Chapter 62: Half‑Saint Stuns All; This Scheme Can Quell the Jiangning Disaster
Accompanied by Gu Jin Nian's voice, it rose.
The crowd couldn't help but be startled.
They turned their gaze.
Then they breathed a sigh of relief.
To be honest, now everyone fears that if Gu Jin Nian writes something, it will summon all sorts of anomalies.
After a quick glance revealed no anomalies, they finally breathed a sigh of relief.
If another anomaly appeared, they'd have nothing to say and would skip reading the book and go home directly.
The reason is simple: being with such a genius is too stressful.
"Sir."
"Finished writing."
Looking at the strategy article before him, Gu Jin Nian breathed a sigh of relief.
Gu Jin Nian had already had ideas about the matter of Jiangning Prefecture.
What is the key point of Jiangning Prefecture? Food, of course.
As long as there is ample food, everything ceases to be a problem.
The Black Flood Dragon has already been suppressed.
This means external factors are settled; now the focus is internal factors.
The court's grain shipments cannot get in, and someone is covertly fanning the flames, trying to incite a rebellion and gather the populace at Jiangning Prefecture.
Jiangning Prefecture has enough stored grain, but it cannot sustain the food, drink, and waste of millions of refugees.
Once the government's grain reserves are depleted, major rice merchants will start raising prices wildly.
Those with money can buy rice; those without money cannot sell offspring, and without offspring they can only await death.
Of course, the most likely outcome is a riot; when that comes, lives cannot be sustained, only a rebellion.
Forced by the government, troops must be dispatched to encircle, and the ones picking up weapons are the rioters; a massacre will unfold without hesitation.
Naturally, Gu Jin Nian believes that, given the current emperor's temperament, he will block all rice merchants before a rebellion and allocate all the grain to the disaster victims.
From the common people's perspective, this is a good thing; the emperor is right, and these merchants should be killed.
But from the dynasty's perspective, this is not a good thing.
What you're doing undermines the dynasty's credibility; the state has laws, the family has rules, and merchants trading is a legitimate matter.
Internally, the beneficiaries will surely denounce the Da Xia Dynasty's harsh conduct, accusing the emperor of brutal methods and unfilial behavior.
And who are these beneficiaries? Both merchants and aristocratic families, even court officials.
Who are their descendants? Scholars.
What will happen next? A group of scholars will berate you in every way, making you question your life.
If you disagree and want them all silenced, see the First Emperor for details.
If this were an ordinary feudal society, it would be simple, but here immortal martial arts exist; killing scholars means what? The nation's fortune declines, leading to major problems.
So you don't dare to kill; you can only hold your breath, wipe tears inside the blanket, and keep saying…yes…yes…yes.
From an external standpoint.
The Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty are practically laughing; what does the Ministry of Rites of each great dynasty do? Besides basic Confucian and Daoist rites, what else? Diplomacy.
Then don't blame others for writing articles that scold you.
Gu Jin Nian can roughly guess the content: it's just about looking at the Da Xia Dynasty, whether it's ruthless; in a life-or-death moment, merchants sell rice at a slightly higher price, but the issue is that this is money the merchants themselves have worked hard to earn.
The Da Xia Dynasty's court is incompetent, killing the merchants and taking the rice.
Do you still dare to do business in the Da Xia Dynasty? Those doing business there, aren't you leaving? Publishing such an article today and another tomorrow, the people of the dynasties already have a sense of superiority and faith; as these pieces spread, citizens of the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty will begin to doubt the Da Xia Dynasty.
They think the Da Xia Dynasty's emperor does nothing, only knows how to act arbitrarily in his own nest, and when trouble arises, only knows to kill.
In modern terms, this is international public opinion.
You simply can't stand it.
If the Da Xia Dynasty were the foremost dynasty, it would be fine; at worst you'd just take a few insults.
But the problem is the Da Xia Dynasty is not the foremost; what's the ultimate issue? Emperor Yongsheng's illegitimate ascension, and why the two great dynasties denounce the Da Xia Dynasty? Isn't it exactly this?
Therefore, the impact of killing merchants is no less than that of a Jiangning Prefecture rebellion.
But if merchants aren't killed, the result is a rebellion, which will cause many deaths.
In other words, given the current situation, Emperor Yongsheng has only two paths.
One is to bear a massive infamy, causing the people's hearts to scatter.
The other is the dynasty's credibility declines, and an additional charge is added, so anyone who later wishes to rebel can use this as a pretext.
A tiger ahead, a wolf behind.
But the strategy Gu Jin Nian wrote happens to solve the core problem.
Food.
It's not many words; about a thousand characters in total, enough to pacify the Jiangning Prefecture crisis.
"Jin Nian truly lives up to his overflowing talent; in the brief time of a single incense stick, he finished the strategy—I'm impressed,"
Regarding Gu Jin Nian's strategy, Su Wenjing originally had expectations at the start.
After all, Gu Jin Nian always manages to surprise everyone.
But finishing within a single incense stick and still no anomalies somehow left Su Wenjing a bit disappointed.
Subconsciously, they still think Gu Jin Nian was just handling it casually.
But that is also reasonable.
The disaster of Jiangning Prefecture—let alone Gu Jin Nian— even he cannot devise a solution, so naturally one cannot expect much from others.
"Sir, please look."
Gu Jin Nian handed the rice paper over.
The others continued to bury themselves in writing strategies.
As long as no anomalies appear, they still have hope.
He received the strategy.
