Chapter 72: Fuyu Dynasty, the Qin King has arrived, bestowing a half-sage's handwritten letter; tomorrow we cultivate immortality

After the countless corrupt merchants of Jiangning Prefecture had their heads cut off.

The previous two days were very satisfying.

Jiangning Prefecture also began stabilizing post-war work, grain supplies stabilized, so there were no disturbances; they built homes, settled the populace, used labor in lieu of relief, and for all matters the court sent people to begin stabilizing affairs.

That's why attention has been dwindling.

Everything seemed to return to how it was before, with no special changes.

However, as a piece of news spread, it once again sparked heated discussion among the capital's populace.

【Da Xia Poetry Meeting】

It is one of the greatest gatherings of the Da Xia Dynasty, even surpassing the emperor's birthday.

When the gathering opens, talented scholars from the surrounding hundred states will congregate in the Da Xia Capital to make friends through poetry.

Emulating the Four Seas Poetry Meeting and the Myriad Nations Literary Meeting.

The Four Seas Poetry Meeting and the Myriad Nations Poetry Meeting are the grand assemblies of Confucianism and Daoism under heaven, held every three years.

The Four Seas Poetry Meeting has already passed; the Myriad Nations Poetry Meeting will be held around next year, and its venue is the Fuyu Dynasty.

The Da Xia Poetry Meeting is held every two years, established by the Da Xia Imperial Court with awards, inviting talents from all states to compete.

Naturally, to ensure the poetry meeting's fairness, nine Great Scholars were set up as examiners.

The Da Xia Dynasty sends two, while the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty each send one, and the Uniform Script Alliance and the Society of the Writing Sage each send one.

The final three are Great Scholars from the Central Continent serving as examiners.

There is a certain home-field advantage, but the advantage will not be too great.

After all, for such a grand gathering, fairness must be the priority; otherwise, word would get out and it would become a laughingstock.

The opening of the Da Xia Poetry Meeting has become the latest topic among the populace.

Not only among the common folk.

Even at the Da Xia Academy, right now everyone's discussion revolves around the Da Xia Poetry Meeting.

Going into the Holy Hall.

The discussion about the Da Xia Poetry Meeting has never ceased.

"I recall that the one who won first place at the previous Da Xia Poetry Meeting was a descendant of Li Sheng, right?"

Wang Fugui spoke up, looking at the crowd and asking.

"Yes, he is a descendant of Li Sheng."

"However, this time the Li Sheng descendant likely will not participate, as it is said they are preparing for the Myriad Nations Poetry Meeting."

Someone spoke up, giving an answer.

"Preparing for the Myriad Nations Poetry Meeting?"

"These two don't conflict, do they?"

Wang Fugui became curious.

"I'm not sure, but anyway that's what the rumor says."

"However, it doesn't matter if the Li Sheng descendant doesn't participate; as long as Brother Jin Nian takes part, that's fine."

"Brother Jin Nian, to be frank, the two poems you previously composed were somewhat wasteful."

"If you could have presented them at the previous Da Xia Poetry Meeting, you would have really vented your frustration."

At this moment, someone spoke up.

He said through gritted teeth.

As soon as these words were spoken, many people nodded in agreement.

Meanwhile, in the school.

Gu Jin Nian became somewhat curious, not knowing what had happened.

"Young Master, you truly don't know?"

Someone looked at Gu Jin Nian, eyes full of curiosity.

"I really don't know; why are you all speaking in riddles?"

"Just say it straight if you have something."

Gu Jin Nian indeed did not know.

"Brother Gu, at the previous Da Xia Poetry Meeting, an incident occurred: the Li Sheng descendant composed a poem that satisfied all nine examiners unanimously, even being preliminarily ranked first."

"What's unexpected is that a scholar from the Fuyu Dynasty composed a poem that manifested an omen, a character worth a thousand gold, thus sparking great controversy."

Wang Fugui spoke up, explaining the matter.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian understood.

Such a large poetry meeting is actually a competition among talents of various states; losing is not about personal face but representing one's dynasty.

Such an occurrence will surely provoke controversy.

"That's simple; since he brought forth an omen, naturally the Fuyu Dynasty wins."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up.

Whether the poem is good is decided by the examiners, but if it can summon an omen, then the omen is certainly the greatest.

There's nothing much to say.

No one can surpass heaven and earth.

"No."

"Brother Gu, our dynasty also thought that way back then; after all, a loss is a loss, a win is a win."

