Chapter 76: Fuyu envoy, humiliating Da Xia

Qin King's Mansion.

Looking at the gifts on the three large carriages, Li Sui frowned slightly.

After all, these are gifts for his younger brother, and he wondered whether the three large carriages would be enough.

But at that moment,

a trusted aide hurried over and whispered in his ear.

"Your Highness."

"The envoy of the Fuyu Dynasty is about to enter the capital; they are about fifty li from Da Xia Capital, roughly half an hour away, and will soon arrive."

As the voice rang out,

Li Sui couldn't help but frown.

"Already arriving? Wasn't it scheduled to arrive in seven days?"

Li Sui frowned, a bit surprised.

According to the Ministry of Rites' schedule, about seven days later, envoys from the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty would arrive.

Arriving seven days early is rather odd.

"Sir, the Ministry of Rites is also unclear; the Fuyu Dynasty departed early,"

"Moreover, the Fuyu Dynasty's Shenlu Third Prince and the Fusang Tenth Princess are coming together as envoy representatives."

The latter replied.

"Departing early? Third Prince? Tenth Princess? What a grand display indeed."

The Qin King frowned.

He thought for a moment, then spoke.

"Have the Ministry of Rites entertain them first; I will enter the palace."

"Send these gifts to the Da Xia Academy."

"Tell my younger brother that I cannot go due to other matters; we will meet next time."

The Qin King spoke.

The Fuyu Dynasty arriving seven days early is no small matter.

There must be some purpose.

He intends to enter the palace to inform his father of this.

"Yes."

The latter, without further words, proceeded to make arrangements.

At this very moment,

Da Xia Capital, fifty li away.

A long procession slowly emerged, warhorses flanking the sides, two jade litters moving side by side on the Da Xia Capital's official road.

These are the envoys of the Fuyu Dynasty.

Behind the jade litters were a line of carriages, within which were the scholars of the Fuyu Dynasty.

This time, for the Da Xia poetry gathering, the Fuyu Dynasty was especially attentive, not only sending its most literary scholars but also dispatching the Third Prince and the Tenth Princess.

The Fuyu Dynasty originally comprised two nations: Fusang Nation and Shenlu Nation, which were once as incompatible as water and fire.

However, during the chaotic wars among the ten Central Plains states in the Eastern Wilderness, the two nations united with a common goal of seizing Central Plains territory, merging into a single state called the Fuyu Dynasty.

After nearly a century of adjustment, the two nations grew harmonious and indeed occupied parts of the Central Plains, though they relied on the northern Xiongnu's assistance.

Along the border's twelve cities and several protectorates, the northern Xiongnu had taken control, and the shadow of the Fuyu Dynasty had never waned.

Originally, the Da Xia Dynasty had stabilized in order to reclaim its lands, but the Great Jin Dynasty's involvement made Da Xia's progress impossible.

Naturally, the matter could only be set aside, awaiting a suitable opportunity.

Thus, the Fuyu Dynasty has two emperors, honorifically called the Dual Saints on the Throne.

In the jade litter on the left side,

seven or eight figures appeared; a delicate, handsome man, clad in a golden four‑clawed dragon robe, sat upright in the jade litter, his hair dyed violet, his face full of world‑weariness.

On each side, four scholars knelt.

"Gentlemen, for this Da Xia poetry gathering, my father the emperor places great expectations on you; I hope you can claim first place so that this prince may fulfill his duties."

"If anyone takes first place, trampling the Da Xia scholars beneath their feet, this prince will petition the emperor to marry my fourth sister to them."

"Therefore, I hope you all prepare well this time."

The Shenlu Third Prince spoke, a smile in his eyes as he looked at the eight.

His voice rang out; the eight all showed delighted expressions, but soon another voice followed.

"Your Highness the Third Prince, Da Xia's Confucianism is mediocre at best, especially the Da Xia emperor, whose ascension is illegitimate, and beneath him lies a mire of filth."

"Indeed, if the upper beam is crooked the lower beam tilts; the Da Xia emperor usurped the throne, all the pure Confucian scholars of Da Xia have long perished, and the only one still somewhat decent is Su Wenjing."

The crowd spoke, attacking the Da Xia emperor.

"Su Wenjing? Ha, he's nothing special; hasn't the court already issued an edict to pacify him? He was once respected, but now entangled in fame and profit, no longer a true Confucian."

"Indeed, I once held Su Wenjing in high regard, but now I see he is merely a false Confucian."

