Chapter 70: Bestowing Gu Jin Nian as a Marquis? The Duke

"I, the Emperor, approve."

A resolute voice echoed from within the palace.

It is the emperor's promise, and also his stance.

The suffering of the Jiangning Commandery refugees is fully gathered on this thousand‑li famine map.

The capital's commoners knelt to petition.

Gu Jin Nian begged three times for a reduction of his sentence.

Whether it is Heaven's will or the people's hearts, the Eternal Prosperous Emperor cannot defy the prevailing trend.

But the main reason is that, as emperor, he would not tolerate this situation, had Gu Jin Nian not manifested such a celestial sign.

Perhaps he would deliberate long, first kill a chicken to warn the monkeys, then harvest step by step, not acting too hastily.

But now that the celestial sign has appeared and the people's will is clear, he can act without restraint.

The sword of the people's hearts, wherever it points, is the sharpest blade between heaven and earth.

He received a reply from the Eternal Prosperous Emperor.

Outside the palace gates.

Gu Jin Nian bowed deeply once more.

The capital's commoners also bowed toward the Eternal Prosperous Emperor, then shouted loudly.

"Long live the Emperor, ten thousand years, ten thousand ten thousand years."

The people knelt, loudly chanting "ten thousand years", and civil and military officials also knelt at that moment.

Da Xia has no kneeling ceremony.

But today they must bow, symbolizing submission to Heaven's will.

And although Li Shan and others knelt in worship, their eyes inevitably fell on Gu Jin Nian.

They were internally shocked and, for a moment, didn't know what to say.

Gu Jin Nian is a variable.

A variable within the court.

Politics is not like this; even with passionate zeal and appearing to act in line with the people's will, killing merchants is ultimately a bad thing for the court and for Da Xia.

Not only Li Shan, but all civil officials developed an inexplicable notion about Gu Jin Nian.

Gu Jin Nian is immensely talented, and they acknowledge it.

Gu Jin Nian is astonishingly extraordinary, and they also approve.

But that does not mean Gu Jin Nian can become a good official in the future.

Overly rigid easily breaks.

Civil officials are like this, but the Confucian scholars differ; they look at Gu Jin Nian, deeply moved.

Zhu Yuan, the chief Confucian scholar of the court, quietly watched Gu Jin Nian, murmuring a few words to himself.

"Prosperity brings the people's suffering."

"Destruction brings the people's suffering."

"What a tragedy—prosperity or ruin, the people suffer; what a tragedy, the people suffer."

"Gu Jin Nian possesses the talent of a Confucian‑Daoist sage."

Zhu Yuan spoke up; as the chief Confucian scholar, his standing in the court equals that of the Prime Minister, not inferior to the Duke of State Security.

However, Zhu Yuan, like the Duke of State Security, does not attend court daily, yet his reputation and prestige are no less than Su Wenjing's.

Su Wenjing is the foremost pure‑stream Confucian‑Daoist, while Zhu Yuan leads the sacred school of Confucian‑Daoism; both are literary giants.

Only Su Wenjing, having a half‑step into the saintly realm, is even more renowned.

"Talent of a saint? Sir, does Gu Jin Nian truly possess such innate ability?"

A Confucian scholar, shocked, could not help but speak.

Zhu Yuan's appraisal is too lofty; although the Gu Family has been bragging that Gu Jin Nian has saintly talent, discerning people know it's merely self‑satisfaction.

But now it's different; Zhu Yuan personally acknowledges Gu Jin Nian's saintly talent, which is remarkable.

"Looking through history, who at sixteen could compose timeless literature? Who at sixteen wrote a poem worthy of a duke? Who at sixteen dared to plead for the lives of millions?"

"To also compose immortal poetry—has such a person ever existed across the ages?"

"Whether Gu Jin Nian can become a saint, I cannot say for certain, but his future achievements will certainly not be inferior to mine."

Zhu Yuan spoke earnestly; his appraisal of Gu Jin Nian is exceedingly high.

Especially, Gu Jin Nian's fearless defiance of authority deeply impresses him.

One must know that Gu Jin Nian himself is also a powerful aristocrat, which makes the respect even greater.

A commoner who defies the powerful merely faces death.

But when the aristocracy offends the aristocracy, it usually involves a conflict of interests.

Without a conflict of interest, they would never act; yet now Gu Jin Nian, receiving no benefit and even offending many, seeks justice for the people—this spirit truly moves him.

It also makes Zhu Yuan feel ashamed.

It can be said that Gu Jin Nian's actions today have not only won the people's hearts but also secured a place in the minds of scholars across the realm.

