Chapter 92: Welcoming the Princess, Stealing the Nation's Fortune, Layers of Suspicion, All Sides Plotting for Balance (Seeking Vote

"Marriage alliance?"

"Marry his grandma."

"On what grounds does my Da Xia claim the right to form a marriage alliance with those Xiongnu?"

As the court news spread, the capital's commoners erupted in an uproar all at once.

To the common folk, a marriage alliance is an extremely undesirable affair; after all, sending Da Xia women to the desolate borderlands is no good.

Suffering one's own people aside, it feels just like sending women to beg for peace.

Yet for many, a marriage alliance isn't bad; some even know it's beneficial—two nations allying, trading mutually, no war, a tremendous boon.

Only the capital's folk differ; though there are poor, at least they lack worries of food and clothing, and being under the emperor's feet, every household has some connection, so everyday idle talk revolves around court affairs.

Inside the capital.

A chorus of curses rose, clearly orchestrated by someone hoping Da Xia would go to war.

Nevertheless, regardless of the curses, everyone knows one fact: the court has already decided.

The Xiongnu have already offered reparations and apologies, fulfilling all obligations; the Ministry of Rites is now negotiating with them, and if no major issues arise, the marriage alliance is essentially secured.

Now many officials' daughters are already trembling with anxiety.

No one wants to marry into the Xiongnu.

Don't be fooled by the title "princess" sounding fancy; in reality, isn't it just a political sacrifice?

Once married away, in unfamiliar lands, can you still count on your princess title to matter?

Honestly, if you're truly bullied, just shut up; the heavens are high and the emperor far, they can bully you however they wish, and if they really try to kill you, a single chill infection could do it.

What can you say? In short, the commoners keep cursing, and the daughters of high officials are in utter panic, fearing they'll be chosen.

The news of the marriage alliance naturally reached the Da Xia Academy.

Inside the room.

Gu Jin Nian was calculating the gold before him.

Didn't the twelfth prince of Great Jin send a jade artifact? Gu Jin Nian tossed it straight to Wang Fugui, asking him to sell it.

A prince's gift is naturally not cheap, and Wang Fugui dared not sell it for fear of being discovered and causing trouble for Gu Jin Nian, so he simply bought it himself; after all, his father likes such items.

The price was fair—ten thousand taels of gold—but Gu Jin Nian demanded cash.

Thus, all day Wang Fugui made three trips before delivering the ten thousand taels of gold to Gu Jin Nian's quarters.

No one knows why the grandson of the esteemed Lord of State is so greedy, but Gu Jin Nian spoke up, and no one could fault him.

Inside the academy dormitory.

Gu Jin Nian stared at the three massive gold chests, a hint of helplessness in his gaze; he amassed the gold simply to solve the case quickly.

But one thing is undeniable: the ancient tree doesn't accept banknotes, which is frustrating. Ten thousand taels of gold is manageable; if future calculations demand a hundred thousand or even a million taels, Gu Jin Nian would certainly refuse.

Digesting ten million taels of gold would not only exhaust people, it would also cause the currency to collapse.

Gold isn't hard currency; it's mainly used by major moneylenders and foreign trade. Common folk still circulate copper coins and broken silver, often "cut silver"—a piece of silver trimmed with scissors—so even modest prefectural towns have a pair of scissors in every household for cutting silver.

Yet as the core of monetary value, moneylenders must hold reserves of gold to prevent silver redemption crises.

A million taels of gold is more than any prefectural moneylender can muster.

Doing seven or eight trips would wreak havoc on Da Xia's currency; once the gold vanishes, it's gone, and Da Xia hasn't discovered new gold mines in recent years.

He scratched his head just as Gu Jin Nian was about to start work.

A voice sounded from outside.

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

It was Su Huaiyu's voice.

"Enter."

Hearing Su Huaiyu's voice, Gu Jin Nian seemed perfectly at ease.

At once, Su Huaiyu stepped into the room.

Upon entering, Su Huaiyu's gaze instantly fell on the three large chests.

The glittering gold ingots made Su Huaiyu frown.

"According to Da Xia law, anti‑bribery statute: anyone who accepts bribes exceeding two hundred taels of silver shall be beheaded on the spot."

"If over five hundred taels of silver, eye punishment follows, then beheading on the spot."

