Chapter 57: Pan Wu Supreme Skill, Jiang Ning County's Rebirth Turmoil 【Ten‑Thousand‑Word Grand Chapter】

Inside the room.

Gu Jin Nian sits in meditation.

Flood disaster in Jiang Ning County.

If it were an ordinary day, Gu Jin Nian really wouldn't think much, after all, to put it bluntly, wouldn't the dynasty need some disaster? The problem is, he almost met with an accident, survived, and immediately Jiang Ning County had another major incident.

For no clear reason, Gu Jin Nian has some associations.

He only thought for a while, but found no clues, because forcing these two events together is rather difficult.

Many key points are missing.

The main reason is still something like a flood; floods have occurred in every dynasty.

Cast aside these distractions.

Uncle Liu was right; when the sky falls, tall people can hold it up.

Indeed, he has no need to overthink.

Moreover, Gu Jin Nian knows in his heart that the old master won't simply let the water incident go, only that there are still no clues.

Now that he is staying at Da Xia Academy, with a quasi-Half Saint stationed there, he truly fears no conspiracies.

Since he won't dwell on that, Gu Jin Nian turns his gaze to the pill in the wooden box.

Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill.

This thing is good.

"The martial Dao line cannot slacken; with this Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill, it's like sending charcoal in a snowstorm."

Gu Jin Nian mutters to himself.

Born into the Gu Family, he learns martial Dao to some extent, but because he's too lazy and his relatives keep making him study literature, he hasn't focused on martial Dao.

Yet his fundamentals from childhood were never neglected; he took medicinal soups and beast blood, never missing those basics.

Now seeing this Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill, Gu Jin Nian understands why he hasn't been diligent with his martial Dao.

With this thing, he truly doesn't need daily pillar‑training; it's a one‑step solution.

He picks up a jade bottle, says nothing, opens his mouth, shakes the bottle, and in an instant a blood‑red pill drops.

The entry is slightly sour; Gu Jin Nian doesn't chew it—any pill is bitter, and chewing would be torture.

The next moment.

As the pill enters his body, a surge of heat instantly radiates from his stomach, and within a single breath spreads to his limbs, making him feel a whole‑body tingling.

Boom.

Before Gu Jin Nian can react, a fiercer wave of heat assaults him.

In an instant, Gu Jin Nian's face flushes red, and his head feels dizzy.

The pill begins to exert power; Gu Jin Nian sits cross‑legged, just as he prepares to absorb its force.

The rolling heat wave instantly disappears into the ancient tree.

Boom.

The third heat wave arrives, directly swallowed mercilessly by the ancient tree, leaving no ripple.

This time Gu Jin Nian is stunned.

"All the pill absorbed?"

"Do you have to be this extreme?"

Gu Jin Nian is indeed a little stunned.

The Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill's effect self‑judges based on the body's absorption capacity; the ancient tree absorbs it cleanly, and the pill releases its effect again.

This repeats nine times.

Gu Jin Nian somehow doesn't practice a single technique, and the pill vanishes instantly.

In its place appears a soon‑to‑be pure‑gold Martial Dao Fruit.

Yet it hasn't fully matured.

Good grief, one Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill still can't become a Martial Dao Fruit.

If this followed the daily pillar‑training pace, wouldn't it take ten years to condense even one? Gu Jin Nian's mind trembles.

Yet he doesn't waste time.

He directly pulls out a second bottle of Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill and swallows it whole.

He wants to see what benefit this Martial Dao Fruit can bring him.

As the second Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill is swallowed.

The golden, radiant Martial Dao Fruit finally matures, and it is perfectly mature.

Two Dragon Tiger Treasure Pills equal one mature Martial Dao Fruit; the cost is truly extravagant.

"Extract."

No idle words; after such a huge investment, Gu Jin Nian wants to see how precious the Martial Dao Fruit is.

As the thought settles.

The Martial Dao Fruit instantly falls, and golden light bursts, replaced by a flood of characters.

【Pan Wu Supreme Skill】

The characters appear, flooding his mind like a divine revelation.

In an instant, Gu Jin Nian is left standing dumbfounded.

The first Martial Dao Fruit grants a cultivation method.

To be precise, it is the Supreme Martial Dao Technique.

A torrent of information floods his mind, and Gu Jin Nian instantly digests it all.

When I woke up again, I was completely stunned.

"It's the Supreme Technique?"

Gu Jin Nian was utterly shocked; the Da Xia Dynasty has no Supreme Technique.

What is the Supreme Technique? Only a cultivation method independently created by a practitioner of the Eight Realms can be called the Supreme Technique.

By means of this method, as long as one grasps Heaven's Mandate, one can certainly step into the Eighth Realm.