Especially among Da Xia's scholars.

Just for this, anyone who later sees Gu Jin Nian must address him as "His Highness the Crown Prince."

Inside the palace.

The Crown Prince, the King of Qin, and the King of Wei quietly gazed at the scene in the heavens.

Shock filled the Crown Prince's eyes.

The King of Qin's eyes were excited, also tinged with joy.

As for His Highness Prince Wei, he exclaimed in amazement.

The Crown Prince and Prince Qin both harbored different thoughts.

However, within Da Xia Capital, another figure gazed at the heavens, his eyes filled with complexity.

It was at that moment.

Above the heavens, the thousand‑mile famine image gradually faded.

After the rain cleared, shafts of sunlight streamed down, sprinkling on Gu Jin Nian.

Simultaneously, a pale blue light poured entirely into Gu Jin Nian's body—it was the vast righteous Qi of heaven and earth.

Gu Jin Nian's innate talent burst forth in an instant, reaching the Nurturing Qi Ju Ren realm.

This is the second realm of the Confucian Dao, and because it was true heaven‑and‑earth righteous Qi, Gu Jin Nian directly attained a perfect second realm.

As long as one reaches Establishing Speech, one can ascend to the third realm, becoming an Establishing Speech Jinshi, that is, a wise saint of Establishing Speech.

At the same time, the terrifying righteous Qi formed a cloud inside his body, merged with an ancient tree, and condensed into a martial fruit, though it was unclear why it became a martial fruit.

Yet there were as many as thirty‑six such martial fruits—a great harvest.

Gu Jin Nian, however, had no mood to attend to this for the time being.

His deeds today were not for reward, but driven by a single breath in his heart.

"His Majesty has issued a decree; the officials enter the court."

At that instant.

As the eunuch's voice rang out, the officials outside the palace slightly altered their expressions.

But soon they all marched toward the palace.

Because they knew the emperor was about to act.

After the officials entered, a figure also appeared beside Gu Jin Nian.

It was his father, Gu Qianzhou.

"Jin Nian."

"Return home."

He spoke slowly, his eyes also complex, for for a moment he could not see through his own son.

Think about it—just a few months ago Gu Jin Nian was still a playboy.

Yet a few months later, every deed Gu Jin Nian performed was earth‑shaking.

He had no other doubts; instead he believed Gu Jin Nian had been hiding for sixteen years.

Thus he felt heartache, thinking the Gu Family had placed too great a pressure and burden on Gu Jin Nian; otherwise it would not have come to this.

Soon Gu Qianzhou led Gu Jin Nian toward the Gu Family.

On the streets, all the common folk who saw Gu Jin Nian's figure instantly showed looks of admiration.

Even some elders bowed deeply.

Gu Jin Nian won the people's hearts.

It was not the Gu Family he relied on, but himself.

Facing the people's bows, Gu Jin Nian remained silent.

Thus.

Inside the Da Xia Imperial Palace.

As the entire court of civil and military officials entered.

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke directly.

"Today, the Grand Duke's grandson, Gu Jin Nian, petitions on behalf of the ten thousand people for redress; what do you think?"

Emperor Yong Sheng began.

He looked at the civil officials, awaiting their reply.

In reality, however, no matter how the officials answered, the facts could not be altered.

"Since it is Heaven's will, I have no suggestions."

"Heaven's will is set, the people's hearts align, we have no objections."

All officials spoke together; at this moment, no one dared to defy the emperor, because this matter was no longer a simple political struggle but Heaven's will.

They might dare to scold the emperor, to speak bluntly, yet they would not defy popular opinion.

No one dared to do so.

"Good."

Emperor Yong Sheng nodded; he was satisfied with the ministers' performance.

"Since then, Minister of War, Minister of Justice, obey the order."

"By Prime Minister Li Shan's decree, you two shall dispatch elite troops to Jiang Ning County; Zhao Ai Qing, I command you to, within three days, based on the people's reports, investigate all female merchants in Jiang Ning County, including corrupt officials; once discovered, seize them all to Jiang Ning Prison."

"By the Ministry of Justice's investigation, once a confession is signed, execution by beheading shall occur at Jiang Ning County's market, as a warning."

"If anyone objects, the whole family shall be eradicated."

"Then the Ministry of Revenue shall send agents to audit assets, confiscate them for disaster relief, and order the Lantern Department to investigate thoroughly whether the Jiang Ning flood has hidden causes; anyone involved shall be killed without mercy."

"If any court officials are involved, their entire clan shall be exterminated."