"If over a thousand taels of silver, punishment of wrists and feet, eye punishment, and beheading on the spot."

"His Highness the Crown Prince, this amount isn't excessive for lingchi."

Su Huaiyu subconsciously assumed Gu Jin Nian had taken a bribe—after all, those three gold chests must be at least ten thousand taels. "This isn't a bribe."

Gu Jin Nian closed the chest lid and replied,

"The crime of offering bribes over five thousand taels of silver warrants beheading on the spot; this amount is already enough for lingchi."

Su Huaiyu said lightly,

"It's not a bribe; I sold some items myself."

"What business do you have with me?"

Gu Jin Nian, accustomed to Su Huaiyu's manner, directly asked her purpose.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, you could trust me completely; if the money truly came from a bribe, share a portion with me and I'll keep it secret."

Su Huaiyu slowly approached the three large chests, speaking earnestly,

"Spill it… quickly."

Gu Jin Nian was too lazy to nag him, wondering if this person's mind was drilled for money. This is his hard‑earned money; does he expect a free ride? Is it a habit?

"His Highness the Crown Prince, do you still recall Da Xia's declaration of war?"

Hearing Gu Jin Nian's seriousness, Su Huaiyu's eyes showed a hint of disappointment; it seemed she had hoped the silver was indeed a bribe from Gu Jin Nian.

"Remember, what's wrong?"

"Are you sure we have to go to war?"

Gu Jin Nian nodded and poured a cup of tea.

To be honest, Gu Jin Nian doesn't really want to start a war; to be precise, given Da Xia's current situation, it would be better to simply recuperate, and there is no need to go to war.

"No."

"The Xiongnu Nation has already offered apologies, and the people who razed the village were not Xiongnu cavalry but impostors."

"However, that's what the Xiongnu Nation says; the specifics are unclear."

Su Huaiyu replied.

"If they've apologized, that's enough; not going to war is better, so no trouble arises."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

This is quite good; it's good news.

"The Crown Prince is absolutely right, but after the Xiongnu Nation's apology, they want to form a marriage alliance with Da Xia."

"They propose to send a princess to the Xiongnu Nation, hoping the two nations will become close friends and forge an alliance."

Su Huaiyu said lightly, but her gaze remained fixed on the three large chests.

She looked a bit like a thief who hasn't given up.

"A marriage alliance?"

"Why would the Xiongnu Nation suddenly seek a marriage alliance with Da Xia?"

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian was somewhat surprised, but he didn't mind Su Huaiyu's shifty look.

"I'm not sure, but there must be some ulterior motive, perhaps for the nation's fortune."

Su Huaiyu remained indifferent and made a judgment.

"For the nation's fortune?"

"How did you know?"

Hearing the words "national fortune" made Gu Jin Nian a bit sensitive; this matter seemed unusual.

"Just a guess."

Su Huaiyu turned her head, looked at Gu Jin Nian, expressionless.

He took a sip of tea, and Gu Jin Nian was at a loss for words.

"Marrying a princess will bring national fortune?"

"I don't think such a thing has ever been heard of, past or present."

"If it truly is for the nation's fortune, how could Da Xia possibly send a princess away?"

Gu Jin Nian set down his teacup; he didn't accept that reason.

"You're right."

Su Huaiyu nodded.

Ah. This.

"How confident are you?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

Although Su Huaiyu's words are a bit problematic, her guesses are usually spot‑on, as if she were cheating.

"No confidence."

"Just a speculation."

Su Huaiyu shook her head; indeed it was just a guess. When you ask her why, she can't explain—she just feels it's so. Believe it if you will; if not, there's nothing to be done.

"Then go tell Li Ji about this; if it's truly for the nation's fortune, that's a trap."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, telling Su Huaiyu to find Li Ji.

"If I don't cause trouble, and later they come back to interrogate me, it's not so bad; but if I can't explain clearly, they'll probably lock me up for years."

Su Huaiyu truly is realistic; after all, if the sky falls, it's not her to hold it up—she embodies the art of lying flat to the extreme.

People like that really deserve to be thrown into a big prison.

"It should be for trade. The border relations are poor, and the common folk on both sides can't hope for good lives. If an alliance is formed, many trades can resume, and some unrest—like the recent raids and village massacres—would cease."

"A marriage alliance is a good thing."

