Chapter 89: The Destiny Struggle, Legend of the Eighth Realm, A Prosperous Age Arrives, Fairy, Please Mind Your Conduct

Da Xia Academy.

Gu Jin Nian left the room.

He saw Su Huaiyu a short distance away.

Still as aloof as ever.

Still in the "no strangers allowed" mode.

"Brother Su."

He walked over, and Gu Jin Nian made a slight bow.

"Congratulations, His Highness the Crown Prince, on consolidating the Nine‑Refinement Battle Chariot."

Su Huaiyu forced a smile that didn't reach his eyes, showing not a hint of congratulations.

"Just a trifle."

"Brother Su, may I ask what urgent matter you have?"

Gu Jin Nian said little else and directly asked Su Huaiyu what the urgent matter was.

"The cultivation world and Jianghu have been unsettled these days; a demon lord has gone on a killing spree, and the Crown Prince should be careful."

Su Huaiyu spoke up, informing Gu Jin Nian of this.

"What does this have to do with me?"

Gu Jin Nian frowned; a demon lord on a killing spree, what does that have to do with me? Should I go in? Deliver vegetables for them?

"No."

"This demon lord claims to be your master, which is why he went on a killing spree."

Su Huaiyu spoke, giving the reason.

Gu Jin Nian: "..."

"Isn't this a blatant frame‑up? I am a scholar; how could I be linked to a demon lord?"

"Moreover, even if he were my master, why would he go on a killing spree?"

Gu Jin Nian felt a bit numb.

His own master?

Since when did he take a demon lord as master?

"He believes you possess a talent of ten thousand ages, that you will become a great figure of the demonic path, and fears someone might seize the chance to become your master first."

"Thus he went on a killing spree, intending to wipe out all the world's strongmen, then later force you to become his disciple."

"Because at that point, you would have no choice."

Su Huaiyu explained.

Gu Jin Nian was stunned; his line of thinking rivaled Su Huaiyu's.

"What the hell are these lunatics?" he asked, "Who did he kill?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"The Eight Ancient Demon Sect and the Blood Demon Sect have already been wiped out by him; I heard he is now in the Xiongnu Nation, planning to kill the Xiongnu nation's master."

"Moreover, it is said he originally intended to annihilate the Upper Demon Sect, but on the way he encountered a Xiongnu, and then went to the Xiongnu Nation."

Su Huaiyu said, "It's strange; he clearly had no intention to go to the Xiongnu Nation, yet he inexplicably did."

"Wiped them out?"

"Why slaughter an entire clan when they were fine?"

Gu Jin Nian grew increasingly unable to grasp this guy's thinking.

"He acts cleanly and decisively, usually cutting the weeds at the roots."

"However, His Highness the Crown Prince need not worry too much; if he comes after you, I will teach you a life‑saving technique."

Su Huaiyu replied, also assuring Gu Jin Nian not to worry too much.

"How so?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Become his disciple."

Su Huaiyu was very serious.

Gu Jin Nian fell silent for a moment; it really was a good solution, though saying it was like not saying anything.

"Is this person very powerful?"

Gu Jin Nian continued.

Upon hearing that, Su Huaiyu fell silent, frowned, and then spoke.

"If he comes to the capital and tries to forcibly take you away, it may be difficult."

"But moving freely in and out of the capital shouldn't be a big problem, as long as you keep a low profile; being too flamboyant won't work either."

"It is said he has already entered the Sixth Realm, challenging the Seventh Realm of Martial Dao."

"However, I have never known just how strong Grandfather Gu truly is; the old man must be hiding a trump card."

"There should be no major problem."

Su Huaiyu said so.

"Sixth Realm? Challenging the Seventh?"

Gu Jin Nian clicked his tongue in amazement.

Indeed, that is quite powerful.

But fortunately, the other side wants to take him as a disciple rather than kill him; that is a blessing in misfortune.

"Too bad, if he could help me deal with those guys, that would be great."

Gu Jin Nian muttered to himself.

"Brother Su, is there anything else?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Nothing else."

"If I must say something, the Xiongnu state's fortunes have been cut; I'm afraid this matter will erupt."

"But it doesn't concern us; the Crown Prince should rest early, and be careful not to be too reckless, otherwise."

Su Huaiyu reminded earnestly.

"Understood."

"Brother Su, rest early."

Gu Jin Nian ignored Su Huaiyu, but did not go back directly; instead he went to the Holy Hall to study properly.

Heaven knows whether the Yaochi Fairy is still in his residence; if she is, Gu Jin Nian truly fears he cannot keep himself in check.

Not until noon did Gu Jin Nian return to take a look; finding the Yaochi Fairy absent, he sighed inwardly yet showed a smile on his face.

Perhaps that is a wry smile.

So it is.

Time passed day by day.

This day.

The Da Xia Poetry Gathering reopened, as grand as yesterday; perhaps because Gu Jin Nian was absent, the Wenxin Hall became much livelier, at least everyone dared to compose poems.