"But the problem is, that Fuyu Dynasty scholar composed the poem after the poetry meeting had ended."

"It was late by the time it takes to burn an incense stick."

Someone spoke up, shook his head, and pointed out the problem.

At this point, Gu Jin Nian fell silent.

Indeed, turning in an exam late is counted as zero no matter how good it is, since the rule is clear.

"If it can summon anomalies, it can be considered to some extent."

Gu Jin Nian replied; this was his view.

Although the time had passed, a poetry contest is hard to improvise on the spot, so it falls within the discretionary consideration.

"It's not that simple."

"Brother Gu, both Great Scholars of Da Xia share your view, but the Zhongzhou Great Scholar believes that once the time is past, it is past."

"Don't underestimate a mere incense‑burning's worth of time; in the poetry contest, the Great Scholar sets the topics and moves freely. Some suspected that after the Fuyu Dynasty obtained the topics and circulated them, they commissioned the Great Scholar to compose poems, using highly specialized Confucian‑Daoist divine abilities to summon some anomalies."

"So that counts as cheating."

"Therefore, the Zhongzhou Great Scholar did not accept the Fuyu Dynasty as first, but gave it a second place."

"However, the Fuyu Dynasty was resentful; after the poetry contest ended, it spread rumors that the Da Xia Dynasty bribed the examiners and accused Da Xia of unfair judging."

"This even led to a bloody incident."

"It almost sparked a war between the two nations."

Wang Fugui spoke up and gave a detailed explanation.

Anomalies cannot be faked naturally, but some Great Scholars, using certain Confucian‑Daoist divine abilities, can create brief anomalies.

However, such anomalies are not extravagant and come with many limits and issues.

Someone like Gu Jin Nian couldn't even achieve it with a Half Saint, yet a single poem that condenses a priceless word can barely be done.

"You still don't accept that?"

"War between the two nations? Do we really need that?"

"It's understandable to feel uneasy when your anomalies are suspected as cheating, but turning that into a war is odd."

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat bewildered; if the point of vying for first place is some benefit, then war is war, but a poetry contest nearly causing war was hard for him to accept.

"No."

"Brother Gu, you may not understand the Fuyu Dynasty well."

At that moment, Jiang Ye Zhou's voice rang out.

He gave a wry smile and said.

"The Fuyu Dynasty had done similar things before and was even caught."

"Mainly because the Fuyu Dynasty lacks a claim of orthodoxy; it was formed by a mix of Hu and barbarian peoples."

"According to legitimate histories, five thousand years ago the Da Xia Dynasty was also unified under the Great Yan Dynasty, and the Fuyu Dynasty was then merely a vassal, subsisting on blood and flesh, lacking wisdom, sent by the Great Yan Dynasty with a few officials to civilize it."

"Even the name 'Fuyu' was bestowed by the Great Yan Dynasty."

"But since this dates back five thousand years, it is so remote that its truth is hard to judge, though some records are highly credible."

"Yet the Fuyu Dynasty refuses to acknowledge its existence and shamelessly claims descent from the sun essence and moon brilliance."

"They harbor deep hatred toward our Central Plains culture, constantly trying to belittle us, yet they are nowhere near us."

"Even more hateful, twelve years ago they colluded with the Northern Xiongnu to attack Da Xia's Twelve Cities, causing those cities to fall into Xiongnu hands and splitting Da Xia's territory—truly detestable."

When Jiang Ye Zhou said that,

the students of the Hall of the Past instantly erupted in anger.

Obviously, there is much hatred between the two great dynasties; otherwise they wouldn't be mentioned one after another like this.

Gu Jin Nian knew about the Twelve Cities incident.

It was mainly due to internal turmoil in Da Xia; his uncle rebelled, leading the Northern Xiongnu to seize the Twelve Cities and slaughter for fifteen days—a blood feud.

And this matter has always been his uncle's sore point; scholars across the world criticize his uncle for only two reasons.

1. Gaining the position illegitimately.

2. Losing territory.

These two issues are his uncle's obsessions; the first is easy to address—work hard to govern, feed the people, then revere Confucianism and Daoism, which is fine.

But the second is different; if it can't be solved, even if Emperor Yongsheng does his best, he will still be condemned after death.

Losing land is no small matter.

Gu Jin Nian just hadn't realized that the Fuyu Dynasty's shadow was also involved.

"Actually, it's more than just that."

"The Fuyu Dynasty treats Da Xia's people terribly; my own clan does business there and is often bullied."

