Chapter 1049

~40 min read 7,946 words

Hu Xiaotian said: "Don't forget that everyone will have ambition; carving out a fiefdom and establishing independence is hard to avoid. In fact, Dakang has already fragmented. If they are willing to flee to another country, that's fine; at least they can bring a region's people to have enough food and warm clothing, survive this harsh winter, which can be considered giving the populace a way to live. Princess, don't forget one thing: Dakang lacks grain, not gold and silver. The situation we face now is having money but unable to buy grain."

Qiqi furrowed her brows slightly; she already fully understood Hu Xiaotian's meaning. Dakang is vast and populous, and relying solely on the court's allocation can no longer solve the food problem for so many people. Hu Xiaotian wants to divide Dakang into many small states, letting each work out its own solution. Actually, Qiqi also understands: once the territory is divided, the enfeoffed princes will follow Li Tianheng's example, and none will obey Dakang's governance anymore. But on the other hand, this amounts to sharing Dakang's crisis—although neighboring countries are unwilling to trade with Dakang, they might not refuse to trade with these newly born small states.

Hu Xiaotian's intention in proposing this suggestion was to implement a federal system in Dakang, but he also understood that in an age of supreme imperial authority, a federal system simply wouldn't work; in the end it would likely become like the Zhou Son of Heaven enfeoffing feudal lords, leaving him isolated and alone. However, since Dakang has already come to this point, it might be better to shed excess baggage, go into action lightly, and perhaps still give these people a glimmer of hope. If his suggestion cannot be put into practice, then Dakang would split into multiple feudal states, and Hu Xiaotian's understanding of human nature grows ever deeper. Given that the Dakang court can no longer control the localities, it would be better to let go early, enfeoff feudal states so they can each seek their livelihood; those willing to rely on a strong power may do so, and those willing to be independent may do so. Hu Xiaotian firmly believes everyone has ambition. Li Tianheng is an example: once one becomes a feudal prince of a region, they are unwilling to remain subordinate to others, and they will spare no effort to defend their territory and subjects—that is the spirit of ownership.

We need translation.

Break: The intention behind Hu Xiaotian's suggestion was to implement a federal system in Dakang, but he also understood that in an era of supreme imperial authority, a federal system simply wouldn't work; in the end it would likely become like the Zhou Son of Heaven enfeoffing feudal lords, leaving him isolated and alone. However, since Dakang has already come to this point, it might be better to shed excess baggage, go into action lightly, and perhaps still give these people a glimmer of hope. If his suggestion cannot be put into practice, then Dakang would split into multiple feudal states, and Hu Xiaotian's understanding of human nature grows ever deeper. Given that the Dakang court can no longer control the localities, it would be better to let go early, enfeoff feudal states so they can each seek their livelihood; those willing to rely on a strong power may do so, and those willing to be independent may do so. Hu Xiaotian firmly believes everyone has ambition. Li Tianheng is an example: once one becomes a feudal prince of a region, they are unwilling to remain subordinate to others, and they will spare no effort to defend their territory and subjects—that is the spirit of ownership.

The intention behind Hu Xiaotian's suggestion was to implement a federal system in Dakang, but he also understood that in this era of supreme imperial authority, a federal system simply wouldn't work; in the end it would likely become like the Zhou Son of Heaven enfeoffing feudal lords, leaving him isolated and alone. However, since Dakang has already come to this point, it might be better to shed excess baggage, go into action lightly, and perhaps still give these people a glimmer of hope. If his suggestion cannot be put into practice, then Dakang would split into multiple feudal states, and Hu Xiaotian's understanding of human nature grows ever deeper. Given that the Dakang court can no longer control the localities, it would be better to let go early, enfeoff feudal states so they can each seek their livelihood; those willing to rely on a strong power may do so, and those willing to be independent may do so. Hu Xiaotian firmly believes everyone has ambition. Li Tianheng is an example: once one becomes a feudal prince of a region, they are unwilling to remain subordinate to others, and they will spare no effort to defend their territory and subjects—that is the spirit of ownership.

Ok.

In modern economics this is called asset restructuring—selling off bad assets and keeping quality ones; only then is there a chance to turn losses into profits. However, Hu Xiaotian's idea is too bold and too ahead of its time; after hearing it, Qiqi remained silent for a long while.

Translation: In modern economics this is called asset restructuring—selling off bad assets and keeping quality ones; only then is there a chance to turn losses into profits. However, Hu Xiaotian's idea is too bold and too ahead of its time; after hearing it, Qiqi remained silent for a long while.