Su Wenjing's expression was gentle; he then spread it out to read, and the Crown Prince beside him also leaned over to look.
He was very curious about what Gu Jin Nian had written.
With just one glance, some extremely glaring words immediately came into view.
"High selling, the people cheap, silver still not equal," before Li Gao could read carefully, Su Wenjing turned directly around and studied the article seriously.
Li Gao found this behavior both laughable and exasperating.
He knew Su Wenjing was defending himself against him.
After all, the flood disaster in Jiang Ning County involved too many people, and in many eyes, he himself was also a suspect.
In the end, it was because of the word "Crown Prince."
But Li Gao had a clear conscience, so he didn't care about that.
And at this very moment.
Su Wenjing's gaze gradually grew solemn, and his expression became increasingly serious.
He read it word by word.
At first his eyes held doubt, then grew increasingly solemn, more and more solemn.
Until finally.
Su Wenjing's body actually began to tremble.
Yes.
Su Wenjing trembled.
Li Gao, standing nearby, keenly noticed that Su Wenjing's behavior had completely changed.
At first, Su Wenjing was somewhat curious about Gu Jin Nian's strategy, then seemed to sense something amiss, so he prevented himself from viewing it.
But gradually he became solemn and serious, and now his whole body trembles.
What could make a Half Saint-to-be tremble?
He couldn't think of any.
At the same time, his heart was filled with endless curiosity.
"Goo‑dong."
The next moment, Su Wenjing's gaze went vacant; he froze in place, his eyes fixedly staring at Gu Jin Nian.
He stared at Gu Jin Nian with a dead stare.
"Great talent."
"Great talent."
"Gu Jin Nian, you truly are a talent that soars in Da Xia!"
He took a deep breath and spoke, but no matter how composed he tried to be, his words still trembled.
"Thank you, sir, for the praise."
Facing Su Wenjing's compliment, Gu Jin Nian gave a slightly shy smile.
But before Gu Jin Nian could speak, Su Wenjing waved his hand, his voice booming.
"No further testing needed."
"Gu Jin Nian should be the first."
As he finished speaking, an ink‑colored celestial crane appeared at his feet and rushed toward the Da Xia Imperial Palace.
He showed no other emotion at all.
Because he was completely shaken.
He didn't know what to say.
He also didn't know how to say it.
He now had only one thought.
To rush this strategy before the Eternal Prosperous Emperor.
Immediately.
Because of this strategy.
It could quell the disaster of Jiang Ning County.
Su Wenjing's odd behavior caused everyone to fall silent.
Li Gao couldn't help but look at Gu Jin Nian; he was truly curious.
"Gu Jin Nian, dear junior brother, what exactly did you write? Why is Mr. Wenjing so agitated?"
Li Gao was genuinely curious.
A dignified Half Saint-to-be suddenly becoming this agitated, anyone would find it problematic.
"I don't know, perhaps I'm old and get excited over everything."
Gu Jin Nian shook his head.
Su Wenjing didn't tell Li Gao, and he couldn't speak recklessly; after all, his strategy should be known by as few people as possible, ideally only three.
One more would be bad.
At this very moment.
Da Xia Imperial Palace.
The Yongsheng Emperor looked at the newly delivered memorial and fell completely silent.
Jiangning Prefecture really has a big problem; all the refugees are heading toward Jiangning Prefecture, as if it were premeditated.
Originally, according to the court's intention, it was to divide and rule; at the very least, the refugees should not be gathered together.
Unfortunately, he still underestimated the refugees' fear, coupled with the power of rumors.
A scout reported that someone was spreading rumors, telling the people that Jiangning Prefecture is a prefectural seat, its granaries are abundant, and refugees elsewhere are countless; even if they went there, there would be no food.
Just that one sentence, and all the people rushed toward Jiangning Prefecture.
It's not that they are truly foolish, but that no one dares to gamble with their lives.
If they guessed right, it's still okay to say.
What if they guessed wrong?
They'd lose their lives.
Moreover, what's most terrifying about rumors is that they are plausible and have evidence.
Jiangning Prefecture is a prefectural seat.
Indeed, compared to other prefectures, its supplies are richer; although the journey is far, at least one can reach Jiangning Prefecture before death and see hope.
If they go the wrong way, then wanting to go to Jiangning Prefecture afterward would be utterly impossible.
At this moment, the Emperor of Da Xia had completely run out of options.
Because only two roads lay before him.
Either kill the merchants, or suppress the civilians.
He didn't want to choose either road.
But the current situation forces him to do so.
It makes him truly feel weary.
At this moment, how he wishes someone would descend from heaven and give him a good plan.
Whoever can resolve this chaos, let alone a promotion of three ranks, as long as their background is clean, they can be cultivated in advance and slated for a future second-rank secretary.
Under great rewards, there will surely be brave men.
Unfortunately, there is no time now.
Of course, there is actually another method, which is also simple: the court spends money to buy grain.
Buy sky-high priced grain for these people.
But this method can only delay for a period of time.
A short period of time.
The treasury originally doesn't have much silver; if done this way, the Minister of Revenue would be the first to object.
But just then.
A voice suddenly sounded.
"Your Majesty."
"Your Majesty."
"There is a good plan."
"There is a good plan!"
As the voice sounded.
Inside the Hall of Nurturing the Heart.
The Yongsheng Emperor rose to his feet directly, his whole body involuntarily becoming excited.
He could tell it was Su Wenjing's voice.
If it were someone else, he might not become so excited.
