhong Commandery rely on the Two Rivers' water; don't you still not understand?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, speaking lightly.

"This"

Li Ji fell silent.

The Four Great Commanderies suddenly encountered disaster; everyone instinctively thought the disasters were unrelated, but now looking, it can be called a linked control.

Everything's purpose is to prevent Jiangzhong Commandery from producing grain, with earthquakes, fires, and floods.

Link after link, any missing link won't do.

"Fortunately, the Marquis has already stabilized Jiangzhong Commandery's difficulties; Longxi Commandery has the Crown Prince present, which indeed stabilizes much; right now it's just these Donglin Commandery and Nanyue Commandery."

"If handled well, it's merit complete; if not handled well, it cannot shake the foundation of Da Xia; this is a great fortune."

Fang Jingcheng spoke up, he pointed out the problem of the Four Great Commanderies; everything revolves around Jiangzhong Commandery.

However, fortunately, Gu Jin Nian, by means unknown to anyone, stabilized Jiangzhong Commandery's disaster, and the other side's well-laid plans were completely thwarted.

At most it's just letting Da Xia suffer a slight blow.

However, facing Fang Jingcheng's such great fortune, Gu Jin Nian shook his head.

"Mr. Fang, your earlier remarks, I, the Marquis, fully accept them, but you have overlooked some things."

"An earthquake struck Longxi Commandery; regardless of whether it affects Zhongzhong Commandery, houses in Longxi Commandery have collapsed, the people have no shelter, and to rebuild they need the strength of the whole nation—at least three years to help the people of Longxi Commandery rebuild their homes."

"The fire in Donglin Commandery is even more terrifying; firstly, the people of Donglin Commandery rely on the mountains for their livelihood, and all the trees have been destroyed. Even if the people survive, their future existence will be extremely difficult, and they still need the support of the Da Xia Dynasty."

"Furthermore, the Qin King's letter arrived, and the shadow of the Buddhist sect has appeared again; the appearance of the Buddhist sect means that there are resentful spirits in Donglin Commandery. If this problem is not resolved, every place burned by fire will become a gathering ground for lonely souls and wild ghosts, with heavy yin energy, utterly turning into a wasteland."

"A flood disaster struck Nan Yue Commandery; the people of the Two Rivers suffer greatly, but the worst part is the aftermath: fertile fields have been destroyed, and even if the people replant, next year there will be a shortage of water—how can that be resolved?"

"In other words, these four locations have been chosen extremely well; they must have been carefully considered. They can be linked into a line aimed at Zhongzhong Commandery, and each can be picked off one by one, with each location capable of delaying the development of the Da Xia Dynasty by several years."

Saying this, Gu Jin Nian's expression grew even more solemn.

"This heavenly disaster, if there is no accident, is likely aimed at the fortune of Da Xia; any problem in any place will delay Da Xia's pace, and this struggle for fortune has already begun."

"Our Da Xia does not say we will surely obtain the fortune dragon pearl, but at least we have a chance to strive for it."

"But now, someone wants to hold back Da Xia's legs."

Gu Jin Nian understood clearly and expressed his understanding.

"What the Marquis said is correct."

Fang Jingcheng nodded, but that was all he could do, because he had no way to solve it.

Wanting to solve these problems is no longer something that can be done with wisdom alone.

"Uncle Jin Nian, what should we do?"

This time, Li Ji really felt a bit panicked; after all, he claimed he would be the future emperor of Da Xia, and if he couldn't handle this, it would naturally affect him.

"Since we have come, let us settle in."

"The biggest trouble in Donglin Commandery right now is the fire; my relationship with the Immortal Sect is still decent, so if I personally go to borrow a rain-summoning talisman, there might be a chance."

"Furthermore, since the Buddhist sect can intervene, it proves they have a way to resolve it; now the Buddhist sect's qi contest is upon me, they have a way to resolve it, so why don't I?"

"What truly gives me a headache is Nan Yue Commandery."

As for Donglin Commandery, Gu Jin Nian really does have some ideas.

The biggest problem in Donglin Commandery at present is the rain-summoning talisman; Gu Jin Nian also understands why the Immortal Sect is not helping—it's nothing more than wanting to watch from the other shore, waiting for the right moment to act.

If the Da Xia Dynasty manages to get through one difficulty after another, the Immortal Sect will inevitably intervene; they also do not wish to become enemies of the Da Xia Dynasty.

But if the Da Xia Dynasty truly fails, the Immortal Sect will not hesitate to support another group; they hide within the Immortal Sect—could it really be isolated from the world?

Everything is driven by profit.

"Indeed, since the Lord says so, Donglin Commandery is certainly not a major problem."

"This Nanyue Commandery is indeed the biggest hidden danger."

"If we can resolve the Nanyue Commandery, this heavenly disaster will be completely ended, and the Lord's merit will be boundless."

"The Da Xia Dynasty will consequently receive the blessing of Heaven and Earth's qi."

Fang Jingcheng nodded seriously.