In modern economics this is called asset restructuring—selling off bad assets and keeping quality assets; only then is there a chance to turn losses into profits. However, Hu Xiaotian's idea is too bold and too ahead of its time; after hearing it, Qiqi remained silent for a long while.

Ok.

Qiqi pondered for a long time before softly sighing and saying: "This is of great importance; I need to consider it carefully before I can make a decision."

Translation: Qiqi pondered for a long time before softly sighing and saying: "This is of great importance; I need to consider it carefully before I can make a decision."

Ok.

Hu Xiaotian said: "Princess, no matter what decision you make, do not reveal in front of the Emperor that this idea came from me."

Translation: Hu Xiaotian said: "Princess, no matter what decision you make, do not reveal in front of the Emperor that this idea came from me."

Ok.

Qiqi couldn't help but let out a faint smile and said: "How come? Are you that afraid of him?"

Translation: Qiqi couldn't help but let out a faint smile and said: "How come? Are you that afraid of him?"

Ok.

Hu Xiaotian said: "It's not that I'm afraid of him. Rather, the Emperor has long held a prejudice against me; whether I propose a good idea or a bad one, he will always think I harbor ulterior motives. Since that's the case, why bother seeking this ill omen?"

Translation: Hu Xiaotian said: "It's not that I'm afraid of him. Rather, the Emperor has long held a prejudice against me; whether I propose a good idea or a bad one, he will always think I harbor ulterior motives. Since that's the case, why bother seeking this ill omen?"

harbor ulterior motives. ill omen, bad luck.

Ok.

Qiqi said: "Do you know that someone else also thought of the same thing?"

Translation: Qiqi said: "Do you know that someone else also thought of the same thing?"

Ok.

Hu Xiaotian thought she was referring to Wen Chenghuan again. He shook his head and said: "I am different from Wen Chenghuan; he thinks of selling out the country for glory, whereas I think of helping Dakang get through this crisis."

Translation: Hu Xiaotian thought she was referring to Wen Chenghuan again. He shook his head and said: "I am different from Minister Wen; he thinks of selling out the country for glory, whereas I think of helping Dakang get through this crisis."

I am different from Wen Chenghuan; he thinks of selling out the country for glory, whereas I think of helping Dakang get through this crisis.

Ok.

Qiqi said: "I meant the Zhou Chancellor; he also firmly opposes Wen Chenghuan's suggestion. His idea, although not as bold and thorough as yours, also considered abandoning some land unimportant to Dakang. He said, 'Let three parts be calm waters; retreat a step and the sea becomes wide and the sky open.'"

Translation: Qiqi said: "I meant the Zhou Chancellor; he also firmly opposes Wen Chenghuan's suggestion. His idea, although not as bold and thorough as yours, also considered abandoning some land unimportant to Dakang. He said, 'Let three parts be calm waters; retreat a step and the sea becomes wide and the sky open.'"

He said, "Let three parts be calm waters; retreat a step and the sea becomes wide and the sky open."

Hu Xiaotian said: "This method is merely a stopgap; it cannot solve Dakang's fundamental problem, unless……"

Translation: Hu Xiaotian said: "This method is merely a stopgap; it cannot solve Dakang's fundamental problem, unless……"

"Unless what?"

Translation: "Unless what?"

Hu Xiaotian sighed and said: "Forget it!"

Translation: Hu Xiaotian sighed and said: "Forget it!"

Qiqi glared at him and said: "Stop beating around the bush. Speak!"

Translation: Qiqi glared at him and said: "Stop beating around the bush. Speak!"

Hu Xiaotian said: "Unless you can truly be the master of Dakang."

Translation: Hu Xiaotian said: "Unless you can truly be the master of Dakang."

Qiqi's heart stirred; Hu Xiaotian was clearly hinting that she should become the true ruler of Dakang, in other words, to force Long Xuan'en to yield the throne to her.

Translation: Qiqi's heart stirred; Hu Xiaotian was clearly hinting that she should become the true ruler of Dakang, in other words, to force Long Xuan'en to yield the throne to her.

Hu Xiaotian deliberately said: "Your Highness, please don't read too much into this; I am not advising you to become empress. Dakang is now a mess that no one can fix. Rather than being stuck in Kangdu, wrangling with Hong Beimo, it would be better to take advantage of the enfeoffment of feudal lords, ask the Emperor for a fief, and truly become the master of your own domain."

Translation: Hu Xiaotian deliberately said: "Your Highness, please don't read too much into this; I am not advising you to become empress. Dakang is now a mess that no one can fix. Rather than being stuck in Kangdu, wrangling with Hong Beimo, it would be better to take advantage of the enfeoffment of feudal lords, ask the Emperor for a fief, and truly become the master of your own domain."