But Su Wenjing is different; this is a Confucian-Dao Half Saint, how could he speak nonsense?
"What do you mean, sir?"
The Yongsheng Emperor hurried over, went straight to the hall's exterior, and personally welcomed Su Wenjing.
He approached with swift steps, arriving before the Yongsheng Emperor, his old face showing great excitement.
"Your Majesty."
"We already have a good plan that can pacify the turmoil in Jiangning."
Su Wenjing took a deep breath, his voice slightly trembling, he tightly gripped the paper in his hand, and informed His Majesty of this happy news.
"Hiss."
In an instant, the Yongsheng Emperor froze.
He hadn't expected that Su Wenjing could truly devise a good plan to resolve the Jiangning turmoil.
But in that instant, he regained his composure and directly invited Su Wenjing into the hall.
Then he took the strategy, unfolded the paper, and examined it word by word.
At first, the Yongsheng Emperor's expression was solemn, the hope in his eyes diminished by half.
But he didn't speak; instead, he continued reading.
As he read, the Yongsheng Emperor's breathing grew rapid, and his body began to tremble.
The strategy is not lengthy.
It runs to over a thousand words.
The more he read, the faster his heartbeat became; the more he read, the faster it jumped, until finally his breathing was rapid and his eyes bloodshot.
"Good."
Good.
Good.
What an excellent plan to quell the rebellion, what an excellent plan to quell the rebellion.
This scheme truly is a stratagem for the ages, using people's hearts to break people's hearts—good, good, good, good!
Mister Su Wenjing, good, truly excellent.
Mister Su Wenjing, I am endlessly grateful, I am endlessly grateful.
After he finished reading it all, the Yong Sheng Emperor became completely excited, he repeatedly shouted 'good' several times, and in the end he was so excited that he directly bowed to Su Wenjing.
Because of this strategy, the problem in Jiangning Commandery can be perfectly resolved.
The pressure of these days has left him unable to sleep at night; as soon as he closes his eyes, the disaster in Jiangning Commandery appears before him.
He seems to be able to see countless commoners wailing and weeping.
He also seems to be able to see, at the moment the blade falls, how the people of the world would curse him.
He cannot sleep.
He cannot sleep, ah.
But now, this strategy has let him see hope, see the hope of quelling the rebellion.
Naturally, he would be immensely excited, immensely thrilled.
Your Majesty.
This strategy did not come from my hand.
Su Wenjing took a deep breath, and he replied.
This essay indeed has little to do with him.
Was it not written by you, Mister?
Who is it then?
Who has such great talent?
Summon him quickly into the palace; I will bestow upon him an official post.
The Yong Sheng Emperor was overjoyed; he could not imagine anyone who could have more talent than Su Wenjing.
Your Majesty.
It is your nephew, Gu Jin Nian's work.
Su Wenjing spoke.
As soon as these words were spoken, like a thunderclap, they exploded directly in the Yong Sheng Emperor's mind.
Who are you talking about?
Gu Jin Nian?
That Gu Jin Nian who imitates me in everything?
The Yong Sheng Emperor was stunned.
Su Wenjing was also stunned.
How come every member of Gu Jin Nian's family has this flaw?
Do they have no shame?
However, he still did not dare to say this, and could only force himself to speak.
Your Majesty, indeed it is that Gu Jin Nian who imitates you in everything.
He spoke up in reply.
He answered.
How could that be?
How could such a strategy possibly have been written by him?
Mister Su Wenjing, you must not think this way just because Gu Jin Nian is my nephew.
The Yong Sheng Emperor spoke, unable to believe that such a heaven‑shaking strategy could actually have been written by Gu Jin Nian.
Gu Jin Nian has written an essay for the ages; he acknowledges that.
Gu Jin Nian has written a poem of the nation's fate; he also acknowledges that.
But to say that Gu Jin Nian could write such a strategy, he really finds it hard to believe.
An essay is insight.
Poetry is understanding.
And what is a strategy? It is politics.
How old is Gu Jin Nian? He is only sixteen; where does such cleverness come from?
To speak bluntly, his own eldest son, the crown prince, at sixteen, although thoughtful, could not write much of a strategy.
Your Majesty.
I can guarantee that it was written by Gu Jin Nian.
If Your Majesty does not believe me, you may go with me to the academy to inquire.
Su Wenjing said, neither humble nor arrogant.
He knows what the Yong Sheng Emperor means: nothing more than worrying that he has taken a liking to Gu Jin Nian's talent, and in order to promote Gu Jin Nian, he has told his own strategy to Gu Jin Nian.
Let him come to claim the credit.
But does he need to do such a thing?
Whether he promotes Gu Jin Nian or not, will it affect Gu Jin Nian's official career?
The answer is obvious.
No.
Because Gu Jin Nian himself is Da Xia's foremost authority.
Hiss—
Upon receiving this answer, Emperor Yong Sheng couldn't help but suck in a breath of cold air.
After a moment.
Only then did he slowly speak.
"I understand."
"This was written by Jin Nian; this must have been written by Jin Nian."
"He even learned my most formidable scheming."
"This guy truly hides his talents well."
Emperor Yong Sheng muttered to himself.
Su Wenjing beside him fell completely silent.
Alright.
You're awesome.
You're the emperor, so your word is law.
I can't argue with you.
Su Wenjing had nothing left to say.
What else is there to say?
You're already like this, what else can I say? 'Go.'
"Mr. Wenjing, come with me to the academy; I want to test him in person to see how much of my knowledge he has learned."
"Go go go."