"The only drawback is sacrificing a woman's happiness."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his expression solemn.

As a screenwriter who makes a living from history, Gu Jin Nian has a certain say on marriage alliances.

Viewing marriage alliances through the long river of history, one finds they represent two meanings.

The dynasty is not strong.

The dynasty needs time.

Any powerful dynasty doesn't need a marriage alliance; relying on one to maintain imperial rule is actually a disgrace.

It's like when the Founding Emperor was alive, who would dare suggest a marriage alliance? He would beat you into doubting life itself; the Founding Emperor even reversed his family name.

Unfortunately, Da Xia was plagued by internal strife for a long time; Jian De couldn't crush Da Xia, and the main reason is that the Founding Emperor killed many meritorious officials. After the Crown Prince died, his grandson Jian De ascended, seeking to solidify his rule.

He had to target the former meritorious officials, causing Da Xia's military strength to plummet. Gu Jin Nian's grandfather steadied the situation, moving early to the border; otherwise, the Gu Family would have been purged during the Founding Emperor's reign.

Precisely because of this, the Gu Family rose to its zenith. The Dragon Ministers were the main force, and moreover, the once invincible great generals were all wiped out, their families exterminated, implicated nine clans.

For all these reasons, the Da Xia Dynasty declined considerably; its foundation hasn't collapsed, but it's far from thriving.

The northern Xiongnu, a nomadic people, constantly harass; the western side is no better—though not Xiongnu, they're some steppe tribes, even more disgusting. At least the Xiongnu don't act brazenly.

If we really have to do something that rips off the mask, at worst we just fight.

But those nomadic tribes in the west are the truly disgusting ones, robbing merchants, plundering civilians, killing and arson, committing every evil.

If we could ally with the Xiongnu Nation, Da Xia wouldn't need to send its own troops to handle it; a single summons from the Xiongnu would greatly reduce such incidents.

Merchants might still be robbed, after all the money is huge, the profit is massive, and it's truly enjoyable.

Da Xia is not lacking strength; it just needs time to develop, which won't take long—ten or twenty years—provided Jiangning Commandery doesn't suffer such natural or man‑made disasters.

In at most thirty years, the Da Xia Dynasty can once again regain its former brilliance.

When that time comes, we'll have no excuse.

What? You actually dare glance at me? You want to declare war, right? Brothers, the Xiongnu look down on us, calling Da Xia people dogs—does that bother them?

The development basically follows this plot: two soldiers glanced from afar, and then the war broke out.

No other pretext is needed; hitting you is just hitting you.

And how will we get through these twenty or thirty years?

Marital alliance.

It is a strategy of buying time.

A marital alliance may seem humiliating, yet it hides wisdom; once it occurs, relations ease, trade opens, both peoples smile, my border becomes peaceful, and your interior stabilizes.

You good, I good, everyone good; the only sacrifice is one person.

The woman sent for the marital alliance.

But to the court, one woman amounts to nothing, even ten, a hundred, a thousand make no difference.

The sacrifice is simply a sacrifice.

Once war erupts, tens of thousands of border soldiers will be lost; if we are defeated, it becomes a living hell, where death is not just one or two people but millions of civilians.

Back then, the twelve border towns—how many died? How many civilians perished?

The city was slaughtered for seven days; you didn't even have time to cry.

Therefore, a marital alliance is not a bad thing.

Aside from the instinctive modern aversion and an indescribable sense of grievance, economically and nationally, a marital alliance is beneficial.

A good deed that benefits the country and its people.

But from an individual standpoint, it's quite disgusting.

Especially among the Xiongnu, there is also a "father‑deceased mother‑wife" system.

It means that if the father dies, all his concubines become the son's women.

One of the four great beauties—doesn't that end up like this?

Very cruel, also very pathological.

Ordinary people can't accept it; for a woman being married off, it's the ultimate suffering and torment—life worse than death, perhaps.

If the chosen princess also has a lover, it becomes an even greater human tragedy.

Putting reason aside, Gu Jin Nian also feels outright disgust and irritation.

But this is unavoidable; it's hard for oneself to stop.

"The common folk have already started cursing."

"The academy students have joined in the curses as well."

"This matter isn't as simple as it appears on the surface."

Su Huaiyu took a sip of tea; they felt this matter wasn't that simple.