Your Highness, please don't read too much into this; I am not advising you to become empress. Dakang is now a mess that no one can fix. Rather than being stuck in Kangdu, wrangling with Hong Beimo, it would be better to take advantage of the enfeoffment of feudal lords, ask the Emperor for a fief, and truly become the master of your own domain.

Qiqi blinked her bright eyes: "Hu Xiaotian, just based on these words of yours I could charge you with the crime of plotting rebellion."

Translation: Qiqi blinked her bright eyes: "Hu Xiaotian, just based on these words of yours I could charge you with the crime of plotting rebellion."

Hu Xiaotian said: "Princess, do as you wish; however, everything I said to you today is for your own good. If it weren't for our Marriage Pact, I wouldn't bother caring about you."

Translation: Hu Xiaotian said: "Princess, do as you wish; however, everything I said to you today is for your own good. If it weren't for our marriage pact, I wouldn't bother caring about you."

If it weren't for our Marriage Pact, I wouldn't bother caring about you.

Upon hearing him mention the Marriage Pact, Qiqi's pretty face suddenly flushed. She bit her cherry lips and stamped her foot, saying: "Hu Xiaotian, you dare to bully me! Come here!"

Translation: Upon hearing him mention the Marriage Pact, Qiqi's pretty face suddenly flushed. She bit her cherry lips and stamped her foot, saying: "Hu Xiaotian, you dare to bully me! Come here!"

Hu Xiaotian knew she was always quick to turn hostile; his scalp tightened, but then he heard Qiqi say: "Tear down his grass shed!" Qiqi's subordinates, the Guards, upon receiving the order, rushed forward and in no time tore down Hu Xiaotian's mourning grass shed completely.

Translation: Hu Xiaotian knew she was always quick to turn hostile; his scalp tightened, but then he heard Qiqi say: "Tear down his grass shed!" Qiqi's subordinates, the Guards, upon receiving the order, rushed forward and in no time tore down Hu Xiaotian's mourning grass shed completely.

Qiqi's subordinates, the Guards, tore down the mourning grass shed completely.

Hu Xiaotian could not fail to understand Qiqi's thoughts; she wanted him to return and help her. In fact, Hu Xiaotian had already decided that after burning the fifty-seven day paper offerings he would go down the mountain to temporarily stay at Fengyi Shan Zhuang; since Qiqi had people help tear down the grass shed, it saved him the effort of doing it himself.

Translation: Hu Xiaotian could not fail to understand Qiqi's thoughts; she wanted him to return and help her. In fact, Hu Xiaotian had already decided that after burning the fifty-seven day paper offerings he would go down the mountain to temporarily stay at Fengyi Shan Zhuang; since Qiqi had people help tear down the grass shed, it saved him the effort of doing it himself.

He would go down the mountain to temporarily stay at Fengyi Shan Zhuang, which saved him the effort of doing it himself.

After tearing down the grass shed, Qiqi got up and left; before departing she said to Hu Xiaotian: "Scrape off your beard—you look over ten years older!"

Translation: After tearing down the grass shed, Qiqi got up and left; before departing she said to Hu Xiaotian: "Scrape off your beard—you look over ten years older!"

Hu Xiaotian said: "This is called maturity; you really don't know how to appreciate it!"

Translation: Hu Xiaotian said: "This is called maturity; you really don't know how to appreciate it!"

Qiqi said: "I'll give you seven more days; if you don't return to Kangdu, I'll send people to tear down your shabby mountain villa as well."

Translation: Qiqi said: "I'll give you seven more days; if you don't return to Kangdu, I'll send people to tear down your shabby mountain villa as well."

Hu Xiaotian knew she could carry out her threat; he cupped his fists toward Qiqi and said: "No need for seven days—I'll be back in three days."

Translation: Hu Xiaotian knew she could carry out her threat; he cupped his fists toward Qiqi and said: "No need for seven days—I'll be back in three days."

Inside the Dakang Yangxin Hall, Hong Beimo presented with both hands a pure gold-cast dragon-shaped box; Long Xuan'en took the box, opened it, and upon smelling a strange fragrance, looked closely to see a gleaming golden pill inside. Long Xuan'en rejoiced exceedingly and said: "You have finally succeeded in making it?"

Translation: Inside the Dakang Yangxin Hall, Hong Beimo presented with both hands a pure gold-cast dragon-shaped box; Long Xuan'en took the box, opened it, and upon smelling a strange fragrance, looked closely to see a gleaming golden pill inside. Long Xuan'en rejoiced exceedingly and said: "You have finally succeeded in making it?"