Emperor Yong Sheng was extremely pleased; he rose directly and headed toward Da Xia Academy.
His eyes couldn't hide their smile.
This strategy is enough to quell the River Peace turmoil; whoever wrote it, this crisis is already resolved.
However, he now needs to go find Gu Jin Nian.
First, to see whether this strategy was indeed written by Gu Jin Nian.
Second, to discuss this strategy in depth, to avoid any mistakes that would cause trouble.
Su Wenjing didn't waste words, directly following Emperor Yong Sheng as they left.
However, Emperor Yong Sheng was also straightforward; incognito, he left with only two trusted eunuchs and no one else.
At this moment.
Da Xia Academy also returned to tranquility.
All the students went back to rest; exhausted after a day, their bodies sore, yet there was still leisurely conversation to be had.
Meanwhile, on the main road of Da Xia Academy.
Four figures appeared.
Emperor Yong Sheng, Su Wenjing, Liu Yan, and Wei Xian — four people.
Liu Yan and Wei Xian walked behind, keeping their distance.
Everyone walked extremely quickly, only pausing briefly on the main road.
Because Emperor Yong Sheng saw Li Zheng hanging from a tree, someone was in the process of untying him.
"What's going on?"
Emperor Yong Sheng frowned; upon arriving at the academy, he discovered his grandson hanging from a tree, leaving him full of doubt.
"Your Majesty, His Highness loves to play, he talked back to Gu Jin Nian, and was punished here."
"As for his injuries, they were caused by the Crown Prince's whipping, unrelated to Gu Jin Nian."
Su Wenjing spoke up.
He knew Emperor Yong Sheng was especially fond of this grandson, an affection typical of a grandparent-grandchild bond, so he hurried to explain.
"He talked back to Jin Nian?"
Emperor Yong Sheng frowned, and Wei Xian immediately whispered a few words in his ear, briefly explaining the dragon's vein.
His words fell.
Emperor Yong Sheng's face involuntarily changed.
"Unacceptable! He truly has no respect for his elders; keep this heir hanging, it's all the Crown Princess's fault for indulging him—keep him hanging until twelve hours have passed, then let him down."
Emperor Yong Sheng's brows knit tightly.
He knew his grandson was decadent, but he didn't expect him to be this decadent—talking back to his teacher, showing no respect for elders; the main issue is that Gu Jin Nian is his elder, a family member, and family members should help each other, not turn against one another.
How stupid must one be to act like this?
Hanging him is a good thing.
If he doesn't learn a lesson, he'll surely suffer big losses later.
As Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, Wei Xian could only comply, daring not to be vague.
Only poor Li Zheng, but fortunately he's still unconscious, so it's not a serious issue; otherwise, hearing his grandfather say that would break his heart even more.
They paid no heed to this noble heir.
The four continued onward.
After a quarter hour.
At the academy's lodgings.
Outside Gu Jin Nian's room.
Four people appeared silently.
But at this moment, the sound inside the room had already sounded.
"Jin Nian, it's not that Sixth Uncle is talking about you."
"You shouldn't have written that strategy."
"What if Su Wenjing that old guy sends your strategy to His Majesty and shamelessly claims he wrote it, what then?"
"You know what kind of person His Majesty is; if you do well he'll praise you a bit, if you do poorly he'll punish you severely."
"If it fails later, Su Wenjing that old guy will say you wrote it, and you'll be the unlucky one."
"If it succeeds, he'll take the credit himself, and you can't go up against a Half Saint."
"Like this, Uncle will give you an idea: you rewrite it, I'll immediately go into the palace and present it to His Majesty; Uncle will also get to see the Holy Sovereign, and Uncle will definitely give you all the credit, at most adding a line, 'I started it,' what do you think?"
"'Fertile water does not flow into outsiders' fields,' isn't that the principle?"
Inside the door.
Gu Ningya's voice sounded.
"Although it's not big, who are the four people standing outside?"
Da Xia emperor.
Da Xia Half Saint.
"Both are inner court eunuchs; who isn't a top-notch expert? Even if their voices were ten times softer, they'd hardly pretend not to hear."
"However, if we talk about whose facial expression changed the most, it's still Liu Yan and Wei Xian."
"Gu Ningya's words have gone too far, offending two big shots in one breath—still, you're the mighty Old Sixth Gu, huh?"
"No wonder His Majesty has an opinion about this Old Sixth Gu; who wouldn't? As for the Yongsheng Emperor and Su Wenjing, on the contrary, they're expressionless, but they still have composure."
Bang bang.
"Then, Liu Yan knocked on the door."
"It's better to interrupt in time, for fear that Gu Ningya might turn around and say something outrageously disrespectful."
"Who is it?"
"How dare you disturb this loyal subject of Da Xia?"
"Subject Gu Ningya, I pay my respects to His Majesty."
"Gu Ningya's voice was fierce; upon opening the door, his whole body instantly went numb."
"Uncle?"
"Inside the room."
"Gu Jin Nian wore a helpless expression; his Sixth Uncle was nothing but a clout-chasing prince, seeing that Su Wenjing had sent over the strategy, he just wanted to leech some credit."
"He was really getting fed up with the hassle."
"But unexpectedly, His Majesty actually came; this is indeed welcome news."
"Jin Nian, Uncle came to see if you're getting used to living here."
"Upon hearing Gu Jin Nian's voice."
"The Yongsheng Emperor smiled, walked straight in, and didn't even glance at Gu Ningya."