The first seven major realms of the martial path are divided into the Mortal Body Realm, Treasure Body Realm, Human-Dragon Realm, Divine Skill Realm, Martial King Realm, Martial Emperor Realm, and Supreme of the Martial Path.

The Mortal Body Realm mainly focuses on nurturing the root and solidifying the foundation.

The Treasure Body Realm involves tempering the flesh so that blades and spears cannot pierce it.

The Human-Dragon Realm is impervious to water and fire, the body like a ferocious beast, resembling a human dragon—truly the elite among elites.

In the Divine Skill Realm, true Qi transforms into divine abilities; killing a hundred‑zhang tall person is as easy as a palm.

The Martial King Realm, a ruler of the martial path, can cut through three thousand armors in a single person.

The Martial Emperor Realm, a sovereign of the martial path, is a peerless master who looks down upon the world.

The Supreme of the Martial Path can sever a river with one finger, split mountains and open rivers, a single person can hold back a million troops, moving freely, overlooking all masters of the world with an invincible bearing.

As for the Eighth Realm, it is indescribable, because there is only one in the world.

And the Supreme of the Martial Path, the Da Xia Dynasty has not a single one; at least none are openly present, and even looking across the world there may be at most one or two.

Upon reaching the Seventh Realm, one completely detaches from the mundane world and pursues higher goals, but there are rumors that any system reaching the Seventh Realm must settle its karmic debts; otherwise, even with Heaven's Mandate's blessing, one cannot attain the Eighth Realm.

The greatness of the Supreme Technique lies in that practicing this method can certainly reach the Seventh Realm.

The prerequisite is that this method bears the counterpart's martial path seal; without that seal it cannot be called the Supreme Technique.

And the cultivation method before me possesses the martial path seal, thus it is the Supreme Technique.

Pan Wu Supreme Technique.

Divided into eight layers.

The first layer is Mortal Body Extreme Force; through cultivation, it condenses extreme Dao power and forges an invincible physique.

Each subsequent layer doubles the strength of the previous layer.

In other words, the stronger the foundation, the more terrifying the later stages.

Moreover, the greatest feature of this method is that it requires no sudden enlightenment; merely energy can enhance oneself.

It perfectly matches my current situation.

The Gu Family truly does not lack this kind of pill.

This is simply a treasure.

A treasure of heavenly magnitude.

Compared with the Gu Family's Zhengyang Great Heart Technique, this is like heaven above and earth below.

Take a deep breath.

Gu Jin Nian strained to suppress his excitement.

This time Gu Jin Nian was quite satisfied with the ancient tree.

After taking a deep breath.

Gu Jin Nian continued to swallow the Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill, anticipating the next fruit.

He swallowed the second and third Dragon Tiger Treasure Pills.

A new martial path fruit ripened again.

Gu Jin Nian was not in a hurry, but kept swallowing the remaining Dragon Tiger Treasure Pills.

Eight Dragon Tiger Treasure Pills were swallowed one by one by Gu Jin Nian.

Again it birthed four fruits.

Counting the previous ones, there are a total of five fruits.

Without a second thought, Gu Jin Nian directly plucked them.

The second martial path fruit fell, but this time it was not a Supreme Technique, but a black pill the size of a dragon's eye.

The pill was black with fine patterns, looking exquisitely beautiful.

【Jiaolong Blood Pill】

The information resurfaced.

It is a pill, a blood pill that strengthens the body, nurtures the root, and enhances martial cultivation.

Moreover, as the information flooded in, Gu Jin Nian learned that this pill has no side effects and is brewed from genuine Jiaolong blood.

Compared with the Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill, it has only benefits and no drawbacks.

The Dragon Tiger Treasure Pill, though bearing the character "dragon," uses not dragon blood but a type of Jiaolong blood, and its main ingredient is still Red Gold Tiger King blood, with very little material.

But this one is truly brewed from Jiaolong blood alone, with no other ingredients.

Thus the side effects are zero.

The third martial path fruit was still a Jiaolong Blood Pill.

The fourth martial path fruit remained a Jiaolong Blood Pill.

The remaining three were all Jiaolong Blood Pills, lacking the martial path divine abilities Gu Jin Nian desired.

But that's not bad.

Two Dragon Tiger Treasure Pills exchanged for one Jiaolong Treasure Pill is definitely a good deal.

"This time I'm rolling in profit."

Gu Jin Nian let out a long breath.

Having been trapped by the ancient tree so many times, now finally some returns, naturally bringing a bit of joy and excitement.

He looked at the five Jiaolong Blood Pills.

Gu Jin Nian glanced at the sky.

It's not yet late.

He simply returned to the bed and began cultivating.

As his intention moved.

The Jiaolong Blood Pills need not be swallowed; they instantly turned into rolling blood Qi, spreading throughout his body.

The terrifying blood Qi, like a Jiaolong roaring inside, made Gu Jin Nian's whole body emit a resonant hum.