"Moreover, whenever someone files a report, the Fuyu Dynasty will first search Da Xia people; in some prefectural cities, after dark Da Xia citizens cannot move freely—if caught, they face light imprisonment or severe punishment."

"The most hateful part is that in many places the Fuyu Dynasty openly posts notices forbidding Da Xia people and livestock from entering."

"It makes me sick."

Someone spoke up, clenching their fist, and said.

Upon hearing that, many people frowned.

"Then why does your clan go to the Fuyu Dynasty? Isn't that courting trouble?"

"Yeah, why go to the Fuyu Dynasty, a place even dogs avoid."

"And this kind of thing? Damn, they're a bunch of beasts."

The students spoke up, and a few couldn't help but curse, losing composure.

After all, this matter does sound rather disgusting.

"What can be done? It's all for livelihood."

"In the northwest, the drought is extreme; much food and even some fish oil must be imported from the Fuyu Dynasty."

Transporting from Jiangnan, places like Yangzhou costs five times as much; the Fuyu Dynasty brings it over, and it's even cheaper. Who let them be near the East Sea?

To put it bluntly, we are in the capital, our families are wealthy; if this were done to us, everyone here would immediately scold, but would many commoners dare to rebuke?

A strong dragon doesn't crush the local snake; not to mention the common folk, except the Crown Prince, if we truly went to the Fuyu Dynasty, could we dare to make such a clamor?

The latter felt a bit annoyed.

They couldn't help but start complaining.

But that statement is also true.

A strong dragon doesn't crush the local snake; people have their own customs. Though it's a bit disgusting, they haven't forced you at swordpoint.

You came of your own accord; if you can't stand it, then don't come.

Hmph, thinking back, several Great Scholars of the Central Continent were truly fair; they shouldn't have given the Fuyu Dynasty the top spot—this infuriates those people.

I've also heard of some unsavory deeds of the Fuyu Dynasty; remember last year? The capital of the Fuyu Dynasty held a Lantern Festival.

Talented youths from all over gathered; the first prize was a bounty of 100,000 taels, the top ten were all from Da Xia, the examiners approved, but the Fuyu Dynasty's Great Scholars nitpicked, saying our Da Xia scholars' calligraphy was too bold here, too faint there.

Using such tricks to deceive, they ended up giving the entire bounty to the Fuyu Dynasty's scholars—oh, wait, also two Great Jin Dynasty scholars; after all, the Fuyu Dynasty is famously a Great Jin lackey.

The crowd continued speaking.

Meanwhile, inside the academy.

Gu Jin Nian listened, his mouth agape, wondering if any dynasty could be so shameless.

A hundred thousand taels of silver—plenty indeed.

But for a dynasty, it's not much at all.

Really have no face at all? Good fellow.

"What is this, do you know about cuju?"

"It happened in February, in the Fuyu Dynasty; our Da Xia warriors trained for two years, but after arriving, they dared not eat or drink, because the Fuyu Dynasty had once spiked their food with medicine."

"This time they abstained, thinking nothing would happen, but they tampered again, adding cartilage fragrance; our Da Xia warriors, at the competition, were all weak, yet by sheer will nearly won."

"But we didn't expect the Fuyu Dynasty's people to strike outright; of ten, seven had their legs broken, two skulls cracked. If the envoy hadn't been furious, they'd all have died in the Fuyu Dynasty."

"Alas, in short, the people of the Fuyu Dynasty are truly disgusting."

The crowd grew more indignant, more angry as they spoke.

It gives the impression that if a Fuyu Dynasty scholar appeared now, they'd be mobbed.

And after Gu Jin Nian heard all this, he inexplicably thought of a certain country.

It's almost a case of different strokes achieving the same effect.

Good fellow.

"Actually, after saying all this, what makes me angry most is the Fuyu Dynasty's treatment of us."

"Yet the Da Xia Dynasty treats them this way."

"That's the source of my anger."

Someone spoke, voicing the crowd's sentiment.

Indeed, the Fuyu Dynasty is so unprincipled, and the Da Xia Dynasty is still so courteous; they are very displeased.

"That's nothing; let me tell you a secret, not sure who prompted it, but the Fuyu Dynasty, the Great Jin Dynasty, and our Da Xia Dynasty will exchange scholars."

"In the capital's southern market, there's a vacant lot where a new academy is being built; when finished, scholars from the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty will go there, reside in Da Xia, learn Da Xia culture, while Da Xia will send scholars to their lands to study both cultures."