"Alas, I cannot understand why Heaven's Mandate chose them; the Da Xia Dynasty receiving the Ninefold Heaven's Mandate is undeserved."

The group discussed, also lambasting Su Wenjing.

"No, it has nothing to do with them; the notion of Heaven's Mandate should relate to national fortune. The Da Xia Dynasty, having unified the ten states, merely benefits from the legacy of its founding ancestor."

"Otherwise, would Da Xia even merit the Ninefold Heaven's Mandate?"

A man spoke, his hatred toward Da Xia evident.

Seeing the crowd's reaction, the Third Prince was quite satisfied.

Just then, a voice also came from the jade carriage beside them.

"Don't underestimate Da Xia."

"Before, it was still okay to say, but now Da Xia has an extraordinary talent."

The voice was pleasant, entering the jade carriage, and everyone fell silent involuntarily.

This was the voice of the Tenth Princess of Fusang.

"The person the Her Highness spoke of—is it Gu Jin Nian, who has recently been extremely prominent?"

The Third Prince of Shenluo spoke up, asking directly.

"Yes."

The latter responded lightly, and the voice came from the jade carriage.

"Ha, Her Highness is overthinking; this Gu Jin Nian, I, the prince, do not think he possesses any extraordinary talent."

The Third Prince of Shenluo chuckled.

He did not think so.

And the others also began to speak.

"What the Third Prince said is indeed correct."

"As for Gu Jin Nian, I do know something about him—he is the grandson of the National Protector Duke; in his youth he was extravagantly spoiled, his actions arrogant and domineering; were it not for his position as heir apparent, he would be nothing more than an ordinary commoner."

"However, after he drowned, Gu Jin Nian became unstoppable; suddenly he wrote a famous poem, then composed timeless essays, then wrote the National Protector Poem, timeless poetry, and sought justice for the people."

"If it were anyone else, I would surely admire them, but swapping in Gu Jin Nian leaves me feeling only disgust."

Someone spoke up, commenting on Gu Jin Nian.

Upon saying that, everyone's curiosity was instantly piqued.

"What do you mean by that?"

"What does this mean?"

Several people were very curious, not understanding what he meant by that remark.

Regarding Gu Jin Nian, everyone present actually had some impression of him; timeless essays, the National Protector Poem, timeless poetry, seeking justice for the people—these were things they had long dreamed of achieving.

Yet they could hardly accomplish even one of those in their lifetimes; now Gu Jin Nian has burst onto the scene, leaving them both shocked and filled with inner jealousy.

Now, upon hearing someone criticize Gu Jin Nian, they appeared curious on the surface, but inwardly they felt extremely pleased.

"Think about it, everyone."

"Can a martial family produce a scholar?"

"Even if one invites a Great Scholar to personally teach, what then?"

"Furthermore, writing essays and poetry requires experience; may I ask, among the timeless essays and poems from ancient times, which was not authored by a renowned master?"

"Look at their ages—they all had to reach sixty before they could write such works; throughout history, there have indeed been astonishing geniuses, but they are often fleeting, a single poem echoing through the ages."

"And what about Gu Jin Nian? He is both a timeless essayist and a timeless poet; he is only sixteen, having always remained in the Capital Duke's Manor—has he ever experienced the people's hardships?"

"And what principles does he understand?"

He spoke, slowly voicing his reasoning.

Indeed, as soon as he said that, everyone nodded in praise, even the Third Prince could not help but nod.

They accepted his words.

"No, according to your opinion, Brother, Gu Jin Nian's writings are not his own? Then why are there omens?"

"The saying about omens is that they are approved by heaven and earth; if heaven and earth approve them, then there can be no forgery."

Someone raised a doubt; although he was quite willing to accept that result, evidence must still be produced, otherwise relying solely on speculation would seem self-deceptive.

Indeed, everyone was also very curious, looking at each other.

"Ha, if it were a few months ago, I would never have had this thought."

"But have you all forgotten that a month ago, Heaven's Mandate manifested?"

"As you just said, Brother, omens need heavenly approval, but recently the National Protector Duke obtained a Heaven's Mandate."

"What exactly does this Heaven's Mandate do? We don't know, but could it possibly influence celestial phenomena?"

"Furthermore, when was the first time Gu Jin Nian drew forth terrifying celestial phenomena? It was while he was writing an essay—who was present then?"

He spoke, appearing supremely confident in his theory.

Everyone pondered, and soon gave an answer.

"Su Wenjing."

"Su Wenjing was there at the time."