His tendons and bones were tempered, and Gu Jin Nian activated the Panwu Supreme Skill to refine this dreadful blood Qi.

In an instant, a furnace of heat gathered in his dantian, refining all the Jiaolong blood Qi cleanly, then feeding it back, causing his mortal body to transform.

It lasted a full hour.

Gu Jin Nian refined all six Jiaolong Treasure Pills.

And his physique underwent a qualitative change.

His body was as iron, his bones as steel, blood Qi roiled violently, and even his breathing was filled with power.

"Just a single hour, and such a massive change occurred."

"My current strength is likely stronger than the Physical Body Realm Great Perfection."

"And for the Panwu Supreme Skill, this is merely the beginning; if the first major Great Perfection is achieved, its power alone should not be weaker than that of a Treasure Body Realm warrior."

"It may even be simply strong, not weak."

Gu Jin Nian carefully sensed his own power and made a judgment.

After a while, he continued murmuring.

"One must still conceal one's martial prowess; the world knows my martial level is average and I need a master to protect me."

"If a thief truly intends to harm me, I can only let someone of low level get close, then ambush them."

"If that day truly comes, I shall give him a surprise."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

Of course, he did not rule out that the True Sect might send top experts to assassinate him, though the chance was slim.

"After all, why kill me when they're full and idle? If they want to kill, they'd target the Crown Prince; toppling a Gu Family member means nothing."

He exhaled a breath of foul Qi.

Gu Jin Nian thought so.

He looked around his body, finding no impurities forced out, nor any classic foul odor, leaving Gu Jin Nian somewhat unsatisfied.

But then he thought, having been steeped in beast blood since childhood, a bowl of medicinal broth wouldn't force out any impurities.

And at that moment,

footsteps slowly approached.

About ten zhang away, they walked toward him.

This is the benefit of the physique transformation; the six consciousnesses were greatly enhanced, and before this, unless someone stood at the doorway, Gu Jin Nian could not hear them at all.

Bang bang.

"Brother Gu, it's me."

The next moment, a voice sounded.

It was Wang Fugui's voice.

"Enter."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, and also stepped down from the bed, putting on his shoes.

Soon, Wang Fugui pushed open the door and said to Gu Jin Nian,

"Brother Gu, the new students have gone to the Holy Hall; shall we go? It seems a few scholars are there as well."

Wang Fugui invited Gu Jin Nian to attend the Holy Hall.

The so‑called Holy Hall is the central area of the courtyard.

It is a place for gathering to discuss studies; some scholar Great Scholars occasionally go there to expound reading principles.

"Everyone gone?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Yes, all went. Brother Su asked if you'd go; if you don't, he won't."

"Alright."

"Let's go take a look."

Gu Jin Nian didn't think much and agreed outright.

Wang Fugui smiled and immediately led the way.

They left the room, went straight to find Su Huaiyu; after Su Huaiyu emerged, the three walked side by side toward the interior.

He had to admit it felt like school days—just arrived at university, made a few friends, and they all went out together.

Gu Jin Nian truly never expected that one day he could relive such academy life.

After only a few steps, he ran into several acquaintances.

It was Xu Ya and three others.

Three Buddhist disciples were also with them.

There were also three Buddhist disciples by his side.

"Brother Su, Brother Wang."

"Brother Su, Brother Wang."

Upon seeing Gu Jin Nian and the other two, Xu Ya was very enthusiastic, greeted everyone, and then quickly walked over, saying.

"Are you all also going to listen to the Holy Hall?"

Xu Ya was very enthusiastic, outgoing in nature, just like Wang Fugui.

"Yes."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, his gaze involuntarily flicking to the three monks, after all they were rather eye‑catching.

"Then it's perfect—we can go together."

"By the way, let me introduce you."

"These two are senior monks of Xiao Yuan Temple, Jue Xin and Jue Ming; this one is a lay disciple of Xiao Yuan Temple, Miss An Ran."

Xu Ya, still enthusiastic, went on to introduce the three people's identities.

"Namo Amitabha Buddha."

"The young monk has seen the three benefactors."

The three opened their mouths and pressed their palms together, appearing very sincere.

A voice rang out.

Wang Fugui also pressed his palms together, but Gu Jin Nian merely responded with the Confucian‑Daoist courtesy, while Su Huaiyu only gave a nod.

He exuded a high‑cold aura.

However, the three monks showed not the slightest irritation; on the contrary they were calm and composed.

"Patron Gu, I learned a few days ago that you authored a timeless piece; the young monk greatly admires it and wonders if it could be borrowed for reading."

At this moment, Jue Ming's voice sounded.

He was the eldest among the three, his gaze slightly wooden, looking at Gu Jin Nian.