"When the poetry gathering is about to end, this matter will be made public; then they'll appear from time to time, and that's disgusting."

Someone spoke; it was the Minister of Revenue's son, named He Ming.

The information he relayed is likely truthful.

For a moment, the crowd couldn't help but continue hurling insults.

"Honestly, the Great Jin Dynasty is fine, just a bit arrogant; the Fuyu Dynasty truly has no shame."

"If I were the emperor, I'd issue an edict to expel all Fuyu merchants, have them all crawl away; anyone who refuses, a dog‑head execution awaits."

A later‑generation military officer, fierce, spoke up to scold.

"I can't understand why they commit such base acts, yet Da Xia still treats them so well."

The crowd voiced it; you could see they were truly angry.

When it reached this point, Li Ji's voice rang out.

"It's fine; when I become emperor later, I will handle this properly."

Li Ji spoke.

He spoke.

In an instant, the crowd fell silent.

After all, the more they chatted, the more they clicked and the more they got angry; inevitably some personal grudges were involved.

At the same time they ignored Li Ji's presence.

He is the Imperial Grandson.

The future emperor.

These remarks only need a couple of complaints; after all, they surely involve many court affairs.

If they speak too much, they might be reported for inciting.

For a moment, the crowd fell silent, daring not to continue.

Seeing the scene, Jiang Yezhou immediately spoke, trying to smooth things over.

"Your Imperial Grandson Majesty."

"This is different."

"The sage says, the petty are unkind, the noble must not be unkind."

Jiang Ye Zhou spoke up, saying they must not let Li Ji have any strange ideas, or everyone present will be in trouble.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, let's look at it from another angle; in fact the Fuyu Dynasty hopes the Da Xia Dynasty will be the same, after all they are rotten to the core, who in the world doesn't know the Fuyu Dynasty's ways?"

"And the Da Xia Dynasty cannot follow them; it must uphold the gentlemanly path of benevolence and righteousness, be magnanimous, in order to reflect the might of our Upper Country."

"Moreover, there are many schemes behind this; after all, behind the Fuyu Dynasty is the Great Jin Dynasty, which has been looking for trouble with our Da Xia Dynasty, should the Da Xia Dynasty do anything wrong."

"That fits the Great Jin Dynasty's intentions; then there will be countless articles spreading to the Central Continent, damaging our reputation, which is completely unprofitable."

Jiang Ye Zhou remained relatively rational, thinking from the dynasty's perspective.

Not personal grudges.

As soon as this was said, everyone felt a bit uneasy, but with the Crown Prince present, they dared not continue speaking recklessly.

They could only nod in agreement.

"Brother Jiang, you are absolutely right."

Gu Jin Nian also nodded, saying nothing.

However, Xu Ya looked at Gu Jin Nian and couldn't help asking curiously.

"Brother Gu, given your temperament, if you saw people from the Fuyu Dynasty rampaging in Da Xia, what would you do?"

He was very curious and kept circling the topic, after all he is a cultivator of the Immortal Dao, not a subject of the Da Xia Dynasty.

He wasn't really worried about anything.

"Persuade them properly and let the authorities step in."

Gu Jin Nian said earnestly, appearing modest and courteous.

"What if they pick a fight with you?"

Xu Ya couldn't help asking another question.

"Pick a fight with me?"

"Then I'll let him see what Da Xia's number one dandy is."

Gu Jin Nian said with a serious expression.

If you pick a fight with others, just advise a few words—who wouldn't be a good person?

But if you pick a fight with yourself, Gu Jin Nian doesn't care who you are.

Damn, don't mention the Fuyu Dynasty or the Great Jin Dynasty; even if they're people from the Central Continent, he'll still hit them without delay.

What the hell is this upheaval? Where is this place? The Da Xia Dynasty.

Who am I? Da Xia's number one aristocrat?

Take this anger? Are you sick?

As expected, this answer made everyone involuntarily nod.

That's very Gu Jin Nian.

Li Ji looked at Gu Jin Nian with an even more admiring expression.

Since Gu Jin Nian defended the people, Li Ji has been completely convinced by Gu Jin Nian.

Gu Jin Nian did what he wanted, but also did what he couldn't.

That's how a youth is: full of hot blood, defending the people, then showing off, admired by ten thousand, Li Ji dreams this every day, but unfortunately can only dream.

And Gu Jin Nian achieved it, so it naturally made him Li Ji's idol.

At that moment, a voice sounded outside the academy.