"Su Wenjing also followed him in, also not glancing at Gu Ningya."
"As for Liu Yan and Wei Xian, they gave Gu Ningya a slight smile, then closed the door and waited outside."
"Your Majesty, Mr. Wenjing."
"I still have matters to attend to; I'll take my leave first."
"Gu Ningya wanted to run away."
"He felt like he was sitting on pins and needles."
"No."
"Not allowed."
"Su Wenjing and the Yongsheng Emperor spoke in unison."
"It's quite obvious; they've kept the words just spoken in mind."
"Upon hearing this, Gu Ningya fell silent."
"He went numb."
"He knew he was doomed now."
"He had to come up with a major plan."
"Therefore he turned his gaze to Gu Jin Nian, hoping he could save him."
"Uncle, how did you come here?"
"Gu Jin Nian rose to his feet, about to make a bow to his uncle, but the next moment the Yongsheng Emperor stopped him."
"No need for formalities in private."
"Don't learn from this Old Sixth."
"You are my beloved nephew; in informal settings, you don't need to do this."
"The Yongsheng Emperor's expression softened, and he let Gu Jin Nian sit properly."
"Then he made a veiled remark about Gu Ningya."
"Upon hearing that, Gu Ningya continued to play dead."
"Jin Nian."
"Uncle's visit here is mainly for two matters."
First, I want to see if you're used to where you're living, and whether you need me to send someone to bring you some things; the weather will change soon, so keep warm to avoid catching a chill.
Emperor Yongsheng smiled and opened his mouth. He did not directly ask about the strategy.
"Uncle, it's not cold, but someone keeps looking for trouble for my nephew."
Gu Jin Nian spoke, without any hesitation.
"Looking for trouble?"
"Who dares to cause trouble for my nephew?"
"Really getting sick of it."
"Jin Nian, from now on, if anyone dares to cause you trouble, as long as you're in the right, beat them to a pulp for me; as long as you don't kill them, I'll handle the rest."
"Your father's people are utterly unreliable; from now on I'll back you up, so rest easy."
Emperor Yongsheng was very overbearing.
However, though it sounds like indulgent pampering, these words actually come with limits.
One must be in the right.
Without justification, one certainly cannot act lawlessly.
"Thank you, uncle."
Gu Jin Nian smiled; although these words sound grandiose, it depends on who says them.
When my own uncle says it, it's different.
However, Gu Jin Nian also knows why his uncle has come in person.
It's nothing more than about the Pingjiang Strategy.
Watching Gu Jin Nian agree to it.
Emperor Yongsheng then dropped the pretense, directly laying out the xuan paper on the table and speaking solemnly.
"Jin Nian, this second matter is precisely the Pingjiang Strategy."
"I want to ask you, how confident are you in suppressing the Jiangning Rebellion with this plan?"
Emperor Yongsheng spoke.
He was utterly serious, his gaze fixed on Gu Jin Nian.
"Ninety percent."
Gu Jin Nian was also very confident, giving his answer.
"What about the remaining ten percent?"
Emperor Yongsheng was a little doubtful.
Although ninety percent is already high, he wanted to know what the uncertain factor is.
"The Black Flood Dragon."
Gu Jin Nian answered calmly, saying his plan has ninety percent certainty, with the remaining ten percent due to the Black Flood Dragon.
He couldn't be certain whether the Black Flood Dragon would continue to cause trouble.
If it does, that would be troublesome.
"Don't worry about that."
"The Black Flood Dragon could never continue to cause trouble."
Su Wenjing spoke, he was very confident.
Having received that answer, Gu Jin Nian felt more assured.
"Then it's still ninety percent."
He spoke up.
He continued.
"Why is that?"
In an instant both frowned, not understanding: if we can ensure the Black Flood Dragon won't cause trouble, why is it still only ninety percent? "Heavenly disasters and human calamities—what if a comet falls tomorrow and smashes Jiangning Prefecture to pieces?"
"Uncle, who can guarantee a plan with a hundred percent certainty? If something really goes wrong, wouldn't I be the one to suffer?"
Gu Jin Nian also spoke frankly.
But after saying that, both fell silent.
I don't know why, but I have a slight toothache.
As for Gu Jin Nian, seeing his uncle's body emanate threads of resentment, he inexplicably felt refreshed.
However, he also didn't continue doing that.
He changed his expression and said.
"Uncle."
"Sir."
"Actually, my plan is both very simple and yet not simple at all."
"The key lies in using commerce to counter commerce, and using human nature to calculate human nature."
"Jiangning Prefecture's biggest problem right now is the slow transport of grain and supplies."
"The prefecture consumes enormous amounts of grain and supplies, which could provoke a popular uprising."
"All that's needed now is for you, Uncle, to issue a secret order allowing the Jiangning Prefecture prefect to publicly permit rice merchants to raise prices."
"Even have the Jiangning Prefecture prefect personally take part, encouraging the nefarious practice of the prefecture's rice merchants."
"Best to let the grain price skyrocket—selling a dan of grain for several hundred taels of silver—then arrange for some people to buy it up in large quantities."
"No matter how high they sell it, the court will buy it; the purchased grain, mixed with sand and gravel, is then resold to our own people, creating the appearance of impending disaster and cheap silver and gold."
"When that happens, may I ask, how will the people of the surrounding prefectures and counties react?"
Gu Jin Nian stated his strategy.
He also asked a question.
"One dan of grain sells for several hundred taels of silver, and it's mixed with sand and gravel, so it has a market but no price."