"A few curses are normal."

"Once the woman is married off, stability will return after a while."

Gu Jin Nian could understand, for Da Xia people still have pride and arrogance; this isn't innate, but forged by the founding emperor.

In a simple robe, he swept across ten states, earning a fearsome reputation and bolstering Da Xia's prestige.

But merely insulting won't change anything.

After all, sending a woman away brings twenty years of national stability, far better than Da Xia going to war, where defeat could mean hundreds of thousands of soldiers dead and millions of civilians slaughtered.

Think about it—between the two, who curses more harshly?

"Hmm."

Su Huaiyu spoke lightly.

"Why are you just going 'en en en' here all the time, can't you say something else?"

Gu Jin Nian frowned; this guy must be ill, right? After saying so much, he just keeps going 'en, en, en', not knowing what he's 'en'-ing about.

Facing Gu Jin Nian's displeasure, Su Huaiyu remained unusually calm and took another sip of tea.

"This topic is not worth joining."

"Easy to get hit."

Su Huaiyu said something very odd.

Easy to get hit?

What does that mean? Before Gu Jin Nian could continue speaking, several figures walked in.

It was Li Ji, Wang Fugui, Yang Hanrou and others.

Five figures approached.

They were straightforward, each finding a seat and sitting down.

"Crazy, crazy, it's completely crazy outside; the capital, top to bottom, is cursing the court."

"The marital alliance will bring big trouble."

Wang Fugui was drenched in sweat; he ran back and forth three times, and just went out again to settle the accounts.

So we saw some situations within the capital.

"The court will intervene; it won't last more than a few days."

Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly.

"This matter has sparked popular resentment, but as I've heard, the whole affair is just a routine marriage alliance; for the sake of friendship between the two nations, it can't erupt."

Yang Hanrou nodded and said.

"What the hell is 'two‑nation friendship'? In my view, we should strike, strike hard—these Xiongnu dogs have been pampered, yet they still dare to talk about a marriage alliance?"

Li Ji spoke, sounding a bit irritated; he grew up in a barracks, his temperament is rather extreme—a true warmonger.

At the same time he glanced at Yang Hanrou and muttered.

"Why aren't you worried at all? Aren't you afraid you might be sent to the Xiongnu lands for a marriage alliance?"

Upon hearing that, Yang Hanrou fell silent.

But everyone understood that the Ministry of Rites handles princess selections; even Yang Kai, as impartial as he is, couldn't let his own granddaughter suffer.

"Alright, the matter you were inquiring about—did you find out?"

Gu Jin Nian didn't want to continue this topic.

He shifted to another subject.

It was about this month's assignments.

As soon as he said that, everyone spoke up.

"We've already asked; Senior Brother Xu Ya's files are about the sunken ship case, the shipwreck that prompted the Ministry of Justice's reform."

Yaochi Fairy spoke; she had gone to find Xu Ya and others to clarify what their file concerned.

"Did you transcribe it?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Yes."

Yaochi Fairy took out the transcribed file and placed it before Gu Jin Nian.

"He Peng's case is a disappearance case—the missing girl from the White Heron Mansion."

Jiang Ye Zhou also produced a file; He Peng is the son of Minister of Revenue He Yan and is now a member of the Kirin Pavilion.

"Zhao Guang's and Wang Fu Ming's cases are respectively the Ministry of Justice official's drowning case and the Ministry of Justice Assistant Officer's assassination case."

"I forgot to transcribe it, but I recall roughly."

Li Ji then spoke, a bit embarrassed; he hadn't transcribed the file, he merely read it once.

Zhao Guang is the son of the Minister of War.

Wang Fu Ming is the son of the Minister of Works.

Both are members of the Kirin Pavilion.

"Drowning case? Assassination case?"

Gu Jin Nian frowned; this raised a problem.

"Yes, the Ministry of Justice official who handled it drowned the following year, having drunk too much."

"And that Assistant Officer retired to his hometown, but was ambushed by bandits on the road; the Ministry of Justice immediately crushed the bandit camp, slaying over four hundred, leaving none alive."

Li Ji gave his answer.

"Murder to silence?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at the group and brought up the matter.

"Possible, but not certain."