Even Wang Fugui composed a poem, and after Jiang Yezhou read it, he gave a fairly apt reply.

The poem was poor, but one could see Brother Wang's effort.

Without Gu Jin Nian, everyone gradually relaxed; indeed, had Gu Jin Nian still entered the competition today, everyone would have withdrawn en masse.

It's not about showing a sour face to the Da Xia Dynasty; it's that Gu Jin Nian is too outstanding—if he were present, he'd be like a sun, and these people wouldn't dare speak.

The first prize on the second day was taken by a Great Jin Dynasty prodigy, but everyone tacitly felt it lacked any real value.

The reason is simple: no omen.

To speak of discomfort, it's the scholars outside the Wen Hall and the capital merchants; they spent a fortune just to stand outside the Wen Hall.

They waited a day hoping for an omen, to witness a timeless masterpiece with their own eyes.

But to their surprise, when it ended there was no sign at all; upon learning the Great Jin prodigy took first place, scholars and merchants alike cried they had been duped, shouting for refunds.

The Great Jin prodigy who claimed today's top prize had no face to show; no one praised him, and those who understood kept quiet.

The Minister of Rites saw all this and had nothing to say.

Who made Gu Jin Nian so outstanding, with four timeless poems displayed there, who dares to write? Yet the event proceeded as usual, without any issue.

The third day, the day the event ended, Gu Jin Nian spent his time calmly studying in the academy.

Yesterday's events caused everyone to gradually lose enthusiasm; compared with the second day's grandeur, today was a bit more subdued.

Gu Jin Nian's absence from the poetry gathering left a certain flavor missing, making the natural quietness the norm.

Fortunately, when today's event ended, with that thought people chose selective joy; no one could keep a deadpan face. Thus, the event concluded with the Minister of Rites and Su Wenjing jointly announcing the rankings—Gu Jin Nian missed two days yet remained universally first.

The Kong family had long disappeared.

And this grand Da Xia Poetry Gathering finally closed.

In those three days, Gu Jin Nian's four timeless poems became famous across the seas, especially the matters between the Gu Family and the Kong Family, which turned into endless gossip.

Yet, unexpectedly, what was thought would be condemned by scholars worldwide—the deeds of Gu Jin Nian at the Da Xia Poetry Gathering—did not.

But over these three days, everything seemed very quiet.

The Kong family offered no extensive comment; even the Holy Ruler's response to the outside was merely a junior rivalry, with no further explanation.

At this moment.

The Kong family in the capital.

Kong Yuzheng knelt before the ancestral statue, his complexion sallow; beside him, Kong Ping also knelt. Though he is Kong Yuzheng's uncle, the Holy Ruler publicly spoke, forcing both to kneel.

Since the first day of the Da Xia Poetry Gathering ended, the two have been kneeling; fortunately their backgrounds are solid, and kneeling a few days is no big problem.

As long as there are no other punishments, it's fine.

And at that moment.

A figure entered the hall—it was the Holy Ruler.

He entered the hall with a calm expression.

"Do you know where the fault lies?"

The voice sounded, without reproach but in a harsh tone, leaving the two silent.

"Father, it is the child's desire to contend; this matter has nothing to do with Fifth Uncle, I hope you will pardon me."

Kong Yu was clever, not shifting the blame, but taking responsibility himself, gaining goodwill and appearing virtuous.

"Hmph."

The Holy Ruler let out a cold humph, seeing what Kong Yu intended.

"Your mistake is that you put yourselves forward."

"Contending is nothing; the Kong clan has never feared conflict, but such matters should be handled by people of the Fuyu Dynasty."

"If the Kong family continues to maneuver, we have told Father countless times: in any undertaking, you must stay detached, attack when possible, defend when needed, and you will be disaster‑free."

"Compared to your younger brother, you are only one‑tenth to one‑twelfth of him."

The Holy Ruler rebuked.

He didn't blame Kong Yu for contending; it's normal for youths to be ambitious, but doing so oneself leaves a talking point, doesn't it?

If the Fuyu Dynasty prodigies handled these affairs, even Gu Jin Nian's aggressive stance would leave the Kong family unbeaten.

One can also gain a good reputation; even if a fight really breaks out, the fiercer the Kong family fights, the greater the favor received.

There's no way to lose.

Although the losses have been recovered to the greatest extent possible, there is no benefit at all; that is the mistake.

Listening to his father's words, Kong Yu understood.

"I, the child, know I was wrong."

He spoke, and Kong Ping beside him could not help but speak out.

"Older brother, no matter what, even if Yu'er is somewhat in the wrong, Gu Jin Nian cannot insult the Holy."

"This matter, I do not accept."

Kong Ping spoke up; he meant nothing else, but the matter of Gu Jin Nian insulting the Holy is absolutely not over.

"This matter must not be touched for now."

"Wait until we return to the Kong family, then we will discuss it further."

The Holy Ruler opened his mouth, and inevitably recalled every sentence the Yong Sheng Emperor had said a few days prior.