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"Someone is looking for (you)."

It was a pageboy, standing outside the academy, shouting.

"Someone looking for (you)?"

Gu Jin Nian stood up, looked outside without hesitation, told the others he was leaving, and then

after the pageboy walked a few steps,

a figure appeared in Gu Jin Nian's sight.

Not very familiar, but not unknown.

Upon closer look,

King Qin.

Not far away stood a middle‑aged man, rather thin, wearing a python robe, with a scar on his face—not long, not ugly, yet exuding a certain aura.

An aura that seemed to have emerged from the battlefield.

"Jin Nian."

"Hahaha, my good old brother!"

As Gu Jin Nian appeared, King Qin instantly rejoiced, and

Gu Jin Nian and King Qin are of the same generation.

And, recalling memories in his mind, he actually got along well with this King Qin.

Although there was a considerable age gap, when they were young, Prince Qin often took him out to play.

Even before the transmigration, Prince Qin often came looking for him; later, when he drowned, the clan said Prince Qin was thunderously angry and was the first to confront Minister of Rites Yang Kai.

Of course there might be other factors, but regarding this King Qin, there is nothing more to say.

At least toward him, there is nothing unsaid, regardless of any purpose.

"Brother King Qin."

Gu Jin Nian smiled.

In an instant, King Qin's expression changed, his brows slightly furrowed, as he looked at him.

It seems somewhat strange.

"Um, Brother Li Sui?"

Gu Jin Nian changed his form of address.

"Hahaha."

"Brother Gu Jin Nian, when you just called me 'Prince Qin Brother', you almost scared me to death." "Brother Gu Jin Nian, don't blame me for not coming to see you all this time; after all, I am now regent, court affairs keep me busy, running east and west, making my head spin and eyes blur."

"I really have no time to come find you; you entered Da Xia Academy, and I, your brother, didn't come, owing you too much."

"I've also felt terrible for quite a while; I originally wanted to wait until you came to the academy, then come see you, but I didn't expect Jiangning Commandery to suffer a flood."

"Then I have even less time to come see you."

"You must never blame your brother."

"Brother Gu Jin Nian, come, this is a gift I prepared for you, to congratulate you on entering Da Xia Academy."

"You really give our military faction face, you big face."

Prince Qin laughed heartily, while continually apologizing for not coming.

Furthermore, he took out three ancient-bound small books and handed them to Gu Jin Nian.

"Brother Li Sui, you've come all this way; what gift did you bring?"

Gu Jin Nian felt a bit embarrassed, but upon seeing the ancient-bound book, his expression changed instantly.

"Half Saint's manuscript?"

"Brother Li Sui, you're being too polite, aren't you?"

Gu Jin Nian originally did not want to accept it.

After all, Li Sui's identity is sensitive; he is the Second Prince of Da Xia, with military achievements, prestige, and strength, being the Crown Prince's strongest rival.

He even has the possibility of becoming emperor.

Such a person, the Gu Family must not provoke.

Whether it's the Crown Prince or Prince Qin, no one in the Gu Family can afford to offend them; offending them would be very troublesome.

However, Li Sui back then followed his grandfather in battle; to put it bluntly, he was once a soldier under his grandfather.

With this connection, Li Sui occasionally comes to the Gu Family to give gifts, so there's nothing much to say about it.

Furthermore, to put it bluntly, Li Sui, from a young age, was not by Emperor Yong Sheng's side but followed the Defender of the State Duke, who essentially raised Li Sui as half a grandson.

Lightly punished, severely beaten—no leniency at all.

But his grandfather, back then, nearly lost his life saving Li Sui; precisely for this reason, Li Sui has always kept this favor in his heart.

Although some say Li Sui is respectful toward the Defender of the State Duke merely to vie for the Crown Prince's position.

But Li Sui consistently insists, treating his grandfather as family.

However, this matter is subject to interpretation: the benevolent see benevolence, the wise see wisdom.

At the very least, Gu Jin Nian, through his memories, feels that Li Sui is a decent person, with an innate fondness.

However, to avoid suspicion, Gu Jin Nian still does not want it.

But upon seeing the Half Saint's manuscript, he truly finds it hard to resist.

"Brother, I'm useless; I asked the Li family for a Saint's manuscript, but they refused, not giving me any face at all."

"There's nothing to be done; I can only find you some Half Saint's manuscripts. When you have free time, read them more—our military lineage hopes you will rise to prominence."