"I know about the drowning; that Ministry of Justice official was addicted to alcohol, a decades‑long habit; sometimes he would secretly drink at the ministry, and this wasn't his first drowning—he had drowned twice before, rescued each time."

"This time it was in the dead of night; all the taverns in the capital were closed, only a few remote ones remained open. He got drunk, insisted on going alone to the lake to recite poetry, and died in the end."

"He deserved it."

Su Huai Yu spoke; he didn't know the others, but he knew this Ministry of Justice official—he deserved to die.

However, everyone's gaze fell on him, their eyes a bit strange.

"He bears a grudge against me."

Feeling the stares, Su Huai Yu replied calmly.

For a moment, everyone nodded.

"He has a grudge, then."

"Then that's settled."

"The Assistant Officer's assassination is indeed rather rare."

Gu Jin Nian stroked his chin; the Assistant Officer is a fifth‑rank official, a Ministry of Justice Assistant Officer, a central official one rank above, who can stand on equal footing with a fourth‑rank official when posted elsewhere.

For such a high‑ranking official to retire and then be assassinated…

"That's odd."

But all those involved were killed, so the clues are essentially cut off.

The room was quiet.

As the group delved deeper, the case grew stranger, yet everything remained extremely logical.

No flaw could be found. "Actually, I have an idea."

Abruptly, Wang Fu Gui spoke, breaking the silence.

At once, everyone's eyes turned to him.

"What idea?"

Li Ji asked.

"How about this: I'll set out for White Heron Mansion."

"If you go, it might be inconvenient; I can go, since White Heron Mansion has my family's business."

"I'll go investigate a bit; if there's indeed any trick, send word immediately, and if needed, we can all go investigate together."

"If there's truly no problem, then we're just being overly suspicious, and after going there and summarizing, we've at least done what we should; Mr. Wenjing can't give us a bad rating, can he? At worst it's decent."

"What do you all think?"

Wang Fugui volunteered bravely, planning to go to White Heron Mansion.

Talking about it here for ten days and ten nights is just speculation; there are no concrete clues or evidence, no breakthrough, utterly meaningless.

"That's a good plan."

"But Brother Wang going alone isn't ideal; it's better to bring a few more people."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; indeed it was a good plan. Though Wang Fugui comes from a merchant family, he's far less conspicuous than these nobles, at least he won't draw attention.

Still, going alone is somewhat risky; bringing more people is fine.

"I'll go together with Brother Wang."

"Also pull Zhao Guang, He Peng, and Wang Fuming over there together."

"There shouldn't be any major incident."

Jiang Ye Zhou spoke up and took He Peng and the other two away.

"Alright."

"If you get any news, contact me immediately—preferably one letter per day. If I hear nothing within a day, I'll go to White Heron Mansion myself with a party."

"If you encounter danger, don't force your way; at the critical moment, reveal my name outright."

"If anyone truly troubles you, I won't spare a single official of Jiangling County."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, admitting he didn't know how far this matter reached; if there truly is a conspiracy, the people involved could be terrifying.

So Gu Jin Nian's words weren't a joke.

Being stopped from investigating is tolerable, but if anyone harms or endangers people, Gu Jin Nian will crush all officials of Jiangling County.

Having said that, Gu Jin Nian handed his jade token to the two.

"Please rest assured, Brother Gu,"

The two stood up; Wang Fugui took the token without hesitation and set off together with Jiang Ye Zhou.

A spur‑of‑the‑moment trip.

Since we have silver, we're unafraid of wherever we go.

"Take care."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, and the others rose, bowing their hands toward the two.

"Await our good news."

Wang Fugui was concise; once this is settled, it showcases his ability and also satisfies his curiosity.

After the two left,

Gu Jin Nian didn't linger and immediately sent the others out.

He began pounding these gold pieces.

Gu Jin Nian was carefree, spending 1,000 taels of gold per piece of information.

Through these purchases, Gu Jin Nian noticed several patterns.

The information from the ancient tree is somewhat random and chaotic; sometimes 1,000 taels yields info worth less than 100 taels.

But occasionally it exceeds the value of 1,000 taels.

Like the assassination of Prince Dajin.

That information couldn't be bought for 1,000 taels, not even for 10,000 taels.

Below 1,000 taels, you can hardly expect any good info.

1,000 taels is the dividing line.

After a single incense stick,

All 10,000 taels of gold were spent cleanly.