Several people answered instinctively.

He smiled faintly and said nothing more.

At that moment, everyone suddenly came to a realization.

"I understand now—the National Protector Duke possesses a Heaven's Mandate, and Su Wenjing has also obtained one; they are trying to create a god."

"If that is the case, it is indeed possible, after all we also do not know what the Heaven's Mandate actually does."

"But why would they choose Gu Jin Nian?"

"Yes, Da Xia is not lacking in talent; why not choose someone else, such as a descendant of the Holy Ruler?"

Everyone gradually came to understand, though some were still curious as to why they would choose Gu Jin Nian.

Upon saying that, the Third Prince could not help but speak up.

"Choosing someone else would instead invite more suspicion, but choosing Gu Jin Nian is different."

"He has no accomplishments in the Confucian Way, yet suddenly he leapt to prominence; although at first it seemed unbelievable, the main effect is shock."

"Even if someone doubts it, they would immediately raise this question, thinking that Da Xia has so many talents that there is no need to choose Gu Jin Nian."

This is a scheme.

Moreover, there's one more thing I want you all to forget: Gu Jin Nian's maternal uncle is actually the Emperor of Da Xia.

He ascended the throne illegitimately, doubted by the world; earlier he slaughtered many Confucian scholars, knowing full well that the common scholars resent him, so he must fabricate a scholar.

A peerless talent, to prove that under his rule Heaven's Mandate approves him; however this person cannot be anyone else, must be a member of the imperial family.

Neither the crown prince nor the grandson of the crown prince will do; that would stir up even more controversy, and besides they are to inherit the throne, so they too cannot follow the Confucian path.

After thinking it over, Gu Jin Nian is just right.

In that case, the imperial family, Da Xia Academy, and the Defender Duke basically hold all of Heaven's Mandate; to fabricate such a phenomenon would probably not be too difficult.

The Third Prince also joined the analysis, and his words were logical and well-founded.

After hearing this, everyone became even more certain that Gu Jin Nian has a problem.

Of course.

These are all speculation, with no evidence, and cannot be taken as definite.

However, this Da Xia Poetry Meeting will reveal true talent; the Da Xia Poetry Meeting, with each of the nine examiners setting their own questions.

If Gu Jin Nian truly has ability, it will be obvious at a glance; if he lacks strength, that too will be obvious, and then we can settle accounts slowly.

The Third Prince added another sentence.

After all this talk, it's actually still some self-consolation.

In the end, we still need to see it before we can say.

What the Third Prince said is absolutely correct.

Hmm, but gentlemen, upon entering Da Xia this time, you still need to be careful; do not eat things randomly, for if they resort to vile tactics, you'll suffer.

Yes, the Emperor of Da Xia ascended the throne illegitimately, his conduct is wicked, the whole atmosphere of Da Xia is corrupt; we must be extremely cautious.

Everyone chatted back and forth, disparaging Da Xia as worthless.

Meanwhile, the jade carriage beside them said nothing further.

You should pay attention to this yourselves.

However, we'll go straight to the Da Xia Imperial Palace later.

My father has prepared three generous gifts; there are still many matters. Upon entering the palace, do not speak recklessly, after all this is not the Fuyu superior state, so we must restrain ourselves a bit.

The Third Prince spoke.

When mentioning the three generous gifts, his eyes filled with even more smiles.

Upon saying that, everyone nodded.

But regarding the latter part of the statement, they did not agree.

They are very proud; the reason for their pride is that they believe Da Xia's Confucian circle has no upright scholars, and they consider the orthodoxy to lie with their Fuyu Dynasty.

Indeed.

Twelve years ago, after Emperor Yongsheng entered the capital, he carried out a massive slaughter of many people, among whom were not lacking scholars with unyielding integrity; some scholars fled to the Fuyu Dynasty, transmitting some ideas.

Resenting arrogance is normal, an educational issue.

That's how it is.

After an hour.

The Fuyu Dynasty's entourage entered the capital.

The Ministry of Rites also sent personnel to await them, without any negligence, escorting everyone to the palace.

Da Xia governs with Confucianism, a heavenly state; all foreign envoys are received by the Ministry of Rites. Although the Fuyu Dynasty secretly has friction with the Da Xia Dynasty, openly both are major powers.

Naturally, they must be received by the Emperor of Da Xia.

At this time, it was already the third quarter of the Yin hour.

Today's court assembly also happened to arrive; upon learning that the Fuyu envoys had entered the capital, the officials were also somewhat curious.