Before Gu Jin Nian could speak, Su Huaiyu's voice involuntarily rang out.

"The article concerns Da Xia state policy and may not be borrowed; the Emperor has issued a decree."

He spoke lightly, seeming to have some objections to the Buddhist sect, and directly turned Gu Jin Nian down.

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian simply nodded gently, not needing Su Huaiyu to say that he wouldn't produce it.

That article had already been presented to his own uncle; not to mention the senior monks of Xiao Yuan Temple, even if the head of Xiao Yuan Temple arrived, he could not hope to see it.

Even the Ministers of the Six Ministries have no right to view it.

It's not for other reasons; such material is only for a select few, involving national affairs—how could it be mishandled? "Understood."

"The young monk overstepped."

The latter nodded, not angry, still wooden.

"Heir apparent, please forgive; my senior brother's nature is just like that, a great lover of Confucian studies."

Jue Xin spoke, smoothing the situation.

"Rest assured, Brother Gu's disposition is magnanimous; he will not hold a grudge."

"Everyone, let's go; don't miss Master's sermon."

At this moment, Wang Fugui also stepped out, laughing cheerfully and smoothing the atmosphere.

Everyone nodded in succession, said little, and proceeded together.

However, although the three parties seemed harmonious, each kept its distance.

Four from Xu Changge, three with Gu Jin Nian, three from Xiao Yuan Temple.

Having just met, they could not become intimate instantly; if not for Wang Fugui and Xu Ya, the situation would be even more bland under normal circumstances.

"That's quite normal."

Anyone who can enter Da Xia Academy is not a mere mortal; who would submit to whom? Who would think themselves inferior? Even Wang Fugui has pride, but he comes from a merchant background, making his dealings more smooth.

The few walked forward, very calmly.

A lone figure swiftly swept past the group.

The crowd looked.

It was the son of the Night Robe Marquis.

Seeing him, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but be curious.

"A son of the Night Robe Marquis, why are you dressed so plainly?"

This is the truth: within Da Xia, the title Night Robe Marquis is thunderously renowned; among dukes, the Duke of the State ranks first, and among marquises, the Night Robe Marquis is truly the top.

He is a close confidant of my uncle, even a confidant among confidants.

Such a high‑ranking ministerial figure, even a dog of the Night Robe Marquis' household should be decked in gold and jade; why is his own son like this? Hearing Gu Jin Nian's doubt, Su Huaiyu answered immediately.

"He is the eldest son of the Night Robe Marquis, but born of a concubine, a maid's child, and naturally weak, not favored by the Marquis."

"Within the clan his treatment is abysmal, disliked by everyone; however he possesses some literary talent, gaining admission to Da Xia Academy, which shocked the entire marquis household."

"If not for the heir apparent's overwhelming brilliance, his reputation should have ranked first in this admission."

Su Huaiyu slowly spoke, revealing all information about Jiang Yezhou.

It made the crowd gasp.

No one knows why Su Huaiyu seems to know everything.

Nevertheless, the others looked at her with slight regret.

The marquis' household runs deep as the sea.

In such a place, those favored rise high; even a servant, if appreciated by the marquis, can walk with impunity.

But if despised by the marquis, even a biological son will be met with cold eyes.

There is no exaggeration.

Yet, compared with others' regret, a spark of light flickered in Gu Jin Nian's eyes.

"A maidservant's child, born of a concubine, not well regarded, yet makes a name at the academy?"

"Isn't this a textbook big‑villain template?"

Gu Jin Nian clicked his tongue.

With this kind of setup, if he's not the protagonist, he'll surely become a major villain later.

The kind that falls into the demonic path.

"We could bring him onto our side."

"No matter what happens later, getting into Da Xia Academy is certainly extraordinary; if he truly becomes a villain, this favor will still protect me, and if he doesn't become a villain, it's no loss."

Gu Jin Nian had many thoughts swirling in his mind.

Meanwhile, Wang Fugui, sitting nearby, noticed a flash of light in Gu Jin Nian's eyes and couldn't help asking curiously.

"Brother Gu, what do you think of this person?"

Wang Fugui asked out of curiosity.

"The future looks promising."

Gu Jin Nian replied calmly, without any concealment.

"The future looks promising?"

"Brother Gu, can you still use the Qi‑gazing technique?"

Wang Fugui was curious, and so were the others.

Even though Jiang Yezhou's debut was striking, calling his future "promising" still feels oddly overstated, doesn't it? "It's not the Qi‑gazing technique."

"It's simply that Gu has read some books which state that the harsher one's fate, the more likely their future will be meteoric."

Gu Jin Nian said calmly.

When he said that, the others were still a bit puzzled.

But Jue Ming's voice rang out.

"Just like the cycle of cause and effect, suffering in a past life leads to awakening in the next."