"Furthermore, advance the capital inspection; I command the Ministry of Personnel to complete the capital inspection within a month, with no corruption or miscarriage of justice."

"After the Da Xia Poetry Gathering, I will hold a banquet for all officials, and also issue an edict for the people: within the capital inspection, all Da Xia citizens who have grievances must be dealt with severely by each prefecture and county."

"Anyone colluding with merchants, oppressing the people, or plundering a village shall be killed without pardon."

"Do you understand?"

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke.

It was only these words that made the entire court of civil and military officials change expression.

Because the matter was ten times more severe than they had anticipated.

There was no other reason.

Emperor Yongsheng was clearly intending to use this opportunity to eliminate the dynasty's greatest tumor.

The aristocratic families.

They are a presence that every emperor both despises and fears.

The aristocratic families are something even the Grand Ancestor dared not touch.

Now, what Emperor Yongsheng is doing is challenging them; such a move is terrifying and could very well overturn the dynasty.

Half of those in this court may come from aristocratic families.

Across the Da Xia Dynasty, more than half of the officials are from aristocratic families, and even the remaining officials, though not of such lineage, are intricately linked to those families.

One could say that the true masters of Da Xia are not the emperor before us, but those aristocratic families.

This is not a hidden secret.

On the contrary, it is common sense: there will always be the rich and the poor, and those in power may permit the existence of aristocratic families to consolidate authority, but they will never allow those families to be outsiders.

Targeting aristocratic families is not a rare occurrence.

But to do so so openly is the real trouble.

"Your Majesty."

"The merchants and officials of Jiangning Commandery have plunged the common people into fire and water; Heaven cannot tolerate this. We understand that we must not let the flood disaster entangle us too much. The new dynasty has just been founded; we need benevolent governance to win the people's hearts. We cannot kill to stop killing. We implore Your Majesty to reconsider."

At this moment, Minister of Rites Yang Kai was the first to speak, urging Emperor Yongsheng not to kill to stop killing.

With Yang Kai stepping forward,

more officials also rushed to speak up.

"Please, Your Majesty, reconsider. The matter of Jiangning Commandery has angered the heavens; indeed we must not get overly involved. The urgent priority is to stabilize Jiangning Commandery's nineteen prefectures."

"Your Majesty, reconsider."

"Your Majesty, please reconsider."

One by one, figures rose; each person who spoke up had some connection to the aristocratic families, and even those with no connection stepped forward proactively.

Target the aristocratic families.

This is certainly not a good thing, nor is it a wise move.

Even the Grand Ancestor could not achieve this in his time, so Emperor Yongsheng could not either.

It is not a matter of personal ability, but of timing not being ripe.

Acting rashly would cause internal conflicts to flare instantly, and the realm might change hands again; yet they dare not voice this, nor would they.

After all, Emperor Yongsheng's ascent to this position was thanks to considerable assistance from the aristocratic families.

To act now would certainly be unwise.

"This is the people's will."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, his face ice‑cold.

"Please, Your Majesty, reconsider."

The ministers bowed their heads; targeting the three great aristocratic families was already the limit, and moving against anyone else was truly impossible.

He looked at the attitude of the entire court of civil and military officials.

Emperor Yongsheng fell silent for a moment.

He indeed wanted to use this opportunity to act against Da Xia's aristocratic families, but he did not expect that, under such popular sentiment, the whole court would dare this.

This made him instantly realize how terrifying the aristocratic families are.

A surge of anger rose in his heart.

A wave of fury.

But he also knew that if the aristocratic families were moved, the foundation of the state would be shaken.

The main reason is simple: the Da Xia Dynasty has long been plagued by internal strife.

Jiande.

As long as he lives, Emperor Yongsheng cannot sleep peacefully for a day.

After all, he was the successor chosen by the Grand Ancestor, and his own rise to power was certainly not clean.

Twelve years of diligent governance could not change some people's loyalty to Jiande.

Now, if the aristocratic families are targeted, it would indeed be a huge blow to him.

In an instant,

Emperor Yongsheng calmed down.

He gazed at the ministers.

He slowly began to speak.

"I have been somewhat radical," he said.

"The thousand‑li famine tableau is indeed a human tragedy; I cannot close my eyes, lest I see countless refugees," he said.

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, stepping down a step.

Hearing this, the ministers silently breathed a sigh of relief.

They feared Emperor Yongsheng would act unilaterally.

"However, with this incident, the people's hearts are shaken; if we do not punish severely, that too is unacceptable."

"Issue the next decree: have wealthy merchants from all regions donate silver to Jiangning Commandery."