"The surrounding populace fears they will swarm in, and some rice merchants will take the opportunity to profiteer, disregarding all hardship, rushing to River Peace Commandery."
Su Wenjing spoke; this was his intuitive guess.
"What you said is correct."
"The main roads of River Peace Commandery are completely destroyed, but there are still over four hundred minor paths; although disaster victims exist from all directions, the majority are still in the northwest region of River Peace Prefecture, while the remaining areas suffer no major hindrance."
"One dan of grain normally costs six taels, and in a bumper harvest the price drops even further."
"If the price rises to two or three hundred taels per dan, that represents a fiftyfold profit; then, within a radius of five hundred li around, everyone from peasant folk to rice merchants from all over will likely swarm in."
"To profiteer from this."
"As long as the grain is transported in, at the critical moment, strictly investigate and punish those selling grain at high prices, without fail, and then have the government release grain."
"No need for seven days."
"Only three days are needed; the itinerant rice merchants from elsewhere will all panic, and then all problems will be readily resolved."
Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly.
He explained the plan in detail.
Even Gu Ningya beside him understood part of it.
However, most of it he still didn't understand.
"Why would the rice merchants from elsewhere panic?"
Gu Ningya couldn't help but speak, saying he really didn't understand.
"Stupid."
The next moment, Emperor Yongsheng spoke, rebuking sharply.
He then continued speaking, explaining it.
"Refugees have gathered, River Peace Commandery is sealed off; these outsiders transporting grain, although they have official protection, cannot bear leaving their homes; they are simply out to make a quick buck. If delayed, even one extra day consumes grain, not to mention they must constantly guard against refugee raids."
"But if some rice merchants come because of the high prices, and if the local government strictly investigates and simultaneously opens its granaries to release grain, so that the populace lacks grain for only a few days, then their grain transport costs will greatly increase."
"By then, local rice merchants can endure the cost, but they cannot; naturally someone will sell grain at normal prices, even triggering a price panic. To return home sooner, they would rather lose some silver than delay further."
"Thus, the rice merchants within the prefecture will also become anxious; the larger firms will be fine, but some smaller ones simply dare not endure the cost."
"In this way, the delay can be stretched for a full half month; by then my thirteen dragon boats transporting grain will arrive, and moreover the army can also carry some grain, thus we can create the appearance of abundant grain."
"If that truly fails, have people prepare ten thousand dan of sandbags, transport them into the prefectural city, to stabilize popular sentiment and provoke merchant panic."
"Therefore, rice merchants cannot stay idle, dare not continue hoarding grain; with a bumper harvest imminent, if they dare to hoard, the price difference between new and old grain will be several tenths."
"Excellent."
"Excellent."
"Truly excellent."
Emperor Yongsheng grew more excited as he spoke, even thinking of more good ideas.
As befitting an emperor, his ability to extrapolate from one example to many is strong.
"Uncle, you are wise."
Gu Jin Nian praised him.
And Gu Ningya now fully understood.
"This plan is really ruthless."
"Using people's hearts to attack people's hearts."
"The court only needs to cooperate and stage a performance to resolve this disaster."
"No wonder the emperor himself has come."
"My own great-nephew truly is a damn genius."
"He has the heroic bearing of my youth."
"However, Uncle, there are three points that still need attention."
"Praise aside, a few details must be firmly remembered, otherwise it could become major trouble."
"You say."
Emperor Yongsheng inquired.
"He completely presented the appearance of listening attentively."
"First, the scheme is divided into three steps, gradually letting the Governor of River Peace Commandery carry it out, absolutely do not leak it beforehand; not because I distrust the Governor of River Peace Commandery, but rather caution ensures long-term safety."
Gu Jin Nian spoke; this is the first detail.
Upon saying this, Emperor Yongsheng and Su Wenjing nodded.
At the same time, they couldn't help but feel even greater shock toward Gu Jin Nian.
"It's hard to imagine that Gu Jin Nian, at sixteen years old, so young, has such meticulous thoughts."
"Although Gu Jin Nian doesn't say it, they also know; but when he speaks, it shows his scheming is extremely deep."
"Second, officials must certainly protect these incoming rice merchants, definitely preventing any looting; but arrange our own people to stare at them tiger‑like, making them fearful, yet not drive them away."
This is the second point.
"After all, outsiders come here blinded by profit; if they are robbed, it will bring bad influence."
"Good."
Emperor Yongsheng nodded; this is indeed a key point, cannot be overlooked.
"Third, at the critical moment we must spread a rumor: for transporting grain, Uncle, you sent Mr. Wenjing on a trip to the Immortal Sect, ceding a piece of land to the Immortal Sect; therefore the Immortal Sect will intervene in disaster relief, sparing no expense, to stabilize popular sentiment, and also crush the last shred of confidence of these merchants."
This is the third point.
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor's dragon boats are fine, and the ten thousand shi of counterfeit grain are also fine.
These things cannot cause those local rice merchants to panic.
But this news is different.
Immortals are unwilling to meddle in mundane affairs, fearing karma, but if the Da Xia Dynasty reaches an agreement with the immortal sect and is willing to cede territory to the immortals, then it's different.
Because they're pushed to the brink, they might actually do this.
But the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor wouldn't consider it.
But this is just a rumor.
So it can definitely be spread.
The other side likes to use rumors, so we can use them too.
What is most changeable these days?
People's hearts are the most changeable.
The refugees were deceived by the rumor and went to Jiangning Prefecture.