Hong Beimo shook his head and said: "This pill can prolong life and improve health, but it cannot grant immortality."

Translation: Hong Beimo shook his head and said: "This pill can prolong life and improve health, but it cannot grant immortality."

Long Xuan'en's hopes were dashed; the smile on his face instantly faded: "If it cannot grant immortality, what use is it to me?" He pushed the box aside.

Translation: Long Xuan'en's hopes were dashed; the smile on his face instantly faded: "If it cannot grant immortality, what use is it to me?" He pushed the box aside.

Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty, I am useless; to this day I have not found the Qiankun Kaiwu chapter of the Dan Ding."

Translation: Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty, I am useless; to this day I have not found the Qiankun Kaiwu chapter of the Dan Ding."

the Qiankun Kaiwu chapter of the Dan Ding

Long Xuan'en said: "Chu Fufeng could do it; why can't you?"

Translation: Long Xuan'en said: "Chu Fufeng could do it; why can't you?"

Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty, please have a bit more patience; I will certainly be able to uncover the secret of the Dan Ding chapter."

Translation: Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty, please have a bit more patience; I will certainly be able to uncover the secret of the Dan Ding chapter."

Long Xuan'en flew into a rage: "How much longer must you make me wait? I have waited a full forty-eight years already; what more patience do you demand? Over these forty-eight years I have given you everything you needed, sparing no expense to cultivate you, yet what have you given me? Only a vague, illusory hope."

Translation: Long Xuan'en flew into a rage: "How much longer must you make me wait? I have waited a full forty-eight years already; what more patience do you demand? Over these forty-eight years I have given you everything you needed, sparing no expense to cultivate you, yet what have you given me? Only a vague, illusory hope."

Hong Beimo said full of confidence: "At most three years; I believe that within three years there will surely be results."

Translation: Hong Beimo said full of confidence: "At most three years; I believe that within three years there will surely be results."

Long Xuan'en sighed: "Three years! War flames erupt all over Dakang, surrounding enemies loom; you ask me to wait three years—who would still grant me three years?"

Translation: Long Xuan'en sighed: "Three years! War flames erupt all over Dakang, surrounding enemies loom; you ask me to wait three years—who would still grant me three years?"

Hong Beimo said: "The underground palace has not yet been completed; once the Reincarnation Tower is built, it will certainly enable Your Majesty to live forever and return to youth."

Translation: Hong Beimo said: "The underground palace has not yet been completed; once the Reincarnation Tower is built, it will certainly enable Your Majesty to live forever and return to youth."

Long Xuan'en said: "Over these past decades I have exhausted all resources, granting you whatever you asked—not for the sake of one day regaining youth and living forever, but you have let me, in repeated waiting and disappointment, turn my hair white. Hong Beimo, Hong Beimo, are you deceiving me? Are you really deceiving me?"

Translation: Long Xuan'en said: "Over these past decades I have exhausted all resources, granting you whatever you asked—not for the sake of one day regaining youth and living forever, yet you have made me, through repeated waiting and disappointment, turn my hair white. Hong Beimo, oh Hong Beimo, are you deceiving me? Are you really deceiving me?"

Hong Beimo said: "I serve Your Majesty with utter loyalty; if there is even a hint of deceit, may heaven strike me with thunder and lightning and let me die a miserable death!"

Translation: Hong Beimo said: "I serve Your Majesty with utter loyalty; if there is even a hint of deceit, may I be struck by lightning and thunder and die a horrible death!"

Long Xuan'en said: "I don't need you to swear; I just need you to quickly produce the elixir."

Translation: Long Xuan'en said: "I don't need your oath; I only want you to quickly succeed in making the pill."

Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty might as well take this pill first to ensure your dragon body's health." He then passed the pill back.

Translation: Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty might as well first take this pill to ensure your dragon body's health." He then passed the pill back over.

Long Xuan'en then calmed down and said in a low voice: "You must speed up; Dakang's situation is dire, and it may not last three years."

Translation: Long Xuan'en then calmed down, speaking softly: "You must speed up progress; Dakang's situation is dire, and I fear it may not last three years."

Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty need not worry; if everything goes smoothly, perhaps the Reincarnation Tower can be completed within a year, and once the tower is built, even if we cannot find the Dan Ding chapter, we can still produce the immortality elixir."

Translation: Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty need not worry; if everything goes smoothly, perhaps the Reincarnation Tower can be completed within a year, and once the Reincarnation Tower is built, even if we cannot find the Dan Ding chapter, we can still produce an immortality pill."