"Let's not discuss it now; calculate the time—there are roughly a few more hours before we can reach Donglin Commandery."

"We'll talk when we arrive at Donglin Commandery."

"Ji Er, when you see your second uncle later, be sweet‑mouthed; your second uncle has been irritable lately and might take it out on you."

Gu Jin Nian gave Li Ji a reminder, and after speaking, closed his eyes to rest.

Hearing the term "second uncle," Li Ji still felt a bit fearful.

Thus three and a half hours passed.

Gu Jin Nian's jade carriage indeed arrived at Donglin Commandery.

In fact, before actually reaching Donglin Commandery, the few of them already sensed something: the temperature had noticeably risen, and the sky had turned a dark red.

The farther they went toward Donglin Commandery, the more blood‑red the sky became.

Upon entering Donglin Commandery, few civilians remained in the city; all had been relocated five hundred li away, and most of those left were skilled craftsmen needed to help extinguish the fire.

In the capital of Donglin Commandery, the heavens were blood‑red, low and terrifying; looking up, countless ashes flew across the sky like bats, scattering in all directions.

These ashes were actually even more dreadful.

When they disintegrate in the air, they merge into the atmosphere; the people who inhale this air fill their lungs with filth—light exposure causes incessant coughing, severe exposure leads to dizziness, blurred vision, and even lifelong lung disease.

Therefore, the city's residents wear veils over their faces to block the dust; staying here long still causes problems, so it can only be a temporary measure.

Seeing this scene, Gu Jin Nian understood that relying on soldiers to cut firebreaks was useless; even if the flames were truly extinguished, the dust problem would remain, and within a radius of fifteen hundred li, no one could live.

He could only say that it would not continue to worsen.

"Jin Nian."

"You finally came."

And just a short while after Gu Jin Nian entered the city, a voice sounded from outside.

It was King Qin Li Sui.

"Brother."

Hearing Li Sui's voice, Gu Jin Nian immediately rose from the jade carriage, appearing very enthusiastic.

"No need to come out; we can talk inside the jade carriage."

The next moment, Li Sui leapt onto the jade carriage and pulled Gu Jin Nian inside.

But once inside the jade carriage, the first thing he saw were Fang Jingcheng and Li Ji; Li Sui showed no pleasant expression toward Li Ji, yet he couldn't help looking at Gu Jin Nian when it came to Fang Jingcheng.

"These are my staff; brother, you may speak directly about any matter."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, lest Li Sui overthink.

"Very well."

"Jin Nian, I, your elder brother, will not babble any longer."

"This time you, no matter—"

"There are five fire spots; I've already extinguished two, but the remaining three cannot be put out. Now there is a wildfire in the southeast, each less than thirty li apart. There's no strong wind yet, and even without wind, at most three days."

"After three days, these two wildfires will inevitably collide; if the flames are still strong then, there will truly be no solution."

King Qin spoke; he was genuinely urgent, speaking the truth without holding back Fang Jingcheng.

He also didn't care about Li Ji being present.

"If the two wildfires collide, it is not a bad thing."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up: when the two fire masses meet, it might not be a bad thing; at least everything being burned would be gone.

"No."

King Qin shook his head; his complexion was grim as he looked at Gu Jin Nian and said,

"At first this wildfire was nothing, but later it grew increasingly strange; the flame's heat is such that even a Human‑Dragon Realm cultivator cannot endure it for a quarter hour."

"It is a vengeful spirit! Within Donglin Commandery there are countless spirits and sentient trees; when these spirits and trees are burned by the great fire, they generate resentment that infuses the wildfire."

"If it were an ordinary wildfire, it wouldn't be like this, and there would be no need for you, Jin Nian, to come."

"When these two fire masses collide, they could spawn an even more terrifying flame, and then there would truly be a big trouble."

"If it truly burns in Donglin Commandery, then let it burn; at worst we could just abandon Donglin Commandery. The frightening part is the fire spreading toward Nanyue Commandery, and—"

King Qin spoke, revealing the secret of Donglin Commandery's wildfire.

"Even a Human‑Dragon Realm cultivator cannot resist it?"

This time Gu Jin Nian frowned slightly.

The wildfire's temperature can reach a thousand degrees, but a Human‑Dragon Realm strongman, protected by true‑qi, should be able to withstand it.

If it cannot be resisted, then the flame's temperature would be terrifyingly high.

"Cannot withstand."

"At present, I think that to truly solve this, we must employ a large number of rain‑summoning talismans to first prevent the two fire masses from merging, and then defeat them one by one."

"I've calculated that one hundred rain‑summoning talismans are enough to extinguish the fire."

King Qin disclosed his plan and his required items.

"One hundred rain-summoning talismans?"

"I'm afraid it might be difficult."

"Gu Jin Nian's brow furrowed even tighter."

"Don't even mention one hundred."

"They won't give even a single talisman from the immortal sect."