Gu Jin Nian left the room, found an empty spot, and harvested a kryptogold fruit.

He always felt the room's feng shui was poor; each activation yielded little news.

After Gu Jin Nian left,

In less than half a quarter‑hour, the knocking sounded again.

It was Su Huaiyu.

Seeing the room empty, Su Huaiyu slowly pushed the door, glanced that Gu Jin Nian was absent, and went straight to the chest.

Then she opened it slowly.

After a brief moment,

A murmuring sound arose.

"I didn't expect the Crown Prince to even guard the gentleman,"

A sigh sounded.

Su Huaiyu left.

Feeling a bit disappointed.

In the mountains, Gu Jin Nian was straightforward, snatching ten kryptogold fruits in one breath.

In an instant, ten pieces of information appeared.

【It can be replaced with high‑grade jade.】

This is the first piece of information, which left Gu Jin Nian silent; the fellow spent a thousand taels of gold, and you tell me it can be replaced with fine jade?

【This is a test】

This is the second piece of information, presumably referring to this file; although the answer given is of no use, it does show a hint.

【In ten days, the strongest demonic cultivator will enter Da Xia territory】

This is the third piece of information; how to put it, it seems somewhat useful, but not very useful.

As for the remaining messages, Gu Jin Nian glanced at them and, for now, thought of nothing; he'll first see what messages there are before deciding.

【He will not harm you, as long as you do not refuse his request】

【This person's mind is a bit off, but you can trust him completely】

【Look closely, the Yaochi Fairy wears only one piece of clothing】

【She already likes you; once you get to know her deeply, you'll be greatly surprised】

【White Heron Mansion Qingyuan Temple】

【Add another chapter, you have a ticket】

【In three days, you will meet a charm that keeps surprising you】

【Another charm is on the way (this line is a buy‑ten‑get‑one deal)】

The information surfaces.

Gu Jin Nian fell completely silent.

Your grandpa's.

Out of the ten pieces of information, only a few are serious; the rest is nonsense.

What's this about the Yaochi Fairy wearing only one garment, or about deep understanding bringing a huge surprise? What even is a surprise? That charm is on the way?

Stop halfway and not finish? Are you teasing me?

A mess of junk.

Gu Jin Nian is truly numb.

Su Huaiyu's impropriety he can accept; this person was imprisoned for years, so his abnormal mind makes sense.

This ancient tree is also indecent.

Either it gives some completely useless messages.

Or it's just a bunch of chaotic messages.

Fine.

Ten thousand taels of gold went down the drain.

Among all the messages, only one is somewhat useful: that jade items can replace gold, since fine jade indeed costs more than gold.

But had I known this earlier, why sell the jade?

He took a deep breath.

Gu Jin Nian also calmed slightly, discarding some useless information; among them three pieces he still needs to ponder seriously.

【This is a test】

【White Heron Mansion Qingyuan Temple】

【In ten days the strongest demonic cultivator enters Da Xia】

These three pieces of information are somewhat useful; first, the test, although the ancient tree didn't specify what the test is.

One point that can't be denied is that the case is definitely not as simple as it appears.

It surely hides something profound.

In a sense, my own thinking is correct, providing a direction; a thousand taels of gold isn't a loss.

White Heron Mansion Qingyuan Temple—this information is important; although I don't know why the ancient tree gave me this, if necessary I still have to investigate.

I could also send Wang Fugui and his group there.

No, that won't work; if there truly is danger, they'll find it hard to protect themselves.

Gu Jin Nian originally wanted Wang Fugui to go, but now thinks he can't; if danger arises it would be bad.

As for the strongest demonic cultivator entering Da Xia, I must keep that in mind.

Normally, one shouldn't encounter it.

But the ancient tree gave a clear answer: even if I truly meet them, I won't be afraid, as long as I don't refuse the other side, I'll be fine.

Moreover, the other side won't hurt me; I can even trust them completely.

Three messages, if anything, aren't a big loss; there's a slight gain.

As for who loses, Gu Jin Nian doesn't care.

Thus.

Gu Jin Nian didn't chatter; he took the files of a few others and began to examine them carefully, looking for any additional clues.

And so.

In the blink of an eye, two days passed.

November 20th.

During this period, the Ministry of Rites of the Da Xia Dynasty was the busiest.