Wouldn't the rice merchants of Jiangning Prefecture be deceived by the rumor? In short.
Crush their confidence, and this will succeed.
"Good."
"You live up to being my nephew."
"This is good."
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor heard this, and a gleam flashed in his eyes.
This plan is ruthless enough, and it's half true, half false. After all, immortal sect disciples have come to the Da Xia Academy—could this be an omen? No one can guarantee it.
There's absolutely no problem at all.
At this moment, the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor's breathing became hurried.
And Su Wenjing beside him couldn't help but feel deep emotion.
Gu Jin Nian is truly a genius.
A genius under heaven.
The solution that everyone racked their brains over and couldn't come up with, Gu Jin Nian resolved with just the time it takes to burn an incense stick.
Most importantly, the logic is clear, the details are meticulous, and there's no flaw to be found.
At this moment, he suddenly became curious.
If Gu Jin Nian were to enter the court as an official, what kind of tumultuous waves would he stir up?
"Gu Ningya."
At that moment, the Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor's voice sounded.
"I am here."
Gu Ningya immediately opened his mouth, agreeing.
"I now command you to rush to Jiangning Commandery and order the Commandery Governor of Jiangning Commandery to allow grain prices to rise."
"As for joining them in corruption, I won't say anything else."
"Wait for my edict."
"If you handle this well, I will forgive your earlier inadvertent mistake."
"If you mishandle it, I will have the Duke personally send you to do hard labor at the border."
"Do you understand?"
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor spoke, issuing the edict.
"I receive the edict."
"Please rest assured, Your Majesty."
Hearing this, Gu Ningya breathed a sigh of relief; he had truly feared the emperor would scold him, but now he's been given a chance to make amends through merit.
He was still very happy.
Moreover, he knew deep down that once this matter was settled, merit would come his way; although they say it's to offset fault with merit, he still expected some reward.
Thus, Gu Ningya still felt delighted.
"Get lost."
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor spat out a single word.
The latter immediately rose and left, running as far as possible.
After Gu Ningya left.
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor rose.
He looked at Gu Jin Nian, his eyes full of admiration.
Full of admiration.
"Jin Nian."
"From now on, you don't need to study in secret; come find me if you have nothing to do, and ask me directly if you don't understand anything."
"You are very clever, inheriting your mother's excellence; once this matter is settled, I will reward you well."
"I will reward you handsomely."
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor spoke.
He underwent a major shift in his view of Gu Jin Nian.
Afterwards, he didn't say more and left directly.
But Gu Jin Nian, however, fell somewhat silent.
Uncle, what do you mean by this? What does 'stealing study' mean? What have I stolen from you?
Good fellow, you're even better at mooching than my Sixth Uncle.
Su Wenjing beside him smiled without speaking.
Having resolved the Jiang Ning Commandery turmoil, he was extremely delighted.
He didn't care about these.
Soon.
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor walked out of the house.
He let out a long breath.
"Ten years to forge a sword, the frosted blade has never been tested."
"Today I present it to the lord; who has any grievances?"
"Good."
"Good."
"Good."
He laughed three times, then strode like a dragon and tiger, leaving the academy.
It was clear he was truly happy.
A tremendous disaster.
I never expected to clear up my doubts today.
Happy.
Truly happy.
The Eternal Prosperity Great Emperor left.
Inside the study.
Gu Jin Nian poured a cup of tea for Su Wenjing, while also thinking about other things.
But Su Wenjing broke the tranquility.
"Jin Nian."
"I, an old man, have a question."
"Your strategy—is there still a small part left unwritten?"
Su Wenjing spoke.
Looking at Gu Jin Nian.
Feeling Su Wenjing's gaze, Gu Jin Nian fell slightly silent.
"En."
After a moment, Gu Jin Nian nodded.
"The final part, we'll talk about it after the turmoil is quelled."
Gu Jin Nian continued speaking, seeming rather casual.
But Su Wenjing shook her head.
"Jin Nian."
"You're still young, not yet entered officialdom; although you have the Gu Family as a towering tree, some matters are not for you to handle."
"Also, do not interfere; by all means, avoid becoming the target of public criticism."
Su Wenjing spoke to dissuade.
Because what Gu Jin Nian had left unwritten concerned how to deal with the merchants' words.
The strategy has a flaw—how could he not know?
But in the presence of His Majesty, he hadn't said so; now, in private between the two, he still ought to advise against it a bit.
"Wen Jing, sir."
"The student is not young; he understands the reasoning."
Gu Jin Nian refused to listen.
After the Jiang Ning Commandery turmoil ends, he plans to undertake a great deed.
"Jin Nian."
"Really, don't act recklessly."
"I know you're also angry, but this matter involves great stakes."
"If you really insist, let your grandfather step forward."
Su Wenjing spoke.
She understood Gu Jin Nian's intention.
But Gu Jin Nian, with a solemn face, said.
"Sir."
"The student cannot rely on the clan for a lifetime."
"Furthermore, the student is still young; making mistakes now and suffering loss is better than making mistakes later."
"The student's resolve is firm; I hope you will understand, sir."
Gu Jin Nian's attitude was resolute.
As for letting his grandfather step forward, Gu Jin Nian wasn't unwilling—he simply didn't want to always rely on the Gu Family.
When he first wrote those swordsman poems, he had already expressed everything.
Well, since you've made up your mind, I won't say more, old man.
It's still the same: as long as you stand on reason, I'll support you no matter what.
Su Wenjing didn't say anything more.
He left only those words, then got up and left.