According to what the Ministry of Rites previously said, they should come again in seven days.

Arriving seven days early, there is certainly nothing good about it.

But when the Fuyu envoys entered the capital, indeed different news arrived.

The Fuyu Dynasty envoys brought a large quantity of rare treasures; this is a state gift, but one item drew astonishment from the capital's populace.

The object is huge, standing two zhang tall, appearing extremely precious, of considerable value.

Moreover, it was pulled by twelve horses, further astonishing the populace.

The Fuyu envoys came to participate in the Da Xia Poetry Meeting; although they would bring some gifts, it would be impossible for them to bring such a valuable gift.

For a moment, it sparked speculation among the populace.

The officials outside the palace also felt deep suspicion.

Some voices gradually rose, but were ultimately stopped by the Prime Minister Li Shan.

The fifth quarter of the Yin hour.

Officials entered the palace.

The first quarter of the Mao hour.

Officials entered the court.

Long live the Emperor!

Accompanied by the resounding sound, upon the dragon throne, Emperor Yongsheng's expression remained calm.

Rise.

He spoke.

The next moment, the voice of Minister of Rites Yang Kai rang out.

Your Majesty.

The Fuyu envoy has already entered the capital; the Third Prince of Shenluo has prepared exotic treasures, seeking an audience with Your Majesty to promote friendship between the two nations.

Yang Kai spoke immediately.

For such a matter, it is natural that a ministerial‑level official should speak first.

"Approved."

The Da Xia Emperor Yongsheng spoke slowly.

At that moment, a eunuch's voice sounded.

"Convey the Fuyu envoy into the hall to appear before the sovereign."

As the voice rang out, the party soon walked slowly into the great hall.

Leading them was the Third Prince of Shenluo, accompanied by Princess Ten of Fusang, dressed in princess attire; her figure was concealed by a blue veil, yet her outline was undeniably graceful.

"I, the Third Prince of Shenluo, pay my respects to the Da Xia sovereign, wishing you boundless longevity."

"I, Princess Ten of Fusang, pay my respects to the Da Xia sovereign, wishing you boundless longevity."

The envoy arrived and bowed deeply toward Emperor Yongsheng to show respect.

"No formalities required."

Looking at the foreign envoys, the Da Xia Emperor spoke in a gentle tone and then addressed them directly.

"You have traveled thousands of miles, enduring hardships to come to my Da Xia and attend the poetry gathering; your resolve is steadfast, and I am truly gratified."

"Attendants, grant ten thousand taels of gold, one hundred spirit jade, six sets of ceremonial robes and regalia, plus one hundred eight Da Xia Treasure Pills, to be accounted for by the Ministry of Rites."

The Da Xia Emperor spoke, his generosity lavish; ten thousand taels of gold were but a trifle, the key being the hundred spirit jade and the Da Xia Treasure Pills, which were especially precious.

"Thank you for the sovereign's gracious gift."

The two spoke in unison.

But soon, the Third Prince of Shenluo continued.

"Your Da Xia sovereign."

"Having come today, my father the emperor specially instructed me, his nephew, to convey his greetings to Your Majesty."

"Since ancient times, Da Xia and the Fuyu Dynasty have been friendly states; my father dearly misses Your Majesty, so he has specially prepared three substantial gifts for you."

"May Da Xia and the Fuyu Dynasty coexist in friendship for generations to come."

The Third Prince of Shenluo smiled as he spoke, appearing very excited.

Hearing the words "substantial gifts," the entire court of civil and military officials could not help but be curious.

What valuable items could the Fuyu Dynasty possibly possess?

The common folk usually eat only fruits and vegetables, meat is expensive, yet there are substantial gifts being offered? They were curious.

The Da Xia Emperor couldn't help but laugh heartily, looking at them and saying,

"Truly courteous."

"Tell your father that I also miss him greatly; every night I think of him."

The Da Xia Emperor smiled and spoke.

Yet there was another meaning hidden in those words.

The assembled audience understood perfectly, though none voiced it; the Third Prince of Shenluo also grasped the implication, yet outwardly he continued to smile.

"May I request Your Majesty to move aside? This substantial gift is too large to be placed inside the hall."

He continued, asking the emperor to step outside.

"Very well."

The Da Xia Emperor nodded, extending his hand without raising it against the smiling man, especially since he was presenting a substantial gift.

In an instant, Emperor Yongsheng rose and walked toward the outside, and the other officials followed suit.

The officials proceeded together.