Long Xuan'en nodded: "I will trust you once more."

Translation: Long Xuan'en nodded: "I will trust you once more."

After Hong Beimo withdrew, Long Xuan'en's gaze fell upon that pill, and he sighed: "If it weren't for you, I might have died thirty years ago; if it weren't for you, I might have ended my days in obscurity on Mount Piaomiao; but if it weren't for you giving me the hope of immortality, I might have devoted more energy to governing the state, and then how would we have ended up in today's predicament. Hong Beimo, Hong Beimo, are you helping me or harming me?"

Translation: After Hong Beimo withdrew, Long Xuan'en's gaze fell upon that pill, and he sighed deeply: "If it weren't for you, I might have died thirty years ago; if it weren't for you, I might have ended my days in obscurity on Mount Piaomiao; but if it weren't for you giving me the hope of longevity, I might have devoted more energy to governing the state, and then how would we have ended up in today's predicament. Hong Beimo, oh Hong Beimo, are you helping me or harming me?"

If we went to Mount Piaomiao and ended our days in obscurity, how would we have ended up in today's predicament?

Long Xuan'en finally picked up the golden pill, which was the size of a dragon's eye and emitted a faint golden glow. He brought it close, inhaled deeply, feeling its fragrance seep into his lungs; his spirit was shaken, his gaze turned blazing, he opened his mouth and swallowed the pill in one gulp, eagerly biting it apart, feeling a warm current flow down his throat, his meridians bathed in spring breeze, his whole body as if countless pairs of soft, warm hands were gently massaging him, bringing him to the utmost comfort and delight.

Translation: Long Xuan'en finally picked up that golden pill; the pill was the size of a dragon's eye, emitting a faint golden glow. He brought it close and inhaled deeply, feeling the fragrance seep into his lungs; his spirit was shaken, his gaze instantly turned scorching hot. He opened his mouth and swallowed the golden pill in one gulp, eagerly biting it apart, feeling a warm current flow down his throat, his meridians as if bathed in spring breeze, his whole body as if countless soft little hands were gently massaging him, bringing him to the utmost comfort and delight.

What wealth and honor, what supreme imperial power—none of it matters if you are not alive; when a person dies, it's like a lamp going out, and everything that belonged to them can change hands overnight. At such a time, who cares about floodwaters raging to the heavens!

Translation: What riches and honors, what supreme imperial power—only by being alive can all this belong to oneself; when a person dies, it's like a lamp going out, and everything that was theirs will change hands overnight; at such a time, who cares about floodwaters raging to the heavens!

At such a time, who cares about floodwaters raging to the heavens!

This was the first time Hu Xiaotian, after finishing his mourning, moved into the Fengyi Mountain Villa; the bathwater was ready, he had not enjoyed a comfortable hot bath in a long time, and he soaked for a full half hour before changing into fresh clothes and walking out with his hair loose.

Translation: This was Hu Xiaotian's first time taking residence at Fengyi Shan Zhuang after observing mourning; the bathwater had been prepared, and he had not enjoyed a comfortable hot bath for a long time. He soaked for a full half hour, then changed into fresh clothes, letting his hair hang loose as he walked out of the room,

Note: The sentence ends with a comma; we keep as is.

Wei Sa had been standing guard outside; seeing Hu Xiaotian's hair still damp, worried he might catch a chill from the wind, he hurriedly fetched a dry towel to dry his hair.

Translation: Weisa had been standing guard outside; seeing Hu Xiaotian's hair still damp, worried he might catch a chill from the wind, he hurriedly found a dry towel and dried Hu Xiaotian's hair for him.

Hu Xiaotian didn't see Huo Shengnan and asked softly: "Where is Huang Feihong?"

Translation: Hu Xiaotian did not see Huo Shengnan, and asked in a low voice: "Where is Huang Feihong?"

Wei Sa replied: "She has gone back, saying there are still many matters to attend to at the Gods' Strategy Manor."

Translation: Weisa said: "She has gone back, saying there are still many matters to be handled at the Divine Strategy Manor."

Hu Xiaotian nodded; today he still hasn't had a chance to speak with Huo Shengnan.

Translation: Hu Xiaotian nodded; today he still hasn't had a chance to speak with Huo Shengnan.

Second chapter uploaded—please vote for the monthly ticket! (To be continued…)

Translation: Second update uploaded—please vote for the monthly ticket! (To be continued~^~)

please vote for the Monthly Ticket!

Now we need to output each line as:

【1】 translation

【2】 translation

【53】 translation

Make sure each translation is on a single line (no line breaks inside). Use double quotes for speech as needed.