"I've pretty much seen through this group of immortal sect cultivators, but it's good that you came; you are an immortal spirit root, and also a sage of the Confucian-Dao lineage after the ages, unlike me—I'm just an ordinary prince of Da Xia; it's normal that they look down on me."

"But you, they dare not neglect you, Jin Nian; I have a dragon boat here—hurry up and go to the immortal sect to demand some, at least to suppress things for now; who knows if there will be strong winds later."

"The Qin king appeared somewhat anxious."

"He summoned Gu Jin Nian over, intending to use his special status to borrow some rain-summoning talismans."

"Nothing else."

"Good."

"I'll go shortly."

"But elder brother, what's the situation with the Buddhist sect?"

"Gu Jin Nian nodded; he would naturally go borrow the rain-summoning talismans."

"I just wanted to ask about the Buddhist sect."

"A Buddhist monk came to see me, saying he could resolve this fire; he said the mountain fire harbors vengeful spirits, so the effect of rain-summoning talismans won't be great."

"Only the Buddhist sect's merit golden rain can completely quell this blaze."

"I don't know whether what he says is true or false, but he probably wouldn't deceive me."

"The Qin king spoke up, informing Gu Jin Nian of the Buddhist sect's situation."

"Merit golden rain?"

"Gu Jin Nian frowned; he really didn't know what that was."

"Did you agree to it?"

"Gu Jin Nian asked aloud."

"Definitely not."

"They want the Buddhist sect to station in Da Xia; earlier you went to great lengths, refusing to let the Buddhist sect station in Da Xia—how could I possibly agree?"

"I know a bit about the Buddhist sect's nature; having them act will inevitably entail a greater cost; unless absolutely necessary, I won't agree."

"If you had come three days later, it would probably really be over."

"The Qin king shook his head."

"Mm."

"What's the situation now?"

"Gu Jin Nian continued to inquire."

"The situation is not good."

"Just firefighting."

"Already over nine thousand soldiers have died in the mountain fire, and more than ten thousand brothers have various injuries; the court's dragon boats mainly went to Jiangzhong Commandery and Nan Yue Commandery, so the numbers sent to assist here are few."

"They spent heavily to buy some burn ointment and medicines, barely holding on; other than that, it's left to fate."

"Mentioning this, the Qin king's expression was not particularly good."

"Close to ten thousand brothers died in the mountain fire."

"Moreover, over ten thousand brothers have various injuries; this is only the present situation—if things aren't handled well going forward, troubles will increase."

"I understand."

"Elder brother, don't worry; I'll go to the immortal sect."

"Since no news could be obtained, Gu Jin Nian also didn't want to sit and wait for doom."

"He planned to go to the immortal sect to borrow rain-summoning talismans,"

"Good."

"Good younger brother, if the fire in Donglin Commandery can be suppressed, when I return to the capital I will certainly hold a feast."

"The Qin king said delightedly."

"However, Gu Jin Nian did not respond."

"He stepped directly out of the jade carriage, mobilized his magical power, and flew; in an instant, the Immortal King's jade carriage appeared above the firmament, bursting with countless radiance, taking Gu Jin Nian and vanishing into the horizon."

"The speed of the Immortal King's jade carriage is not inferior to the dragon boat; indeed, it is somewhat faster."

"Watching Gu Jin Nian depart, the Qin king also let out a long sigh."

"But soon, the Qin king withdrew his gaze, looking at Li Ji and Fang Jingcheng inside the jade carriage; Fang Jingcheng had nothing much to say."

"Li Ji, however, had something to say."

"Feeling the Qin king's gaze, Li Ji shrank his neck, then gave an embarrassed laugh."

"Uncle Two."

"He bared his teeth in a grin."

"However, the Qin king grabbed Li Ji's neck in one hand."

"You brat, come over; the logistics wounded are short-staffed—go roll over there and bandage people."

"Don't dream of getting credit without doing work."

"Having said that, he directly lifted Li Ji and headed to the military camp, making him work to bandage the wounded."

"All of this was seen by Fang Jingcheng."

"Although this is arduous work."

But he could also see at a glance that, after all, they were still family; who would really scheme against each other? However, right now it's just a matter of whether Gu Jin Nian can borrow a rain-summoning talisman.

Exactly.

Five hours later.

Supreme Mystery Immortal Sect

Beyond the green mountains and waterfall

Rainbow bridges rose up on all sides.

Immortal cranes flew and danced.

Compared to the miserable state of East Forest Prefecture, this place was like a paradise on earth.

However, just then, a voice shattered the tranquility of the Supreme Mystery Immortal Sect.

"Da Xia Heaven's Mandate Marquis Gu Jin Nian has come to borrow a rain-summoning talisman!"

As the voice rang out, countless gazes instinctively turned outward. —Please vote for monthly tickets, thank you for your support! This chapter was updated on 2020/8/17 at 5:19; for genuine reading, please download the Qidian APP/QQ Reading!

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Please vote for monthly tickets!!! Really sincere, just not feeling well, wife pregnant, hope you understand! (End of chapter)