Outside the hall, a carriage appeared before everyone's eyes.

On the carriage was a massive blue cloth that covered it from end to end, resembling a gigantic sword.

"What is this?"

The Da Xia Emperor asked, addressing the Third Prince of Shenluo.

"Your Majesty, this is the first substantial gift my father has presented to you."

He spoke, then clapped his hands.

Immediately, the servants around the carriage pulled the massive cloth down.

As the cloth fell, everyone was instantly astonished.

It was a scepter two zhang tall, atop which sat a dazzling purple gem that glittered under the golden sun; the scepter itself was forged of gold, encrusted with all manner of jewels—pearls, agate, and more.

The sheer sight gave a powerful visual impact.

The entire court was shocked.

Especially Minister of Revenue He Yan, who made a quick calculation and could roughly estimate its value.

At least ten million taels of silver.

Indeed, it is truly valuable.

However, when the cloth fully fell, the crowd was astonished again.

Because beneath the scepter lay a massive ruby, from which hung numerous golden iron chains that wrapped tightly around the staff, securing it firmly.

Counting the base's gems and those human‑sized golden links, the item was worth at least twenty million taels of silver.

The court's civil and military officials stared in amazement.

The Third Prince of Shenluo could not help but speak again.

"Your Majesty."

This item is named the Great Yin Divine Staff, forged by my father the emperor according to the Shenlu ancestors, using the scepter held by the Moonlight Divine Spirit.

The gems on it are all world rarities; each is of considerable value, and the largest gem is worth a fortune.

As for this gold, it is cast from the essence of refined crimson gold that has been purified a hundred times and hammered a thousand times.

From start to finish, three thousand craftsmen were employed, and it took ten years to complete.

Especially the gem below, which is Da Xia's most precious Red Blood Ruby.

In principle this item cannot be measured by ordinary standards, but if one insists on appraising it, even 80 million taels of silver could not forge such a marvel.

Today we present it to Your Majesty, hoping that the friendship between the two nations can be like this scepter,

The Third Prince of Shenlu spoke, introducing the scepter.

With those words spoken,

Some people clicked their tongues in amazement, while others frowned slightly, their expressions not very pleasant.

Indeed, this item is a marvel.

It is also truly a world rarity.

But the problem lies in the last sentence: the gem at the bottom is a Red Blood Ruby, which is hailed as Da Xia's national stone.

Back then, the founding ancestor, in dire poverty and near starvation, happened by chance to obtain a Red Blood Ruby; after selling it, he not only survived the hardship but also recruited soldiers and bought horses, and began to gradually pacify the chaos of the world.

Thus, the Red Blood Ruby symbolizes something in Da Xia.

But now, with the scepter above and the gem below, there is a somewhat unusual meaning.

Does it symbolize Da Xia beneath and Fuyu above? Moreover, the twelve golden iron chains inevitably remind one of something.

The twelve border cities.

They block Da Xia, securing the Moonlight Scepter, which is the Fuyu Imperial Authority.

That is truly ingenious.

Using this method to humiliate the Da Xia Dynasty?

One should know that an item that even 80 million taels of silver cannot forge, when sent to the Da Xia Dynasty, is a good thing.

The Da Xia Dynasty certainly cannot say anything, and might even feel obliged to return an equivalent gift; of course expecting Da Xia to produce such an item is unrealistic.

There is no time for that.

Therefore, they must exchange something of equal value, such as Da Xia's most precious rice and a certain amount of silver.

But what use does this thing have?

Does the Da Xia Dynasty lack such rare treasures?

The answer is that it does not lack them.

Or perhaps, this thing is useless.

Just a decoration?

The emperor looks at it every day?

No need, right?

But you really have to send something over, so in the end, who suffers the loss?

It is the Da Xia Dynasty.

This move is truly ruthless.

It is indeed ruthless.

The exchange of state gifts incurs a loss.

The item arrives, and it contains malicious intent; who would be pleased to see it? At this moment, the officials gradually reflect, each with an unsightly expression.

Emperor Yongsheng's face remains calm, though his heart harbors some disgust.

But this cannot be spoken.

Speaking it would make the Da Xia Dynasty appear lacking in spirit and vision.

They send a gift, and you insist on interpreting it this way? Does that mean future gifts to you will require careful consideration? If this were a vassal state, Emperor Yongsheng could simply behead the guy without consequence.

But the problem is, the Fuyu Dynasty is not a vassal state.

They arrived seven days early.