"Moreover, the poetry gathering is imminent; you should read these books more—perhaps at the Da Xia Poetry Gathering, you will compose timeless poems."

Prince Qin spoke, his generosity shocking to the point of making one's hair stand on end.

This Half Saint's manuscript is worth a fortune; this older brother of mine says he'll give it, and gives three at once, and originally intended to give a Saint's manuscript.

Quite the brother.

"Brother Li Sui."

"With such a great favor, I, your younger brother, have nothing more to say; in the future, if there's anything I can help with, as long as it's not too major, I will definitely assist you."

Gu Jin Nian accepted the manuscript and at the same time said a kind word.

Having received such a great gift, it's necessary to say a few kind words.

"You say that."

"Although we are not blood brothers, we are no worse than blood brothers."

"I regard your grandfather as my true grandfather; besides, your mother is my aunt, so we are one family—family exchanging gifts, what's there to say about that?"

Prince Qin shook his head, speaking with a solemn expression.

Immediately afterward, he glanced toward the holy hall, then spoke.

"Gu Jin Nian."

"Is anyone bullying you at the academy?"

He spoke in the tone of an outright gang leader.

"No."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head.

"That's good; if anyone dares to bully you, I, as regent, can casually wield authority—confiscating their entire property is no problem; if you feel indignant, even exterminating their whole clan is not out of the question."

Prince Qin spoke.

These words left Gu Jin Nian silent.

Are these martial fellows sick? They talk about wiping out others' families at the drop of a hat—can't they be more civilized?

Seeing Gu Jin Nian silent, Prince Qin laughed heartily and then continued speaking.

"Let me tell you some good news—weren't over three thousand scholars previously causing you trouble?"

"His Majesty's meaning is: detain them all for investigation; those with problems will be executed, while those without will be barred from the imperial examinations for three years."

"Brother, I tweaked it and imposed harsher punishments on them—whether it's three years or not, they won't be able to take the imperial examinations in this life, and the three families are barred from taking the exams for three years."

"How's that, brother? I helped you vent your anger, right?"

The Qin King said proudly.

He is now the regent, his power boundless, and it's unclear why—perhaps because he's with Gu Jin Nian, his words are still rather reckless.

He spoke with a hint of boasting.

"You're still steady, older brother."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; he was very satisfied with this punishment outcome.

Otherwise, if the punishment were light, they'd come back to cause trouble again? It should be punished harshly.

"That's nothing, older brother has already sent people to investigate them covertly, had your third brother file a report, and relatives and friends each filed one; if there's another incident, we won't need to investigate each person, we can just follow the list."

"If discovered, cut them down; one more time, and no one will dare trouble you again."

The Qin King said seriously.

This truly made Gu Jin Nian click his tongue in amazement.

As expected of the Qin King.

He's really ruthless.

But this Qin King matches Gu Jin Nian's temperament well.

"Brother Li Sui, younger brother won't say anything else, but next time there's a chance, find the best restaurant in the capital and let you treat me to a meal."

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth, his face serious, and said.

The Qin King, upon hearing that, smiled at once, but quickly realized and was taken aback.

Huh? Let me treat you to a meal?

Do you really talk like that?

However, the Qin King was unconvinced; in his view, Gu Jin Nian is just a child, his words are unreliable.

Besides, it's better if I treat.

Since I'm already the older brother, it's not his turn to treat.

"Next time, I'll treat you."

"The capital is yours to choose, but you're still young; when you're a year older, I'll take you to the teaching office, where it's not only tasty but also fun."

The Qin King said with a grin.

But soon, he directly wrapped his arm around Gu Jin Nian's shoulder and said.

"But younger brother, there's something—older brother really needs your help."

Having said that, he finally got to the main point.

"Brother, tell me—if it's not too troublesome, I'll consider it."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, also a bit curious.

"Here's the thing: among those three thousand plus people, some have a bit of connection with your brother."

"But rest assured, older brother isn't doing this for them; I already went to the cell and beat them all once."

"To be honest, older brother doesn't want to release them, but can't resist these people who have connections; for example, there's a guy named Huang Yu, who's your sister-in-law's nephew."

"That bastard, even his own family wades into the mess, but he was also deceived, he has no intention of harming you."

"But older brother really can't resist your sister-in-law's desperate pleas; if you give older brother a face, I'll release some people, and older brother will owe you this favor."

"However, if you, Jin Nian, can't swallow this, older brother will definitely stand on your side; I'm close with the old master, you're truly my own family, and as for your sister-in-law, I won't worry about her—at worst she won't return to the mansion this month."