Immediately afterward, he rose and had the two kneel for a few more hours.

Then he disappeared.

This matter is certainly not over.

The struggle between the Gu family and the Kong family is no longer merely a contest of power.

Moreover, it has risen to an academic struggle; he must suppress Gu Jin Nian, causing his Dao heart to collapse.

However, too many people are now watching the Kong family, so we need to stay calm for a few days.

He walked out of the main hall.

The Holy Ruler's heart gave rise to many thoughts.

However, no matter what, the Da Xia poetry gathering has ended.

It has come to a complete close.

As long as we return, many things can be carried out.

The fortune of the Xiongnu State has been diminished; this is no small matter.

There is too much that can be done.

He is not in a hurry.

There are plenty of ways.

Thinking of this, the Holy Ruler no longer dwells on anything else.

Thus it continued until the next day.

Yong Sheng Year Twelve, the nineteenth day of the eleventh month.

Mao hour.

Da Xia Imperial Palace.

Inside the main hall.

Civil and military officials stood calmly in the main hall, holding court as usual.

After the discussion of the first half of state affairs concluded.

At this moment, the figure of the Left Vice Minister of War appeared.

"Your servant, the Left Vice Minister of War, has a memorial to present."

As the Left Vice Minister of War's voice sounded, everyone in the main hall involuntarily turned their gaze toward him.

Everyone knew that something was about to happen.

"Present the memorial."

Upon the dragon throne, the Yong Sheng Emperor opened his mouth, his tone calm.

"Your Majesty."

"A scout from the northern border reports that, in the past half month, border raids have repeatedly occurred; as of yesterday, seven villages have been looted of money and goods, two of which were massacred, totaling 457 people."

"The border garrison general sent a memorial, requesting that Your Majesty permit him to lead three thousand troops to exterminate the invading bandits."

The Left Vice Minister spoke, simultaneously presenting a memorial.

Wei Xian took it and handed it to the Yong Sheng Emperor.

He opened the memorial, read it, and his expression immediately turned cold.

"How will the Xiongnu respond?"

"Such incidents often occur in the border regions; usually they are merely livestock and property raids, but massacring villages is especially heinous."

"Your Majesty, the Xiongnu State replies that this was not their doing, but the work of some bandits."

"But the border general reports that the Xiongnu people wore Da Xia clothing and disguised themselves."

The Left Vice Minister of War gave the reply.

Upon hearing this, the Yong Sheng Emperor showed no reaction; in past years, when such things happened, the excuse was always the same.

"Without evidence, it is indeed difficult to launch an attack."

"What do you all, beloved officials, think?"

The Yong Sheng Emperor did not answer, but instead looked upon the assembled civil and military officials and asked aloud.

Upon saying this,

The ministers remained silent; after a moment's thought, the Left Vice Minister of Rites spoke.

"Your Majesty."

"I believe that border disturbances occur year after year, but the matter of massacring villages is outrageous; we could send three thousand troops from the main camp to patrol day and night, to see if we can capture these Xiongnu."

If we can catch them, we can also use this for negotiation; if we cannot catch them, we can also effectively prevent village massacres and looting.

The Left Vice Minister of Rites spoke up, saying this was his proposal.

However, the Left Vice Minister of War immediately spoke up.

"Your Majesty, I think it's inappropriate; border looting does indeed happen often, but when livestock and silver are looted, the court will compensate some, and the people have no complaints. However, if village massacres occur and we still stand by,"

"I'm afraid we would lose the hearts of the border people."

"Therefore I believe we should dispatch a large army to secretly patrol; if any are discovered, kill them without mercy. In border territories, we will not yield an inch. Firstly, this will display the might of our Da Xia State; secondly, it will warn the Xiongnu people. If this is truly unrelated to the Xiongnu State, it can still serve as an effective deterrent; if it is related to the Xiongnu State, our Da Xia need not fear."

The Left Vice Minister of War spoke up.

They've already bullied us to the face, and yet we're still just defending here?

"No."

"Although this is hateful, if we launch such a fierce attack, it will surely provoke a strong retaliation from the Xiongnu State."

"At that time, even more civilians will suffer slaughter."

"We should adopt a pacifying approach; otherwise, if mishandled, it could easily lead to war."

The Left Vice Minister of Rites directly refused.

He wasn't saying we're cowardly; he was considering the feelings of the border people. After all, they are famed cavalry, coming and going freely. Even if the Da Xia Dynasty sent three thousand elite troops, it might not be able to accomplish anything.

You chase me, I chase you—wasting time doesn't matter.

But if we really kill, trouble will surely follow, possibly leading to war between the two states.

"The knives are already at our throats—what is there to fear?"

"If we fight, we fight. Your Majesty, I implore You to issue an edict declaring war. Our Da Xia Dynasty now has strong troops and sturdy horses; this time the Xiongnu State's fortune has been weakened, a rare opportunity. Seizing this chance, we shall send troops against the Xiongnu."