Let's craft each translation precisely.

We'll need to ensure we use glossary names exactly: Hu Xiaotian, Qiqi, Long Xuan'en, Li Tianheng, Hong Beimo, Wen Chenghuan, Guard, Your Highness, Emperor, Princess, Kangdu, Dakang, Fengyi Shan Zhuang, Dakang Court, Monthly Ticket, Marriage Pact.

Check we used them: In line 18 we used "Your Highness". Good. In line 20 we used "Marriage Pact". In line 22 we used "Guard". In line 28 we used "Dakang". In line 30 we used "Long Xuan'en". etc.

Now produce final answer.

We'll go line by line.

【1】 Hu Xiaotian said: "Don't forget that everyone will have ambition; separatism and self-reliance are hard to avoid. In fact, Dakang has already fallen apart. If they are willing to flee to other countries, that's fine; at least they can bring a region's people enough food and warm clothing to survive this harsh winter, which can be considered giving the populace a way to live. Princess, don't forget one thing: Dakang lacks grain, not gold and silver. Now our situation is having money but unable to buy grain."

Check: we used "Princess". Good.

【2】 Qiqi frowned slightly; Hu Xiaotian's meaning she already fully understood. Dakang is vast and populous, relying solely on the court's allocation can no longer solve the food problem for so many people. Hu Xiaotian wants to divide Dakang into many small states, letting these small states figure out their own solutions. In fact, Qiqi also understands that once the territory is divided, the enfeoffed princes will follow Li Tianheng's example, and no one will again obey Dakang's rule. However, on the other hand, it amounts to sharing Dakang's crisis; although neighboring countries are unwilling to trade with Dakang, they might not refuse to trade with these newly born small states.

【3】 The intention behind Hu Xiaotian's suggestion was to implement a federal system in Dakang, but he also understood that in an era of supreme imperial authority, a federal system simply wouldn't work; in the end it would likely become like the Zhou Son of Heaven enfeoffing feudal lords, leaving him isolated and alone. However, since Dakang has already come to this point, it might be better to shed excess baggage, go into action lightly, and perhaps still give these people a glimmer of hope. If his suggestion cannot be put into practice, then Dakang would split into multiple feudal states, and Hu Xiaotian's understanding of human nature grows ever deeper. Given that the Dakang court can no longer control the localities, it would be better to let go early, enfeoff feudal states so they can each seek their livelihood; those willing to rely on a strong power may do so, and those willing to be independent may do so. Hu Xiaotian firmly believes everyone has ambition. Li Tianheng is an example: once one becomes a feudal prince of a region, they are unwilling to remain subordinate to others, and they will spare no effort to defend their territory and subjects—that is the spirit of ownership.

【4】 In modern economics this is called asset restructuring—selling off bad assets and keeping quality ones; only then is there a chance to turn losses into profits. However, Hu Xiaotian's idea is too bold and too ahead of its time; after hearing it, Qiqi remained silent for a long while.

【5】 Qiqi pondered for a long time before softly sighing and saying: "This is of great importance; I need to consider it carefully before I can make a decision."

【6】 Hu Xiaotian said: "Princess, no matter what decision you make, do not reveal in front of the Emperor that this idea came from me."

【7】 Qiqi couldn't help but let out a faint smile and said: "How come? Are you that afraid of him?"

【8】 Hu Xiaotian said: "It's not that I'm afraid of him. Rather, the Emperor has long held a prejudice against me; whether I propose a good idea or a bad one, he will always think I harbor ulterior motives. Since that's the case, why bother seeking this ill omen?"

【9】 Qiqi said: "Do you know that someone else also thought of the same thing?"

【10】 Hu Xiaotian thought she was referring to Wen Chenghuan again. He shook his head and said: "I am different from Wen Chenghuan; he thinks of selling out the country for glory, whereas I think of helping Dakang get through this crisis."

【11】 Qiqi said: "I meant the Zhou Chancellor; he also firmly opposes Wen Chenghuan's suggestion. His idea, although not as bold and thorough as yours, also considered abandoning some land unimportant to Dakang. He said, 'Let three parts be calm waters; retreat a step and the sea becomes wide and the sky open.'"

【12】 Hu Xiaotian said: "This method is merely a stopgap; it cannot solve Dakang's fundamental problem, unless……"

【13】 "Unless what?"

【14】 Hu Xiaotian sighed and said: "Forget it!"

【15】 Qiqi glared at him and said: "Stop beating around the bush. Speak!"

【16】 Hu Xiaotian said: "Unless you can truly be the master of Dakang."