"Let the Ministry of Revenue collect it; if anyone refuses, don't blame my harshness."

Emperor Yongsheng turned the discussion.

If we don't kill, then we won't kill.

But saying we won't cause any trouble at all is also unacceptable.

We must make them pay a certain price.

When those words were spoken, the entire court of civil and military officials remained somewhat silent.

But soon, Li Shan's voice rang out.

"Your Majesty is wise."

He spoke at once, and the ministers did not hesitate, quickly exclaiming "Your Majesty is wise."

Come to think of it, the knife may have been avoided, but we cannot let everything go unpunished.

Before life, silver counts for nothing, especially to these wealthy merchants.

"Enough, esteemed ministers, see to this matter properly."

"By the way, today Gu Jin Nian avenged the people and pacified the disaster in Jiangning Commandery; esteemed ministers, how should we reward him?"

At this moment, Emperor Yongsheng mentioned a crucial matter.

It was Gu Jin Nian's reward.

Upon hearing this, the whole court of civil and military officials fell silent at first, while the military officials immediately stepped forward.

"Your Majesty, Gu Jin Nian is still very young, yet he has quelled such a great affair for the court; he is the foremost hero of Da Xia, especially today, avenging the people—a rarity throughout history."

"I admire Gu Jin Nian and hold him in high regard, therefore I earnestly request Your Majesty to grant him a marquisate."

The military official spoke; he is of the Duke of the Nation's lineage, and without any hesitation, he immediately asked for a marquisate for Gu Jin Nian.

But once these words were spoken, the civil officials of the court refused.

"Impossible."

"Gu Jin Nian's merits are indeed remarkable, but granting a marquisate is too grand; moreover, Gu Jin Nian has not even received the crown yet, so bestowing a marquisate now is somewhat inappropriate."

"I propose awarding him gold and silver, the right to ride a horse in the capital, three royal pearls, and appointing him as a Hanlin Academy lecturer; that would be just right."

"With imperial favor and an official post, it can be called boundless imperial grace."

The Left Minister of Rites immediately stepped forward to veto.

Although Gu Jin Nian handled the matter well and did so flawlessly, earning the people's hearts by avenging them.

But to grant a marquisate outright, are you joking here?

Throughout history, for a minister, the greatest ambition is not to be ennobled and become prime minister?

Bestowing a marquisate at sixteen is absurd and overly exaggerated.

Indeed, the Left Minister of Rites' words earned the approval of the civil officials.

Bestowing gold, silver, and fertile lands is standard; three royal pearls constitute imperial favor. In the Da Xia Dynasty, a royal pearl signifies supreme honor, awarded only for great contributions to the realm; possessing twelve would make one more than a marquis, so ennoblement and ministerial appointment become inevitable.

For example, none of the current marquises of Da Xia hold twelve royal pearls; Prime Minister Li Shan himself has only two. Granting Gu Jin Nian three is indeed boundless imperial grace.

Adding a fifth‑rank Hanlin Academy lecturer position would also be a sign of great favor.

After all, the current top scholar began with a sixth‑rank post; moving up to a fifth‑rank office poses no real issue.

But once this was said, the military officials became displeased.

"Hanlin lecturer? You can actually say that? Jin Nian achieved a world‑shaking feat, and you give him such a post? Are you trying to make an old man laugh?"

"If this spreads, the whole world will mock Da Xia Dynasty—granting only a fifth‑rank office for such a feat?"

"Ridiculous, a world‑shaking achievement for a fifth‑rank official? Ennobling a marquis is exaggerated, but not impossible."

"If it were your civil‑official descendants, you wouldn't even settle for a marquisate; a dukedom would still seem insufficient, wouldn't it?"

"Zhao Ming, stop suppressing the virtuous ministers here. Do you know what it means to pacify Jiangning Commandery? By previous standards, the court would have to allocate at least twenty‑million taels of silver for disaster relief."

"Moreover, perhaps a million civilians would have perished; Gu Jin Nian saved the court twenty‑million taels of silver and rescued millions from fire and flood. To give him a fifth‑rank post—do you dare say that before the Duke of the Nation?"

"You lot of dog‑like scum, shall we summon the Duke of the Nation and beat you up before you behave?"

The military officials boiled over, each turning red‑faced.

Given Gu Jin Nian's achievements, in their eyes granting a marquisate is no big deal.

Although a bit excessive—a sixteen‑year‑old marquis is absurdly exaggerated—the question is, does Gu Jin Nian deserve it? He does.

He fully deserves it.

Moreover, nothing like this has ever occurred in history; does that mean it cannot happen? New rules arise when old ones are broken.