Jue Ming echoed, sounding even more lofty.

"Brother Jin Nian, if my fate is also bitter, is my future promising?"

At that moment, Zhao Siqing sprang up again.

She asked Gu Jin Nian.

"You can't."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head outright.

"Why is that?"

Zhao Siqing was curious—without even asking where her own fate was bitter, she just said she couldn't? Not just Zhao Siqing, everyone was curious.

Gu Jin Nian remained calm, gazing at Jiang Yezhou's figure, and slowly spoke.

"This is a male‑oriented novel."

His voice was utterly calm.

But the others were each stunned.

They couldn't understand Gu Jin Nian's words at all.

What does that even mean? Gu's gibberish?

Just as Zhao Siqing was about to continue asking, the group had already arrived at the Listening Hall.

The clamor also rose at that moment.

Inside the Listening Hall.

Hundreds gathered here, and the sound of arguing was continuous.

"The flood disaster in Jiang Ning Commandery has broken out; rescuing the people should be the primary focus, while suppressing the water demons should come later; we cannot make that the main task, otherwise if a rebellion occurs, it will cause a massive upheaval."

"Indeed, aiding the people should be first, but Jiang Ning Commandery's terrain is complex with many waterways; if we don't curb the water demons and let them wreak havoc, destroying the channels, that would be a true catastrophe."

"Therefore, subduing the demons should be primary, disaster relief secondary."

The dispute was extremely heated.

Listening to the debate, Gu Jin Nian and the others stood on the outer ring, not getting involved, merely watching the spectacle.

"Can't we handle demon suppression and disaster relief together? Why is this being contested?"

Wang Fugui, standing nearby, spoke, full of doubt.

"Before troops move, supplies go first; disaster relief isn't the tricky issue, but floods have always been the deadliest, and the court can send few officials."

"More reliance is on local troops; if we subdue the demons first, the local forces must cooperate in the encirclement, whereas if we focus on relief, they must maintain order, open granaries, distribute food, and watch for sudden changes."

"These two tasks are inherently simultaneous; the dispute is over which should take precedence."

Someone spoke up, offering an answer.

Wang Fugui nodded after hearing, seeming to understand.

"Brother Gu, which do you think should come first, disaster relief or demon suppression?"

He asked, somewhat curious.

"Capture the king before the thief; if we can swiftly eliminate the demons, that's ideal, but if we cannot suppress them quickly, disaster relief is better."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; this was his view.

"The common folk are important, but solving the calamity first is better; flood control and relief are paramount, yet we can't stand continuous sabotage."

"Brother Su, what do you think?"

Wang Fugui asked aloud.

"Either works."

Su Huaiyu said calmly.

Still maintaining a cold, aloof demeanor.

At this moment, a voice suddenly rang out.

"In truth, no matter how you spin it, this monster is detestable, stirring up trouble; it deserves ten thousand deaths."

"However, the court has already dispatched Great Scholars and the elite of the Lantern Department to capture the monster; they say a party was sent half a month ago, yet why hasn't the monster been caught up to now?"

Someone spoke up, breaking the dispute, and pointed the blame at the elite of the Lantern Department.

The words were spoken.

Indeed, they drew many people's agreement.

After all, the dispute goes round and round, and the root cause is not here; if it were a normal flood, that would be a natural disaster, an unavoidable matter.

But when a monster wreaks havoc, it's a different story.

Upon hearing this…

Su Huaiyu's voice rose involuntarily.

"Ignorant."

His voice was not loud, yet it reached everyone's ears.

In an instant, hundreds of gazes fell upon Su Huaiyu.

There were doubts, frowns, and some displeasure.

"Monsters are born powerful beyond measure; one that can stir up such trouble already qualifies as a great monster."

"Such a monster, its body stretches a hundred zhang, its divine power unmatched, hidden within the great river; even the strongest Martial King would not dare to contend with it."

"Even if we summon the Martial Emperor, the monster roams freely in the great river, shielded naturally; if true danger arises and it dives into the deep sea, can we even find it?"

"Court warriors risk their lives to slay monsters and exorcise demons, yet in your mouths they become this sort of thing."

"If you all are dissatisfied, you may go to Jiangning County yourself; not to speak of slaying monsters, I fear you'll tremble in terror at the sight of the monster."

Su Huaiyu opened his mouth.

This was Gu Jin Nian's first time seeing him speak so much, and with a hint of anger.

The words were spoken.

Most people fell silent; the small group of slightly accusatory scholars from earlier now also seemed at a loss for words.

"I have not yet entered the Great Scholar realm; if I become a Great Scholar, what fear do these petty monsters hold for me?"

The other side was being stubborn, not out of disagreement but because being publicly rebuked felt unpleasant.

"Do you even deserve it?"

Su Huaiyu's voice was calm, his eyes showed no contempt, still calm.