Sure enough, they came with other motives; ruthless, truly ruthless.

However, at this moment, the Third Prince of Shenlu continued speaking.

"Your Majesty."

"This wondrous treasure actually also contains a wisdom, a legend of our Fuyu Dynasty."

"May I ask whether Your Majesty wishes to hear?"

The Third Prince of Shenlu spoke, smiling.

"Oh? What rumor? I am quite interested."

Emperor Yongsheng smiled and spoke, without any hint of impropriety.

Hearing this, the Third Prince of Shenlu continued.

"Your Majesty."

"In the Fuyu Dynasty, when heaven and earth first opened, two divine beings were born: one called Rizhao the Great Deity, the other Moonlight the Great Deity."

"At that time, the world was in turmoil, the people suffered, the princes ruled tyrannically, rites and music collapsed, causing all living beings to be scorched and the masses to perish."

"The Moonlight Great Deity cared for the world, yet also understood human wickedness, and thus created the Moonlight Divine Staff, casting it into the mortal realm."

"Placed in the ancient capital of Shenlu, whoever can draw the scepter becomes the deity‑chosen one; if he is a king, he will become an immortal emperor."

"If he is a minister, he becomes a timeless renowned official, assisting the enlightened ruler."

"If he is a commoner, he will bless the masses, comprehend the world's principles, and eliminate calamities for the world."

Therefore, the first generation Holy One of Shenluo moved the heavens with sincere heart, obtained the scepter, and founded the Shenluo nation.

But my father, the Emperor, thinks the notion of sincerity is somewhat forced; the first Holy One of Shenluo surely obtained the scepter through other wisdom.

Unfortunately, no one in the Fuyu Dynasty can decipher it, nor can anyone comprehend the wisdom within.

It is well known that the Da Xia Dynasty has a long history, possesses the wisdom of ancient sages, and claims to be the birthplace of Confucianism and Daoism; therefore my father hopes that Da Xia scholars can help the Fuyu Dynasty unravel this secret.

If it can truly be solved, its value is priceless; my father promises to genuinely present this item to the Da Xia Dynasty, asking for no return gift.

The Shenluo Third Prince spoke.

He revealed the true purpose.

He forged this item for the Da Xia Dynasty to solve; if they succeed, no return is needed, essentially taking it for free.

But if they cannot solve it, they must honestly give a return gift, honestly swallow their pride, place this thing in a conspicuous spot, and guard it well.

After all, when the Fuyu Dynasty people come next time and find it missing, they'll say Da Xia showed no courtesy—won't that be unjust?

"I see."

"Esteemed ministers, is there anyone willing to enlighten the Shenluo king?"

Yongsheng Emperor smiled.

He then turned his gaze toward the entire court of civil and military officials.

"Your Majesty, I am willing to give it a try."

At that moment,

a middle-aged man stepped forward; he was a military officer, a general of quasi Martial King realm.

"Very well."

Yongsheng Emperor spoke.

He also wanted to see what such an object could actually do; although the item was massive, before a quasi Martial King it was nothing special.

The latter, without any chatter, leapt into the air, appeared atop the scepter, then grasped the scepter, channeling martial Dao power, attempting to yank it out forcefully.

Whoosh—

The golden iron chain quivered instantly.

The scepter did indeed shift slightly, but only a little.

Soon, the purple gemstone flared, draining all of the latter's martial true qi.

"Is this a Wuling Stone?"

"It turns out to be a Wuling Stone."

"No wonder they're so confident; it's a Wuling Stone after all."

In an instant, the entire court was astonished.

Wuling Stone.

It is a spirit object capable of blocking all martial true qi and immortal Dao spiritual energy.

In other words, trying to pull the scepter out by brute force is virtually impossible.

Just by its size, one can tell the scepter weighs tens of thousands of jin.

Moreover, it is bound by an iron chain.

To extract it is utterly impossible.

"Your Holiness, I forgot to mention that the gemstone atop it is a Wuling Stone, so true qi cannot move this scepter."

"I hope Your Holiness will forgive me."

The Shenluo Third Prince spoke; saying this now was merely to expose everyone's shortcomings.

"It's a trivial matter; how could I be angry?"

Yongsheng Emperor replied calmly, though he harbored deep resentment toward this Shenluo Third Prince.

"Your Holiness truly is magnanimous; your nephew admires you."

"However, the mystery of this item has troubled my Fuyu Dynasty for millennia."

"Attempting to solve it in a short time is likely very difficult."