Facing the military officials' roar.

The Left Minister of Rites, unflinching, said calmly,

"According to rites and law, a sixteen‑year‑old receiving a marquisate sounds glorious, but for a dynasty it is not a good thing; the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty would likely mock Da Xia Dynasty for recklessly ennobling."

"These rites are non‑negotiable; I admire Gu Jin Nian's deeds, but admiration must still follow the law."

He said with a resolute expression.

Gu Jin Nian is the grandson of the Duke of the Nation; the Duke is the chief of the generals, and his son, Lord Linyang, has already received abundant favor, being granted a marquisate in exchange for the Duke's absence from court.

Now they wish to grant Gu Jin Nian a marquisate as well?

Three heroes from one family?

Is that possible?

Originally, Lord Linyang—Gu Qianzhou, Gu Jin Nian's father—recorded hundreds of battle merits, pacifying all northern bandits and quelling internal unrest.

In addition, the Duke of the Nation made numerous concessions, among other things, enabling the ennoblement.

Just because he solved a problem in Jiangning Commandery, now granting Gu Jin Nian a marquisate? They will not agree, and absolutely cannot agree.

"Your Majesty, Gu Jin Nian truly possesses unparalleled talent and is a blessing to Da Xia, but the Gu Family already has a national duke and a marquis; granting another title may invite gossip."

"Furthermore, Gu Jin Nian has not yet received the crown, is still young; even with talent, the court is as deep as the sea, and we cannot grant a marquisate on a whim."

"Regarding rites and law it is not permissible, and regarding the system it is also not permissible; I think Minister Zhao's words are just right."

The Left Minister of the Ministry of Personnel also stepped forward to speak.

He also disagreed with granting a marquisate.

In an instant, the voices of dispute grew huge; the main figures did not come forward to voice opinions, and most were subordinates of various ministries quarrelling with each other.

Emperor Yong Sheng grew weary of listening.

However, granting a marquisate is somewhat exaggerated.

"Enough."

He spoke, halting the crowd's dispute.

He then continued, saying,

"Grant Gu Jin Nian six king pearls; he has not yet received his cap, and he is currently at Da Xia Academy. Wait until he leaves Da Xia Academy, then give him further commendation."

"If he achieves merits during that period, it is not impossible to break the rules; if he has none, I will decide later."

Emperor Yong Sheng said that granting a marquisate now is indeed impossible, and he also did not agree with the proposals from the Ministry of Rites and the Ministry of Personnel.

For such a great matter, a fifth‑rank title? Gu Jin Nian, whether he argues for or against, is still my nephew, right?

He was somewhat dissatisfied.

But it is too early to say anything now; Gu Jin Nian has not yet received his cap. When he leaves Da Xia Academy next year, I, as his uncle, will grant him the cap, then decide based on circumstances.

If within this year Gu Jin Nian accomplishes something remarkable, I would indeed consider granting my nephew a marquisate.

Only the timing is truly not mature now.

But these people speak so harshly—what do they mean by saying my nephew is unworthy?

And what about the Fuyu Dynasty? How does the Great Jin Dynasty view it? Look with your own eyes.

How to view it? Does it matter to them? Emperor Yong Sheng was very displeased, even more so than earlier when the whole court wouldn't let him cut down a noble family.

"Your Majesty, the bestowal of six king pearls is too generous; we hope you rescind the decree. We endorse Minister Zhao's words."

However, upon hearing Emperor Yong Sheng's grant of six king pearls, they were also displeased.

Twelve king pearls would actually be enough to grant a marquisate; didn't we know Emperor Yong Sheng's intention? Isn't it just to lay groundwork early?

Wait a year; if Gu Jin Nian does more good deeds and solves some troubles, grant three more, and the imperial examination is next year.

When the examination arrives, Gu Jin Nian will surely take first place; then should we grant another three king pearls?

And then, logically, confer a marquisate?

Thus they resolutely refused, killing the prospect in its cradle.

"With such great merit, is it still unworthy of six king pearls?"

"You truly dare to speak like that."

"The flood disaster in Jiangning Commandery—none of you could devise a solution. My nephew, after much contemplation, came up with this method to pacify the chaos."

"Now we give him six king pearls; do you all think that's too many?"

"Then I also think your positions are too lofty; based on what you have done, can you surpass my nephew?"

"Among you, who the hell has ever saved countless lives?"

"Speak up?"

"If you do not make it clear to me today, you will kneel outside the West Gate and let the people see what you are like."

Emperor Yong Sheng was enraged.

He even cursed outright.