Li Sui spoke.

He said so much, but it was all for this matter.

"There's no way—Gu Jin Nian has captured too many people, over three thousand; how many scholars can the capital possibly have?"

"As the Qin King, his network of connections is huge; honestly, he's also angry because there are some people he doesn't know at all."

"But the relationships he was asked to handle, each one comes to him; some are his trusted followers, some are his former soldiers."

"Now that he's the regent, saying he won't help would mean later saying he was still clean before taking power."

"If he helps, he's worried Gu Jin Nian will overthink and think he's scheming behind the scenes."

"But in the end he still has to step forward."

"It's basically friends asking friends."

"Personal debts are troublesome."

"That's all?"

"Brother, you're being too unfilial to your younger brother."

"These guys have problems, younger brother is angry, but some are stupid; I know they don't have bad intentions."

"Brother Li Sui, if you truly consider me a younger brother, do whatever you want with me; I trust older brother you won't hurt me."

"But I have to warn you twice—if it happens again, it won't be allowed, and let them lie low; if such a thing occurs later, report it promptly, counting as making up for the fault. No problem, right?"

"Gu Jin Nian thought it was a big matter, but it turned out to be just this?"

"Over three thousand scholars came to cause trouble, Gu Jin Nian wasn't stupid; he knew some just follow the trend, otherwise they'd lose face."

"Some are innocent, that's inevitable."

"But innocence doesn't mean they're without fault."

"Those who should be punished must be punished."

"Only now someone is pleading, that's another matter."

"Without these three holy manuals, Gu Jin Nian would still give Li Sui face."

"Sure enough, upon hearing that, Li Sui was instantly delighted."

"Jin Nian, I won't go easy on you."

"Fine, brother owes you a favor; I'll repay it when I get the chance."

"But rest assured, I'll set things straight; if it happens again, I won't just spare your sister‑in‑law— even if the Crown Prince pleads, I won't be lenient."

Li Sui was delighted, mainly because Gu Jin Nian's words sounded so flattering.

Soon, Li Sui slipped a token from his sleeve and handed it to Gu Jin Nian, saying.

"Jin Nian."

"This is my royal token; although it doesn't match the old master's token from my family, it's still useful within the capital."

"From now on, don't use the old master's golden token; after all, it's just a pass—good for scaring people, but in a critical moment, my token is far more useful."

"Alright, brother won't hold you up any longer; tonight I have to go back and give your sister‑in‑law a good lesson."

"Make sure she remembers it well."

"In a few days, drop by brother's house when you have time; as a family, don't be so distant. I'm off for now."

Qin Wang handed the royal token to Gu Jin Nian.

Then he patted Gu Jin Nian on the shoulder and walked down the mountain.

"Fine."

"Brother Li Sui, take it easy on the road; if anything's needed, just call younger brother."

Gu Jin Nian took the token; his favor toward Qin Wang certainly grew.

Although I came with ulterior motives, I must admit Qin Wang handles matters very smoothly.

There's no need to be so polite; just speak up, and I'll let you go.

But thinking it over, every sentence is courteous, each one catering to his own feelings.

Putting aside the throne struggle for a moment.

He knows how to handle things.

He looked down again at the royal token.

Forged from black mysterious iron, the front bears the characters "Qin Wang", the back features exquisite patterns and Qin Wang's seal.

Indeed.

Qin Wang's token is no ordinary item.

When not acting as regent, Qin Wang held a very high status in the Da Xia Dynasty; everyone had to show him respect.

Now that he's regent, his status is soaring.

Not inferior to the prime minister's power.

Moreover, Qin Wang commands a barracks.

The Crown Prince, aside from a personal guard of three thousand, has nothing else.

Qin Wang's barracks number a full two hundred thousand troops.

No comparison.

Of course, this is mainly due to the principle of checks and balances.

The Crown Prince must not command troops.

Otherwise, rebellion becomes likely.

After all, with troops and men, not rebelling would be a disservice to oneself.

Qin Wang left.

Gu Jin Nian also returned to the school.

He happened to see Li Ji sitting at the school entrance.

"Uncle Jin Nian, was that person just now my second uncle?"

At the school doorway, Li Ji asked curiously.

"He's your second uncle; what's up?"

Gu Jin Nian replied.

He sounded a bit puzzled.

"Oh."

"Uncle Jin Nian, I have something to tell you secretly."

Li Ji began.