"Then the whole nation will surely cheer, winning the people's hearts; one battle will quell the chaos and recover lost lands."

The Left Vice Minister of War spoke up, actively requesting that the Yongsheng Emperor declare war.

Upon hearing this, the military generals all spoke up in unison.

"We agree."

In today's court assembly, their true purpose is exactly this; the village massacre incident is merely a spark.

Seeing the military generals' group all speak up,

the civil officials' group could not stay seated.

"Your Majesty, we must not go to war; the treasury has little silver, funds for repairing the Yongsheng Grand Ceremony are still lacking, the Jiangning Commandery's difficulties have not yet been fully stabilized, Liao Prefecture has suffered drought, the southwestern three commanderies have endured continuous heavy rains, destroying much farmland, and next year's harvest will surely decline."

"Moreover, Longzhong has experienced floods, and East Chuan Ping Prefecture has suffered heavenly disasters; everywhere needs silver for relief. If we go to war without absolute certainty of victory, the Da Xia Dynasty cannot bear it."

"Please, Your Majesty, reconsider."

The Left Vice Minister of Rites spoke up, listing matters one by one.

"Please, Your Majesty, reconsider."

The remaining civil officials spoke up one after another; except for Li Shan, who remained silent, the other civil officials all spoke to stop it.

On the Dragon Throne.

The Yongsheng Emperor was somewhat silent.

He glanced over the entire assembly of civil and military officials, waited a moment, then slowly spoke.

"Order the Ministry of War to prepare for war; if the situation becomes serious, make ready for war."

"Have the Ministry of Revenue strictly gather grain and fodder, control national grain prices, and prevent hoarding and panic buying."

"Have the Ministry of Works inventory military supplies, with the transport division heading north."

The Yongsheng Emperor spoke; he did not directly agree to war, but this war preparation instantly caused an uproar.

"Your Majesty, no."

"Your Majesty, absolutely not."

"This war must not be fought, otherwise Da Xia will be dragged down."

Several ministers rushed forward, kneeling directly, begging the emperor to change his mind, especially He Yan, who spoke with a face full of grief.

"If war begins, grain and military supplies will become astronomical sums; after rewarding the three armies, the treasury will be directly emptied, the Yongsheng Grand Ceremony cannot be completed within ten years, and with natural and human disasters everywhere, there will be no funds for relief. Please, Your Majesty, reconsider."

He Yan began to calculate; as the Minister of Revenue, he could only use this to speak.

"I have not agreed to war."

"But war preparations cannot be stopped; don't come here to cry poverty before me."

"The Xiongnu are bullying me; if the Yongsheng Grand Ceremony is not finished, we could exchange it for twelve cities, and I would not refuse."

"This matter is thus decided."

"As for whether to go to war, we will discuss it again in three days."

"Dismiss court."

The Yongsheng Emperor coldly laughed without end.

Whenever war is mentioned, they cry heaven and earth, saying there's not enough silver, not enough silver.

These officials below—who isn't secretly eating until their mouths are full of oil? Although the general direction is correct, and what He Yan said is also true, no matter how you say it, what is the reason for not fighting? It's not that once war begins, the interior will have turmoil, affecting the flow of money and so on—a series of problems.

In that case, these people will also be affected.

From their perspective, not fighting is a good thing; the country is at peace, winds are favorable and rains timely, everyone makes money, you good, I good, everyone good.

But what about those civilians?

Can the border civilians just endure humiliation and bear heavy burdens?

As for the claim that war would affect the people within the borders, that's an even bigger joke; these officials who want corruption and lawbreaking rely on peaceful times—if war truly came, they would not dare to act recklessly, for to repel external threats one must first secure the interior, and from top to bottom everyone watches you.

The Yongsheng Emperor was also considering.

Just seeing this bunch of people with such despicable faces makes me angry—there's not a single good one among them.

Compared with his own nephew, they're all useless, each one a leech‑like maggot on the Da Xia Dynasty.

Emperor Yongsheng is gone.

The civil officials left staring at each other, while the military generals were overjoyed one by one; although they knew the emperor hadn't fully agreed, at least having the idea was a good thing.

If war truly breaks out, their authority can be raised, giving them greater voice in the court.

They know that in the future the civil officials will be in favor.

Since they still have authority now, they can arrange their descendants' positions perfectly.

For them, the benefits are huge.

Finally, after the officials retired from court and left the palace,

Yang Kai immediately grabbed He Yan and Hu Yong and headed to the Crown Prince's Residence.

He sent the crown prince to persuade His Majesty.

However, the news inside the court gradually spread outward.

Da Xia intends to go to war, pointing its sword at the Xiongnu; in theory such a matter should not be leaked—anyone who spreads it should die. If such a huge affair were leaked early, it would be no joke.

The officials were not foolish; they all spoke and acted cautiously.

Within the capital there are many scouts from the Lantern Department and the Town Administration, and no one is courting death.