He can understand the court's infighting; it is a political game.

But damn it, this nephew, after finally achieving some merits, can't even be granted six king pearls?

The military official just now was correct; if their people had such merits, awarding twelve king pearls would not be too many.

But when it comes to our own, it's not allowed?

If Gu Jin Nian entered the court, he would not get angry.

The problem is my nephew hasn't entered the court yet, and they're already targeting him? Suppressing him? To hell with them.

Emperor Yong Sheng's temper also flared; if he hadn't become emperor, needing to win hearts and employ imperial tactics, he would never be so courteous.

Back then, when he was still the Fourth Prince, he would punish anyone—Great Scholar, Minister, Chancellor—if he was in a bad mood, he would spew at them on sight.

Hasn't he been spewing at people for a long time, forgetting himself?

With Emperor Yong Sheng's angry rebuke,

the officials fell silent.

Especially the civil officials; they did not expect His Majesty to erupt like this.

The ones above were angry; the ones below dared not speak much.

"Stop speaking?"

"Become mute?"

"Come, Zhao Ming, today you shall make your words clear to me,"

"Speak,"

Emperor Yong Sheng continued his angry rebuke,

while Zhao Ming kept his head down, silent.

At this critical moment, daring to speak, no one can guarantee the emperor won't give him a slash.

Keeping silent is the wise choice.

"Your Majesty."

"Regarding this matter, I believe Your Majesty's words are correct, and the statements of the ministers are also correct; after all, too many things have happened these days."

I still hope Your Majesty will calm your anger.

Finally, the Prime Minister spoke, trying to smooth things over again.

There's no need to make such a thing so tense.

After all, it's not that Gu Jin Nian is being ennobled right now; it's only an intention.

Please, Your Majesty, calm your anger.

Please, Your Majesty, calm your anger.

Voices rose one after another, all pleading Emperor Yong Sheng to calm his anger.

Emperor Yong Sheng looked at the ministers.

And he stopped scolding.

This matter is settled as such.

Also, regarding the Da Xia Poetry Society and the Capital Inspection, how are you all preparing?

Seeing the officials being honest, Emperor Yong Sheng no longer dwelled on it.

Instead, he shifted the topic to another matter.

Afterwards, the court returned to normal.

Meanwhile.

The Zhen Guo Marquis's residence.

In the study.

Grandfather Gu lifted his brush and left a few strokes on the xuan paper.

In the study, only Gu Jin Nian and Grandfather Gu were present; Gu Qianzhou was not there.

A moment later.

Grandfather Gu put away the brush, then lifted the xuan paper and placed it before Gu Jin Nian.

On the xuan paper.

Four characters were boldly written.

The people's hearts are a boat.

Everything is unsaid.

Yet a thousand words lie within the paper.

"Grandfather."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; he knew his actions this time were extreme and somewhat impulsive.

"No need to say."

"Jin Nian."

"You have bought the Gu Family a sigh of relief this time."

"You haven't embarrassed the Gu Family, nor done anything wrong; it's just that you are too overbearing."

"Grandfather understands your thinking; you wish to walk the path of a lone minister, to share the Gu Family's burden, but you underestimate these few uncles of yours, and underestimate me, Grandfather."

Grandfather Gu did not blame Gu Jin Nian.

On the contrary, he praised Gu Jin Nian.

If Gu Jin Nian were precise in his calculations, he would actually dislike it; he feels Gu Jin Nian's actions are fine.

That is what a man should do.

He has a fiery spirit in his bones.

The kind of two‑faced, treacherous scholars are the ones he despises most in his life, so he is pleased with what Gu Jin Nian has done.

"Grandfather, you don't blame me?"

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat surprised.

After all, he had offended so many people, and in order to settle his heart's grievances, he disregarded all consequences.

Such actions would affect the Gu Family.

"Jin Nian, you avenged the people; how could Grandfather blame you?"

"Grandfather was also an ordinary commoner back then."

"Although he leveraged immortal war merits to become a duke of the current dynasty, before following the Great Ancestor, he was merely an old commoner."

"What I despise most are those corrupt officials who meddle in commerce, but Grandfather is old now, and many things are beyond his control."

"You have done what Grandfather wanted to do; there is no reason to blame you."

Grandfather Gu shook his head; the older generation still has pride in their bones.

However, the only point of blame is that Gu Jin Nian chose to shoulder it alone.

He disliked this in his heart.

"Jin Nian."

"Whatever you do, Grandfather won't interfere, but remember, every member of the Gu Family, from top to bottom, is not afraid of trouble."