"You."

The latter felt uneasy, and just as he wanted to retort, someone beside him grabbed him.

"That guy is from the Ministry of Justice, his martial prowess is great; do not provoke him."

A voice rang out.

It instantly cooled the latter down.

"Fine, a gentleman does not stand beneath a dangerous wall."

"Enough."

"Do not argue any further."

"Today I, the old man, pose this question only hoping you all will care about the affairs of the state."

At that moment, a master spoke.

He halted the argument.

Then the master stood up, looked at Gu Jin Nian and said.

"Gu, my junior friend, do you still remember the old man?"

The elder rose and laughed.

"Student Gu Jin Nian has met Master Chen."

Seeing the other, Gu Jin Nian instantly understood this was the master from the first stage of the entrance exam.

"I never expected you, Gu, my junior friend, to still remember the old man."

"Truly, it is the old man's fortune."

"But junior friend, do not address me as master; I am only a year or two older. In terms of talent, you have produced timeless essays, which is truly admirable."

Master Chen felt somewhat honored, after all Gu Jin Nian still remembered him.

To be honest, Gu Jin Nian, being the grandson of a duke and having written timeless essays, is a person whose arrogance, however strong, is understandable.

Such affable humility makes people feel even more goodwill.

"Oh? Is this Gu Jin Nian?"

"I've heard of you for a long time, long time."

"Indeed, a truly outstanding talent."

"Junior friend, come sit quickly; you are worthy of sharing a seat with us."

Hearing the name Gu Jin Nian, the other masters rose one after another, their eyes filled with surprise and curiosity.

"Esteemed masters, you are being modest."

"Master Chen's words are even weightier; though the student's essays are good, once entered Da Xia Academy, he remains a student."

"Since he is a student, you masters are teachers; Jin Nian must not overstep."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

"The other party values talent, but Gu Jin Nian understands propriety even more; put bluntly, you give me face, I give you face."

"Indeed."

"Upon hearing these words, several teachers' eyes lit up, and they grew even fonder of Gu Jin Nian."

"Young friend Jin Nian, you are truly extraordinary; nowadays rumors run rampant in the capital, truly hateful, and upon seeing you today, I, the old man, feel deeply ashamed, almost taken in by the rumors."

"Yes, I never expected Young Friend Jin Nian to be so humble; within Da Xia's borders recently there really have been many people spouting nonsense, and it seems necessary to ask His Majesty to conduct a strict investigation."

"Rumors are fearsome, many mouths can melt gold; fortunately Young Friend Jin Nian pays no heed to right and wrong, truly precious."

"Several teachers spoke up in turn, praising Gu Jin Nian to the heavens."

"After all, Gu Jin Nian's conduct is exactly that of a model student; though previously framed, he did not make a fuss but instead studied diligently, ultimately achieving a stunning breakthrough."

"Despite being a noble, he shows no arrogance or bullying, being respectful and courteous; this is practically the template of a perfect student."

"As for the previous commotion, in their eyes it was merely child's play."

"Those around also showed envious looks."

"Especially some of the students who had just been arguing nonstop."

"Why were they arguing so fiercely? Wasn't it just to show off in front of the teachers? But what was the result?"

"Gu Jin Nian didn't say a word, yet as soon as he spoke up he was lavishly praised."

"On what basis?"

"Is it because he's handsome?"

"All the teachers have praised."

"Gu Jin Nian smiled, not feeling embarrassed, because what was said was quite reasonable."

"Young Friend Jin Nian, what do you think should be emphasized regarding this Jiang Ning Commandery flood disaster?"

"At this moment, a teacher spoke up, happen to ask Gu Jin Nian, which also serves as a test of him."

"The voice sounded."

"Everyone turned their gaze to Gu Jin Nian."

"They also eagerly awaited what wisdom this great talent would utter."

"Replying to the teacher."

"The student believes that the crux of the flood disaster lies in people."

"The court has already sent people to suppress the water demons; even if the monster is full of tricks, it will be restrained to some extent."

"Thus the focus remains on the populace, and for the people, grain always comes first."

"Rather than saying we should emphasize that side, it's better to say what is most important."

"As long as grain supply is sufficient, the problem won't be too great."

"Gu Jin Nian spoke up; this is his view, not particularly original, yet it hits the core."

"Several teachers nodded in agreement."

"Indeed, whether it's disaster relief or suppressing demons, the key lies in people; as long as we don't provoke a popular uprising and don't let the situation worsen, gritting our teeth will see us through the calamity."

"And the root of popular uprisings is grain."

"If one is fed, there's nothing to worry about; one can rebuild one's home."

"If one is not fed, life is gone; who has the leisure to listen to your this and that?"