"Da Xia scholars are countless; my father's intention is that they should be able to solve it within at most half a year."

"However, your nephew cannot wait too long; after the poetry gathering ends, at most a few more days can be delayed, so I hope Your Holiness will be lenient."

The Shenluo Third Prince continued his sarcastic tone.

But the ministers of the whole court truly had nothing to say.

"No problem."

"Let them think further; I will also return to the hall to contemplate."

Yongsheng Emperor remained very calm.

After saying this, he turned and left, leaving the civil and military officials behind.

Although he knew they were deliberately making things difficult, he could be sure that the Shenluo Third Prince, daring to bring this item for testing, must have a way.

He only claimed ignorance to save face.

If the Da Xia Dynasty cannot answer, they must honestly swallow this loss.

If they flare up and others answer, it would be a slap in the face, and they'd be labeled as blaming others for the difficult question.

These thoughts were clear in Yongsheng Emperor's mind.

Since the Fuyu Dynasty can solve it,

it means there is a method.

At this moment, it is time for the entire court's officials to act.

Those who answer will receive a reward.

If you can't answer, stop calling things by names here from now on.

At that moment, the Yongsheng Emperor returned to the Yangxin Hall.

He left behind the entire court of civil and military officials.

And they also knew the emperor's thoughts; in an instant, the pressure was immense.

As for the third prince of Shenluo, he smiled broadly at everything.

The Fuyu scholars beside him each showed a smile in their eyes.

It was clear they were truly proud.

One hour later.

Inside the Yangxin Hall.

Bang.

The sound of a teacup shattering rang out.

The Yongsheng Emperor wore a cold expression, his anger palpable.

The Fuyu Dynasty helped the Xiongnu seize twelve border cities, and often ordered those Xiongnu to burn and loot the border; those accounts have not yet been tallied.

How dare they present such a gift today?

Want to insult the Da Xia Dynasty? How could that not make him angry? But what angers him even more is that the entire court cannot devise a solution.

Truly a bunch of useless people.

"Your Majesty, calm your anger."

"Do not damage the Dragon Body."

Liu Yan spoke, urging the Yongsheng Emperor from beside.

"Summon all those Great Scholars to me."

"I do not believe that this mere object lacks a way to be broken."

The Yongsheng Emperor said.

He held his breath, feeling very uncomfortable.

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince, the Qin King, Li Xiang, request an audience."

In the next moment, Wei Xian's voice sounded, informing the Yongsheng Emperor.

Hearing this, the Yongsheng Emperor reined in his fury and slowly said,

"Let them come in."

Soon,

three figures entered the hall, looked at the shattered teacup on the ground, and instantly understood.

"Minister, I have seen Your Majesty."

"Son‑minister, I respectfully greet Father Emperor."

Li Shan spoke first; the Crown Prince and the Qin King followed.

"What is the matter?"

The Yongsheng Emperor looked at Li Shan and asked calmly,

"Your Majesty."

"Today the third prince of Shenluo sent this grand gift, clearly intentional and surely well‑considered. I have studied the Moonlight Scepter carefully; it weighs at least fifty thousand jin, and twelve golden‑iron chains firmly bind the scepter."

"Trying to pull it out by human strength is simply impractical."

"I think this matter should be postponed until after the Da Xia Poetry Gathering, then we can resolve it."

"That way, we'll have half a month, front and back, to think of a way to break it; otherwise, leaving it outside the hall for an hour only lets them gloat for an hour."

"Please, Your Majesty, decide."

Li Shan spoke, voicing his thoughts.

"After the Da Xia Poetry Gathering?"

"They're waiting for your answer."

"If, after the Poetry Gathering, we still cannot break it, won't that be even more shameful?"

"This third prince of Shenluo must have a way to break it; otherwise he wouldn't be so arrogant."

"Do not use your own incompetence as an excuse."

"If you can't think of a solution today, imprison them all for reflection."

The Yongsheng Emperor said coldly.

It's not that I'm making it hard; the whole court consists of Da Xia's top intellects—aren't they the ones who broke through a thousand troops? If there's a way, it's a human problem.

Not being able to think of one means incompetence.

"Your Majesty, think it over."

"The Fuyu Dynasty sent this item after deep deliberation; expecting a solution within a day is simply unrealistic."

"Such a demand is not a good thing."

Li Shan continued, urging the Yongsheng Emperor to reconsider.

"Are you saying the Da Xia Dynasty has no talented individuals, thus is inferior to Fuyu?"

The Yongsheng Emperor sneered.