First, it was discussing a marriage alliance with the Xiongnu State.

Second, talented envoys from various nations were gradually returning: the Kong family, the Fuluo envoys, and the Great Jin envoys traveling together, scheduled for May 21st, which is tomorrow.

These two matters kept the Ministry of Rites swamped from top to bottom.

The envoys returning must prepare various gifts, and have the Ministry of War coordinate to dispatch a thousand elite troops for escort.

This is a state ceremony.

But the Ministry of Rites' greatest concern remains the affairs of the Xiongnu Nation.

After two days of negotiations, the two sides finally reached an agreement: usage rights for seven iron mines for twenty years, plus ten thousand each of cattle and sheep, three thousand fine horses, and countless pearls and agates as betrothal gifts.

The Da Xia Dynasty was also generous here, providing a large pile of gold and silver ornaments, plus two thousand workers of various trades, including some cooks, physicians, and other talents.

The selection came from Longxi, which is only about seven hundred li from the northwestern border, so at least one could occasionally return home.

And countless gifts procured by the royal household.

This is a marriage alliance between the two nations, of great significance.

The date is set for the 23rd; the Xiongnu Nation will prepare for three days, then depart for the capital, with the Xiongnu Prime Minister and the Xiongnu Nation's second prince personally coming to receive the princess.

They dare not overstep any protocol, their attitude is very good, which lets the Minister of Rites breathe a sigh of relief.

Domestic discussion is intense; regarding this matter, popular discontent erupts.

But the Xiongnu Nation's cooperation eases much pressure on the Ministry of Rites.

As for the selection of a person.

In the past two days they have also chosen many; although they say they will simply pick a minister's daughter and crown her as princess, they still need a woman of outstanding looks, from a scholarly family, and possessing some talent.

Under these conditions, on November 21st.

The selection was finally completed.

The daughter of the Right Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Rites.

Wang Wan Yue.

Only seventeen years old, slender and graceful, a beauty in the making, born into a scholarly family; her father is the Right Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Rites, so she naturally has some talent.

Choosing her was not only because she met the criteria, but mainly because trouble had broken out within the court.

At first the Ministry of Rites selected a marquis's daughter, but after the matter spread, that marquis went straight to the Ministry, caused an uproar, and bluntly demanded his daughter be chosen, turning the Ministry into chaos.

If it were a normal time, the Ministry of Rites wouldn't truly fear the other side.

But the problem is that this time the Ministry of Rites agreed to the marriage alliance to avoid war.

Having no solid footing, they thus became cowardly.

The military officials banded together; selecting someone from the military was certainly impossible, so it ultimately fell to this group of civil officials.

Among the civil officials, it was a case of pushing and shoving, or ages not matching; after many unsatisfactory picks, they suddenly thought of the Right Deputy Minister's daughter, who fit the criteria perfectly.

The initial oversight was simple: after all, the selecting department is the Ministry of Rites; why would its own people harm their own?

But being forced, they had no choice but to swallow the loss themselves.

After the matter was settled.

That night, the Right Deputy Minister's household was filled with cries; the Right Deputy Minister Wang Jiang was very blunt— even if his daughter threatened suicide, Wang Jiang showed no mercy.

Wang Jiang even knew his daughter liked a scholar, and he said it plainly: if Wang Wan Yue does not marry, he would absolutely not allow her to marry her beloved, and might even use his power to exile that scholar to a harsh, cold place.

But if Wang Wan Yue does marry, it could promote her beloved to an official post.

At the same time many arguments were used, both soft and hard, and finally Wang Wan Yue agreed.

Only her mood plummeted, and some maids couldn't help but shed tears, feeling sorry for their own miss.

With Wang Wan Yue's silence.

The Ministry of Rites was also very direct; fearing any mishap, they even prepared the wording.

Bright Moon.

The Ministry of Rites basically began working through the night, drafting the marriage phoenix robe and various princess equipment.

As for his father Wang Jiang, he was further ennobled; though not a marquis, he received the title of Earl of He Ning, though the conferment still has to wait, the Ministry of Rites had already settled, and the Ministry of Personnel and the Prime Minister had no major objections.

This is why Wang Jiang was so ruthless.

An earl, huh.