"Jiang Ning Commandery's grain stores are ample, famed as a land of fish and rice; the student has had the fortune to visit Jiang Ning Commandery, where rice merchants are many; even if the government's reserves are insufficient, relying solely on these merchants' stockpiles could see us through."

"According to Brother Gu's meaning, are you saying that this flood disaster is merely a false alarm?"

"At this moment, another voice sounded; though it seemed like a question, its essence carried a hint of argument."

"For such a major matter, hearing it from Gu Jin Nian's mouth makes it seem like no big problem; how could this not provoke controversy?"

"More or less so."

"However, I just fear that someone might hoard grain for profit."

"Gu Jin Nian answered calmly, because the fact is exactly so; with sufficient grain, everything can be discussed."

"People in feudal society are easily satisfied; if they are fed, there's no trouble."

"Looking through history, basically every dynasty's collapse isn't due to the people's inability to make a living."

"Of course this has little to do with the court; mainly it's due to weather problems."

"Yes, weather problems."

"Temperatures rise, rainfall diminishes, no bumper harvest, grain output drops, yet tax revenue does not fall; the resulting chain of reactions, when combined, becomes the main cause of dynastic collapse."

"Otherwise, relying on personal strength, what great corrupt officials or villainous ministers could hope to topple a dynasty? That is pure fantasy."

"Were Yan Song and He Shen Wei Zhongxian corrupt? Yet the dynasty did not perish at their hands."

"Of course this logic, Gu Jin Nian certainly cannot explain in detail; mainly these people cannot comprehend it."

"Those who understand, understand; that's enough."

"Hoarding grain for profit?"

"Brother Gu's meaning is, you fear that local merchants might hoard grain and sell it at high prices?"

"Someone spoke up, asking directly."

"We cannot rule out that possibility."

"Gu Jin Nian's tone remained calm."

"Who has the gall? If anyone truly dared to do that, they'd be beheaded straight away."

"The voice sounded, coming from a military officer thereafter, whose temper was also extraordinarily fiery."

"Yet these civil officials afterward furrowed their brows, obviously dissatisfied with such a handling."

"At such a time, do these merchants dare to act thus?"

I feel that Brother Gu's words are somewhat unreasonable.

The other party continued speaking, thinking, who would dare to mess around at this critical juncture? 'Ah, yes, yes, yes.'

Gu Jin Nian gave a slight smile and nodded directly.

Being able to say this proves that this guy is a bookworm.

Since childhood, he has worn gold and silver, accustomed to a good life.

Merchants pursue profit; as long as the return is high, there's no need to talk about this critical juncture.

If they encounter someone bold, the Imperial Forest Army goes in the morning and the entire army is wiped out by afternoon.

If the emperor goes during the day, by night he becomes a retired emperor.

You should know that if this actually happened, it absolutely couldn't be just one or two merchants; all merchants would raise prices, band together, and under the drive of profit form a huge network of relations.

Let those above keep silent, and let those below be unable to speak.

Unless the emperor dares to offend this group of aristocratic clans, otherwise don't even think about gaining any monetary benefit.

After all, trade is free.

If you really insist, they'll just say, 'I also want grain; I don't want to sell; can I just eat it myself?'

Just stand firm, spend a bit more silver, let these scholars attack the court, curse you as a tyrant, see if you can tolerate it—killing them all outright isn't out of the question.

If you kill them like that, the problem is solved, but what trouble does it bring? These merchants would be panic-stricken, and you'd kill anyone who doesn't obey?

Who would dare to do business? The aristocratic clans would definitely be the first to stand up and curse in the streets.

If such a force bands together, what can the emperor do? At worst, just replace him—so what? The Taizu's rebellion had their backing; you, Yongsheng Emperor, could succeed in rebellion—don't they have support behind you?

Today we can support you to the throne; tomorrow I could support another vassal king to seize your throne.

The words may be harsh.

But this is the fact.

Moreover, this is superficial; if we look more closely, it's even simpler.

When merchants raise prices, the Yongsheng Emperor immediately orders a crackdown.

The edict was issued an hour ago.

Within an hour, the Ministers of the Six Ministries, the Empress, and some beloved concubine would come running, either to offer advice—after all, these merchant chiefs contribute a lot of silver each year to these people—or to tell you, Your Majesty, you can't kill them, don't you remember so-and-so, who is also your nephew?

The final result is very simple.

The edict was withdrawn, then a few unlucky fellows were beheaded to warn others; immediately after, the court allocated funds, letting these merchants slightly lower prices, with the court subsidizing, focusing on disaster relief.

In the end, the aristocrats made money, the court lost money, and the tenacious disaster victims survived.

They might even harbor resentment.

This is the essential problem between imperial authority and the aristocracy, which can be projected onto any matter.

There will be absolutely no sense of incongruity.

So, when this guy can say that it's impossible...