"Don't think of bearing it alone; your grandfather isn't afraid of trouble, nor is your father, and even your useless uncles, even the most useless Sixth Uncle, are absolutely not afraid of trouble."

"Remember, no matter who you face, the Gu Family will be behind you."

"As long as you think it's right, go ahead and do it; even if you pierce the heavens, Grandfather will support you."

"People say the court is as deep as the sea, but the Gu Family is your stabilizing compass; understand?"

Grandfather Gu gave a sermon.

He only wanted to convey one point.

When there's a matter, the whole family rises together.

Don't think you have to bear it alone.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian felt warm in his heart, but he didn't say anything; everything was understood without words.

"However, Jin Nian, the affair of Jiang Ning Commandery also needs to be settled."

"If nothing unexpected happens, His Majesty will issue an edict today; then those who should be killed will be killed, those who should be arrested will be arrested."

"Your father and a few of your uncles will handle these matters; you don't need to get involved."

"During this time, study well at Da Xia Academy."

"This is the most important matter; other things can be discussed easily."

"You must study earnestly at Da Xia Academy, achieve something; there is a great opportunity waiting for you there—don't forget your roots."

"Do you understand?"

The old master continued speaking, urging Gu Jin Nian to focus on his studies.

"Understood."

"Please rest assured, Grandfather."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; although he didn't know what secrets Da Xia Academy held, his grandfather said it this way.

He naturally dared not be negligent.

"Alright."

"You are about to reach the coming-of-age ceremony; you already understand many things in your heart."

"Grandfather will stop nagging."

"However, there is something I still need to tell you."

The old master didn't say more; instead, he took a thick stack of paintings from beside the desk and placed them before Gu Jin Nian.

"Jin Nian, these are the granddaughters of my subordinates; each one is beautiful as a flower."

"Moreover, a few Great Scholars have come by, bringing the portraits of their own granddaughters."

"Now take a look; if you find any satisfactory, keep them, and later I will arrange your marriage."

The old master spoke.

Very straightforward.

But Gu Jin Nian was a bit dazed.

Marriage?

Good grief, I'm only sixteen—do we really have to deal with marriage now?

This seems a bit against the rules, doesn't it?

Let me take a look.

Gu Jin Nian didn't refuse either, after all, one cannot decline an elder's gift.

The scroll was unfurled.

Gu Jin Nian looked at them one by one.

How to put it?

They're passable, but they lack feeling; mainly, these portraits are meaningless—like, what freckles on the face, or skin tone.

Of course, the most important thing is the figure, which you can't tell at all from these.

After scanning them, Gu Jin Nian had nothing particularly satisfactory.

"Grandfather, none of them work."

He shook his head and directly refused.

"None of them work?"

The old master furrowed his brows, but after thinking, it was understandable—what kind of person is his grandson now?

"These misshapen melons and cracked dates certainly aren't a match."

"Alright, Grandfather will help you look again; as long as you have this idea, it's fine."

"Later, let your few uncles go out and see which family's daughter is pretty."

The old master was very domineering.

However, Gu Jin Nian still shook his head.

"Grandfather, I'm still young, and I'm studying at the academy; actually, talking about marriage now is too rushed."

"Besides, just looking at portraits is meaningless; let's wait until after the coming-of-age ceremony to discuss it."

Gu Jin Nian politely refused.

Regarding marriage, he really hadn't thought about it; as the old saying goes, what does marriage actually bring to a man? He's still young, there's no need to rush, and besides, he's the grandson of a duke, handsome—such a fine status, to marry him off so early.

He won't do it.

"Waiting until the coming-of-age will be too late."

"Common folk marry and have children at sixteen; early to start a family, early to establish a career, otherwise the Ministry of Rites will use this to criticize you."

"Wait until your uncles help you pick a good one, then we'll talk."

The old master didn't agree.

"So-called establishing a family and career—only when you have a family are you considered an adult; without a family, you remain a child."

"However, not rushing is indeed true; Gu Jin Nian is so outstanding, he can certainly wait a bit."

"Alright, Grandfather, I'll return to the academy first; this time I came out without informing Mr. Wenjing, and if I don't go back soon, that wouldn't be good."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

"En, Grandfather will have someone prepare a sedan for you; the following matters, don't worry about them—with Grandfather around, it's not your turn to handle."

The old master gave a final reminder.

Gu Jin Nian nodded, turned and left.

Steward Wang prepared the sedan chair, while Gu Jin Nian went to his mother's place, exchanged pleasantries for the time a single incense stick burns, then left.

After Gu Jin Nian left.

In the study.