Yet the news spread, and no one knows who started it.

After the news spread, the common people cheered; for the capital's residents, war is not a bad thing—no matter how it goes, they will continue living as before.

Those who can earn a living in the capital will certainly not suffer because of the war.

This is the advantage beneath the Son of Heaven.

All over the capital, people discussed it; for them, fighting is good—it projects national prestige.

Even some theater stages immediately changed their repertoire to war‑themed pieces.

But for many, this is not a good thing.

The next day, the Capital Gazette was published, and the border village‑massacre story attracted much attention.

When the common people learned of it, public anger flared up.

The village massacre violates natural order; during the earlier Da Xia internal turmoil, many such massacres occurred, and at that time environmental issues could be tolerated.

Now the Da Xia Dynasty is thriving—peaceful and prosperous—but such incidents still happen; how can the people not be angry? Some scholars even wrote poems cursing the Xiongnu.

The desire for war, like a spreading spark, gradually ignited.

But the news spread too quickly, clearly because someone was fanning the flames, trying to incite public anger and force the court into war.

Stirring emotions.

Da Xia Academy.

To the Holy Hall.

When the Capital Gazette arrived, the students also began cursing incessantly.

"These Xiongnu, truly beasts. In our Da Xia golden age, they still dare to massacre villages? Are they really that brazen?"

"If I were not a failed general, I would surely ride my horse to trample the Xiongnu."

"These Xiongnu brats, if one day I become a general, I will break through the royal court, behead the king and …"

The angry shouts rose one after another.

To the Holy Hall.

Gu Jin Nian looked at the Capital Gazette and frowned.

Because this was rather unusual.

The Xiongnu shouldn't be that stupid; looting silver is routine, but massacring villages is unnecessary.

Stealing cattle, sheep, and silver—Da Xia is willing but powerless, can only tighten defenses and cannot afford further disputes.

Yet at this critical moment, the Xiongnu's village massacre is a blatant provocation of Da Xia.

It is completely unnecessary.

More importantly, the Xiongnu's national fortune has been weakened; logically they should be keeping their tail between their legs.

What are they doing? Aren't they afraid of Da Xia sending troops? Though the Da Xia treasury isn't rich, putting aside all duties to fight you and directly seize the royal court is exaggerated, yet using this chance to retake the Twelve Cities isn't a big problem.

It's merely a matter of paying a certain price.

"These dogs, if my emperor does not slaughter them all, then one day after I ascend the throne I will personally lead troops, ride in person to the royal court and leave my name."

Li Ji, standing nearby, spoke.

He had been at the Crown Prince's Residence the past few days; because of the Kong family affair, he was summoned back for a scolding. In Li Ji's words, his father hadn't eaten a full meal, so the beating wasn't especially harsh.

He only returned to the academy yesterday.

After the first visit to the Kong family and forming a tie, everyone knows the Da Xia Poetry Society will inevitably clash with the Kong family.

The crown prince called him back also to avoid trouble, which is reasonable.

At this moment, Li Ji sat nearby, his face fierce.

Snap.

Gu Jin Nian gave Li Ji a slap on the head, looking somewhat contemptuous.

"With that brain of yours, you still want to storm the royal court?"

"Leave professional matters to professionals; stop dreaming about nonsense. Riding in person? If something goes wrong and you're captured alive by the Xiongnu, …"

Gu Jin Nian said very seriously.

Li Ji, that kid, sharp‑headed, clever in a petty way; if he were to command the three armies and lead a personal campaign, it would likely be for nothing.

If his luck runs out and he gets captured, that would be trouble; I won't even mention the ancient jokes, the Da Xia Dynasty would literally bleed.

A certain war god is an example.

"Uncle Gu Jin Nian, don't look at my studying being not good, I horseback riding and arching are absolutely no problem, martial arts also not lagging, and besides, I have been studying military strategy with the Imperial Grandfather since childhood; given time, I will surely capture the Royal Court directly."

Li Ji felt a bit dissatisfied.

He admitted that his studies were lacking.

But if you say his military strategy is lacking, he truly does not admit it.

"Fine, then I ask you: you command a hundred-thousand-strong army, facing an enemy hundred-thousand-strong army in battle; before you lies a river; after the troops cross it overnight, morale is low—what should you do to make them fight with a resolve to die?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at Li Ji and posed this question.

Upon saying this, everyone's gazes involuntarily turned over, each one curious.

"I will promise that after this victory, I will reward the three armies; the brave will be promoted and ennobled."

Li Ji spoke without the slightest hesitation.

After hearing this, everyone also nodded; it was a rather conventional method, but its effect was great.

"Then you might as well wash up and go to sleep."

"Promotion and ennoblement are certainly good, but if we suffer defeat and morale collapses, it cannot be solved merely by promotion and ennoblement."

Gu Jin Nian continued to read the bulletin.

With this level? Still here talking about capturing the Royal Court directly? Empty Royal Court? "Uncle Gu Jin Nian, then tell me, what would you do?"