Gu Jin Nian then knew that this kind of person is still young.

Besides, at seventeen or eighteen, they're indeed still in the phase of adolescent fervor and naivety, always thinking everything is beautiful.

"Brother Gu, what do you mean by that?"

The other party continued looking at Gu Jin Nian; although Gu Jin Nian answered 'yes, yes, yes,' he felt it was perfunctory.

"It doesn't mean anything."

"I just feel you're right."

"You're great."

"The future of Da Xia rests on you."

Gu Jin Nian wore a serious expression.

He didn't feel the other party was wrong.

Right, that's it.

This also won't do?

"You."

The latter clenched his fists, feeling inexplicably uncomfortable.

"Brother Zhou, don't get angry; Su Huaiyu is on very good terms with him, be careful."

Someone spoke up, pulled the other party aside, and gave a kind reminder.

The latter felt displeased, but after looking at Su Huaiyu's calm face, he ultimately lowered his head and stayed silent, swallowing his resentment.

Watching these strands of resentment surge forth.

Gu Jin Nian didn't want to offend people too much.

So he also didn't continue saying anything.

Just then.

A figure hurried over, a master, who passed through the crowd and whispered into Master Chen's ear.

"Jiangning Commandery has had a major incident."

"All major waterways have burst, mountain roads have collapsed, a major incident has occurred."

"Li Ru has ordered us to hurry to the great hall to discuss."

His voice sounded.

Master Chen's face changed instantly.

He then rose to his feet and gave the other masters a glance.

"You may continue discussing; I have important matters and will take my leave first."

Master Chen spoke up, not caring about the onlookers' gazes, and directly led the people away.

"Master, go slowly."

Everyone spoke up at once, but each pair of eyes was filled with curiosity, not knowing what had happened.

As for Gu Jin Nian, his physique had transformed, and he heard everything clearly.

His expression involuntarily changed slightly.

All the waterways burst, the mountain roads collapsed—this is no small matter.

Just waiting for Master Chen and the others to leave.

Everyone also dispersed.

Gu Jin Nian stood silently to the side; after a while, he also followed the crowd back to rest.

"Brother Su, do you have a map of Jiangning Commandery?"

On the way back, Gu Jin Nian looked at Su Huaiyu and asked.

"None."

However, Su Huaiyu shook his head.

"But I know it's there."

But Su Huaiyu gave another answer.

"Where?"

"The Ministry of Punishments."

The latter spoke slowly.

"The Ministry of Punishments?"

"Can you get it?"

Gu Jin Nian continued to ask.

"They won't let me go."

"But if you want it, I can go steal it."

Su Huaiyu said calmly.

In an instant, everyone fell silent.

What a partner.

Go steal from the Ministry of Punishments?

You're truly ruthless.

"Forget it."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; although Su Huaiyu acts strangely, going to the Ministry of Punishments to steal is practically suicide.

Just after a while.

Gu Jin Nian suddenly thought of something, and involuntarily looked at Su Huaiyu.

"Have you seen it then?"

He continued to ask.

"I have."

Su Huaiyu replied.

"Can you draw it?"

Gu Jin Nian was a bit curious.

"I can."

Upon saying that, everyone fell silent again.

Gu Jin Nian became even more silent.

This guy's got a problem, huh.

If you can draw it, why would the first idea be to steal?

Just say you can draw it, wouldn't that work?

But it seems we've grown accustomed to Su Huaiyu's way of speaking.

Gu Jin Nian didn't dwell on it.

"Help me draw it."

"I'm busy."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up.

Although Jiangning Commandery has nothing to do with me, the court is full of talent, but national affairs still need to be studied; if there is a good solution, I can give it to my father.

This would also help my father boost his political achievements.

Of course, Gu Jin Nian had no confidence in his heart.

All we can say is to give it a try.

"I'll give it to you at midnight."

Su Huaiyu nodded, giving a time. —Recommending a good book, quite enjoyable.

"Younger brother, if you cause trouble again, I, the older brother, will seize the throne."

Works of the same type.

To be honest, mainly because I'm afraid everyone will get bored waiting for updates, it's better to go read what others have written.

If they write worse than me, you'll know how good I am.

If they write better than me, you'll know my updates are more frequent than theirs.

Correct.

There's another matter.

That is, a ten-thousand-word chapter; I can actually write it, and I write it more smoothly.

But I'm afraid that as I write, it might turn out a bit watery.

Let the readers judge for themselves.

Because it's a ten-thousand-word chapter, the train of thought remains uninterrupted.

Writing in three-thousand- or five-thousand-word chapters would break the train of thought; often after finishing a chapter, the next one would need constant brewing.

Everyone, please feel it.

In the comments here, should we continue with ten-thousand-word chapters, or switch to three-thousand-word chapters?

(End of chapter)