He pulled Gu Jin Nian aside.

Then he said,

"Uncle Jin Nian, don't side with my second uncle. I've heard from others that he's unscrupulous; many scholars and officials in the court despise him."

"Uncle, I'm not being disrespectful, but you should keep your distance from him; otherwise those officials and scholars might have objections toward you."

"You've worked hard to earn a respectable standing among them; stirring trouble over this would be unwise."

Li Ji said.

He was actually conflicted; his words were sincere, but saying them without any personal feeling was impossible.

His father is the Crown Prince.

Under the influence of rumors, he also knows that the second uncle is contesting the throne with his father.

Seeing Gu Jin Nian get so close to his second uncle makes him uneasy, but after all, this is an adult matter.

As a junior, he shouldn't intervene, so he could only say this.

"You kid."

"Many things aren't as simple as they appear."

But don't worry, Uncle isn't stupid either; I know exactly what should be done and what shouldn't.

Your second uncle came to see me; your father will definitely find out. It's not as complicated as you think, so don't overthink it.

Gu Jin Nian chuckled. He obviously knew what Li Ji was thinking. "All right, Uncle, I have no other motive; I'm just saying this outright."

You're worried those civil officials and Confucian scholars will cause you trouble, aren't you?

Li Ji laughed, giving an embarrassed explanation.

"What's there to fear?"

"If they really cause me trouble, great-nephew, Uncle asks you: dare you throw stones at their heads again?"

Gu Jin Nian smiled and spoke.

Upon mentioning this, Li Ji's face fell instantly.

In his mind, the image of being hung up and whipped involuntarily surfaced.

"Alright."

Just attend class honestly and study; that's the main thing. Even matters your father can't resolve aren't for you to worry about.

Gu Jin Nian rubbed Li Ji's dog head, then walked into the school with a gentle smile.

"Uncle, rest assured; if anyone dares to speak ill of you next time, I'll surely smash their forehead and won't implicate you."

At that moment, Li Ji spoke from behind, his tone firm.

As soon as he said that, Gu Jin Nian blinked in surprise, then couldn't help laughing.

It seems this heir apparent is genuinely frightened.

Tsk tsk, he's completely under my control.

"Get in here to study, and stop talking nonsense."

Gu Jin Nian shouted.

Immediately, Li Ji came running, plopped down beside Gu Jin Nian, and studied honestly.

Thus.

Two hours later.

Lessons ended.

A different teacher each day continued for about half a month, and everyone's performance was quite ordinary.

Even Gu Jin Nian's performance was quite ordinary.

Because in everyone's eyes, Gu Jin Nian was merely taking the opportunity to pretend to be a mute; speaking of education, what enlightenment could a single wheat harvest possibly bring?

Let me say something unpleasant.

Everyone here, who hasn't been whipped by their family? And after that?

Still, I do as I please.

Do you think understanding principles can come from a single session of recalling bitterness and thinking of sweetness? It's nowhere near that simple.

If I suggested taking everyone to the entertainment quarters for some fun, then telling them that making money is the kingly way, perhaps they'd understand.

What's enduring a bit of hardship?

Just that.

Lessons ended.

Just as everyone was rising to leave.

Zhao Siqing's voice rang out.

"Everyone."

"Tomorrow I will give the lesson."

"I will teach everyone how to cultivate qi and practice immortality."

"Everyone, please come to the school at the Yin hour tomorrow; no lateness, or I'll give you a demerit—understood?"

Zhao Siqing's voice rang out.

It silenced the school instantly.

Huh? Cultivate qi and practice immortality?

Are you serious?

Gu Jin Nian also froze.

Although it's one teacher per day, with everyone sharing what they know, embracing all rivers.

But teach immortality?

That's a bit absurd, isn't it?

"Miss Siqing, this immortality business is complicated and hard to grasp; besides, you can't learn it in a day."

"How about we switch to something else?"

Wang Fugui's voice rang out, somewhat bitterly.

Cultivating immortality isn't like studying.

Just memorizing things won't cut it.

If this isn't done right, something will go wrong.

"It's fine."

"I'll come the next day."

"The third day will be Bai Yu Senior Sister."

"The last day will be Xu Senior Brother; with four days, everyone can barely get a feel for it."

At that moment.

Xu Ya silently added a strike.

The four of them didn't know what to teach, so they discussed and decided to teach everyone cultivation.

In an instant.

Everyone fell silent.

Only Gu Jin Nian inexplicably felt some anticipation.

(End of chapter)