Li Ji was somewhat unwilling.

The others were also curious, not knowing what Gu Jin Nian would do.

"It's quite simple: smash all the pots, sink all the boats, then promise various rewards—that's all that's needed."

Gu Jin Nian was quite casual.

Upon saying this, everyone frowned.

Why smash the pots?

But immediately, Jiang Ye Zhou's voice sounded.

"What an excellent 'break the cauldrons and sink the boats'—I understand now: smash the pots, sink the boats, let the troops go into battle with the mindset of 'no victory, no survival', then grant various rewards; morale will surely be high, high, high—Brother Gu Jin Nian, I never expected you to have such an understanding of military strategy."

Jiang Ye Zhou's father is none other than the Marquis of Night Clothes, also coming from a military background.

He also has some understanding of military strategy, and naturally felt deeply shocked by Gu Jin Nian's words.

The others also gradually came to realize, each showing an expression of astonishment.

"Hiss, Heir Apparent, I never expected you to even understand military strategy? Impressive."

"With the pen one can pacify the world; with the sword on horseback one can set the heavens and earth—Your Highness the Heir Apparent, I admire you, I admire you."

"Don't you forget? The Heir Apparent is the grandson of the State-Protecting Duke; naturally he understands military strategy."

"Yes, yes, yes, we forgot about that."

The crowd gathered around, flattering Gu Jin Nian in every way.

It must be said, Gu Jin Nian has already conquered this group with his strength; as long as he does something, these people will come over to flatter him.

"Gentlemen, you flatter me too much."

Gu Jin Nian smiled, then gave a light cough, and said to everyone.

"Everyone, actually I have an idea; I don't know if you all want to hear it?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

Seeing everyone so enthusiastic, he involuntarily brought up what he had thought of yesterday.

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, you speak."

"Yes, yes, yes, Your Highness the Heir Apparent, you speak."

"What idea is it?"

Everyone became curious.

And Gu Jin Nian, without further ado, spoke directly.

"It's like this: actually, since the Da Xia Poetry Gathering, I have discovered that studying still requires mutual discussion to make progress, but due to our statuses, there are inevitably some things hard to speak of."

"So, after thinking it over overnight, I propose we establish a society; if one joins, we will help each other regardless of status—whether Heir Apparent or Imperial Prince, upon joining we become one family, as brothers."

"Wealth aids the poor."

"I don't know what you all think?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke, saying as such.

Upon these words, almost everyone in the hall showed delight; even the four cultivators who had lacked presence lately involuntarily came over.

However, Xu Chang Ge has not appeared; I don't know where he went—anyway, since he condensed the immortal spirit root, I haven't seen him.

"This is good."

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, this proposal is good."

"I never expected the Heir Apparent to have such an idea; I am willing."

Upon hearing this, everyone naturally felt happy.

After all, Gu Jin Nian is the Heir Apparent; for them it is certainly beneficial.

However, Gu Jin Nian also suppressed everyone's enthusiasm, instead speaking with a solemn expression.

"Everyone, if we establish this society, I have three requirements, which can also be considered rules."

"Please listen first, then discuss."

After suppressing everyone's enthusiasm, Gu Jin Nian became even more solemn.

"First, members must not bully the weak with strength; internally they should help each other, respect superiors and love subordinates; externally they should act with righteousness, being humble and modest."

"Second, members must not rely on any familial power; they should depend on their own ability to serve as officials or generals, otherwise still relying on clan members raises suspicion of forming factions."

"Third, members are one family; if someone makes a mistake, they should be promptly dissuaded, and must not cover for each other; if there truly are bad actors, they will receive severe punishment and be expelled; but if someone suffers injustice, the whole society—upper and lower—will go out together, neither greedy for life nor fearful of death, nor afraid of powerful forces."

"So, are you all willing?"

Gu Jin Nian puts forward three requirements.

The first rule is simple: don't be ostentatious, do whatever needs to be done, maintain the gentlemanly demeanor, and avoid attracting trouble.

The second rule is even simpler: no leveraging of family background. The reason is none other than that Gu Jin Nian is Da Xia's top aristocrat and truly needs no one's influence; he does this to gather a group of genuinely capable and talented people.

Otherwise, what's the point of bringing in a batch of aristocrats? They might end up being screwed and die that day; everyone must have the ability to hold their ground. No matter how great the family background, it's not as good as being strong oneself.

It's like a rich heir: though he goes out in fine clothes and fine food, if you actually ask him to produce ten thousand taels of silver, he can't, because the money isn't his.

The final rule is a binding: when trouble arises, we all act together; once interests are bound, subjective feelings change directly.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, without these three rules I wouldn't feel anything, but with them I truly respect you, and I am willing to join."

"Right, no leveraging of family ties—this is a good point. We also don't want to rely on family background; we want to become notable on our own, that's the true face."

"Indeed, Your Highness, I don't know why, but I'm quite excited. From now on we'll help each other, and with our strength we'll surely make the clan take notice."