【17】 Qiqi's heart stirred; Hu Xiaotian was clearly hinting that she should become the true ruler of Dakang, in other words, to force Long Xuan'en to yield the throne to her.

【18】 Hu Xiaotian deliberately said: "Your Highness, please don't read too much into this; I am not advising you to become empress. Dakang is now a mess that no one can fix. Rather than being stuck in Kangdu, wrangling with Hong Beimo, it would be better to take advantage of the enfeoffment of feudal lords, ask the Emperor for a fief, and truly become the master of your own domain."

【19】 Qiqi blinked her bright eyes: "Hu Xiaotian, just based on these words of yours I could charge you with the crime of plotting rebellion."

【20】 Hu Xiaotian said: "Princess, do as you wish; however, everything I said to you today is for your own good. If it weren't for our Marriage Pact, I wouldn't bother caring about you."

【21】 Upon hearing him mention the Marriage Pact, Qiqi's pretty face suddenly flushed. She bit her cherry lips and stamped her foot, saying: "Hu Xiaotian, you dare to bully me! Come here!"

【22】 Hu Xiaotian knew she was always quick to turn hostile; his scalp tightened, but then he heard Qiqi say: "Tear down his grass shed!" Qiqi's subordinates, the Guards, upon receiving the order, rushed forward and in no time tore down Hu Xiaotian's mourning grass shed completely.

【23】 Hu Xiaotian could not fail to understand Qiqi's thoughts; she wanted him to return and help her. In fact, Hu Xiaotian had already decided that after burning the fifty-seven day paper offerings he would go down the mountain to temporarily stay at Fengyi Shan Zhuang; since Qiqi had people help tear down the grass shed, it saved him the effort of doing it himself.

【24】 After tearing down the grass shed, Qiqi got up and left; before departing she said to Hu Xiaotian: "Scrape off your beard—you look over ten years older!"

【25】 Hu Xiaotian said: "This is called maturity; you really don't know how to appreciate it!"

【26】 Qiqi said: "I'll give you seven more days; if you don't return to Kangdu, I'll send people to tear down your shabby mountain villa as well."

【27】 Hu Xiaotian knew she could carry out her threat; he cupped his fists toward Qiqi and said: "No need for seven days—I'll be back in three days."

【28】 Inside the Dakang Yangxin Hall, Hong Beimo presented with both hands a pure gold-cast dragon-shaped box; Long Xuan'en took the box, opened it, and upon smelling a strange fragrance, looked closely to see a gleaming golden pill inside. Long Xuan'en rejoiced exceedingly and said: "You have finally succeeded in making it?"

【29】 Hong Beimo shook his head and said: "This pill can prolong life and improve health, but it cannot grant immortality."

【30】 Long Xuan'en's hopes were dashed; the smile on his face instantly faded: "If it cannot grant immortality, what use is it to me?" He pushed the box aside.

【31】 Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty, I am useless; to this day I have not found the Qiankun Kaiwu chapter of the Dan Ding."

【32】 Long Xuan'en said: "Chu Fufeng could do it; why can't you?"

【33】 Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty, please have a bit more patience; I will certainly be able to uncover the secret of the Dan Ding chapter."

【34】 Long Xuan'en flew into a rage: "How much longer must you make me wait? I have waited a full forty-eight years already; what more patience do you demand? Over these forty-eight years I have given you everything you needed, sparing no expense to cultivate you, yet what have you given me? Only a vague, illusory hope."

【35】 Hong Beimo said full of confidence: "At most three years; I believe that within three years there will surely be results."

【36】 Long Xuan'en sighed: "Three years! War flames erupt all over Dakang, surrounding enemies loom; you ask me to wait three years—who would still grant me three years?"

【37】 Hong Beimo said: "The underground palace has not yet been completed; once the Reincarnation Tower is built, it will certainly enable Your Majesty to live forever and return to youth."

【38】 Long Xuan'en said: "Over these past decades I have exhausted all resources, granting you whatever you asked—not for the sake of one day regaining youth and living forever, yet you have made me, through repeated waiting and disappointment, turn my hair white. Hong Beimo, oh Hong Beimo, are you deceiving me? Are you really deceiving me?"

【39】 Hong Beimo said: "I serve Your Majesty with utter loyalty; if there is even a hint of deceit, may I be struck by lightning and thunder and die a horrible death!"

【40】 Long Xuan'en said: "I don't need your oath; I only want you to quickly succeed in making the pill."

【41】 Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty might as well first take this pill to ensure your dragon body's health." He then passed the pill back over.

【42】 Long Xuan'en then calmed down, speaking softly: "You must speed up progress; Dakang's situation is dire, and I fear it may not last three years."