"Fine, using this opportunity we can also chastise the civil‑military officials."

"So they won't each think they're great."

"From another angle it's also a good thing, though the humiliation is severe."

"Minister, that is not my intention."

Li Shan lowered his head, not knowing what to say.

"Father Emperor Wu is angry; throughout the court of civil and military officials, there must be talent—it's only a matter of time."

The Crown Prince spoke up and offered a suggestion.

Yet Emperor Yongsheng ignored him, only letting out a slight sigh.

And at that moment.

Prince Qin Li Sui couldn't help but speak.

"Father."

"Actually, if we must say something, there's a person who might have a way."

The Qin Prince spoke.

Looking at his own father.

As soon as he said that, the three of them couldn't help but fix their gazes on him, all with curiosity and oddity.

"Who?"

The Crown Prince asked directly.

"Who else could it be, you know."

Feeling the three gazes, the Qin Prince was somewhat casual.

In an instant.

Emperor Yongsheng was startled.

Then he became unusually excited and said.

"You mean that nephew who copies everything from me? Gu Jin Nian?"

Emperor Yongsheng spoke.

The three fell silent.

"Alright, I actually forgot about him, hahaha."

"Second son, quickly, go fetch Jin Nian."

"I want to see, if Jin Nian can break the deadlock, how this bunch of supporting Luo dog things will look, hahaha."

Emperor Yongsheng was overjoyed.

Yet Li Shan couldn't help but speak.

"Your Majesty."

"The Crown Prince is indeed clever, but he's only poetry and prose; he can't solve this trouble on the ground."

"Moreover, bringing an outsider in, success would be fine, but failure would make us a laughingstock, wouldn't it?"

Li Shan spoke up, offering a reminder.

Yet Emperor Yongsheng rose immediately.

"You don't understand my nephew."

"My nephew has my bearing; I can see the shadow of my younger self in him."

"Hurry to Da Xia Academy and summon my nephew, hahaha."

For some reason, mentioning Gu Jin Nian makes Emperor Yongsheng confident and happy.

Then he urged Li Sui to go fetch people.

"Alright, Father, I'll go and be right back."

Seeing his father so happy, Li Sui immediately stood and ran toward the hall's exit.

Meanwhile, Li Shan watched all this with a silent expression.

As for the Crown Prince, he didn't feel anything.

That's how it was.

Two quarters of an hour later.

Da Xia Academy.

A figure was soaring above the firmament.

It was Gu Jin Nian's figure.

He still had his feet on a desk, having been playing for almost a whole day.

Extremely delighted.

And his control became smoother and more at will.

That feeling was indeed very satisfying.

But at that moment.

A voice sounded.

"Jin Nian."

"Something big happened."

"Come quickly."

It was Li Sui's voice.

He was very excited.

Hearing Li Sui's voice, Gu Jin Nian came from the firmament to the desk.

"Brother, why did you come?"

Looking at Li Sui, Gu Jin Nian was full of curiosity.

No time to explain.

First, come with me to the imperial palace.

Li Sui spoke, not wanting to explain too much; they'd go to the palace first.

Alright.

Gu Jin Nian didn't chatter either and followed Li Sui away.

The two mounted warhorses and rode toward the imperial palace.

Along the way, Li Sui gradually explained the whole background to Gu Jin Nian.

"Jin Nian, these damn dogs just want to pick a fight with us; if you have a way, after breaking the stalemate, give me a harsh humiliation back."

"Damn it, a bunch of barbarians."

Li Sui shouted, saying so while riding the horse.

Alright.

"But the specifics still depend; I don't have much confidence right now."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up; he roughly understood what it meant, but he didn't quite grasp the scepter and such, perhaps Li Sui's way of expressing was the issue.

It has to be dealt with on site.

"Okay."

"By the way, how do you fly using a table? Why don't you use a flying sword? Later I'll get you a flying sword."

"Flying a table looks awful."

Li Sui nodded and simultaneously asked Gu Jin Nian about this.

"Well, that's good then."

Hearing that, Gu Jin Nian nodded.

Soon.

The two arrived outside the palace, dismounted, and walked toward the interior.

At this very moment.

The Yongsheng Great Emperor returned to the area outside the main hall.

Waiting here for Gu Jin Nian.

Soon, two silhouettes appeared.

Everyone of the Fuyu Dynasty also looked over together.

The civil and military officials did the same.

And Gu Jin Nian finally saw the scepter Li Sui had spoken of.

(End of chapter)