To replace a military commander, how many enemy troops must be slain to obtain such a thing? Of course he isn't stone‑hearted, but there was no other way; the Ministry of Rites chose its own daughter—if he refused, the trouble would be greater, while agreeing brought benefits, so it had to be this way.

If there is a chance later, to visit his own daughter, that is the only thing he can do.

Or have his wife visit the daughter more often; when someday he becomes the Minister of Rites, he thinks his daughter will not suffer much.

In short, everything was finalized within a single day.

The Ministry of Rites' efficiency in handling affairs was fully displayed.

And with the Ministry of Rites' seal affixed.

Public controversy instantly diminished greatly.

It seemed the situation was set, and under the control of the Lantern Suspension Office and the Town Government Office, it indeed became much quieter.

Inside the capital, countless official daughters each let out a sigh of relief; the more compassionate felt a bit uneasy, for although it wasn't themselves, seeing others take their place evoked some pity.

Today, the Kong family, the Fu Luo envoy, and the Great Gold envoy also set out.

In the blink of an eye, another two days passed.

The Xiongnu Nation, as promised, dispatched a wedding escort; after the cattle, sheep, and warhorses were handed over at the border, the remaining contingent, grand and numerous, numbered over two thousand.

One thousand elite cavalry and one thousand attendants, a massive, grand scene.

From the border they opened checkpoints along the way, speeding up; in five days they could rush to Da Xia Capital.

And within the Da Xia Academy.

Gu Jin Nian also received a letter from Wang Fu Gui and his party.

Wang Fu Gui and his group arrived at the White Heron Residence two days ago.

These two days they have also been covertly investigating matters.

However, the first day yielded no significant gains.

The second day brought some findings: according to a villager who knows Zhang Ming, Zhang Ming returned from military service, has a gentle temperament, is righteous, dislikes gambling, and while soldiers in the army do drink a bit, he is not a heavy drinker.

But he hasn't reached the level of a habitual drinker.

So this is somewhat problematic.

As for other news, there is nothing left.

And it lasted until December 25th.

Da Xia border.

In a mountain forest.

Several thousand cavalry cleared the way ahead, while seven or eight jade carriages slowly moved behind, inside which sat several important figures.

Third Prince of Divine Net.

Tenth Princess of Fusang.

Twelfth Prince of Great Jin.

Kong Yu.

The four of them traveled together, planning to visit the Great Jin Dynasty as guests.

After walking another half day, they basically reached Great Jin territory; once the border handover was complete, everything would be fine.

But just then.

The advancing troop suddenly halted.

The next moment, a cry of alarm rang out.

"Form the formation."

"Enemy attack."

As the sound rang out, in an instant the soldiers around the jade carriages drew their swords, each with a solemn expression.

Boom boom boom.

In an instant, rocks rolled down; huge stones fell from the two surrounding mountains, smashing into the escorted troops.

Dozens of figures leapt out from both sides, wielding sabers, and directly attacked the Da Xia elite troops.

Bang bang bang.

As for the front, a masked figure appeared, holding a Qingfeng sword, as if entering an uninhabited land, facing a thousand cavalry, showing no fear at all.

Under the sword's shadow, those killed were thrown off their horses, men and horses overturned.

These are the Da Xia elite troops.

Except for a Martial King expert, who would dare to oppose the blade?

"The heir has an order."

"Kill everything."

The next moment, a voice sounded, and in an instant killing intent was fully revealed.

But just then.

In the dark.

Dozens of figures leapt out from the shadows, and Gu Ningya's silhouette gradually emerged.

Among these figures, there were no shortage of Martial King-level experts.

"Uh oh, the news has leaked."

"Run."

The masked man's voice rang out.

Seeing that there were Martial King experts, he had no nonsense, directly wanting to leave.

"By order of His Majesty, leave no survivors."

"Kill."

At this moment, Gu Ningya gripped a steel blade, his eyes cold as he said.

The next moment, the nine surrounding figures vanished, and these attackers were directly slain.

There was no intention to leave any survivors.

And these escorted elites also had no nonsense; the commander directly split into three teams and began the slaughter.

On both sides, there were thousands of ambush troops, plus other ambush forces, likely numbering four to five thousand.

But with a few Martial King experts present, they were hardly no match.

In an instant.

A massacre began.

However, inside the jade carriage, Kong Yu's gaze was somewhat strange.

(End of chapter)