Gu Qianzhou had already walked in.

"Qianzhou."

"Let Lao Liu thoroughly investigate the affairs of Jiang Ning Prefecture."

"The mastermind behind it must be anxious."

"Investigate carefully; there will be results."

"I want to see who is truly behind the harm to Jin Nian."

A voice sounded.

Grandfather Gu's expression was icy.

"Child, I understand."

Gu Qianzhou nodded; his heart was filled with curiosity and deep murderous intent.

As long as a trace is found, uncovering who is secretly plotting against his son, Gu Qianzhou vowed to have them torn to pieces.

So.

Half an hour later.

Secret edicts were sent out one by one.

At the fastest speed, delivered to Jiang Ning Prefecture.

In less than two hours.

The court's secret edict, using a special method, reached the hands of the Governor of Jiang Ning Prefecture.

Received the edict.

The governor said almost nothing; after pacifying Jiang Ning Prefecture, he had already anticipated this moment.

So he had already covertly arranged everything.

Moreover, the capital's omen reflected onto Jiang Ning Prefecture.

He was fully prepared.

Now, once the imperial edict arrived.

Zhang Yang immediately began to act.

"Transmit my order: mobilize five thousand troops stationed at the river, inform the Marquis of Night Attire, dispatch forces to seal off the Nineteen Prefectures of Jiang Ning, and arrest criminals everywhere."

Zhang Yang spoke.

He then personally led troops, beginning to raid households and capture people.

In an instant.

Within Jiang Ning Prefecture, everything boiled over instantly.

A massive force of officials and soldiers stormed into every rice shop, indiscriminately grabbing anyone they saw.

Some major merchants, upon hearing, were terrified, unable to send messages, and were seized outright.

Yet the most brazen were the Zheng family.

Within the manor.

Three hundred elite troops burst into the Zheng household, blocked any escape, from Lord Zheng down to the servants, all were captured without exception.

"You are truly bold; I have Prince Qi Lin behind me, aren't you afraid of death?"

Lord Zheng's roar rang out.

Holding the royal decree, he tried to intimidate the crowd.

"Prince Qi Lin?"

"In my hand is the emperor's edict."

"Guards, seize the criminals and imprison them, awaiting the Ministry of Punishments' review."

"All property shall be sealed and moved to the government office for inventory."

Zhang Yang appeared, holding the edict, his expression icy.

Gazing at the edict.

Lord Zheng's face turned sour, but in the end he gritted his teeth and remained silent.

So.

Within Jiang Ning Prefecture, merchants of all sizes were almost all captured.

The merchants who escaped capture did not lose their conscience in this disaster, and can be considered to have escaped a calamity.

The three great families collapsed instantly.

They were forcibly placed on prison carts and paraded through the streets.

At that moment, citizens all over the city appeared, brandishing vegetable leaves to hurl at the prison carts.

But no one knew that the little clever spirit suddenly appeared, bringing buckets of night incense.

"Everyone, don't waste food, don't give these female merchants a taste of sweetness; I have night incense, let me handle it."

A voice sounded.

Soon, bucket after bucket of night incense was poured out, landing on those female merchants.

In an instant, an indescribable scent assaulted them.

And the merchants inside the prison carts vomited uncontrollably, one after another.

The soldiers on both sides also felt a bit numb.

They kept urging the civilians not to throw this thing.

But they could not suppress the anger of the civilians.

Even more extreme, someone seeing the situation directly had their child relieve themselves on the spot, then wrapped it in cloth, rushed over, and flung it, directly hitting Zheng Gong's face, steaming hot.

This caused a group of soldiers to turn deathly pale; they ran forward and simply dared not stand guard beside.

This is truly hateful.

At this moment.

Jiangning Prefecture

On an ancient pagoda.

A figure slowly stood in the middle of the ancient pagoda.

This was a middle-aged man.

He wore a scholar's robe and looked extremely refined.

He gazed at rows of prison carts, his expression silent.

Suddenly.

Another figure appeared in the ancient pagoda, standing behind him.

"Sir, the lord's plan has failed; the sovereign is furious as thunder and has ordered you to settle all future troubles—no mistakes allowed."

The voice rang out.

The middle-aged scholar appeared somewhat silent.

Then he slowly spoke.

"Good."

He gave the answer.

The latter then spoke again.

"The lord still has a secret order; please, sir, examine it."

Immediately afterwards, the latter handed a small bamboo tube to the other party.

The middle-aged scholar opened the bamboo tube.

He took out a slip of paper.

And on the slip of paper were only three characters.

【Gu Jin Nian】

(End of chapter)