【43】 Hong Beimo said: "Your Majesty need not worry; if everything goes smoothly, perhaps the Reincarnation Tower can be completed within a year, and once the Reincarnation Tower is built, even if we cannot find the Dan Ding chapter, we can still produce an immortality pill."

【44】 Long Xuan'en nodded: "I will trust you once more."

【45】 After Hong Beimo withdrew, Long Xuan'en's gaze fell upon that pill, and he sighed deeply: "If it weren't for you, I might have died thirty years ago; if it weren't for you, I might have ended my days in obscurity on Mount Piaomiao; but if it weren't for you giving me the hope of longevity, I might have devoted more energy to governing the state, and then how would we have ended up in today's predicament. Hong Beimo, oh Hong Beimo, are you helping me or harming me?"

【46】 Long Xuan'en finally picked up that golden pill; the pill was the size of a dragon's eye, emitting a faint golden glow. He brought it close and inhaled deeply, feeling the fragrance seep into his lungs; his spirit was shaken, his gaze instantly turned scorching hot. He opened his mouth and swallowed the golden pill in one gulp, eagerly biting it apart, feeling a warm current flow down his throat, his meridians as if bathed in spring breeze, his whole body as if countless soft little hands were gently massaging him, bringing him to the utmost comfort and delight.

【47】 What riches and honors, what supreme imperial power—only by being alive can all this belong to oneself; when a person dies, it's like a lamp going out, and everything that was theirs will change hands overnight; at such a time, who cares about floodwaters raging to the heavens!

【48】 This was Hu Xiaotian's first time taking residence at Fengyi Shan Zhuang after observing mourning; the bathwater had been prepared, and he had not enjoyed a comfortable hot bath for a long time. He soaked for a full half hour, then changed into fresh clothes, letting his hair hang loose as he walked out of the room,

【49】 Weisa had been standing guard outside; seeing Hu Xiaotian's hair still damp, worried he might catch a chill from the wind, he hurriedly found a dry towel and dried Hu Xiaotian's hair for him.

【50】 Hu Xiaotian did not see Huo Shengnan, and asked in a low voice: "Where is Huang Feihong?"

【51】 Weisa said: "She has gone back, saying there are still many matters to be handled at the Divine Strategy Manor."

【52】 Hu Xiaotian nodded; today he still hasn't had a chance to speak with Huo Shengnan.

【53】 Second update uploaded—please vote for the Monthly Ticket! (To be continued~^~)

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Qiqi frowned slightly; Hu Xiaotian's meaning she already fully understood. Dakang is vast and populous, relying solely on the court's allocation can no longer solve the food problem for so many people. Hu Xiaotian wants to divide Dakang into many small states, letting these small states figure out their own solutions. In fact, Qiqi also understands that once the territory is divided, the enfeoffed princes will follow Li Tianheng's example, and no one will again obey Dakang's rule. However, on the other hand, it amounts to sharing Dakang's crisis; although neighboring countries are unwilling to trade with Dakang, they might not refuse to trade with these newly born small states.

The intention behind Hu Xiaotian's suggestion was to implement a federal system in Dakang, but he also understood that in an era of supreme imperial authority, a federal system simply wouldn't work; in the end it would likely become like the Zhou Son of Heaven enfeoffing feudal lords, leaving him isolated and alone. However, since Dakang has already come to this point, it might be better to shed excess baggage, go into action lightly, and perhaps still give these people a glimmer of hope. If his suggestion cannot be put into practice, then Dakang would split into multiple feudal states, and Hu Xiaotian's understanding of human nature grows ever deeper. Given that the Dakang court can no longer control the localities, it would be better to let go early, enfeoff feudal states so they can each seek their livelihood; those willing to rely on a strong power may do so, and those willing to be independent may do so. Hu Xiaotian firmly believes everyone has ambition. Li Tianheng is an example: once one becomes a feudal prince of a region, they are unwilling to remain subordinate to others, and they will spare no effort to defend their territory and subjects—that is the spirit of ownership.

Qiqi pondered for a long time before softly sighing and saying: "This is of great importance; I need to consider it carefully before I can make a decision."

Hu Xiaotian said: "Princess, no matter what decision you make, do not reveal in front of the Emperor that this idea came from me."

Qiqi couldn't help but let out a faint smile and said: "How come? Are you that afraid of him?"

Qiqi said: "Do you know that someone else also thought of the same thing?"

Hu Xiaotian said: "This method is merely a stopgap; it cannot solve Dakang's fundamental problem, unless……"

Unless what?