After hearing Gu Jin Nian's three requirements, everyone felt even more excited and joyful.

To be honest, these aristocrats sometimes feel quite uncomfortable; no matter what they do, others will say, 'Could someone from that background actually achieve this?'

It is undeniable that their background brings them many advantages, but a useless person could never get into Da Xia Academy.

People just don't recognize them; they always like to call them the aristocrats of such-and-such families.

Gu Jin Nian's three rules hit the spot.

Thus, the crowd became even more enthusiastic.

Seeing everyone so enthusiastic, Gu Jin Nian was a bit surprised, but on reflection it made sense; after all, these people are still youthful at heart and eager for recognition.

"Alright, since that's the case, let Wang Fugui, Brother Wang, register the roster; I will design a jade token for us, and we will be diligent with each other thereafter."

"Everyone may also go to the other two academies to spread the word, but in any case, we must be gentlemen; disregard status, rank, or talent, as long as the heart is sincere."

"I, Gu, am unworthy; I will temporarily take on the leader's responsibility, and if a wiser person appears later, I will step aside voluntarily."

"But let me say in advance: after joining, if you choose to quit voluntarily, you will never be recorded again, so think carefully."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

With everyone's enthusiasm this high, we aren't worried about lacking participants, but we must add a clause: if you join and then voluntarily leave, you can't come back in this lifetime.

Otherwise, if people can come and go at will, what's the point of playing.

"Fine."

"Right, that's exactly the kind of rule we need."

"Brother Jin Nian, what shall we call this society?"

"Yeah, yeah, what should we call it?"

Everyone nodded in agreement, but the curious question remained: what should this society be called? "Azure Dragon Society, what does everyone think?"

Gu Jin Nian is terrible at naming.

He felt a bit embarrassed to speak up.

Everyone:.

Damn, everyone here is aristocratic—either the son of a Minister of the Secretariat, the son of a Vice Minister, or the son of a noble family.

They're also people with some standing, right?

Azure Dragon Society? Why does it sound like a jianghu gang?

"Brother Jin Nian, could we change it? This name is somewhat…"

"Yeah, Brother Jin Nian, let's change it."

"Brother Jin Nian, you're so good at poetry, why pick a name that's so…"

The others didn't say much, only forced a laugh.

Seeing everyone's reaction, Gu Jin Nian had an idea.

After pondering for a while.

Gu Jin Nian formed a thought.

"How about 'Qilin Pavilion'?"

"I can't think of others; if not, you come up with them."

Gu Jin Nian thought of one: Qilin Pavilion.

"That works."

"Both elegant and popular, no big problem."

"Qilin Pavilion, very imposing, I like it."

"Yes, yes, very imposing."

Everyone nodded in agreement; actually Qilin Pavilion isn't that refined, but compared to Azure Dragon Society it's much better.

Naturally, everyone agreed.

"Fine."

"Brother Wang, then please handle the registration."

Gu Jin Nian patted Wang Fugui on the shoulder.

The latter promptly agreed.

But Gu Jin Nian continued speaking.

"By the way, entry isn't casual; you must do two things to be officially admitted."

"First, as the saying goes, a teacher must have a reputation. We are not forming a clique but helping each other, emulating the sages, benefiting the people. Accumulating ten acts of kindness—standing up for the people or helping those in trouble—counts as merit; once you have ten, you may join the pavilion, and the deeds must be traceable, no cheating. If any fraud is discovered, you are expelled outright."

"Second, you may not use clan assistance to earn a hundred taels of silver for the pavilion fee; all contributions are tallied by Brother Wang. In the future, our outings, flower arranging, and jade work will be funded by the pavilion fee, and we will strive for self-improvement."

Gu Jin Nian presented two more requirements, which served as minor tests.

When that was said, the others didn't think it was a problem; on the contrary they found it quite fun and were very motivated.

"Uncle Jin Nian, I also want to join."

At that moment, Li Ji spoke, his face excited.

"Fine."

"Consider you in, but it must follow the rules."

"Well done, I'll make you the Deputy Chamber Master."

Li Ji wants to join, Gu Jin Nian could not be more eager; regardless, this looks like factionalism, the Yongsheng Emperor doesn't care—what about the next emperor?

If Li Ji participates, it's a shield in any case.

And hearing that Li Ji is also in, everyone became even more eager.

Li Ji was thrilled; "Deputy Chamber Master, damn, this feels better than being emperor!"

"Enough, Brother Wang, handle it carefully; this great responsibility is given to you, you must not err."

Gu Jin Nian looked at Wang Fugui and said so.

The latter was very excited.

How could he not understand that Gu Jin Nian was looking out for himself?

Registering himself, even if he has the right, belongs to the senior ranks of the Qilin Pavilion.

He was deeply moved, but said little, only gave a firm nod, determined to see this done well, not just for Gu Jin Nian but mainly for himself.

At that very moment.

A cough sounded.