But he knows that.
The Da Xia crown prince before him is utterly unlike ordinary folk.
He inexplicably felt that the behind-the-scenes figure in Jiangning Prefecture would be troubled.
Su Wenjing left.
Gu Jin Nian did not see him off.
Instead, he picked up a book and continued reading.
However, his mind was not on the book.
Through Su Wenjing, he sensed that his drowning incident was definitely tied to the behind-the-scenes powers of Jiangning Prefecture.
Otherwise, Su Wenjing would surely not notice that he still had an ace up his sleeve.
Many things.
He himself did not know.
Grandfather didn't tell him, maternal uncle didn't say, sixth uncle didn't say, and Su Wenjing didn't say either.
He understood, this was to protect him.
They didn't want him to get involved.
But Gu Jin Nian also knew one thing: against enemies, he must strike hard, and if he should show his edge, he must show it.
Hiding one's clumsiness is useless.
It will only invite wave after wave of trouble.
Meanwhile,
Su Wenjing, walking out of the room, was somewhat silent.
He actually did not wish for Gu Jin Nian to be like that.
Just when he returned to his residence,
yet he discovered that Emperor Yongsheng had already been waiting in the room.
"Greetings, Your Majesty."
Su Wenjing spoke.
He was also somewhat surprised.
He thought Emperor Yongsheng had already left, never expecting him to be in his own room.
"Mr. Wenjing."
"I have thought it over and feel that Jinian is not bad."
"He can become the Da Xia Sword Bearer."
"What do you think?"
Emperor Yongsheng gazed at the paintings in the room, speaking calmly.
But upon hearing this, Su Wenjing couldn't help but startle.
But he soon fell into deep thought.
After a full half-quarter hour, Su Wenjing took a deep breath.
"I believe it is appropriate."
He spoke, giving his answer.
"That works."
"Since he wants to do it, let him do it."
"The people's hearts of Jiangning Prefecture, I grant to him, counting it as his reward."
"He is the qilin son of the Gu family."
"He is also the bloodline of my Li family."
"I greatly anticipate that in the Heaven's Mandate struggle, Jinian can reach that point."
Emperor Yongsheng spoke.
His eyes were full of anticipation.
But at this moment, Su Wenjing suddenly understood.
The Emperor Yongsheng before him was truly extraordinary.
Everyone says the Gu family's achievements are so great they threaten the sovereign.
But only now does he understand.
This emperor.
He fundamentally fears no achievement that threatens the sovereign.
Because his bearing is not that of an ordinary emperor.
Thus, Emperor Yongsheng departed completely.
Leaving behind a calm-suited Su Wenjing.
Meanwhile, until late at night.
One piece of news after another spread throughout the capital.
The matter of Gu Jin Nian composing the nation's fortune poem spread first.
But this is only what the common people understand.
What surprised all officials even more was one matter, namely the matter of offering strategies.
Su Wenjing praised it three times in a row.
Afterwards he directly rushed to the palace.
This matter is not ordinary.
To make the esteemed Pre-Half-Saint Su Wenjing praise it three times in a row is anything but ordinary.
But no one knows what strategy was offered.
However, news came from within the palace.
The emperor's countenance was indeed greatly pleased.
Now the senior officials truly did not understand.
But everyone remained silent.
They watched quietly to see how things would develop.
At the same time.
The capital of Jiangning Prefecture.
Gu Ningya also rushed over swiftly.
He brought the emperor's edict.
After Zhang Yang learned of the imperial edict, he was utterly stunned.
After confirming it three times, if it weren't for Gu Ningya producing the gold token, he would never believe that the emperor actually issued such an edict.
Permitting grain merchants to raise prices.
Isn't this nonsense?
Do the people agree? The common folk fear they will rise up in revolt.
However, after pondering for half an hour.
Zhang Yang suddenly froze.
Because he seemed to have guessed the emperor's intention.
This is to take action against these grain merchants.
Allow them to raise prices, let them go wild, wait until public resentment erupts, then seize the opportunity to exterminate them completely.
This scheme is truly vicious.
But this plan is not a good strategy.
After all, these grain merchants have backers.
No matter what, killing them would have enormous repercussions.
But upon careful consideration.
He could not think of a better method.
Finally.
Zhang Yang took a deep breath; with the imperial edict before him, he could only follow it faithfully.
Thus.
Late at night.
Zhang Yang left his residence and ordered that all grain merchant proprietors in the capital be summoned.
He had his aide go to negotiate.
This negotiation lasted two hours.
Zhang Yang's aide was also straightforward, agreeing to let the merchants sell at high prices, but they must donate corresponding grain each day for the court to see.
At the same time, they must take away twenty percent of the profits.
All the grain merchants were overjoyed, yet they did not immediately agree; instead they went to spread the word and await a behind-the-scenes response.
After two hours of discussion.
In the end they gave only half the profit, and as for the daily donated grain, it was no less than required.
Under the aide's consideration.
An agreement was reached.
Thus.
When the mao hour arrived.
As a vast number of refugees gathered.
Stone after stone of grain was transported outside the city to cook porridge for relief.
But at the same time.
The grain price within the residence.
Also in an instant rose to sixty taels per stone.
While attracting all kinds of curses.
Yet it also suffered from being snatched up.
Almost as much grain as came out was sold.
Such a scene had never been heard of before.
Moreover, the number of refugees kept increasing, and the grain supply could not meet demand.
And the news from here.
Also spread quickly to the capital.
(End of chapter)
End of Chapter