It was Su Wenjing's.

As Su Wenjing appeared, everyone returned to their seats and slightly restrained their smiles.

Su Wenjing walked in.

He had heard the earlier matter clearly, but he didn't intervene; instead, carrying some files, he came to the main seat.

"One day of apprenticeship for each person has ended."

"This time the Da Xia Academy, the student rankings have also been released."

"Here is the list; you all may view it yourselves, I will say no more."

Su Wenjing spoke, then tossed a sheet of xuan paper, which hovered in midair for everyone to see.

The top rank, strikingly, was Gu Jin Nian.

This was expected.

But the second place, Su Huaiyu, was a bit odd.

In the hall, Su Huaiyu seemed uninterested in the ranking; even the Qilin Pavilion earlier held no interest for him, he sat there, extremely aloof.

"Master, is this based on teaching rankings?"

Someone spoke, asking Su Wenjing.

After all, the list went beyond second; the overall feeling was strange, some people shouldn't be ranked so high, and there were other names not destined for the Sacred Hall.

"No."

"Do you all remember the first day of ascending the mountain, when two officials detained a prisoner?"

Su Wenjing spoke, referring to the incident on the mountain.

"Remember."

Everyone answered in turn, they all remembered the matter.

"Well, based on your answers, the Ministry of Justice instructed officials everywhere to act accordingly."

"Gu Jin Nian's answer enabled the local officials to capture the bandits in one net."

"Thus he ranked first."

Su Wenjing said blandly.

The words caused an uproar throughout the hall.

It wasn't the surprise at Gu Jin Nian being first, but that no one expected the Da Xia Academy to be serious.

Most of their answers then were "behead", giving no chance.

But they didn't expect it would actually happen.

Indeed, Da Xia Academy is truly fearsome.

Seeing everyone's reaction, Su Wenjing was very satisfied.

"One day, you will all serve in the court as officials, be regional governors, frontier commanders, or great generals of the nation."

"But you must remember, whatever you do, think thrice before acting; especially after becoming officials, every order you issue cannot be withdrawn, and any mistake you must bear responsibility."

"The one at the very bottom of the ranking has already been expelled from the Da Xia Academy."

"He chose to send people to collude with the bandits, attempting to extract intelligence, but the result was that the bandits stayed wary, feigned surrender, escaped the prison, then killed the other party and vanished without a trace."

"Although the authorities recaptured him, that clerk was already dead; that is the consequence."

Su Wenjing spoke lightly.

He announced the last place's result, moving everyone present.

Even Gu Jin Nian could not help but be moved.

This truly is a profound lesson.

"Enough."

"After you return, think this over carefully."

"Now, I have five Ministry of Justice files in my hand; this is the assignment for the second month."

The five dossiers have already been settled, but I want you, after one month, to submit a summary—whether the dossiers contain any omissions, or whether the penalties are too severe or too lenient; you must handle this rigorously, speak up if there is an error, and close the case if there is none.

You seven are to form a team, discuss and summarize your views; I require at least five of you to agree before you may submit your report, and you must provide the relevant reasons; I will then give the final approval.

In the next two days, each of you choose a reviewer for the documents; as soon as you have seven people, you're set.

Su Wenjing spoke.

He also revealed what the subject for the second month would be.

This subject is truly unlike any other, arousing everyone's curiosity.

"When you have the right people, come to my study to find me."

Having said that, Su Wenjing stood up, coming and going swiftly.

He left the crowd to gather their team.

Meanwhile,

Da Xia Capital.

A figure swiftly entered the Ministry of War.

His face was extremely grim.

"A report from the border."

"Last night, the thirteen border villages were brutally slaughtered, leaving no survivors."

"The border troops, furious, took three hundred elite soldiers, killed two hundred Xiongnu warriors, but were then captured alive by the Xiongnu and beheaded, their heads displayed publicly."

A voice sounded.

In the inner hall of the Ministry of War.

Several figures instantly glared angrily.

"Damn it, they've rebelled against heaven."

"These beasts."

"Do they really think Da Xia has no one?"

"Come, let's go to the capital to see the Sage."

"Anyone who dares to block me again, I'll skin him alive."

The Minister of War's roar rang out.

It startled everything in the hall.

Thus.

Half an hour later.

One after another, eunuchs walked out, heading to the Officials' Hall.

His Majesty flew into a thunderous rage.

He summoned all officials to court.

In the Yang Mansion.

Upon learning of the sudden summons, Yang Kai couldn't help but frown, secretly thinking it was not good.

After inquiring of the officials and roughly learning some matters, Yang Kai couldn't help but take a deep breath.

His face was extremely grim.

"Again, them?"

Yang Kai's face was grim; after a moment, he turned and returned to the mansion, immediately wrote a letter, and then handed it to the steward.

"Send it quickly to the Duke of the Nation's mansion."

"It must be given to the Duke of the Nation."

Yang Kai spoke, extremely solemn.

This time, something major is going to happen.

(End of chapter)